There are many different types of heavy lift and project cargo operations (HLPCO) carried out on a day to day basis around the world. These can range significantly in size, shape and distance to be transported. They can involve various types of equipment which require specific skills to be able to operate them effectively, efficiently and safely.

Lifting appliances on board ship, particularly ship’s cranes, are critical to a vessel earning freight. A ship is only earning money, ie, freight, when carrying cargo at sea. If the deck cranes are out of action in port the vessel will have downtime which in turn reduces the vessel’s earning capacity. For this reason, and the safety of the crew, ship’s cranes should be well maintained, usually whilst at sea, to reduce the possibility of port downtime.