The written examination portion of the CCO Signalperson certification program tests the following knowledge areas:
Domain 1: Hand Signals
(Approximately 31% of the test)
Domain 2: Voice Communication
(Approximately 17% of the test)
Domain 3: Basic Knowledge of Crane Operations
(Approximately 24% of the test)
Domain 4: Situational Awareness (Site Specific Considerations)
(Approximately 15% of the test)
Domain 5: Safety Standards and Regulations
(Approximately 13% of the test)
DOMAIN 1: HAND SIGNALS
(Approximately 31% of the test)
- Demonstrate the standard method hand signals for mobile cranes.
- Demonstrate the standard method hand signals for tower cranes.
- Always maintain visibility with operator when signaling a load.
- Provide discernible and visible hand signals.
- When signals are being delivered they will be maintained.
- Take appropriate action if the operator is not following signals correctly.
DOMAIN 2: VOICE COMMANDS
(Approximately 17% of the test)
- Demonstrate proper use and limitations of communication equipment.
- Mitigate communication barriers, i.e. wind, language, interference.
- Verify fully charged batteries are used and extra batteries are readily available.
- Verify the communication device is in proper working order.
- Always maintain clear and effective communication with the operator.
- Demonstrate the three elements of voice signals (function and direction, distance and/or speed, function stop).
- Account for the operator's perspective when signaling.
- Take appropriate action if the operator is not following signals correctly.
DOMAIN 3: BASIC KNOWLEDGE OF CRANE OPERATIONS
(Approximately 24% of the test)
- Demonstrate understanding of basic crane terminology, limitations and definitions.
- Identify and apply the effects of size, shape, weight, and center of gravity of the load during a lift.
- Recognize boom deflection and how to compensate for it.
- Recognize and correct the causes and effects a moving load has on a crane.
- Always keep the hoist line vertical during operations.
- Identify and correct drift.
- Identify the consequences of side loading.
- Identify cause and effect of two blocking.
- Ensure no personnel are in the path of the load or the fall zone.
DOMAIN 4: SITUATIONAL AWARENESS (SITE SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS)
(Approximately 15% of the test)
- Review lift requirements with supervision/operator/crew.
- Identify and avoid hazards and obstacles.
- Recognize the effect of weather conditions.
- Ensure the proper type of signals are being used.
- Recognize situations that require the application of emergency procedures.
- Use of technology.
- Multiple load line use.
DOMAIN 5: SAFETY STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS
(Approximately 13% of the test)
- Recognize the current OSHA and ASME standards that are relevant.
- Identify and apply power line hazard protection standards and regulations.
- Identify and apply standards and regulations for personnel platforms.
- Multiple cranes single lift.