Crane operator Code of Ethics adopted

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) has adopted a Code of Ethics that exemplifies the professional conduct that is expected of CCO-certified operators.

Candidates sign an attestation statement on the new candidate application form indicating their agreement to comply with the Code of Ethics throughout their certification period. The new application attestation states in part:

“I understand and agree that my failure to provide accurate and complete information or abide by NCCCO's policies and procedures, including the Code of Ethics, shall constitute grounds for the rejection of my application or denial or revocation of my certification.”

“All professional crane operators recognize that CCO certification is a privilege that must be earned and maintained,” said NCCCO Executive Director, Graham Brent. “The Code of Ethics identifies the main elements of professional conduct that should be observed and upheld by all CCO-certified crane operators. Most professions require their practitioners to abide by industry-established standards of conduct. It is entirely appropriate that crane operator certification should carry with it a responsibility to carry out lifting duties in a safe and ethical manner.”

CCO-certified crane operators who intentionally or knowingly violate any provision of the Code of Ethics will be subject to action by a peer review panel (NCCCO's Ethics and Discipline Committee), which may result in suspension or revocation of certification, he added.

Procedures for investigating complaints against CCO-certified operators are also delineated in a new disciplinary and appeals process.

“While NCCCO does not expect, invite, solicit or encourage complaints, these procedures are necessary to protect the reputation of the profession and to ensure a fair investigation of complaints,” Brent said.