Same word, different worlds

Cager

Cager turns up in 2 fields: mining, shop slang. Here is what it means to the people in each one.

Mining & Geology

Cager in mining

The worker who controls loading and unloading at a shaft landing.

The worker stationed at a shaft landing who directs the loading and unloading of the mine cage. This person signals the hoist operator when the conveyance is clear to move and ensures that weight limits and safety gates are secure before transit.

"Tell the cager we're sending up three pallets of empty powder boxes on the next trip."

Shop Floor Slang

Cager in shop slang

A warehouse or factory worker assigned to manage the secure storage enclosure.

In logistics and large facilities, high-value goods or specialized tools are kept in a wire-mesh enclosure known as the cage. The person who staffs this area is responsible for logging items in and out, preventing theft, and maintaining inventory control. Floor staff often have to negotiate with them to get replacement gear or premium materials.

"Go see the cager and sign out a new hammer drill before you head up to the roof."

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