What are the qualifications for a crane operator?
When you hear the term overhead crane operator, you probably think of workers who operate large construction cranes. Tower cranes, marine cranes, and the like. However, the term "overhead crane operator" actually refers to workers who control any type of crane, including overhead cranes.
Operating any type of crane is a dangerous job, especially without effective training. Hands-on experience is a key part of becoming a qualified overhead crane operator. However, according to OSHA regulations, safe crane operation requires technical knowledge and experience. Many operators have years of experience controlling cranes on the job. They may know what they are doing, but do they know why?
Safe crane operation requires not only that workers know how to operate the system; it also requires that they know why. According to OSHA, a qualified overhead crane operator knows how to operate the system and also demonstrates proficiency in technical knowledge and safe operating skills. While most overhead crane operators never receive formal training, many employers are beginning to require workers to complete a safe crane operator certification course. While OSHA has established its own definition of a qualified crane operator. There is no one card that guarantees you know how to operate every crane.
For employers seeking to incorporate a safe crane operation program into their training regimen, there are two basic questions to consider. Does the training cover general crane knowledge topics? And, is it specific to specific cranes and models? While it is important to consider the specific types of cranes that workers will be using, it is equally important to remember that a good program requires that workers be trained in a technical manner that relates to all systems.
Even so, most crane operator certification programs focus on general crane knowledge and operating skills by crane type, with exam topics relevant to all cranes of that type rather than a specific make or model. For example, an overhead crane certification program will focus on general knowledge and operating skills for all types of overhead cranes, not just gantry, bridge or jib cranes. This can cause some job confusion for trainees, but OSHA offers this advice: Understand that your diagram may look different, but you have to look at your size/type of crane and figure out how to apply it to the concepts outlined in the certification program.
In addition to certification programs, there is another important factor that employers need to consider when evaluating crane operator safety regulations. What is crane operation? OSHA defines it as controlling the swing of the hook, and that's it. It's really that simple. A qualified overhead crane operator only needs to know how to do one thing, operate the crane. Many employers expect their workers to know how to assemble and disassemble a crane, how to inspect a crane, and how to maintain a crane. All of these are important parts of crane safety, but it's important to know the difference. Crane inspectors should receive completely different training than crane operators. A person can learn both, but receiving overhead crane operator training does not qualify you to inspect, maintain, or even assemble/install a system.
What are the qualifications of a crane inspector?
Hiring a competent person to inspect your cranes is vital to the safety of your workers and the longevity of your system. OSHA defines a qualified crane inspector as someone who has the ability to identify existing and foreseeable hazards in surrounding or working conditions that are unsanitary, harmful, or dangerous to employees and is authorized to take prompt corrective actions to eliminate those hazards. According to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), a qualified crane inspector should receive formal training in: safety and design specifications related to cranes; federal, state, and local codes and regulations; safe crane operating methods; report writing and record keeping; and communication skills. In addition, inspectors should receive additional formal training every two years.
Unfortunately, many workers mistakenly assume that their crane operator is also qualified to inspect their cranes. This can be a fatal mistake. The qualifications for crane operators are completely different from those for crane inspectors. Make sure everyone responsible for these jobs is appropriately qualified. It is also important to understand the standards enforced by state and federal laws and which states implement OSHA-approved industry state programs. It is the owner/user's responsibility to install, inspect, test, maintain, and operate the crane or related lifting equipment in accordance with applicable ANSI safety standards, OSHA regulations, and local codes and laws.
Safety standards and regulations
Currently, in 21 states, occupational safety and health standards are enforced by state agencies responsible for OSHA-approved state programs. Many states limit their participation to state and local government employees, but some include all workers. If you operate a small business in one of these states, you must determine whether requirements in addition to those in the OSHA standard apply. For example, OSHA's Construction Industry Cranes and Derricks Standard requires that crane operators must be qualified or certified by November 10, 2014, but states may require such qualification or certification at an earlier date. In addition, state or local licensing requirements may apply.
For more information about OSHA standards and compliance, visit the OSHA website. If you are seeking advice on complying with OSHA standards, OSHA does offer a field consulting program. The program will ensure that your workplace is in compliance with OSHA standards and that workers are safe every day. The program provides free and confidential advice to small and medium-sized businesses in each state, with priority given to high-risk workplaces. These services are separate from enforcement, meaning they do not result in penalties or citations. Instead, consultants from state agencies and universities work with employers to identify workplace hazards, provide advice on complying with OSHA standards, and help establish safety and health management systems.
To find an OSHA Field Consulting Program office near you, go to their consulting directory.
Remember that worker safety is the employer's responsibility, including all aspects of the workplace. Make sure you follow national standards and take the necessary steps to keep your employees safe. In addition, crane operators and other workers who work near cranes should also take precautions to ensure their own safety and the safety of those around them. Being a proactive employee means being aware of crane hazards in the workplace and knowing what steps can be taken to correct them.
