October 2016—With the fifth anniversary of CCO crane inspector certification approaching, NCCCO is making recertification exams available through its more than 300 computer-based (CBT) test centers. The CBT recertification exams are identical to their paper-and-pencil counterparts and focus on aspects considered critical to accurate and comprehensive crane inspection.
The recertification exams are available only to CCO certified crane inspectors who have accumulated at least 1,000 hours of crane inspection experience during their certification period. Those who are unable to meet this requirement must complete the full exams again to be recertified.
“Contractors are increasingly requiring their crane inspections be performed by CCO-certified inspectors,” observed NCCCO CEO Graham Brent. “While it’s impossible to determine how many accidents have been prevented by better crane inspections, it’s clear that better maintained cranes lead to improved safety records.”
Since the program’s inception, more than 200 crane inspectors have been certified by NCCCO. Of these, over 160 are mobile crane inspectors, 25 tower crane inspectors, and 69 overhead crane inspectors in 35 states. Pennsylvania has the most resident certified inspectors with 30, followed by Utah with 21 and Texas with 17. Like all NCCCO certification programs, these certifications are nationally accredited by ANSI to the international ISO 17024 standard.
Thorough crane inspections by CCO-certified crane inspectors have been
shown to improve crane reliability and safety.
A popular feature of the program is the online Crane Inspector Directory directory located on the NCCCCO website. Organized by state, the directory lists inspectors’ full contact details along with the geographic regions they serve and the certification categories they hold (mobile, tower, and/or overhead crane). The directory currently lists more than 70 inspectors, representing 38 companies in 21 states who have elected to provide their inspection services on a “for hire” basis. “The NCCCO Crane Inspector Directory serves as an easy reference tool for general contractors and crane owners seeking a qualified individual to conduct a third-party inspection of their cranes,” said NCCCO Director of Operations and Program Development Joel Oliva.
Launched in November 2011, the CCO Crane Inspector certification program has successfully filled a void identified by industry seeking improved equipment safety, risk mitigation, and insurance benefits. CCO certification also provides evidence that crane inspectors are qualified to inspect cranes as required by OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC, which states that cranes must be inspected after assembly, repair, jumping, and disassembly. Some jurisdictions, such as Philadelphia, have additional, specific requirements.
Applications for all Crane Inspector recertification exams are available on NCCCO’s
Handbooks & Forms webpage.