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Certification
Overhead Crane Operator
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators
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Welcome to the CCO Overhead Crane Operator certification program. The NCCCO Overhead Crane Task Force that determined the content of these certification exams was made up of experts from all aspects of the crane industry—crane operators, training directors, managers, supervisors, manufacturers—who together represent many thousands of hours of crane-related experience.
Inspect crane systems to identify visual, audible, mechanical, and electrical hazards before operationVerify emergency and safety controls to ensure proper function of shutdown systems, e‑stops, limit devices, warning devices, and brake test requirementsCheck structural and mechanical components to confirm wire‑rope or chain condition, correct spooling, absence of leaks, and compliance with guard requirementsConfirm labeling and documentation to ensure control labels, capacity markings, strain‑relief requirements, and ASME B30.2 layout standards are metLocate critical safety elements to verify access to runway disconnects, fire extinguishers, bumpers/stops, and lockout/tag‑out provisionsDetermine load characteristics to accurately identify load weight and select proper rigging and below‑the‑hook lifting devicesPosition the crane for lifting to achieve true vertical hoist alignment and prevent side pulling or unintended load swingApply correct signaling procedures to communicate using ASME B30.2 hand signals and coordinate with an identified signal personCommunicate lift requirements to ensure all workers understand load movements and operational intentionsSelect appropriate rigging components to ensure safe attachment, balance, and handling of the load during lifting operationsVerify communication and warning systems to ensure radios function properly and alarms are activated when requiredOperate hoist, bridge, and trolley controls to move loads safely while minimizing shock loading and reducing load swingCheck the load path to confirm the crane’s travel area is free of personnel and obstructions prior to liftingSet loads safely to account for floor capacity limits and remove rigging only after the load is stabilizedPerform brake checks under load to ensure the hoist braking system maintains safe holding capacityPark the crane in the designated location to ensure proper positioning when the crane is taken out of serviceExecute shutdown procedures to safely power down and secure the crane before leaving it unattendedReport deficiencies to supervision to ensure corrective action is taken for any issues discovered during operation or shutdownApply regulatory requirements to ensure operational compliance with ASME B30.2, ASME B30.20, OSHA 1910.179, OSHA 1910.184, and related standardsInterpret manufacturer instructions to understand operating procedures, component functions, and equipment limitationsEvaluate crane components and attachments to understand their functions, capacities, and operational restrictionsUse technical terminology to accurately describe crane systems, below‑the‑hook devices, and load‑handling componentsApply knowledge of codes and standards to ensure safe operation, inspection, and rigging selection practices