Van Oord has received the International Association of Dredging Companies (IADC) Safety Award 2026 for its innovative pipe lifting tool. It was developed to improve safety and efficiency during reclamation pipe handling operations.
The award was presented during the IADC Annual General Meeting in Malta and recognises innovative solutions that address safety challenges in the dredging industry. This marks the second consecutive year that Van Oord has received the award. Last year, the company won the award for a newly designed gasket that significantly reduces the risk of injury during pipe assembly.
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Pipe lifting tool
The innovative pipe lifting tool improves safety and efficiency during storage and reclamation pipe handling operations. The new mechanically operated solution 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, optimising available storage capacity. By combining automated lifting with smarter storage solutions, the tool supports safer working practices while improving operational efficiency on site.
Govert van Oord, CEO, Van Oord: ‘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.’
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Reducing risks
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, the pipe lifting tool was recognised for reducing risks in reclamation pipe handling.
‘Safe and efficient handling of reclamation pipes is a challenge well known across the dredging industry,’ states Arnold de Bruin, Secretary General, IADC. ‘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.’
Picture: The pipe lifting solution removes the need for personnel to enter the hazardous areas between pipes by automatically connecting to and disconnecting from the pipe (photo Van Oord).
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