Going Beyond OSHA's Minimum Standards for Crane Safety

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Now that the much anticipated OSHA crane operator evaluation requirements are finalized, many companies are once again focused on crane operators. While determining how your company will meet these compliance standards is important, it is equally important to determine what else can be done to achieve the best risk management benefits possible during crane operations. Instead of focusing solely on crane operators, companies should also provide training to members of their safety and project management teams to help reinforce their role in safe crane operations.

In today’s construction environment, the loads being lifted have gotten bigger and more complex, requiring bigger cranes. The load charts that accompany these cranes have also gotten more complex, as have the lift plans for using these cranes, requiring management, lift directors and crane operators to expand their understanding of crane operations.

Training Can Help Reduce Crane Incidents

The OSHA Cranes & Derricks standards state that operators of most cranes above 2,000 pound capacities, when used in construction, are required to be either certified by an accredited crane operator testing organization, such as the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO), qualified through an audited-employer program, or licensed by a state or a city. Currently, there are several states and cities that have their own requirements for crane operators. Your local labor or licensing department can provide more information if this option is available in your area.

While meeting the compliance requirements found in OSHA standards is important, companies should also consider certification for the risk management benefits it provides. To be effective and help operators retain what they learn, training on crane safety should be more of a continuous process, rather than a destination to be reached.

What to Look for in a Training Program

When choosing a program for your company, look for one that fits your company’s needs and the learning style of your employees. Instead of a program that focuses solely on test preparation, consider a more well-rounded approach that teaches the subject matter, including what the employees could actually experience in the field. The trainer should understand your company and type of equipment you use and present the information in a way that your employees can understand.