In the world of steel construction and offshore wind energy projects, safety and efficiency are far more than just buzzwords. With its strategically located site in the Port of Antwerp, Smulders understands better than anyone that every lifting operation is critical. That is why they decided to invest in the advanced Crosby BlokCam system. It's a smart camera solution mounted directly onto the crane block, providing the crane operator with real-time video and audio. SKP supported Smulders with both the advice and installation of the BlokCam system. A perfect example of how SKP combines safety with operational efficiency.

What exactly is BlokCam?

The BlokCam is a modular camera system mounted directly onto the crane block. The system consists of three main components:

  • Transmitter unit with camera and microphone: mounted onto the crane block using powerful magnets. This unit provides live video and audio.
  • Receiver and monitor inside the cabin: the operator receives a sharp image on the FULL HD display and can hear communication from the ground.
  • Wireless transmission via digital HD signals: even in complex industrial environments, the signal is transmitted reliably and without interruption.

Installation is straightforward and takes about two hours. In addition, the system is robust enough to continue performing reliably in demanding working conditions.

Why Smulders chose BlokCam

At the Smulders site, large steel structures are handled daily. Every lifting movement is critical for both safety and workflow efficiency on site. Without direct visibility of the load, crane operators must rely entirely on radio communication, which increases the risk of miscommunication and human error.

With BlokCam, the operator benefits from:

  • Direct visibility of the load, surrounding area and riggers
  • Audio communication with the ground crew, improving coordination
  • More accurate positioning when placing complex loads

The result is not only improved safety, but also faster work cycles, fewer damage incidents and fewer human errors.

The return on safety

Investing in BlokCam quickly pays for itself. At SKP, we deliberately talk about TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) because safety should not be viewed as a cost, but as a way to eliminate risks, errors and inefficiencies from operations.

At Smulders, this translates into:

  • Less downtime thanks to improved communication
  • Less damage to loads, crane equipment and infrastructure
  • Less stress and improved focus for operators and riggers
  • Faster execution times and increased productivity

At SKP, we actively help customers calculate the operational impact and return on investment of these safety improvements through a well-considered business case.

Investing in better visibility during lifting operations means investing in safety, efficiency, and lower overall operating costs.

Visual control becomes the standard

BlokCam is more than just a technical gadget. It demonstrates the evolution of safer lifting operations and working at height. Just as dashcams are gradually becoming standard in vehicles, we expect visual monitoring during lifting to become the industry standard in the future.

Companies like Smulders are taking the lead in this evolution. And rightly so: companies investing in better visibility today help prevent accidents, errors and unforeseen costs tomorrow.

Learn more about the BlokCam camera system

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