Manitowoc, a global leader in lifting solutions, in collaboration with its long-time regional Potain dealer NFT, has wrapped up a four-day safety campaign across major construction sites in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The initiative, designed to reinforce safe crane operations, reflects Manitowoc’s ongoing commitment to supporting its customers throughout the lifecycle of its equipment.
Engaging Crews Across Six Sites
The campaign brought together around 450 workers, including crane operators, engineers, and safety personnel, for intensive training sessions.
In Saudi Arabia, Manitowoc and NFT visited the Trojena Ski Village, part of the futuristic NEOM megacity, where Potain cranes such as the MCT 1105 and MCT 275 K12 are currently in operation.
In the UAE, the program extended across multiple high-profile sites:
Dubai: Sobha Hartland 2, Sobha One residential communities, and the Binghatti Granada mixed-use development.
Abu Dhabi: ADEK Riyadh Schools by CGC and the Reem Hillz residential project by Pivot.
These visits allowed Manitowoc and NFT teams to directly interact with on-site crews, ensuring training was tailored to the specific challenges of each project.
Practical, Scenario-Based Training
The sessions were jointly led by representatives from Manitowoc and NFT, including members from sales, service, and administrative departments. This multidisciplinary approach ensured that training went beyond theory to include practical, scenario-based discussions.
Drawing from the Potain Safety Handbook, the workshops focused on:
- Correct use of crane audio and hand signals.
- Establishing and maintaining safe work zones.
- Reinforcing individual accountability for site safety.
In addition, team members were encouraged to share feedback and recommendations, creating a two-way dialogue that supports continuous improvement and collaboration.
Building Trust Through Presence
Jean-François Amet, Global Dealer and Development Director at Manitowoc, stressed the importance of direct on-site engagement:
“Being present on site is one of the most meaningful ways we can support our customers and the people operating our cranes every day. These sessions weren’t just about safety rules—they were about open dialogue, exchanging ideas, and strengthening trust.”
The initiative reflects Manitowoc’s philosophy that safety training must be interactive and adaptive, rooted in real-world challenges rather than abstract instruction.
A Commitment Beyond Equipment
For Manitowoc, the safety campaign is part of a broader customer support strategy that prioritizes long-term engagement. The company’s approach goes beyond manufacturing and supplying cranes to include training, lifecycle service, and continuous education.
By conducting regional safety initiatives with partners like NFT, Manitowoc demonstrates how equipment manufacturers can play an active role in shaping safer construction practices worldwide.
Strengthening Safety Culture in the Region
The Middle East is home to some of the world’s most ambitious construction projects, from Saudi Arabia’s NEOM mega-development to Dubai’s fast-rising urban communities. With cranes operating at the heart of these projects, Manitowoc and NFT see safety not only as a regulatory requirement but as a cornerstone of operational efficiency and trust.
By directly engaging with crews on the ground, Manitowoc reinforces a culture of accountability and collaboration—a crucial factor in an industry where operational risks are high and project timelines are demanding.
Looking Ahead
With the successful completion of the campaign, Manitowoc and NFT plan to expand similar safety initiatives across other regional markets. As the construction sector in the Middle East continues to grow, such programs will remain vital in ensuring that cutting-edge engineering solutions are matched by world-class safety practices.
For Manitowoc, these sessions underline a simple but powerful message: safety is not just a guideline—it is a shared responsibility, built on trust and continuous learning.
