The NPCA Boom Truck Task Force is working closely with industry leaders and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to keep members updated on the new OSHA crane certification requirement.
OSHA previously delayed a rule requiring all crane operators to be certified; however, the new date of November 2017 is quickly approaching. The delay has given NPCA more time to work with industry crane operator certifying bodies to develop a boom truck certification appropriate for the precast concrete industry and to give plants more time to prepare operators for the certification.
NPCA now offers a preparatory course to help crane operators become familiar with load charts commonly used within the precast concrete industry. The charts are similar to ones that may appear on the national certification written exam. For more information and to register, visit the Understanding Delivery Crane Load Charts webinar web page.
Further information will be presented at the NPCA 51st Annual Convention, Sept. 28 – Oct. 1 in Austin, Texas. Meanwhile, the boom truck task force has created a crane certification FAQ sheet that gives detailed clarification about the OSHA crane requirement and compliance needs. It will be updated as information becomes available.
It’s pretty cool that changes are being made so that all crane operators are being required to be certified. That’ll probably really help reduce risk of accidents on job sites. I look forward to hearing about the next update.
It is interesting how a certification has to be developed like this. I am glad that there are processes that ensure a person is qualified to operate heavy equipment like this. Do you have any tips or information for a person who is looking to get certified as a crane operator? Thank you for sharing this information about the new developments in construction equipment regulation.