subject: Important Facts About Crane Certification [print this page] Cranes are almost universally present in every construction site. Cranes lift, hoist and move heavy weights to large heights. Any accident involving a crane, while it is moving objects almost invariably leads to serious injuries. Crane certification comes into picture here.
Enormous amount of diligence and attention is required for people who operate the cranes. There are typically two components of crane certification, one is certification for the crane operator, and the other is certification for the equipment itself.
For any crane which has capacity over and above 3 tons is to be lawfully certified. Cranes, both mobile and crawlers, come with preset manufacturer certifications. The procedure of certification mandates that the crane is in a working condition wherein it can handle various kinds of loads and handle the same.
An additional and major aspect to be considered in case of certification of mobile cranes is to guarantee that all other auxiliary parts like electrical parts, mechanical parts etc, are also in proper condition to enable the crane to function effectively and appropriately.
Certifications of cranes need to be done on an annual basis and all relevant records are to be maintained properly. In case of overhead cranes and harbor cranes, certification is done to make sure that they are safe in lifting rated load through all the prescribed crane moves.
Derrick and tower cranes need more attention and proper inspection before they are given for service and also prior to any large repair. The underlying purpose of certification is the same for any type of crane and it is nothing but to ensure that all the supplementary parts of the crane are in proper working condition and are enabling the crane to function correctly.
OSHA and ANSI have issued directives that operators of cranes are properly trained and certified. Certification by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators is necessary for all operators. The above certification is mandatory and is irrespective of the specification given in the crane certification.
Several training institutions, these days are offering the required initial training to the operators and are also undertaking certification renewal services. Crane certification is mandated for anyone who would like to operate cranes and this is regardless of the situations. Crane Operators need to be compliant with the physical requirements of ASME B through the entire tenure of their certification. They also need to fulfill the substance abuse policies. The validity period of the certification is typically for five years.
