Minnesota to require operator certification

A requirement for crane operators in Minnesota to be certified by July 1, 2007 has been signed into law by state governor Tim Pawlenty.

The new regulation states that no individual may operate a crane of 5 tons or more on a construction site unless that person has a valid crane operator certificate issued by a “nationally recognized and accredited certification program,” such as CCO. Re-certification is required every five years.

Exempt from the requirement are railroads, public utilities, mines, agriculture, and the military. Also excluded are individuals operating a crane for personal use on premises they own or lease.

Trainees and apprentices may operate a crane so long as they are under the direct supervision of a certified crane operator.

Minnesota joins 12 other states with certification or licensingrequirements.

For a complete list, go to

www.nccco.org/licensing/index.html