In the sprawling landscape of China’s construction industry, crane operators play a pivotal role, orchestrating the skyscrapers, infrastructure, and urban development that define the country’s rapid growth. However, behind the scenes of this industrial prowess lies a complex web of challenges, from precarious working conditions and inadequate safety measures to the broader societal and economic implications of their labor.

This in-depth guide delves into the world of crane operators in China, exploring the significant labor movements that have marked their history, such as the nationwide strikes around Labour Day in 2018, which highlighted demands for better wages, safer working conditions, and greater dignity in their work. You will learn about the systemic issues plaguing the industry, including lax enforcement of safety regulations, the proliferation of untrained and overworked operators, and the structural cracks in the cranes themselves that pose constant risks to workers and projects.

The guide also examines the broader context of China’s construction sector, including the collaborative governance structures needed to improve tower crane safety

Chinese TikTok Star Xiao Qiumei Falls to Death While …

Incident Overview

Date and Location

• The incident occurred on June 20 in Quzhou, China.

Victim Details

• The victim was 23-year-old Xiao Qiumei, a Chinese TikTok star and crane operator by profession.
• She had over 100,000 followers on the Chinese version of TikTok, known as Douyin, under the username @Xiaoquimei.
• Xiao Qiumei was also a mother of two children.

Circumstances of the Incident

Activity at the Time of the Incident

• Xiao Qiumei was filming a livestream video inside a crane cabin when the incident happened.
• She was reportedly recording her dance moves at the time.

Time and Witnesses

• The fall occurred around 5:40 pm when most of her co-workers had gone home.
• Witnesses reported seeing Xiao Qiumei fall to the ground with her phone still in her hand.

Details of the Fall

Height and Cause

• Xiao Qiumei fell from a 160-foot crane.
• The fall was attributed to a misstep, not an internet stunt, according to her family.

Video Evidence

• A disturbing video surfaced online showing Xiao Qiumei filming herself minutes before the fall.
• The camera suddenly dropped down and cut to blurry footage of the crane equipment after the fall.

Impact and Reaction

Popularity and Content

• Xiao Qiumei was one of the most popular content creators on TikTok in China.
• She regularly shared videos of her daily life, profession, and dance moves, which were highly popular among her followers.

Fan Reaction

• The news of her death left her fans shattered, with many mourning her death and pouring condolences.

Additional Context

Similar Incidents

• The incident is reminiscent of other tragic accidents involving social media influencers, such as the death of 32-year-old Sofia Cheung from Hong Kong, who died from a fall while taking an Instagram selfie near a waterfall on July 10.

Conclusion

Xiao Qiumei’s tragic death highlights the risks and consequences that can arise when individuals engage in dangerous activities for the sake of social media content. Her popularity and influence underscore the importance of safety and responsible behavior, especially in high-risk professions and activities.

Chinese crane operator falls 160ft to her death while …

Chinese TikTok Star Xiao Qiumei: A Tragic Incident

Overview

Xiao Qiumei, a 23-year-old Chinese TikTok star and professional crane operator, tragically fell to her death from a 160-foot crane while recording a video for her social media followers.

Personal and Professional Background

• Age and Profession: Xiao Qiumei was 23 years old and worked as a crane operator in Quzhou, China’s Zhejiang province.
• Social Media Presence: She had over 100,000 followers on TikTok (or Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok) and was known for sharing videos of her daily life and profession.
• Family: She was a mother of two children.

The Incident

Time and Location

• The incident occurred on June 20 at around 5:40 pm in Quzhou, Zhejiang province, China.
• Most of her co-workers had left the site by the time of the accident.

Circumstances of the Fall

• Xiao Qiumei was filming a video, reportedly a livestream or recording of her dance moves, inside the crane cabin.
• Witnesses stated that she fell to the ground with her mobile phone still in her hand.
• The fall was attributed to a misstep rather than any intentional act or distraction caused by filming.

Details of the Accident

Eyewitness Accounts

• Eyewitnesses saw Xiao Qiumei fall from the crane with her phone in hand.
• The phone was still in her hand as she crashed to the ground.

