Strengthening Turnaround Execution with Crane Expertise
A US-based refinery was undertaking a major turnaround (TAR) involving numerous complex crane lifts, along with a high volume of routine lifts typical for a TAR. These activities posed significant safety and logistical risks due to their complexity and the fast-paced environment.
Objective
Provide the refinery turnaround team with expert planning support for critical lifts, as well as day and night coverage to lead and oversee all crane and logistics activity throughout the TAR.
Becht Approach
Becht partnered with the refinery team throughout the planning and execution phases of the TAR to ensure safe and efficient lifting operations:
- Conducted technical reviews of lift plans for all critical lifts, based on criteria such as weight, complexity, and risk
- Collaborated with the TAR team pre-event to validate and strengthen logistics plans
- Deployed one crane subject matter expert (SME) pre-TAR to verify crane mobilization readiness and ensure large cranes were assembled correctly
- Supplied six technical crane SMEs (three for day shift, three for night shift) to provide around-the-clock support and ensure all lifting operations were conducted safely and in accordance with procedures
- Assigned a lead subject matter expert to oversee the post-TAR demobilization of the crane contractor
Solution
Becht delivered experienced crane leadership and technical guidance, helping the refinery navigate a high-volume, high-risk period with confidence.
Client Value
The refinery completed the turnaround with zero crane-related incidents. Additionally, when the refinery’s in-house crane SME unexpectedly fell ill for several weeks mid-TAR, one of Becht’s SMEs seamlessly stepped in to serve as the primary decision-maker for critical crane-related technical issues—ensuring continuity and safe operations without disruption.