Crane Operator Certification
Mandatory third-party certification required by OSHA for all crane operators in construction.
In Detail
Since November 2018, OSHA requires all crane operators in construction to be certified by an accredited testing organization. The four OSHA-recognized certifying bodies are NCCCO, NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research), CIC (Crane Institute Certification), and OECP (Operating Engineers Certification Program). Certification requires passing both written and practical exams specific to the crane type (mobile, tower, overhead, etc.). Certifications must be renewed every 5 years. Employers must verify operator certification and ensure operators are qualified for the specific equipment they operate. Operating without valid certification is a citable OSHA violation.
Related Terms
NCCCO
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators — the primary crane operator certification body in the U.S.
Competent Person
A person capable of identifying existing and predictable crane hazards and authorized to take corrective measures.
OSHA Crane Inspection
A mandatory examination of crane equipment to verify safe operating condition per OSHA standards.