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Digger Derrick

Digger Derrick

This informative fact sheet provides a comprehensive overview of the operator qualification and certification mandates outlined in subpart CC - Cranes and Derricks in Construction, as specified in 29 CFR 1926.1427. The requirement for state or local government licensing became effective on November 8, 2010, while additional certification and qualification measures were implemented on November 10, 2014.

29 CFR 1926.1400
Requirements

Who needs to be certified or qualified?

Any individual involved in construction activities operating a crane that falls under the purview of the recently implemented cranes and derricks rule should adhere to the guidelines, EXCEPT:

Operators of the aforementioned equipment must meet the criteria for minimum expertise as described in the relevant section of subpart CC.

Do operators of digger derricks need to possess qualification or certification?

Indeed, operators of digger derricks are required to obtain qualification or certification, unless the specific use of the equipment involves augering holes for electric or telecommunication line poles, placing or removing said poles, or handling related materials for installation or removal on/from the poles.

What is required in the testing for certification?

The certification process consists of two components:

A written exam assessing the applicant's knowledge of the specific safe operating procedures for the type of equipment they intend to operate, as well as their technical understanding of the subject matter criteria outlined in 1926.1427(j).

A practical exam evaluating the applicant's proficiency in safely operating the equipment. This includes essential skills such as accurately utilizing load chart information and identifying the necessary components during the shift inspection.

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Is it necessary for an operator to obtain multiple certifications?

Regarding certification from an accredited testing organization, operators must be certified according to the crane type and capacity they will be operating. Each accredited testing organization establishes its own categories for crane type and capacity.

What is the process for certifying or qualifying an operator?

There are four distinct methods by which an equipment operator can attain qualification or certification, ensuring compliance with OSHA requirements:

- Obtaining a certificate from an accredited testing organization for crane operators is required. This testing organization must hold accreditation from a nationally recognized accrediting agency and conduct examinations in accordance with the criteria specified in 1926.1427(j)(1) and (j)(2). Notably, this certification remains transferrable as operators switch employers. The accreditation of the testing organization must undergo a review process every three years. The certificate itself must explicitly indicate the type and capacity of equipment for which the operator has been tested and certified. Furthermore, the certificate remains valid for a duration of five years.

- Qualification conferred by the employer through a meticulously audited employer program. An audited employer program allows employers to establish their own crane operator testing program, overseen by an independent auditor. The auditor must be certified by an accredited crane operator testing organization to assess the administration of written and practical tests. The audits of the employer's program are conducted in accordance with nationally recognized auditing standards. It's important to note that crane operator qualification attained through an employer program remains valid exclusively during the operator's employment with the specific employer and while operating a crane on their behalf. This qualification remains valid for a maximum duration of five years.

- Qualification endorsed by the US Military, pertains exclusively to civilian employees serving in the Department of Defense or Armed Services, but it is important to note that this qualification is non-transferable. It does not extend to employees of private contractors.

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- Licensing granted by a state or local government is a process that involves acquiring a license from a city or state that maintains a mandatory certification program. When this license meets the minimum requirements outlined in 1926.1427(e)(2) and (j), OSHA mandates that crane operators possess this license when operating within the corresponding city, county, or state. It's important to note that this license is not transferable beyond the jurisdiction of the issuing government entity and remains valid for a maximum duration of five years.

Note: In cases where a state or local government mandates a crane operator license, it is imperative for the crane operator to obtain the appropriate license to meet OSHA requirements.

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