Signalperson
Credential: Signalperson
Credentialing Agency: National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO)
Renewal Period: 5 years
The NCCCO Signalperson certification is an entry-level credential designed for signalpersons who are trained and who use hand and voice signals in crane operation. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age. Applicants and those certified agree to comply with NCCCO's Substance Abuse Policy and the NCCCO Code of Ethics. To earn the certification applicants must pass exams.
More information can be found on the certifying agency's website.
Signalperson
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility Requirements (View Details)
- Credential Prerequisite
- Experience
- Education
- Training
- Membership
- Other
- Fee
Note: This credential may have multiple options for becoming eligible. Listed are the minimum requirements based on the minimum degree required. To view other options, see the Eligibility tab.
Exam Requirements (View Details)
- Exam
- Written Exam
- Oral Exam
- Practical Exam
- Performance Assessment
RECERTIFICATION SUMMARY
Renewal Period: 5 years
AGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION
National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO)
2750 Prosperity Ave.
Suite 505
Fairfax, VA 22031
Phone: (703) 560-2391
Fax: (703) 560-2392
Email: info@nccco.org
Education/Training and/or Experience REQUIREMENTS
NCCCO does not have any specific experience or education requirements, however, candidates are expected to have adequate on-the-job training and work experience to prepare the applicant for the exams.
Other REQUIREMENTS
The Signalperson credential has the following other requirements:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Candidates and those certified agree to comply with NCCCO's Substance Abuse Policy.
- Candidates and those certified agree to comply with NCCCO's Code of Ethics.
Written Exam
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Domain 1: Hand Signals (33%)
- Know the ASME B30.5 standard hand signals for mobile cranes
- Know the ASME B30.3 standard hand signals for tower cranes
- Know the necessity of moving the load while remaining visible to the operator
- Know the importance of providing clear and visible hand signals
- Know the importance of keeping in constant communication and understanding with the operator
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Domain 2: Voice Communication (13%)
- Know the proper use of the equipment being used as well as the benefits and limitations
- Be aware of communication barriers, i.e. wind, language, interference
- Know the importance of ensuring fully charged batteries are used and communication device is in acceptable working order
- Know the importance of keeping constant communications and understanding with the operator
- Know the standard as per ASME B30.5 pertaining to function/direction, speed and/or distance and function/stop
- Understand the importance of operator perspective while swinging
- Know what action to take if the operator is not following signals correctly
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Domain 3: Basic Knowledge of Crane Operations (28%)
- Know the basic crane terminology and definitions
- Understand the effect of size, shape, weight and center of gravity of load being lifted
- Understand boom deflection and how to compensate for it
- Know the effect a moving load has on a crane
- Understand that boom length, angle and load weight may effect boom deflection
- Know the importance of keeping hoist line vertical when load is applied
- Understand what causes drift and how to compensate for it
- Know the effects of side loading
- Know the causes and consequences of two blocking
- Know the importance of keeping personnel from path of load
- Understand when applying load to crane that center of gravity needs to be below the boom tip
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Domain 4: Situational Awareness (Site Specific Considerations) (13%)
- Know the importance of reviewing lift requirements with site supervision/operator/crew
- Know how to identify and avoid hazards and obstacles
- Understand the effects of weather conditions
- Know how and when to use voice or hand signals
- Know the emergency procedures
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Domain 5: Safety Standards and Regulations (13%)
- Know the applicable OSHA and ASME standards
- Know the electric power line hazards and applicable regulations and safety practices
Practical Exam
There are two types of scenarios for which the candidate will be asked to demonstrate proper hand or voice signals:
- Match Scenario: In these scenarios the candidate will observe the crane performing certain functions and will give the necessary hand or voice signal(s) that match or matches the function.
- Candidate Initiated Scenario: In these scenarios, the candidate will give the necessary hand or voice signals to initiate and direct crane movement.
Note: All hand and voice signals must be given in accordance with OSHA 1926 Subpart CC. Where OSHA 1926 Subpart CC does not address a particular signal, ASME B30.5 and ASME B30.3 signals are used (for example, one-handed telescoping boom signals).
Exam Preparation Resources
There are a number of resources available to help you prepare for the Signalperson examination:
- Best Sources
- General References
- Related Training
RECERTIFICATION
Signalperson
Renewal Period: 5 years