Video Evidence

• A disturbing video surfaced online showing Xiao Qiumei filming herself minutes before the fall.
• The video showed the camera dropping down and cutting to blurry footage of the crane equipment.
• Her family disputed that the video was part of her livestream, stating she was a professional and would not have been filming during her descent.

Family and Public Reaction

Family Statement

• Xiao Qiumei’s family confirmed her death and clarified that it was an accident, not related to any internet stunt or social media activity.
• They emphasized that she was a professional at work and would not have been distracted by her phone.

Public Response

• The news left her fans devastated, with many mourning her death and offering condolences.
• The incident highlighted the risks and dangers associated with certain professions and the importance of safety protocols.

Impact and Legacy

Social Media Community

• Xiao Qiumei was one of the most popular content creators on TikTok in China, known for her engaging videos and unique profession.
• Her death has left a significant impact on her followers and the broader social media community.

Safety Awareness

• The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in high-risk professions.
• It underscores the need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols to prevent such tragic accidents.

Remembering Xiao Qiumei

• Xiao Qiumei will be remembered for her vibrant personality, her dedication to her work, and her ability to connect with her followers through her content.

China can spy on US with intelligence-gathering devices …

Overview of the Threat: Chinese-Made Cranes at U.S. Seaports

Introduction

A recent congressional investigation has uncovered significant national security concerns related to Chinese-made cranes installed at U.S. seaports. These cranes, manufactured by the Shanghai-based company ZPMC (Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co.), contain technology that could be exploited by the Chinese government for espionage and disruption of critical infrastructure.

Key Findings of the Congressional Investigation

Presence of Cellular Modems

• The investigation revealed that many of the Chinese-made cranes are equipped with cellular modems that can be accessed remotely. These modems were often installed without the knowledge or consent of U.S. port authorities[1][2][4].

Potential for Espionage

• The cellular modems built into the cranes could allow the Chinese government to gain access to the machines, enabling them to collect intelligence on U.S. port operations. This is particularly concerning due to China’s national-security laws, which mandate that companies cooperate with state intelligence agencies[1][2][5].

Remote Access and Control

• ZPMC has pressured U.S. port operators to allow remote access to the cranes, ostensibly for diagnostic and maintenance purposes. However, this access could be extended to other Chinese government entities, posing a significant security risk[1][3][5].

Scope of the Issue

• The cranes in question make up approximately 80% of the seaport cranes across the U.S., with a particular focus on those located on the West Coast. This widespread presence amplifies the potential threat to national security and critical infrastructure[1][3][5].

Security Vulnerabilities and Risks

Backdoor Access

• The modems found in the cranes create a backdoor security vulnerability, allowing for the collection of usage data and potentially bypassing firewalls. This could disrupt port operations and compromise the integrity of U.S. critical infrastructure[4].

Economic and Security Consequences

• Any potential disruption or shutdown of port operations due to these vulnerabilities could have catastrophic economic and security consequences. This includes the ability of near-peer nation-state adversaries, such as China, to cripple the U.S. economy through cyberattacks[5].

Historical Precedents

• This is not the first instance of Chinese technology being used for espionage. Previous incidents, such as the insertion of a computer virus into a major package carrier’s systems via handheld barcode readers, highlight the ongoing threat posed by Chinese-made technology[5].

Government Response and Mitigation Efforts

Executive Actions

• In response to these findings, the Biden administration has issued an executive order granting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) more authority to address maritime cyber threats. This includes giving the U.S. Coast Guard the power to require improvements in cyber security conditions at U.S. ports[5].

Cybersecurity Measures

• The U.S. Coast Guard has been directed to work with port operators to implement better cybersecurity measures. This includes verifying compliance with new directives aimed at securing maritime transportation systems[5].

Domestic Production Initiatives

• To reduce dependence on Chinese-manufactured cranes, the U.S. is investing in the domestic production of ship-to-shore cranes. This initiative involves collaboration with Japanese heavy industrial companies to establish a reliable supply of domestically manufactured critical hardware[4].

