Overhead Crane Operator Certification Requirements

By Harriett Crosby


The responsibilities that come with operating a crane are so great that any one intent on acquiring an Overhead Crane Operator Certification has to willing to accept them fully. An overview of the requirements is given below for one to follow. However, since every manufacturer has their own operations manual, one must be careful and read them for safety.

To qualify to operate a crane minimum level has to be passed. The person must have corrected vision just like that required for getting a valid driver's license. The individual should be able to effectively use the four limbs and be of adequate height to see the happenings in the working area. He should be well coordinated in eyes, hands and feet and be free of any convulsive disorders or unconsciousness episodes. The ability to understand signs and labels is a must and all these factors should be examined every 3 years.

Adequate training and testing is required before a person operates a crane. Once the person passes the tests they must proficiently prove the ability to run the hoisting machine safely in all conditions. Only after this will the permit be issued and should be carried at all times.

In the training, the one who is going to operate is taught on the capacities of the hoisting machine and the attachments. The purpose of every control must be understood and their limits be learnt. One must understand and do the sequence of operations like the pneumatic, electrical and hydraulic procedures. The start up and shut down procedures must be well understood including the emergency shutdown processes. Signals like radio, hand and telephone signals must be learnt before a person is issued the permit.

One must be aware of personal protective equipment to use when operating a crane. Since it lifts loads for above 5 feet, it requires head protection. An approved harness and lanyard must be worn or any fall arresting appliance should be worn as per the safety standards.

The supervisor must perform a visual test for every hoisting machine operator before the start of every shift; any defect has to be reported for action. This applies to the crane, any seen defect in the operation need to be reported immediately like the rounds left on the hoisting drum. In case of a power failure, the controllers must be left in the off position.

Every this hoisting machine operator must ensure that any load attached to the crane is landed before they leave it unattended. And the controllers must be in the off position before leaving even for a short duration. Before switching off the main switch, always have the controllers in the off position and be safe all the time.

Always respond to all signals from the one directing from the ground. This can only be ignored in emergency stop signals from other employees around. Never carry any load over a person at any time. Overhead Crane Operator Certification requires the operator to be able to do inspections at his level on a regular basis to avoid accidents or faults. Preventive maintenance should be done regularly for the safety of the operator and those below and give the machine a longer life.




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