Mission Support Alliance crane operator David Nissen uses the 150-ton crane and a 256-foot extension to lift ironworkers and electricians to the work area at the Cold Test Facility.
Mission Support Alliance crane operator David Nissen uses the 150-ton crane and a 256-foot extension to safely lift ironworkers and electricians to the work area at the Cold Test Facility.

RICHLAND, Wash. – Given the complexity of the work at the Hanford Site, special equipment is often needed to complete day-to-day activities.

   EM Richland Operations Office contractor Mission Support Alliance (MSA), the site services provider, recently retrofitted a 150-ton, rough-terrain crane to access hard-to-reach locations across the site.

   MSA used the crane to safely change lights at the Cold Test Facility for tank farms contractor Washington River Protection Solutions. The facility is a test site for new and innovative technology used to safely remove high-level radioactive and chemical waste from Hanford’s underground storage tanks. It also provides a non-radiological environment for workers to train using the tools.

   “Investing in new equipment is a win-win situation for the Department of Energy because it allows us to protect workers and keep the cleanup mission moving forward,” said Jeff Frey, RL assistant manager for mission support. “Because aging equipment can lead to delays, repair costs, and increased risk, we want to provide our workers with the tools they need.”

   Due to the unique structure and set-up of the facility, the crane’s projected arm plus an extension were needed to reach a combined length of 256 feet to give workers access to the structure.

   “This particular crane has been a valuable tool in the cleanup mission, especially in the tank farms,” said Sean McFadden, MSA crane pool coordinator. “The crane’s larger capacity, wider work radius, and greater reach allow workers to navigate through different terrain and obstacles.”