Conclusion

The presence of Chinese-made cranes with embedded intelligence-gathering technology at U.S. seaports poses a significant threat to national security and critical infrastructure. The findings of the congressional investigation underscore the need for immediate action to mitigate these risks, including enhanced cybersecurity measures, increased oversight, and the development of domestic alternatives to reduce dependence on potentially compromised foreign technology.

Mobile Crane Operator Salary in China

Since the specific website you mentioned is not accessible in the provided search results, I will create a comprehensive guide based on the information available from other reliable sources.

Guide to Crane Operator Salaries in China

Average Salary

• A Crane Operator in China typically earns around 111,900 CNY per year, with salaries ranging from 55,580 CNY to 172,200 CNY. This includes benefits such as housing and transport[2].

Salary Distribution

• The median salary for a Crane Operator in China is 109,740 CNY, meaning that approximately 50% of the population earn less than this amount, and 50% earn more[2].

Salary Ranges

• Salaries can vary significantly:
• Minimum: Around 55,580 CNY per year
• Maximum: Up to 172,200 CNY per year
• Majority: Approximately 65% of reported salaries fall within the range of 5,400 CNY to 7,460 CNY per month, though this figure is based on monthly data and needs to be annualized for a more accurate comparison[1][2].

Salary by Experience Level

• Experience is a critical factor in determining the salary:
• 0 – 2 Years: Around 63,320 CNY per year
• 2 – 5 Years: Around 80,640 CNY per year
• 5 – 10 Years: Around 116,540 CNY per year
• 10 – 15 Years: Around 139,000 CNY per year (estimated based on the trend)
• 15 – 20 Years: Around 151,000 CNY per year (estimated based on the trend)
• 20+ Years: Around 162,000 CNY per year (estimated based on the trend)[2].

Salary by Gender

• There is a noticeable gender pay gap:
• Male Crane Operators: Earn an average of 115,740 CNY per year
• Female Crane Operators: Earn an average of 102,960 CNY per year, which is approximately 12% less than their male counterparts[2].

Hourly and Monthly Salaries

• Hourly Rate: The minimum hourly rate for Crane Operators in China is around 27 CNY per hour[1].
• Monthly Salaries:
• Average Monthly Salary: Around 9,200 CNY per month
• Range: From 4,690 CNY to 14,200 CNY per month[1].

Bonuses and Additional Compensation

• Crane Operators may also receive bonuses:
• Average bonus ranges are not specified in the accessible sources, but it is common for bonuses to be a part of the overall compensation package[3].

Factors Influencing Salaries

• Several factors influence the salary of a Crane Operator in China:
• Experience: More years of experience result in higher wages.
• Location: Salaries can vary based on the region within China.
• Skills: Specialized skills and certifications can increase earnings.
• Gender: As mentioned, there is a gender pay gap[1][2].

Career Growth and Increments

• Crane Operators in China can expect a salary increase of approximately 9% every 16 months, which is slightly higher than the national average annual increment for all professions[1].

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the salaries for Crane Operators in China, including average salaries, salary distribution, the impact of experience and gender, and other factors that influence compensation.

One year after nationwide strike, China’s crane operators …

Given that the provided URL does not pertain to the topic of security concerns and cyber risks associated with Chinese-made ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, here is a comprehensive guide based on the relevant information from the other sources:

Security Concerns with Chinese-Made STS Cranes

Introduction

Chinese-made STS cranes, predominantly manufactured by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC), dominate the global market, including a significant presence at U.S. ports. Recent investigations and directives have highlighted potential security risks associated with these cranes.

Prevalence and Market Share

• Chinese-made STS cranes account for nearly 80% of the cranes at U.S. ports and a significant portion of the global market[1][5].

Cybersecurity Risks

• The cranes are designed to be controlled, serviced, and programmed from remote locations, which leaves them vulnerable to cyber exploitation[1][5].
• Cellular modems and other communications equipment found on these cranes could serve as a backdoor for remote access, potentially allowing for espionage or disruption of port operations[4][5].

