Just imagine a busy construction site where there’s a constant roar of engines and tons of steel or heavy equipment being moved across. In such a scenario, every movement is deliberate, every lift should be controlled to avoid any mishap. For this, a highly skilled employee is needed. So, this is why holding a dogging licence is of utmost importance. This license isn’t just the law in Australia, but is also essential in helping to protect lives, sustain site productivity, and avoid the loss of dollars on accidents. So here’s an overview of what this license is, and why it is essential for a safe worksite.
What is a dogging licence?
In plain language, this licence is an Australia-wide certification that qualifies individuals to carry out dogging work. The licence holder must manage two primary duties:
- Using slinging methods: This involves choosing and employing lifting equipment like chains, slings, shackles, and hooks for the purpose of moving loads in a safe manner.
- Guiding crane or hoist operators: Dogmen (or doggers) employ safe and clear methods of communication, normally hand signals or radio, when a load is being lifted, particularly when it is out of the operator’s line of sight.
What can you do with this Licence?
The successful holder of this licence can:
- Determine load weight and balance
- Choose the correct lifting equipment for the type of load
- Connect and disconnect loads to cranes or hoists
- Inspect lifting equipment prior to use
- Ensure effective communication with crane operators to direct safe movements
- Control risks involved in lifting operations
Why is this Licence essential?
There are many reasons why this licence is essential to possess in Australia. Below are some of the best ones.
- Prevention of accidents
Inadequate slinging or miscommunication when lifting can lead to lost loads, damage to equipment, severe injuries, or even fatalities. A dogger with training knows how to reduce these hazards to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
- Legal requirement
The second significant reason is to comply with the country’s legal requirement. As per the Work Health and Safety (WHS) legislation, unlicensed people are prohibited from doing dogging work under the law.
- Efficient Workflow
Doggers ensure loads are transported safely and efficiently. This minimizes downtime, prevents damage to materials or equipment, and assists in maintaining projects on schedule.
- Integrated Site Operations
Doggers frequently work in close association with crane operators and other high-risk personnel. Their function supports those who possess other licences like the EWP high risk licence (Elevated Work Platform), and they are an essential component of any sophisticated worksite operation.
Dogging Licence vs. Other High Risk Licences
Let’s now determine the difference between the dogging licence and other high risk licences.
- EWP High Risk Licence: Needed for the operation of boom-type elevated work platforms more than 11m. This licence is more about safe access and operation of high platforms and less about load handling.
- Rigging Licence: After having this licence, you can move on to rigging, which means more complicated load movements and structural works such as steel erection and static lines.
How to Get a Dogging Licence in Australia?
To get this licence, you should:
- Be a minimum of 18 years of age.
- Undergo a nationally approved training course by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
- Pass both the theoretical and practical tests successfully.
- Apply for the licence via your state or territory workplace health and safety regulator.
Some well-liked RTOs provide integrated training for high risk licence dogging and EWP holders that can be effective and expand job opportunities.
Final Thoughts
A dogging licence is more than just a government requirement, it’s an essential tool for ensuring safety and efficiency on any construction site where hoisting and lifting are present. Whether you’re fresh into the industry or need to increase your qualifications, getting a dogging licence in Australia signifies your commitment to professional safety levels and can dramatically enhance your job prospects. When coupled with other certifications like an EWP high risk license, it makes you a more valuable asset to employers across the sectors of construction, mining, logistics, and manufacturing industries.
