Crane and Hoist Users to Note ICHC Program Additions

Industrial Lift & Hoist (ILH) magazine has announced additions to its Industrial Crane & Hoist Conference (ICHC) program, which will be co-located at the ProMat trade show at McCormick Place South in Chicago, Ill., on Tues., March 22, 2011.

Replacing Lyle Moran, Sikorsky Aircraft, will be Al Abel, a lifting specialist and safety manager since 1995 for Mazzella Lifting Technologies, Cleveland, Ohio. He regularly travels to Mazzella’s various service centers, providing seminars for companies of all sizes. He holds a certified inspector certification from Wire Rope & Rigging Consultants; OSHA Safety and Health Compliance; Crane Training USA—Inspector Certification; and he is a certified Crosby trainer. Abel was recently recognized as one of the industry’s “Top Trainers” by Crane Hot Line magazine.

Prior to picking up a load, what should the crane operator and rigger consider?  To answer this question, Abel will present the topic "Preparing a Lift from Start to Finish" at 2:15 p.m., which will discuss not only how to lift the load properly and safely, but also how to select, inspect, connect and protect your rigging devices and load during the pick.

Additionally, Jeff Smagacz, Risk Management Group LLC, has been moved up on the schedule. He will be presenting information on Ergonomics in Industrial Facilities at 9:35 a.m. Learn how to identify and implement cost-effective workplace improvements through effective ergonomics. Through equipment modifications, better floor space utilization, and process layout, there is a potential to save money in cycle time reduction, injury prevention, and quality enhancements.

Meanwhile, Gorbel Inc. has submitted the content of the case study it will deliver as a member of the Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA). Jeff McNeil, marketing manager, Gorbel Inc., will conclude the Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) case study section at 12 p.m., with a presentation on the benefits of patented track and enclosed track. He will cover what makes these technologies different, what advantages there are to using these products, and provide case studies for each technology. End users will also see an overview of the G-Force technology and a case study that shows the benefits in action.

ICHC ProMat takes place above the largest show floor of lifting and moving technology you will see anywhere in North America next year.  The most dynamic, innovative plant and facility managers’ forum the lifting industry has ever put together.  End users can’t afford to miss the valuable lessons that will be served up during a value-packed, one-day program.  The event is structured to promote the sharing of knowledge among industry peers. The cost to attend ICHC is just $275, including lunch, coffee breaks, and entrance to ProMat.

Register today at www.ichcpromat.com/registration.