Marr implements The Buddie System

Marr Contracting (Marr) has become the first business in the world to implement new crane safety technology, The Buddie System, on two Sydney construction projects.

Marr crane crews working with Parklife Metro D&C Joint Venture on construction of the new Sydney Metro Airport Terminal Station, and with Richard Crookes Constructions on the Sydney House mixed-use development (former City Tattersall’s Club site) in the Sydney CBD, were the first to implement the system in a live environment.

Developed by experienced crane industry professionals Gary Panagiotidis and Jade Harris, The Buddie System is designed for crane operators and dogmen / slinger signallers to reduce the risk of accidents caused by two-way radio issues or miscommunication between crane crews.

With up to 30 percent[1] of crane accidents involving miscommunication between operators and ground crews, The Buddie System has real potential to prevent injuries and fatalities on construction sites.

The wireless instant safety alert device overcomes the shortfalls of existing two-way radio technology by allowing dogmen to instantly alert crane operators to stop if something goes wrong.

“Safety is always our number one priority and with The Buddie System we have an innovative solution to a common safety issue on construction sites,” said Marr’s Managing Director, Simon Marr.

“What we love about it is its simplicity and the fact that it was designed by people who’ve worked on the tools and understand the real risks of crane and lifting operations,” said Simon.

The Buddie System was officially launched at the Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA) Conference with Marr the first to trial the system in a live environment. With strong interest from crane owners and operators in Australia, the UK and other markets, Marr’s implementation on a large-scale infrastructure greenfield site and inner-city high-rise environment is paving the way for others in the industry to follow suit.

“We couldn’t have picked a better launch partner than Marr,” said Gary Panagiotidis. “I’ve been in the industry for 30 years and Marr has always stood out as a company that leads from the front when it comes to innovation and safety.”

“Big cranes, big lifts, and big responsibilities. Marr’s reputation is built on getting all three right,” added Jade Harris. “Their willingness to be first to adopt this technology proves they’re serious about safety.”

Following the success of the trial, Marr intends to roll out The Buddie System across its fleet in Australia and the UK over the coming months.