The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) announced the availability of a new CCO certification program for digger derrick operators.
Due to digger derricks’ unique configuration and versatility, users and manufacturers requested that NCCCO create specific operator tests for this specialized equipment. This latest addition to CCO’s range of operator certification programs represents the first program NCCCO has developed specifically for the utility industry.
Although digger derrick operators are excluded from OSHA’s operator certification requirements for utility work under 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC (Cranes and Derricks in Construction), digger derrick operators are required to be certified for work such as erecting signs, lights, and telecommunication lines, as well as other construction work.
“The request for this new program reflects a general trend among employers from many different industries seeking a means of ensuring operators are qualified to operate equipment safely,” said Joel Oliva, NCCCO Program Manager for Test Development. “It’s particularly noteworthy in this instance given the absence of a federal requirement for the utility industry.”
Altec and Terex Utilities co-chair the new program, and along with a task force of 20 subject matter experts, developed the new program over the past 14 months. During that time NCCCO facilitated six in-person task force meetings as well as numerous virtual meetings to determine the most appropriate contents for the written and practical exams that candidates must pass to earn certification.
In addition to hosting task force meetings, Terex Utilities and Altec donated trucks and materials for program development; Crane Tech, Georgia Power, and the Southeast Lineman Training Center also hosted task force meetings. Psychometric consultants from International Assessment Institute (IAI), the testing services company that has provided exam development and administration services to NCCCO since 1999, also played a key role in guiding the program development to make sure that the tests are fair, valid, reliable, and legally defensible.
The CCO digger derrick operator written exam tests candidates’ knowledge of applicable standards, safe operating procedures, and load chart usage, while the practical exam includes tasks to demonstrate operators’ ability to control a load, dig a hole, and place a pole.
The new digger derrick operator written exam may be taken at any CCO written exam administration. As with other CCO operator certification programs, practical exam sites must meet specific requirements and be approved in advance by NCCCO.
Details about the exam contents and how to apply for and/or host exams can be found on NCCCO’s Web site.
