April 15, 2024

Why Employers Require Operators to be NCCCO Certified

Why 99%of Employers Require Operators to have NCCCO Certification(s)


By now, most all employers require crane operators to be NCCCO certified in order to be in compliance with OSHA standards before performing lift operations on various job sites. Operators of cranes above 2,000 lb. capacity when used in construction, will need to be either certified through NCCCO by an accredited crane operator testing organization and third-party certification company like C2 Safety. The rule was published in the Federal Register on August 9, 2010, and took effect November8, 2010. There is a four-year compliance period for the crane operator certification/qualification requirement, i.e., employers must be in compliance by November 10, 2017. If you are not certified, you may only operate cranes covered under the rule after November 10, 2017, if you meet OSHA’s definition of an “operator-in-training,” which includes having received sufficient training from your employer to operate the crane safely and being continuously monitored by an “operator’s trainer.” There are also restrictions on the types of lifts you can make.

NCCCO stands for the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. It's a nonprofit organization in the United States that provides certification programs for crane operators, riggers, signalpersons, and lift directors. NCCCO aims to ensure that crane operators meet high standards of skill, knowledge, and safety in their profession. Certification through NCCCO involves rigorous testing and practical assessments to ensure that operators are competent and qualified to operate cranes safely and efficiently. This certification is often required by employers and regulatory bodies in various industries where crane operations are involved, such as construction, manufacturing, and maritime.

 

Here are six reasons why employers require crane operators to be NCCCO certified:

  1. Safety: Crane operation involves significant risks to both operators and those around them. NCCCO certification ensures that operators have received standardized training and have demonstrated competency in operating cranes safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
  2. Compliance: Many regulatory bodies, such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) in the United States, require crane operators to be certified by recognized organizations like NCCCO. Compliance with these regulations is essential for avoiding fines, legal issues, and ensuring a safe work environment.
  3. Quality Assurance: NCCCO certification signifies that an operator has met specific standards of proficiency and competence in crane operation. Employers can trust that certified operators possess the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their jobs effectively and efficiently.
  4. Liability Reduction: Employers may face legal liabilities in the event of accidents or injuries involving cranes. By hiring NCCCO-certified operators, employers demonstrate due diligence in ensuring that their operators are qualified and competent, potentially reducing their liability in case of accidents.
  5. Insurance Requirements: Insurance companies may require crane operators to be  NCCCO certified as a condition for coverage. Certified operators are  perceived as lower risks, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums  for employers.
  6. Professionalism and Credibility: Employers often prefer to hire  NCCCO-certified crane operators because it reflects a commitment to professionalism and a higher level of skill. This certification adds  credibility to an operator's qualifications, which can be beneficial for both the operator and the employer.

Overall, requiring NCCCO certification helps employers mitigate risks, ensure regulatory compliance, maintain safety standards, and uphold professionalism in crane operations.

Ready to reach new heights? Get comprehensive compliance for your job sites with our Mobile Crane Ops Field Reference Package or Book your NCCCO crane operator training with C2Safety.

C2Safety provides all the training material for your written exam as well as a crane for the practical. Additional practice time on the crane, prior to your practical exam, is also available.

Call (270) 925-1133 or fill out this form to schedule NCCCO Training.

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