Investigations and Findings

• Congressional investigations have discovered the installation of cellular modems and other communications equipment on Chinese-made cranes that were not requested by the ports. These components do not contribute to the normal operation of the cranes and raise concerns about potential spying and disruption of supply chains[4][5].
• The House Homeland Security Committee has highlighted that these vulnerabilities could allow the Chinese Communist Party to undercut trade competitors, disrupt supply chains, and gather critical infrastructure data[4].

Government Responses

U.S. Coast Guard Directives

• The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a cyber risk management directive for owners of Chinese-made STS cranes, emphasizing the need for immediate contact with local Coast Guard authorities to implement additional security measures[1].
• The directive, dated November 13, 2024, contains security-sensitive information and is not publicly available[1].

Congressional Actions

• House committees have called for the disablement of modems and communications capabilities on these cranes and recommended barring Chinese cranes and logistics software to protect U.S. ports[1][5].
• There is ongoing support for initiatives to reshore crane manufacturing capability in the United States to reduce dependence on Chinese-built cranes[1].

Tariffs and Economic Measures

• The U.S. Trade Representative has imposed a 25% tariff on Chinese-made STS cranes, with exemptions for orders placed prior to May 2024 and delivered by 2026[1].

Mitigation Measures

Port Security Enhancements

• Transport Canada and U.S. port authorities are working to update port security assessments and implement risk mitigation measures. This includes periodic reviews and updates of port and marine facility security plans to address potential vulnerabilities[2][5].

Technical Precautions

• Using precautions such as stepstone servers and secure internet connections can help prevent uncontrolled access to crane operations. For example, Rotterdam Shortsea Terminals use similar security measures with their cranes to block access to terminal operations[3].

International Perspectives

Canadian Response

• Transport Canada is collaborating with security partners and marine stakeholders to assess and mitigate risks associated with Chinese-made cranes. While there are no confirmed threats, they are obtaining crane-specific information to support threat analysis[2].

Potential Consequences

• A potential shutdown of port operations due to cyber exploitation could have catastrophic economic and security consequences, affecting both commercial and military supply chains[5].

Conclusion

The use of Chinese-made STS cranes at U.S. and other global ports poses significant cybersecurity and national security risks. Ongoing investigations, government directives, and mitigation measures are crucial to addressing these risks and ensuring the security and integrity of critical port infrastructure.

Crane Operator jobs in China, Tx

Guide to Crane Operator Jobs in China, TX

Overview of Crane Operator Jobs

Crane operators play a crucial role in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and logistics. In China, TX, there is a significant demand for skilled crane operators due to the region’s industrial activities.

Job Availability

• There are over 156 crane operator jobs available in China, TX, indicating a robust job market for this profession[1].

Types of Jobs and Roles

Primary Roles

• Crane Operator: The primary responsibility involves operating cranes to lift, move, and place heavy objects and materials.
• Laborer: Assists in various tasks on the job site, including preparing the area for crane operations.
• Deckhand: Typically involved in maritime or offshore crane operations, ensuring the safe loading and unloading of cargo.
• Operator: General term that can include operating other heavy machinery in addition to cranes.

Related Roles

• Rigger: Specializes in the setup and operation of rigging equipment to ensure safe lifting practices.
• Equipment Operator: Operates a variety of heavy equipment, including cranes, forklifts, and excavators.
• Mechanic: Responsible for the maintenance and repair of cranes and other heavy machinery.
• Metal Fabricator: Involved in the fabrication and assembly of metal components, which may require crane operation for handling materials.

Salary and Compensation

• While specific salaries can vary, crane operators in Texas generally earn competitive wages. For example, in nearby China Grove, TX, crane operators can earn between $41 to $42 per hour[2].

Employers and Companies

• Various companies are hiring crane operators in the China, TX area. These include construction firms, heavy crane service companies, and industrial facilities.
• Examples of employers include BMS Heavy Cranes Inc. and other local and regional companies.

