NCCCO issues color-coded certification cards

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators has begun issuing color-coded CCO cards for Operators, Riggers, Signalpersons, Crane Inspectors, Practical Examiners, and Auditors. This new policy has been adopted in response to the growth in the range of certification programs offered by NCCCO as well as the need to readily identify qualifications in the field.

"CCO cards are nationally accepted as official proof of certification, and the new cards have been redesigned to meet all federal OSHA and state requirements," said NCCCO Commission Chairman Kerry Hulse. "The new cards will also make it easier for employers and government authorities to readily determine the qualifications of those working onsite by including details about the certifications, such as the types of signals in which a signalperson is certified."

In 1996, when NCCCO launched its original Mobile Crane Operator certification program, only two CCO credentials were available: one for certified Operators and one for the Practical Examiners who administer the hands-on tests required for certification. Since then, NCCCO has introduced certifications for Tower (2004), Overhead (2005), and Articulating Crane Operators (2010), and it has also developed certifications for Signalpersons (2008), Riggers (2009), and Crane Inspectors (2011). NCCCO Auditors, who play a critical role in ensuring the continued integrity of all CCO certification programs, will also receive a new card under the new policy.

"NCCCO's program growth has led to the decision to provide separate cards to each category of NCCCO-affiliated personnel," said NCCCO Executive Director Graham Brent. "And the color coding NCCCO has adopted will ensure fast and effective identification of qualifications on the jobsite."

CCO Operator certification cards continue to have a black band across the bottom, while Signalperson and Rigger cards have a green band, and Crane Inspector cards have a blue band. A brown band has been selected for Practical Examiner cards, while Auditor cards have a red band. The information on the back of the cards has also been tailored to reflect each program's particular requirements.