Operator Qualification vs Certification

This topic is confusing to many in the construction industry because of the common misuse of the terms. The current OSHA standard requires operators to be considered “Qualified” to operate a crane as detailed throughout 1926.1400. However, there are many general contractors, insurance companies, and jobsites that require “Certified” crane operators.

Certified Crane Operator

In order for an operator to be considered “Certified” they must meet nationally recognized certification requirements. They must also demonstrate a greater level of competency pertaining to the set-up, technical aspects, load charts, and operation of the crane.

Crane U can also help you qualify your operators at your site or ours, whichever is most convenient for you. Attending our Crane Operator 101 training course and successful completion of our qualification exams helps to ensure proficiency with basic crane operator knowledge/techniques.

Qualified Crane Operator

OSHA defines a “Qualified” operator as a person who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience, successfully demonstrated the ability to solve/resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

Crane U can also help you qualify your operators at your site or ours, whichever is most convenient for you. We will train them for approximately four hours and then test them to ensure proficiency with basic crane operator knowledge/techniques.

Whether you choose to certify or qualify your operators, OSHA places ownership of the training program on the employer, and requires employers to continually ensure crane operators are qualified in the tasks they are performing.