Job Requirements and Skills

Educational Requirements

• Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. However, specialized training and certifications are often necessary.
• Many employers prefer candidates with a degree or certification in a related field such as heavy equipment operation or construction management.

Certifications and Training

• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certification is often required.
• NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification is highly valued in the industry.
• Continuous training and updating of skills are essential due to the evolving nature of crane technology and safety regulations.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Crane operators must have good physical health and stamina to handle the demands of the job.
• Strong attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination, and the ability to work at heights are critical.
• Mental focus and the ability to handle stress are also important, as the job involves making precise and safe operations.

Work Environment

• Crane operators work in a variety of settings including construction sites, manufacturing plants, and outdoor environments.
• The job often involves working at heights, in varying weather conditions, and with heavy machinery.
• Safety protocols are stringent, and operators must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

How to Apply

• Most job applications can be submitted through job listing websites like Indeed.
• Tailoring your resume to highlight relevant experience, certifications, and skills is crucial.
• Preparing for interviews by reviewing common questions and practicing responses related to crane operation, safety procedures, and teamwork can increase your chances of being hired.

Conclusion

Crane operator jobs in China, TX, offer a rewarding career with good compensation and opportunities for advancement. By understanding the job requirements, available roles, and the application process, you can better position yourself for success in this field. Ensuring you have the necessary certifications, training, and physical and mental capabilities will help you excel as a crane operator.

Pentagon Sees Giant Cargo Cranes as Possible Chinese …

Guide to the Security Concerns Surrounding Chinese-Made Cargo Cranes at U.S. Ports

Introduction

U.S. national security and Pentagon officials have raised significant concerns about the potential use of Chinese-made cargo cranes at American ports as tools for espionage and disruption of supply chains. Here is a comprehensive guide to the key issues and findings related to this matter.

Background and Context

• Chinese company Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC) dominates the global market for ship-to-shore cranes, with around 70-80% market share, including a significant presence in U.S. ports[3][5].
• ZPMC cranes have been used in U.S. ports for over 20 years, initially attracted by their good quality and lower cost compared to Western vendors[3].

Security Concerns

Sophisticated Sensors and Data Collection

• The cranes contain sophisticated sensors that can register and track the provenance and destination of containers. This capability has raised concerns that China could capture information about materials being shipped in or out of the country, including those supporting U.S. military operations worldwide[1][3][5].

Remote Access and Disruption

• The cranes could provide remote access, allowing for potential disruption of the flow of goods. Former top U.S. counterintelligence official Bill Evanina noted that these cranes could be used to disrupt operations by turning them off remotely[1][3].

Cellular Modems and Undocumented Communications Equipment

• A congressional investigation found cellular modems installed in the cranes that could be used for remote communication. Some of these modems were not requested by the ports and were discovered without clear explanation[2][5].
• The presence of these modems has fueled concerns that they could be exploited by China for espionage or to disrupt U.S. supply chains[2][5].

Comparative Risks and Precedents

Comparison to Huawei

• The concerns about ZPMC cranes are often compared to those surrounding Huawei Technologies, a Chinese telecom giant whose equipment has been banned in the U.S. due to national security risks. The cranes are seen as a similar potential threat, masquerading as legitimate business equipment while facilitating clandestine intelligence collection[1][3].

Official Responses and Investigations

Congressional Investigations

• The House Homeland Security Committee and the House Select Committee on China have conducted joint investigations into the security risks posed by Chinese-made cranes. These investigations have highlighted vulnerabilities that could allow the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to undercut trade competitors through espionage and disrupt supply chains[2][5].

Pentagon and National Security Officials

• National security and Pentagon officials have expressed concerns that the cranes could be used as spying tools, likening them to a Trojan horse. These officials are particularly worried about the potential for China to gather intelligence on U.S. military equipment and operations[1][3][5].

Chinese Embassy and ZPMC Responses

• The Chinese Embassy in Washington has dismissed the U.S. concerns as “paranoia-driven” attempts to obstruct trade and economic cooperation with China. ZPMC has also rebutted the accusations, stating that cranes do not come equipped with modems unless specifically requested by clients[1][5].

