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NCCER’s Crane Certification Program expands to include tower crane

Words: Jennifer WilkersonNCCER continues to strengthen its commitment to improving crane safety in the construction industry with the release of its Tower Crane Operator Certification Program, which is part of an existing lineup of certifications that includes Mobile Crane Operator, Rigger and Signal Person.

Tower Crane Operator Certification Program: Tower crane operators can become certified through NCCER after passing both a written assessment and a hands-on practical examination. There are three types of practical examinations for operators to choose from, and when combined, the assessments and examinations lead to three different equipment-specific certifications: luffer, hammerhead and self-erect.

Mobile Crane Operator Certification Program: NCCER's Mobile Crane Operator Certification Program is accredited by ANSI and offers written assessments and hands-on practical examinations that lead to 13 different equipment-specific certifications.

A major benefit of NCCER's crane certification programs is that organizations can become crane-endorsed NCCER Accredited Assessment Centers and test their employees and/or members using their own equipment as time and availability permits without the need for third-party testing. Another advantage for these Accredited Assessment Centers is that NCCER offers written assessment and practical examination results within 15 minutes of submission (without rush fees) and the ability to verify credentials in real time through the NCCER Registry.

All of NCCER's crane operator certifications are portable and industry-recognized and meet or exceed standards set by OSHA and ASME. Individuals who successfully complete the requirements for NCCER crane certification are entered into the NCCER Registry and issued a wallet card, known as the Gold Card. The Gold Card has a unique number that provides easy access to online verification of an operator's certification records within the NCCER Registry. All NCCER crane operator certifications are valid for five years.

In addition to the Tower Crane and Mobile Crane operator certification programs, NCCER also offers Rigger and Signal Person certification programs. Similar to the Tower Crane and Mobile Crane programs, the Rigger and Signal Person programs also require individuals to pass both a written assessment and practical examination. There are four types of written assessments and practical examinations to choose from: basic rigger, intermediate rigger, advanced rigger and signal person.

For information on becoming NCCER accredited or receiving an endorsement, visit nccer.org/accreditation-process, or to review practical examiner qualifications and training information, visit nccer.org/training-and-certifications. Interested organizations that are not already NCCER Accredited Assessment Centers can apply for accreditation and endorsement at the same time.
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