Train to Work Safely During Crane and Lifting Operations
OSHA requires training for crane operators, riggers, signal persons and others involved in lifting operations. Employers must designate only qualified individuals or certified operators for these roles. Prepare for your part in a lift with our fully online, OSHA-aligned training suitable for all the major parts of any crane operation.
Signal Person Training
Prepare to serve as a qualified crane operation signal person with this fully online course. OSHA- and ASME-aligned lessons cover important safety principles, emergency stop protocols and all three OSHA-recognized signaling systems.
Rigging Safety Training
Effective rigging prevents deadly lifting accidents. Learn the basics of rigging, including how to select appropriate slings or chains and effective safety gear. This course is designed for anyone working with or around rigging equipment.
Crane Safety Training
Crane safety doesn't just apply to the person in the cab. Anyone working with or near cranes should understand how they work. Master basic crane standards and common hazards for industrial and construction environments.
About Crane Signal Person Training
OSHA requires a qualified signal person whenever the crane operator's view is obstructed or site conditions raise safety concerns. Using hand signals, verbal commands and electronic devices, signalers communicate with operators to execute precision maneuvers and reduce accidents.
This course complies with OSHA signal person training requirements and aligns with National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) testing materials.
Prepare to serve as a qualified signal person with approximately 90 minutes of high-quality instruction. Topics include the three OSHA-recognized signal systems detailed in 1926.1420 through 1926.1422. Lessons satisfy the training standards found in 1926.1428 and align with ASME B30.5.
About Rigging Safety Training
Riggers properly secure loads before every lift to keep cargo from detaching, falling, spinning or collapsing in transit. This course is an introduction to the principles and hazards of materials rigging. It is an ideal primer for anyone who works with or around rigging equipment during crane operations.
In just one hour, you will learn the role riggers play during each lift and the major responsibilities associated with rigging. You will also learn the importance of proper rigging equipment, including slings, chains and hitches.
About Crane Safety Training
Cranes are widely used on construction sites and industrial workplaces. This course prepares you to safely work near active cranes. Lessons include an introduction to the major types of cranes, federal crane regulations, general operating procedures and other foundational principles.
After completing this one-hour course, you will be able to identify crane equipment, understand the major steps of a safe lift and avoid major hazards present during crane use.
Crane and Rigging Training FAQs
What is the difference between a crane operator, a rigger and a signal person?
Each role has an important part to play in any safe lift.
- Operators manipulate the load once it is secured, including lifting, moving and lowering cargo using a variety of heavy machinery like cranes, derricks and hoists.
- Riggers secure and release materials. Responsibilities include inspecting cargo, selecting equipment, attaching slings or chains, aligning loads for pickup and dismantling support materials after the lift.
- Signal Persons use hand and audio cues to direct the efforts of crane operators. Signalers must maintain constant visual contact with materials in transit and unbroken communication with operators to ensure the safety of all personnel, equipment and materials in the path of travel.
A signal person may not be required under controlled conditions. Signal requirements can be found under 29 CFR 1926.1419.
Can one person act as both rigger and signal person?
Yes. One individual can fulfill both roles during the same lift. Workers must be qualified separately to rig and signal. However, large, complex or especially dangerous operations may require the cooperation of multiple qualified individuals to ensure compliance with federal crane safety regulations.
Who needs training to be part of a lifting operation?
Every individual involved must be appropriately trained and qualified, certified or licensed to participate in any crane lift. That includes crane operators, riggers, signal persons and lift directors.
OSHA's training standards for these positions can be found in:
- 1926.1428 — Specifies training for a crane signal person
- 1926.1401 — Defines a qualified rigger
- 1926.1427 — Sets the requirements for a licensed or certified crane operator
- 1926.1432 — Mandates a qualified lift director for lifts involving multiple cranes or derricks
Individuals working with or near cranes should receive a basic safety education, but OSHA does not mandate formal training for working in the same area as a crane, hoist or derrick.
Who sets the rules for crane operations?
OSHA is responsible for creating federal crane laws and standards, including training requirements. Applicable standards are found in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC.
The administration sometimes references or adopts standards written by non-regulatory industry bodies or technical experts. For lifting operations, this includes the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B30 standards. However, only OSHA can create and enforce federal crane regulations.
Your state or local government may have an OSHA State Plan or specific laws governing the use of cranes or the training of lifting personnel. Ask your employer and local government about the rules for your specific situation.
Do crane operation personnel require OSHA certification?
Crane operators must be certified or licensed in accordance with 29 CFR 1926.1427 and local government standards. Signal persons and riggers must be qualified for their specific role, but formal certification is not required for either.
OSHA does not issue or endorse any certification or credential. Workers must be qualified or certified by their employers or an expert third-party evaluator. Evaluations provided by an employer do not transfer if you get a job with a new employer.
How long is my crane training valid?
Your certificate does not expire. However, your employer may require you to repeat your training following an observed performance issue or violation of safety standards. Refresher training is highly recommended at least once every three years to stay up to date on federal standards.