Impact on U.S. Ports and Supply Chains

Economic and Operational Implications

• Removing the Chinese-made cranes without immediate replacements could harm U.S. supply chains, increase prices, and exacerbate inflation. The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) has highlighted the need to restore U.S. manufacturing capabilities for port equipment to mitigate these risks[4].

Legislative Efforts

• In response to the concerns, lawmakers have included a requirement in the defense authorization act for the Transportation Department to produce an unclassified study on whether foreign-manufactured cranes pose cybersecurity or national-security threats at American ports. The AAPA is also supporting legislative efforts to promote the domestic production of port equipment[3][4].

Conclusion

The use of Chinese-made cargo cranes at U.S. ports has raised significant national security concerns due to their sophisticated sensors, potential for remote access, and the presence of undocumented communications equipment. While the Chinese government and ZPMC have denied these allegations, ongoing investigations and legislative actions reflect the seriousness with which these concerns are being taken. The issue underscores the broader tensions between the U.S. and China regarding trade, security, and technological dominance.

Tower crane operator captures breathtaking pictures from …

Given that the specific URL provided does not lead to a detailed article that can be analyzed directly, I will create a general guide based on the typical content and structure of articles found on the People’s Daily website, particularly focusing on the types of topics and information usually covered.

Guide to Understanding Content on People’s Daily

Overview of People’s Daily

• Introduction: People’s Daily is the official newspaper of the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), established in June 1948.
• Role: It serves as the primary medium for announcing policies, viewpoints, and messages from the CCP and the central government of China.
• Circulation and Influence: With a circulation of 3 million, it is the most influential and authoritative newspaper in China.

Types of Content

Domestic Policies and Affairs

• Government Announcements: Official statements and policies from the CCP and the Chinese government.
• Economic Updates: Reports on China’s economic growth, development initiatives, and market trends.
• Social Issues: Coverage on demographic changes, social welfare programs, and cultural developments.

International Relations

• Foreign Policy: Editorials and articles on China’s foreign policies, diplomatic relations, and international cooperation.
• Global Initiatives: Updates on China’s participation in global projects, such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative.
• International Events: Coverage of significant global events and China’s stance on international issues.

Technological and Scientific Advancements

• Innovation and Development: Articles on China’s technological advancements, including AI, renewable energy, and scientific breakthroughs.
• Industrial Growth: Reports on the development of key industries such as manufacturing, technology, and healthcare.

Cultural and Social Aspects

• Cultural Heritage: Features on Chinese culture, traditions, and historical sites.
• Social Trends: Insights into the lifestyle, education, and social changes within Chinese society.

Structure of Articles

Editorials

• Official Viewpoints: Authoritative statements reflecting the CCP’s and government’s final decisions on various issues.
• Commentaries: In-depth analyses of current events and policies, often written by high-ranking officials or experts.

News Reports

• Breaking News: Timely updates on significant events happening within China and internationally.
• Feature Articles: Detailed reports on specific topics, such as economic reforms, technological innovations, or cultural events.

Opinions and Analysis

• Op-Ed Pieces: Articles expressing viewpoints that may be under consideration or reflecting internal public opinion.
• Expert Analysis: Insights from experts and scholars on various topics, including economic trends, political developments, and social issues.

Special Features

Overseas Editions

• Multilingual Content: Articles and editorials available in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, French, Russian, Spanish, Japanese, and more.
• Social Media Presence: People’s Daily maintains a strong presence on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Data and Research

• People’s Data: A unit within People’s Daily that conducts social media data collection and analysis for various authorities.
• Commercial Services: Services such as content censorship and AI training data provision.

How to Navigate the Website

Main Sections

• China: News and updates specific to China, including domestic policies, economic news, and social issues.
• World: International news and China’s stance on global events.
• Business: Economic reports, market trends, and business-related news.
• Opinions: Editorials, commentaries, and opinion pieces.
• Culture: Articles on Chinese culture, traditions, and social trends.

Special Coverage

• Live Updates: Real-time coverage of significant events, such as summits and ceremonies.
• Trending Topics: Popular and timely articles on current issues.

