The Iron Workers (IW) have set the bar high in qualified rigger and signal person training and certification, requiring a minimum of 80 hours in rigging and cranes training, 700 field experience hours or on-thejob training, and 23 units of instruction in addition to unit testing, assignments, practical exercises and, recently, an accredited certification program. The training includes an Apprentice Tracking System (ATS) and Quick Response Code verification.
The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) lists the IW Ironworker Rigging Manual as a study resource for its certification test, and the training meets the Canadian National Occupational Analysis (NOA) requirements. Southern Company and Crosby are among many contractors that have endorsed the program.
The IW 40-hour rigging and 40-hour crane operator courses are by far the most popular. Half of the program is hands-on training and demonstration by qualified subject matter experts, while the other half is in classroom. Each of the 23 units has written exams. The combination of technical instruction and hands-on learning with the "read it -- see it -- perform it" approach has proven to be most effective. The IW continues to put emphasis on hands-on training despite the high cost of training equipment. Some IW training centers have partnerships with operating engineers training centers to provide a comprehensive hands-on learning experience.
One of the most notable developments in training is the use of virtual reality simulators. They are fun and exciting but come with a hefty price tag. While there's no denying they add a third dimension to training, handson training cannot be replaced. The utility of virtual reality in training is limited.
OSHA requires riggers be qualified and signal persons be evaluated but doesn't require accredited certification and recertification. However, for-profit certification providers have created a demand for 3-5 recertifications through their programs.
While many for-profit companies offer accredited certification for rigging, crane signaling and crane operation, it is often very expensive and logistically difficult to maintain. Recertification costs range from $300-$500, adding to the high cost of the original certification.
The IW is developing an accredited, third-party Rigging and Signal Person Certification program. Sponsored by IW's contractor-ironworker partnership, IMPACT, it will eliminate the high price tag of certification and recertification for ironworkers. It will include customized written and practical components. The written component will be administered through a learning management system under the supervision of proctors. The written component was developed by subject matter experts using a Job and Task Analysis (JTA) after getting feedback from apprentice coordinators, ironworker business managers and contractors. It will be launched later this year, and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) accreditation will be the next part of the process.
For more information, visit www. ironworkers.org.