> In a message dated 4/13/98 7:05:32 PM Central Daylight Time,
> retroman@together.net writes:
>
> << While operating a crane, a forklift, or a tractor trailer may not be as
> unskilled
> posistions as a ditch digger, the fact is that a reasonably well trained
> individual can pretty much master the job requirements in 6 weeks of
> training.
> (Forklift training actually takes one day, but I'll be generous). >>
>
> Not meaning to detract from your overall point Mike...with which I agree
> ...but....
>
> I've done two of the above....(forklift and tractor trailer)...and must
> confess that it does take only a short time to learn the rudiments.
>
> Like it only takes a few minutes to learn how to ride a horse....right?
>
> I mean...how difficult is it? You just sit up there in the saddle...hold the
> reins...use your knees ever now and then...and everything is peachy keen?
>
> Obviously that is nonsense....as is the idea that you can be a skilled tractor
> trailer operator in such a short period of time. Consider why the major
> carriers (non union) pay so much more for experience....
>
> Greater experience means greater productivity...less wear and tear on the
> equipment...and fewer accidents...
>
> And as far a CRANE!! <shudder>
I've never operated a crane, but I've watched a few. It seems to me
that, typically, the crane starts moving horizontally (inc.
rotating) before the load does, and the crane stops first as well.
So to quickly move a load from one place to another, put it down in
place, and not hit anything you didn't intend to hit, probably takes
quite a bit of practice.
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