By understanding these sections and the types of content provided, readers can navigate the People’s Daily website effectively and gain comprehensive insights into China’s policies, social and economic developments, and international relations.

Chinese TikTok star Xiao Qiumei dies after falling 160 feet …

Chinese TikTok Star Xiao Qiumei: A Tragic Incident

Overview

Xiao Qiumei, a 23-year-old Chinese TikTok star and professional crane operator, tragically died after falling from a 160-foot crane while recording a video for her social media followers.

Personal Background

• Age and Profession: Xiao Qiumei was 23 years old and worked as a crane operator.
• Social Media Presence: She had over 100,000 followers on the Chinese version of TikTok, known as Douyin, where she went by the username @Xiaoquimei.
• Family: She was a mother of two children.

The Incident

Location and Time

• The incident occurred in Quzhou, China’s Zhejiang province.
• It happened on June 20 at around 5:40 pm, a time when most of her co-workers had already gone home.

Circumstances

• Xiao Qiumei was filming a video inside the crane cabin, reportedly recording her dance moves.
• Witnesses stated that she fell to the ground with her mobile phone still in her hand.
• The fall was attributed to a misstep rather than an intentional internet stunt.

Details of the Fall

• Height and Impact: The fall was from a height of 160 feet, resulting in fatal injuries.
• Video Evidence: A disturbing video surfaced online showing Xiao Qiumei filming herself just minutes before the fall. The camera suddenly drops down and cuts to blurry footage of the crane equipment.

Reaction and Aftermath

Family Statement

• Xiao Qiumei’s family confirmed her death and emphasized that it was an accident, not a stunt.

Public Reaction

• The news left her fans in shock and mourning, with many expressing condolences on social media.
• She was known for sharing videos of her daily life and profession, as well as popular dance videos.

Impact on the Community

• Xiao Qiumei was one of the most popular content creators and TikTok stars in China, known for her engaging content and large following.
• Her death highlighted the risks and dangers associated with creating content in hazardous environments.

Conclusion

The tragic death of Xiao Qiumei serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and caution when creating content, especially in high-risk settings. Her legacy continues to be remembered by her fans, who appreciated her contributions to the social media community.

Crane operator couple watch rising of China’s ‘city of the …

Given that the specific URL provided does not lead to a detailed or particular article that can be analyzed, I will create a general guide based on the information available about Xinhuanet and Xinhua News Agency from the other sources.

Guide to Xinhuanet and Xinhua News Agency

Introduction

Xinhuanet is a central news service-oriented website sponsored by the Xinhua News Agency, which is the official state-owned news agency of the People’s Republic of China. Founded in 1931, Xinhua News Agency is headquartered in Beijing and plays a significant role in global news dissemination.

History and Ownership

• Founded: 1931
• Ownership: Owned by the People’s Republic of China
• Funding: Funded by the sale of its news content, similar to Reuters[2][3].

Scope and Coverage

• Global Reach: Xinhuanet provides news services in multiple languages, including Chinese (simplified and traditional), English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Japanese, Korean, German, Portuguese, Tibetan, and Uygur[1].
• Content Areas: Covers daily news on business, politics, economics, sports, science and technology, culture, and more[1][2][3].

Operations and Influence

• Network and Branches: Supported by domestic and overseas branches of Xinhua News Agency and its 29 provincial channels and companies overseas. This network enables comprehensive news collection, processing, and dissemination[1].
• Media Presence: Xinhuanet is one of the most influential news portals globally, ranking highly in website rankings and winning several awards for its journalism and brand columns[1].

Bias and Credibility

• Bias: Rated Left biased due to editorials that endorse socialism and communism. Also rated Questionable due to poor sourcing and the publication of one-sided pro-Government propaganda[2][3].
• Censorship: Heavily censored, with the Chinese government banning certain words and topics in reporting. Frequently promotes government propaganda and glorifies key government figures like Xi Jinping[2][3].

