The IADC Safety Award recognizes innovative solutions that address safety challenges in the dredging industry. This marks the second consecutive year that Van Oord has received the award, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to safety innovation and operational excellence.
Van Oord developed an innovative pipe lifting tool that improves safety and efficiency during storage and reclamation pipe handling operations. The new mechanically operated pipe lifting tool removes the need for personnel to enter the hazardous areas between pipes by automatically connecting to and disconnecting from the pipe. This reduces the number of people required during lifting operations and significantly lowers the risk of injury.
Additionally, the specially designed clamps enable pipes to be stored closer together, optimizing available storage capacity. By combining automated lifting with smarter storage solutions, Van Oord’s pipe lifting tool supports safer working practices while improving operational efficiency on site.
“We are proud to showcase our pipe lifting tool to the dredging industry. The tool is operated mechanically and therefore very robust and easy to use. By requiring less people, we reduce exposure to the risks involved in the lifting activity. This innovation is another great example of how a strong safety culture, where colleagues are empowered to speak up and share ideas for improvement, benefits us all,” said Govert van Oord, CEO, Van Oord.
The IADC Safety Award is presented annually to a dredging contractor that demonstrates an innovative approach to improving safety within the industry. According to IADC, Van Oord’s pipe lifting tool was recognized for reducing risks in reclamation pipe handling through a smarter lifting solution designed for safer and more efficient operations.
“Safe and efficient handling of reclamation pipes is a challenge well known across the dredging industry. Van Oord’s pipe lifting tool provides a practical mechanical solution that requires no external energy source and can be used in a wide range of operations. A simple and broadly applicable design like this can make a significant difference on reclamation projects worldwide by reducing manual handling, improving safety and supporting more efficient operations,” said Arnold de Bruin, Secretary General, IADC.
