The following is an outline of the practical testing procedure, as provided to candidates at the time of testing.
CANDIDATE INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS
The Signalperson Practical Examination consists of 30 scenarios. There is no time limit for this examination. Candidates typically complete the exam in approximately 15 minutes.
The Test Site Coordinator is responsible for setting the testing schedule. During the Practical Examination, you are under the direction of the Practical Examiner and must follow the Practical Examiner’s directions at all times.
Only the candidate and Practical Examiner are allowed in the testing area.
You will be directed to give the hand or voice signal to match the graphic displayed on the screen.
- 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 will be used (for example, one-handed telescoping boom signals).
- Make sure to give only one signal at a time (unless giving a “move slowly” command).
- Give all signals in a clear and precise manner.
Note: A proper stop hand signal is moving arm back and forth at least one time.
- At the start of each scenario, the instructions will be shown on the screen and given verbally. You will be asked if you understand the instructions. Take time to make sure you understand the instructions before proceeding.
- Follow the instructions! If you have any questions, ask the Examiner before beginning each scenario.
CANDIDATE ID AND SIGNATURE
Prior to beginning the examination, the Practical Examiner will ask you for a valid (not expired) government-issued photo identification that includes date of birth, such as a driver’s license.
The Practical Examiner will ask if you have read the Candidate Information and Instructions and will answer any questions you may have. You will be asked to sign your application indicating you understand the instructions for the test.
PRACTICAL SCORING
Candidate performance on the Practical Examinations is recorded by Practical Examiners accredited by NCCCO. Examiner requirements include meeting NCCCO requirements for certification, passing the Written and Practical Exams, and successfully completing an accreditation workshop.
The testing procedure has been developed to provide the highest degree of standardization and reliability. The Examiner’s task is primarily to record the performance of the candidate.
A candidate may lose points either by giving an incorrect signal, or giving a signal not in accordance with the Standard Method Hand Signals. Candidates’ performances are scored off site at NCCCO facilities.
PRACTICAL SCORE REPORTING
All candidates receive score reports of their performance. Examination results are mailed to candidates approximately 12 business days after the receipt of Practical Examination score sheets by NCCCO.
Please note that while Practical Examiners are encouraged to expedite score sheets after each test administration, they may batch score sheets from several test administrations over a number of days. This means that candidates may receive their score reports from NCCCO more than three weeks after their test administration.
Both the Practical Examination and the scoring system have been validated and verified by NCCCO’s pilot testing program. A score of 75 represents the minimum passing score for Signalperson Practical Examination.
POST-TEST PROCEDURES
Once you have completed the Practical Examination:
- The Practical Examiner will record your performance
- The Practical Examiner is not permitted to review your score sheet or discuss your performance on the test
- Exam results will be mailed to you within approximately 12 business days of NCCCO’s receipt of the score sheet
- Once you have completed your test, you must leave the test site