National Commission for the
Certification of Crane Operators
Committed to Quality, Integrity, and Fairness in Testing since 1995

CERTIFICATIONS

Signalperson

Written Exam - Exam Outline

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)

  1. Demonstrate the standard method hand signals for mobile cranes.
  2. Demonstrate the standard method hand signals for tower cranes.
  3. Always maintain visibility with operator when signaling a load.
  4. Provide discernible and visible hand signals.
  5. When signals are being delivered they will be maintained.
  6. Take appropriate action if the operator is not following signals correctly.

DOMAIN 2: VOICE COMMANDS

(Approximately 17% of the test)

  1. Demonstrate proper use and limitations of communication equipment.
  2. Mitigate communication barriers, i.e. wind, language, interference.
  3. Verify fully charged batteries are used and extra batteries are readily available.
  4. Verify the communication device is in proper working order.
  5. Always maintain clear and effective communication with the operator.
  6. Demonstrate the three elements of voice signals (function and direction, distance and/or speed, function stop).
  7. Account for the operator's perspective when signaling.
  8. Take appropriate action if the operator is not following signals correctly.

DOMAIN 3: BASIC KNOWLEDGE OF CRANE OPERATIONS

(Approximately 24% of the test)

  1. Demonstrate understanding of basic crane terminology, limitations and definitions.
  2. Identify and apply the effects of size, shape, weight, and center of gravity of the load during a lift.
  3. Recognize boom deflection and how to compensate for it.
  4. Recognize and correct the causes and effects a moving load has on a crane.
  5. Always keep the hoist line vertical during operations.
  6. Identify and correct drift.
  7. Identify the consequences of side loading.
  8. Identify cause and effect of two blocking.
  9. 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)

  1. Review lift requirements with supervision/operator/crew.
  2. Identify and avoid hazards and obstacles.
  3. Recognize the effect of weather conditions.
  4. Ensure the proper type of signals are being used.
  5. Recognize situations that require the application of emergency procedures.
  6. Use of technology.
  7. Multiple load line use.

DOMAIN 5: SAFETY STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS

(Approximately 13% of the test)

  1. Recognize the current OSHA and ASME standards that are relevant.
  2. Identify and apply power line hazard protection standards and regulations.
  3. Identify and apply standards and regulations for personnel platforms.
  4. Multiple cranes single lift.