​Construction sites are dynamic environments where safety must always come first. Among the most critical safety regulations in construction is OSHA's 1926 Subpart CC, which covers Cranes and Derricks in Construction. As a safety professional with years of experience, I want to break down these complex regulations into digestible insights that construction managers and workers can easily understand.

Subpart CC applies to power-operated equipment used in construction that can hoist, lower, and horizontally move a suspended load. This includes:

• Mobile cranes
• Tower cranes
• Articulating cranes
• Derricks
• Floating cranes
• Equipment with a maximum rated capacity of 2,000 pounds or more

​One of the most significant aspects of Subpart CC is the requirement for crane operators to be certified. Operators must be certified by an accredited certification organization, and the certification must match the type of crane they operate. Employers must ensure their operators are certified and provide additional training specific to the equipment they'll be using.

The standard requires a qualified and competent person to oversee crane assembly and disassembly. This person must:

• Follow manufacturer procedures
• Address hazards associated with the process
• Ensure proper crew instruction
• Verify ground conditions
• Monitor the work area for changing conditions

Regular inspections are crucial for crane safety. The standard requires:

• Pre-operation inspections each shift
• Monthly inspections with documentation
• Annual comprehensive inspections
• Post-assembly inspections
• Equipment modifications inspection

Proper ground conditions are essential for crane stability. The standard requires:

• Assessment of ground conditions before crane setup
• Verification of supporting surfaces
• Identification and remediation of hazardous conditions
• Use of appropriate supporting materials
• Documentation of ground preparation

Working near power lines presents significant hazards. The standard establishes clear requirements for:

• Minimum clearance distances
• Encroachment prevention procedures
• Power line safety devices
• Emergency procedures
• Training requirements for working near power lines

The standard sets specific requirements for signal persons, including:

• Qualification requirements
• Standard hand signals
• Voice commands protocols
• Training documentation
• Performance evaluations

The implementation of Subpart CC has significantly reduced crane-related incidents in construction. The standard's comprehensive approach addresses:

• Equipment integrity
• Operator competency
• Site conditions
• Communication protocols
• Emergency procedures

OSHA's Crane and Derrick standards represent a comprehensive approach to construction safety. By understanding and implementing these regulations, construction companies can create safer worksites, protect their workers, and operate more efficiently.
Remember that this overview touches only on the major points of Subpart CC. For full compliance, always refer to the complete OSHA standard and consult with qualified safety professionals when implementing your crane safety program.

To assist with knowing the ins and outs or the standards, or to help an operator pass the operator exam, take our online OSHA Subpart CC Crane Course. This course goes through each subpart of the OSHA Subpart CC standard.

​Course: safetyonesource.thinkific.com/courses/OSHACranesandDerricks

​OSHA's Subpart CC regulations have brought significant changes to crane operator certification requirements. Whether you're an employer, operator, or safety professional, understanding these requirements is crucial for workplace safety and compliance.

Under OSHA's Subpart CC regulations, all crane operators involved in construction work must be certified or licensed. This requirement applies to operators of various types of cranes, including:

• Mobile cranes
• Tower cranes
• Articulating cranes
• Overhead cranes (when used in construction)
• Derricks

OSHA provides several pathways for operators to become certified:

1. Third-party Certification Operators can obtain certification from an accredited organization such as:
   • National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO)
   • National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER)
   • Operating Engineers Certification Program (OECP)
   • Crane Institute Certification (CIC)
2. State or Local Licensing Some states have their own licensing programs that meet or exceed OSHA requirements. When approved by OSHA, these licenses satisfy the federal requirements.

To become certified, operators must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Pass a written examination
• Successfully complete a practical exam
• Meet physical requirements
• Communicate effectively in English
• Pay applicable certification fees

​Employers have specific obligations beyond ensuring their operators are:

Training Requirements

• Provide training on specific equipment the operator will use
• Ensure operators can recognize and avert risks
• Document all training and evaluations
• Maintain records of certifications and evaluations

Evaluation Process

• Evaluate operators on actual equipment they'll use
• Document the evaluation results
• Conduct ongoing evaluations as needed
• Have qualified evaluators perform assessments

Certification Validity and Renewal

• Certifications are typically valid for five years
• Operators must recertify before expiration
• Continuing education may be required
• Different certifying organizations may have varying renewal requirements

To assist your operator with passing their written exam, take our online OSHA Subpart CC Crane Course. This course goes through each subpart of the OSHA Subpart CC standard.

​Course: safetyonesource.thinkific.com/courses/OSHACranesandDerricks