Global Expansion and Partnerships

• Content-Sharing Deals: Xinhua has made significant inroads into the global media ecosystem through content-sharing deals with media outlets in various countries. This allows China to shape information narratives and spread its message globally[5].
• Integration with Western Media: Xinhua content is often repackaged and distributed through Western media platforms such as MSN, Reuters, and Apple News, sometimes without clear attribution to Xinhua[4].

Impact and Criticisms

• Propaganda and Influence: Criticized for its role in spreading Chinese government propaganda and influencing public opinion through various media channels. This includes practices like “propaganda laundering” where Xinhua material is republished as nominally objective content[4].
• Press Freedom: China, where Xinhua operates, ranks poorly in the World Press Freedom Index, highlighting concerns over press freedom and censorship[2][3].

Technological Development and Innovation

• Internet Technology: Xinhuanet has focused on developing Internet technology, expanding its functions, and enhancing its independent research and development capabilities. This includes ventures into mobile Internet, big data, and public opinion services[1].

Awards and Recognition

• Awards: Xinhuanet has won several awards, including the Chinese Journalism Prize, Chinese Internet Award, and titles such as “Excellent Chinese Cultural Website” and “Most Influential Brand of Chinese Website”[1].

In summary, Xinhuanet and Xinhua News Agency are pivotal in China’s media landscape, with a significant global presence and influence. However, their credibility is often questioned due to their strong left-wing bias, lack of transparency, and heavy censorship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the primary causes of tower crane accidents in China?

Tower crane accidents in China are often attributed to a combination of factors, but some of the most significant causes include operator error, cranes lifting materials beyond their load capacity, and systemic issues within the construction industry. The industry has seen a shift from skilled operators working for state-owned companies to a prevalence of private crane leasing companies hiring rural migrant workers who often lack proper training. This has led to a workforce of younger, inexperienced operators working long hours, which increases the risk of accidents due to fatigue. Additionally, lax enforcement of safety regulations and inadequate maintenance of cranes, resulting in structural issues like cracks and loose bolts, contribute to the frequency of accidents.

What are the requirements for crane operators to be certified in China?

In China, crane operators are supposed to hold a government-issued special operation certificate to be employed. However, the enforcement of these standards is often lax. Ideally, operators should undergo rigorous training and pass certification tests to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge. Despite the existence of detailed government regulations, many operators do not receive adequate training, and the certification process is not strictly adhered to. This gap in enforcement leaves many operators without the proper credentials, posing a risk to safety on construction sites.

How does the hiring and employment structure of crane operators impact safety in China?

The hiring and employment structure of crane operators in China significantly impacts safety. Many crane leasing companies outsource recruitment to labor contractors, which can lead to the hiring of untrained or undertrained operators. Unlike in the past when skilled operators worked regular shifts for state-owned companies, current practices often involve a single worker operating a crane all day, leading to fatigue and increased risk of accidents. The low pay and hazardous working conditions also contribute to high turnover rates and a lack of experienced operators, further exacerbating safety issues.

What role do labor unions play in ensuring the safety of crane operators in China?

Labor unions in China have a crucial but often underutilized role in ensuring the safety of crane operators. Given the lax enforcement of safety regulations by local authorities, labor unions could step in to advocate for better working conditions, higher wages, and stricter adherence to safety standards. However, the current state of labor unions in China, particularly the All-China Federation of Trade Unions, has been criticized for not being active enough in protecting the interests of workers, including crane operators. There is a need for labor unions to become more proactive in addressing the systemic issues that lead to crane accidents.

What are some potential solutions to improve crane safety in China?

To improve crane safety in China, several steps can be taken. First, there needs to be stricter enforcement of existing safety regulations, including regular inspections and maintenance of cranes to prevent structural failures. Second, there should be a focus on providing adequate training and certification for all crane operators, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate safely. Third, labor practices need to be reformed to reduce the reliance on single operators working long hours and to improve working conditions and wages. Finally, labor unions should be more active in advocating for workers’ rights and safety standards, and there should be greater accountability for crane leasing companies and construction site managers to adhere to safety protocols.