By Skye Kelley

Over the last decade, CFA has documented in numerous articles in our magazine the interpretations for certification requirements in operating the staple equipment of the foundation contractor referred to as knucklebooms or truck cranes.  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers in the construction industries to comply with a requirement for crane operator certification.  The final rule became effective November 9, 2017.  While debate took place over the proper application of the exemption for “material delivery”, repeatedly Association leadership has met with OSHA in Washington D.C. to determine and affirm that it cannot be applied to the delivery of forming equipment, staging it into convenient positions and returning to remove that equipment (forms) from the hole when the foundation walls are completed.

Therefore, a proactive position has been developed in recent years to advance the professional development of the foundation contractor members of the Association.  Taking place both in-person and using virtual platforms for the education component, dozens of key company operators have already experienced the significant advantages of becoming an NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) Certified operator.  NCCCO is one of the three certification bodies approved by OSHA to offer and manage this requirement.

In April, the Concrete Foundations Association partnered with Irving Equipment to host a multi-day crane certification event.  The NCCCO class focused specifically on Articulated Boom Cranes, the standard knuckle boom.  

Lane Irving states “we choose to host the certification classes because we firmly believe it’s a good thing to have.  Even if you don’t technically need it, it helps with piece of mind.  Mark Irving and 2 of our shop guys signed up for certification because we figured if we were selling the equipment, it only makes sense for us to have the education too.  We understand it can be costly, but the benefits outweigh the price”. 

Employers that invest in workplace safety and health can expect to reduce injuries, fatalities and illnesses.  This can result in cost savings in a variety of areas, such as:

• Lowering workers’ compensation costs and medical expenses
• Avoiding OSHA penalties 
• Reducing costs to train replacement employees
• Reducing cost to conduct accident investigations 

Several CFA member employees joined the Irving’s in Ohio and walked away feeling empowered.  Aaron Dubeck from Thompson Concrete Foundations states “The instructor was very knowledgeable and explained things thoroughly.  Irving Equipment was a great host with great hospitality.  I would recommend any crane operator take this class to gain a better education.”  

Similarly, Michael Bates from Rite-Way Foundations said “Mark and Lane Irving were very welcoming with their facility and Overton Safety did a fantastic job in further educating me on safely and efficiently operating our crane truck on a daily basis”. 

Both Thompson Concrete Foundations (OH) and Rite-Way Foundations (GA) had two representatives each from their company attend the course.  The investment into further educating their team members not only provides stronger confidence but a greater appreciation for the company they call home. 

Have you been considering taking a leading position in the industry while insulating your company from potential citation?  If so, an upgrade from this thought is to use crane certification to invest in one or more of your key employees.  Contact me for more information on the waiting list for an upcoming class opportunity today, skelley@cfaconcretepros.org.