Articulating Boom Crane Workshop for NCCCO Certification

Articulating cranes and loaders represent a large and growing percentage of cranes in use today, but until recently operators had no independent means to demonstrate that they know how to operate these specialized cranes safely and effectively.


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Program Overview

This program is designed to help candidates prepare for the NCCCO Articulating Boom Crane written and practical examinations. Oftentimes individuals feel that they do not need to be certified in articulating cranes due the nature of how they use them. However, the OSHA 1926 Subpart CC states there are few exceptions on when they should be certified. Yet, if you are involved with placing the material for final positioning or installation or sorting the material for final arrangement, then you need to be operator certified in these tasks.

This is a three-day employer paid program. The first two and a half days are designed to prepare the candidate for taking the written exam. The practical exam will be conducted after completion of the written exam on the third day.

Topics Covered

  • Site Conditions and Setup
    • Know the ability of the supporting surface to handle the expected loads
      • Subsurface Voids, Tanks, and Loose Fill
      • Proximity to Retaining Walls, Slopes, Excavations 
      • Underground Utilities
    • Blocking and Cribbing
    • Electrical Power Lines
    • Evaluate Jobsite Hazards
    • Properly Use Stabilizers
    • How to Deploy and Stow Boom
    • Use of Wheel Chocks
  • Operations
    • Federal Regulations and Industry Standards affect safe operations
    • Conduct daily inspections and notify supervision of unsafe conditions
    • Proper operation of power take-off (PTO)
    • How to lift, rotate, and place the load smoothly and safely
    • How to secure the crane when leaving the controls
    • How to determine the radius.
    • Proper procedures for load control
    • Effects of dynamic loading from:
      • Wind
      • Stopping and starting
      • Impact loading
      • Moving the load
  • Technical Knowledge
    • Basic crane terminology and definitions
    • Functions and limitations of attachments
    • Significance, use, and limitations of operator warning, safety, and/or limiting devices
    • Requirements of pre-operational inspections and maintenance
    • Wire Rope
      • Construction and breaking strength
      • Inspection procedures
      • Replacement criteria and procedures
      • Capacity and when multi-part reeving is needed
      • Maintenance and lubrication
      • Relationship between line pull and safe working load
  • Manufacturer’s Load Charts
    • Terminology necessary to use load charts
    • Verify weight of load
    • Considerations effecting load rating charts
  • Basic Math Skills Necessary to Pass the Exams

The Written Examination program consists of three examinations. Candidates choose from these based on the certification designation(s) they seek:

  • Articulating Boom Crane (ABC)—65 questions
  • Articulating Boom Crane w/Winch (ABW)—75 questions
  • Articulating Boom Loader (ABL)—50 questions

Candidates are given 90 minutes to complete each of the written exams. Candidates meeting the eligibility requirements may take the Written Examination or the Practical Examination in either order.

Articulating Boom Crane Workshop for NCCCO Certification Eligibility

This certification is ideal for individuals who are looking to achieve a certification with the knuckle boom crane and remain in compliance with the OSHA standards. To complete the certification, you must be at least 18 years of age. You will also need to successfully pass a written and practical examination.

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See What Previous Students Have to Say

“Best part of class was instructors knowledge.” - Marco

“The willingness to make sure everyone understands.” - Jordan

“Explanation of each topic.” - Herbertio

Are you ready to kick-start a new career?

The importance for safe crane operations for knuckle boom operators is crucial due to the fact these cranes are usually delivering material and placing the material on the buildings.  Improper operation can lead to costly mistakes.  Colorado Crane Operator School is well trained in articulating cranes with its full-time staff.


By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: . You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

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