Slinger is a very complex and responsible profession. Despite the general conviction, not everyone is able to master it, and even more so to work on it for a long time. So let's try to figure out what requirements a slinger should meet? Where can I get the skills I need to work? And how relevant is this profession today?
Who is a slinger?
So, let's start with the basics. A slinger is a person who is responsible for loading and unloading. And to be more precise, he makes sure that the load is securely secured when moving, and at the same time nothing threatens him. In his work, the slinger is closely connected with the crane or loader operator. Together they form a kind of symbiosis: the driver follows the mechanics, and the slinger corrects all other aspects of the loading.
Work as a slinger: main responsibilities
If the previous paragraph only figuratively reveals the responsibilities of the slinger, then in this let's discuss them in more detail. After all, the only way to understand the essence of this profession, its features.
- The primary task of the slinger is the competent attachment of cargo to the slings. At the same time, the key word is “literate”, because both the safety of moving objects and the safety of workers depend on this.
- In addition, the work of the slinger involves a preliminary check of the cargo. For example, before transportation, containers must be weighed in order to understand which slings should be used.
- The duties of this specialist also include adjusting the actions of the crane operator. It is he who gives him signals with which the driver determines the height and angle of the load.
- Another task of the slinger is to prepare a place for unloading. That is, to clear the site of garbage, prepare pallets and plan where and how the containers will be placed.
By the way, these are only the basic duties of this worker. A more complete list of his tasks is contained in a special document. This is the job description slinger. Depending on the type of enterprise, its items can vary greatly. Therefore, before applying for this position, you should carefully read this document.
Professional slinger: training and certification
Only skilled workers can apply for the position of slinger. To do this, they need to pass a special exam, due to which they will be assigned a certain category. But let's talk about everything in order. So, to begin with, the slinger is a profession that does not require a higher or technical education. Therefore, everyone can test their strength and enroll in appropriate courses. But where exactly is this specialty taught?
Seminars are often held at local technical schools, colleges or universities. However, it also happens that courses for slingers are held directly at workers' enterprises. True, only employees of the company or those who want to get there can get on them. Upon completion of training, certification is carried out, during which the level of knowledge of each worker is checked. Its results determine what category is assigned to the slinger. It should also be remembered that such certification must be passed annually. Therefore, if you do not get a high rank the first time, you should not be upset. Soon it will be possible to test yourself again by passing the exam again.
Categories
Slinger is a profession that requires a strict hierarchy. Therefore, all specialists are divided into 5 categories or categories. So, the second category is considered the smallest.If you do not go into details, then these workers are akin to apprentices. They can participate in loading operations, however, completely different people give out teams. Also, they cannot participate in the lifting of large and heavy loads, which reduces their value for the enterprise.
The highest is the VI-category. Slingers with this category can work with all types of cranes and loaders without restrictions on the tonnage of containers. That is why many people strive to get this rank, thereby providing themselves with a stable future.
Demand for the profession
One of the biggest advantages of this profession is that it is very in demand. So, you can find a job in a specialty even in a small city, not to mention megacities. After all, skillful workers who are able to competently manage the load are needed by everyone, without exception.
Nevertheless, it is better to look for work in large companies, industrial enterprises or in ports. Here, the place is easier to find, and the salary is much higher. And now, the most intriguing question: how much do the slinger get paid? Well, according to the data for 2015, the average specialist receives from 25 to 35 thousand rubles a month. But, if you manage to get a job in a large company engaged in loading and unloading, this amount can double.
