| Electric Winch Improvements to Aid the Safe Operation of Tugs and Barges |
Description of Entry
Quarried mineral is transported via tug and barge over 4 mile stretch of water to the plant for processing. Historically, tugs have been attached to barges with wire ropes, tensioned by manual winches which can need adjustment or re-tensioning 5 or 6 times a trip. This involves the operator leaving his cab, walking a narrow walkway to the front of the tug, and manually winding a winch. Cemex have introduced an electric winch that can be operated from within the tug.
Benefits
• The operation is more efficient and manoeuvrability is improved
• Removal of RSI issues and manual handling risks
• Operators can remain safely in their cabs
• In an emergency, the operator can safely disconnect the tug from the barge
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