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AllTrain: Forklift Operator Training - Palmerston North

Palmerston North and Levin Driving Qualifications

Dogman Training

Professional crane dogging and load directing training for experienced workers involved in lifting operations. This practical one-day course is designed for people who need to sling varied regular loads and safely direct crane movements during lifting operations. Ideal for workers in construction, transport, civil, rural, and industrial environments where cranes are used regularly. Participants strengthen their ability to plan lifts, communicate clearly, control risks, and guide crane operations safely on active worksites.

A yellow construction crane with a black and yellow striped hook against a blue sky.

Course Details

AllTrain: Dogman

Price: $575 + GST Per Person
Refresher Price: $350 + GST Per Person
(must already hold Unit Standard 3789)
Duration: 8am – 4pm (approx)

Location: Palmerston North and Levin (or off-site by arrangement)
Unit Standard:
3789 (15 Credits)

Note: Attendees are expected to provide suitable crane equipment for practical assessment where possible. A HIAB may be arranged for additional cost. On-site pricing varies by attendee numbers and location.


Tutor Credentials:

Training is delivered by experienced crane industry instructors. NZQA assessment and credits are completed where required.

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AllTrain:  Training is delivered by experienced crane industry instructors

About This Course

This NZQA-recognised course is required under the Approved Code of Practice for Cranes to operate as a Dogman slinging loads. Training combines theory and practical workplace scenarios focused on safe load handling and crane communication. The course covers rigging plans, load differences, signalling methods, and directing crane movements using recognised industry procedures.

Theory

  • Risk management, hazard control, and rigging planning

  • Site hazards including people, weather, structures, vehicles, and pinch points

  • Differences between regular and irregular loads

  • Centre of gravity and load equalisation

  • Load stability and lifting gear selection

  • Scope of authority and escalation processes

  • Recognised crane hand signals

  • Audible communication methods including radio and verbal direction

Practical

  • Confirming lift plans with workers involved in the lift

  • Calculating load weights and centres of gravity

  • Selecting lifting gear including chains, slings, beams, shackles, and eyebolts

  • Slinging varied regular loads safely

  • Directing crane movements by hand signals

  • Directing crane movements by radio communication

  • Controlling hazards during slewing, lifting, lowering, and placement

  • Removing lifting gear safely after operations

You will leave with recognised competency in dogging, slinging, and directing crane operations safely.

What You Get

  • NZQA-recognised training and assessment

  • Unit Standard 3789 (15 Credits)

  • Practical dogging and crane directing experience

  • Real-world lifting scenarios

  • Guidance from experienced trainers

  • Increased confidence around load control and crane communication

  • Skills directly relevant to lifting and construction industries

Important to Know

  • You must have completed Unit Standard 30072 before attending

  • Previous industry experience is essential

  • Logbook evidence of minimum 40 lifts is required to progress

  • All cranes and lifting gear used must be in safe working condition with current certification

  • This includes HIABs, slings, chains, lift bars, and associated gear

  • Refresher training is available for current holders of Unit Standard 3789

  • Suitable PPE including steel cap boots and hi-vis clothing is recommended

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Dogman Training FAQs

  • Yes. Previous lifting industry experience is essential.

  • Yes. You must already hold Unit Standard 30072 and provide evidence of practical lifting experience.

  • A Dogman prepares and slings loads, communicates with crane operators, and directs safe crane movements during lifts.

  • Yes. Nationwide company bookings are available where suitable equipment is provided.

  • Yes. Successful participants receive Unit Standard 3789 (15 Credits).

AllTrain Palmerston North

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