Buddie System Adds Safety Alert for Crane Operations

August 26, 2026 - Bigelow Safety has announced the U.S. availability of The Buddie System, a safety alert system designed to give workers an additional way to initiate an emergency communication signal during crane operations and other heavy equipment activity.

The system was developed after experienced riggers Jade Harris and Gary Panagiotidis experienced a near-miss in which radio interference prevented a rigger from reaching a crane operator. According to Bigelow Safety, the incident highlighted the limited communication options available to workers on the ground when normal communication fails.

The Buddie System addresses that communication gap with a lanyard-activated safety alert. A worker can pull the lanyard to initiate the alert signal when a hazardous situation develops.

The system is designed to work alongside existing safety practices, including radios, training, procedures, PPE, lift planning, and established emergency protocols. Bigelow Safety said it is intended to complement those practices rather than replace them.

“The arrival of The Buddie System in the U.S. is an important milestone for Bigelow Safety,” said the Bigelow Safety team. “Our goal is to give companies another practical tool that can help strengthen communication, improve situational awareness, and support crews in responding faster when conditions suddenly change.”

Applications include crane operations, heavy equipment activity, construction, industrial environments, and other jobsites where workers and equipment operate in proximity.

Bigelow Safety is the U.S. distributor of The Buddie System and said U.S. inventory is now available. Companies can purchase the system through Bigelow Safety or schedule a live demonstration to evaluate the technology and discuss potential applications for their crews and worksites.