Construction Crane Training

Construction cranes often rise many stories into the sky.

Construction cranes are large pieces of equipment used for hoisting, lifting and moving heavy objects. Because of the size and power associated with most cranes, they pose a number of risks to nearby workers and pedestrians. To minimize the risk associated with construction cranes, workers often undergo training on safe crane operation.

Dangers

Construction cranes are a risk not only to their operators but also to ground crews, other site workers and even nearby pedestrians. A crane operator car is often located dozens of feet in the air. If the crane malfunctions or becomes unbalanced, the operator faces certain death. Workers on the ground can be hit by dropped objects, or even from objects that were improperly lifted. When a construction crane tips over, which happens due to poor balance or improper assembly, any person nearby is at risk. A failed crane can cause major damage to surroundings buildings, and can cause fatalities to the building's occupants.

OSHA Crane Safety Requirements

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) develops construction safety standards that include worker training. Crane and hoist safety is covered in OSHA Standard 1926, Subpart N. Per OSHA, employees working around cranes must be trained to inspect a crane prior to each use, including a detailed inspection once a year. Workers should be trained to look for signs of wear and damage, and must know when to stop using the crane if they spot a danger sign. The OSHA Outreach Training program offers additional training guidelines for crane safety.

Features

Any worker who is operating, assisting with or supervising crane operation can benefit from training. General contractors and site supervisors must be aware of the dangers associated with cranes, and should know what to look for in terms of safe erection and operation. Crane operators should know how to inspect and operate the crane safely to minimize risk to those nearby. Workers responsible for loading, assembling, disassembling or transporting a crane must also receive appropriate training. Finally, construction workers in other fields should be trained on working safely around a crane, and avoiding potential dangers.

Training Sources

Employees may find crane training opportunities from many different sources. Crane companies often provide specialized training to their workers to maintain a high level of safety, and to keep insurance premiums and legal risks at a minimum. A large percentage of construction workers also receive some form of OSHA training, which includes information on crane safety and operation. Crane training is also available from organizations like the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. Training may include a broad overview of crane operation, or more specific training aimed at individual users. These specialized programs include crane assembly, transportation, inspection, repair, operations, communication and signals, and the use of personal protective equipment.

Licensing

As of April 2010, only 18 states and six individual cities require crane operators to obtain a license. While a few of these states or cities have their own crane training and licensing programs in place, most rely on programs developed by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. To obtain an NCCCO crane operator's license, applicants must complete a written exam and undergo hands-on training and testing in the field. Crane companies may also require employees to obtain NCCCO licensing, even when it is not required by the local government. See the Resources section for a list of areas that require licensing.

References

• OSHA: Cranes and Derricks
• National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators: State Crane Licensing Requirements
• OSHA: Cranes and Derricks Outreach Training

Resources

• OSHA Crane Safety Guidelines
• NCCCO: Certification Overview