Marr Contracting Implements World-First Crane Safety Tech: The Buddie System
- Meagan Wood
- Sep 16, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 26, 2025
30-Second Takeaway
Marr Contracting has become the first company globally to deploy The Buddie System, a world-first crane safety technology designed to prevent accidents caused by communication failures between crane operators and dogmen. Trialed on major Sydney infrastructure and high-rise projects, the system provides an instant emergency stop alert when radio communication breaks down setting a new benchmark for practical, site-driven innovation in crane safety.
Marr Contracting has become the first company in the world to introduce a groundbreaking new crane safety technology The Buddie System across two major Sydney construction projects.
Setting a New Standard in Crane Safety
Marr’s crane crews recently trialed the system while working with:
Parklife D&C Joint Venture on the new Sydney Metro Airport Terminal Station, and
Richard Crookes Constructions on the Sydney House mixed-use development (former City Tattersalls Club site) in Sydney’s CBD.
Developed by industry veterans Gary Panagiotidis and Jade Harris, The Buddie System is designed to reduce accidents caused by communication breakdowns between crane operators and dogmen/slinger signallers.
With up to 30% of crane accidents linked to radio communication failures or misunderstandings, this innovation has the potential to prevent serious injuries and fatalities on construction sites.
“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,” Simon Marr, Managing Director, Marr Contracting
How The Buddie System Works
The Buddie System is a wireless instant alert device that allows a dogman to trigger an emergency stop signal directly to the crane operator.
Unlike traditional two-way radios which can fail or be inaudible in noisy environments the device uses a quick snap of its lanyard to activate a high-priority alarm, ensuring the operator stops immediately if something goes wrong.
“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,” Simon added.
Industry First and Leading by Example
The Buddie System officially launched at the Crane Industry Council of Australia (CICA) Conference, with Marr the first company worldwide to test it in a live environment.
Interest is already building from crane owners and operators in Australia, the UK, and beyond. Marr’s early adoption on both a large-scale greenfield infrastructure site and an inner-city high-rise project is setting the standard for others to follow.
“We couldn’t have picked a better launch partner than Marr,” said Gary Panagiotidis.“Big cranes, big lifts, and big responsibilities. Marr’s reputation is built on getting all three right,” added Jade Harris.
Following the successful trials, Marr plans to roll out The Buddie System across its entire fleet in Australia and the United Kingdom in the coming months.
About Marr Contracting
Marr Contracting is a global leader in the design and delivery of heavy lift luffing tower cranes and lifting services. With nearly 100 years of experience on major projects worldwide, Marr specializes in heavy lifting for construction, mining, oil and gas, power, nuclear, major transport infrastructure, technology, and marine sectors. Known for innovation, Marr holds several world-first achievements, including developing the world’s highest-capacity tower crane, the Marr 2480D Heavy Lift Luffing (HLL) crane. www.marr.com.au
About The Buddie System
The Buddie System (TBS) is a wireless safety alert device designed for crane operators and dogmen/slingers. It overcomes the shortfalls of radio failures and inaudible whistles by enabling dogmen to instantly send an emergency stop signal to crane operators. A simple snap of the TBS lanyard activates the alarm, allowing rapid response and preventing potential accidents. www.thebuddiesystem.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is The Buddie System?
The Buddie System is a wireless crane safety alert device that allows dogmen or slinger signallers to instantly send an emergency stop signal to a crane operator if communication fails.
Why was The Buddie System developed?
It was created to address a common safety risk on construction sitesradio communication breakdowns—which are linked to a significant percentage of crane-related incidents.
How does The Buddie System work?
A simple snap of the device’s lanyard triggers a high-priority alarm in the crane cab, alerting the operator to stop immediately.
What makes this system different from two-way radios or whistles?
Unlike radios, which can fail or be drowned out by site noise, The Buddie System provides a direct, unmistakable emergency alert designed specifically for crane operations.
Where has The Buddie System been trialed?
Marr Contracting trialed the system on two major projects in Sydney: the Sydney Metro Airport Terminal Station and the Sydney House mixed-use development in the CBD.
Why is Marr Contracting’s adoption significant?
Marr is the first company in the world to test The Buddie System in live crane operations, demonstrating leadership in safety innovation and setting an example for the wider industry.
What’s next for The Buddie System at Marr?
Following successful trials, Marr plans to roll out the system across its crane fleet in Australia and the United Kingdom.
Info and Article Courtesy of Danny D'Cruze with Cranes and Lifting - Australia.
