Registration is open for the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) Digger Derrick Operator Certification Program on August 19-21, 2013, at the Terex Utilities facilities in Watertown, S.D. This training will be held in conjunction with the company’s annual Hands-On Training event. Space is limited, and reservations are required to attend.

“The Digger Derrick Operator Certification Program is the first program NCCCO has designed specifically for the utility industry,” says Jason Julius, technical support and training development, Terex Utilities. “Terex has played a leading role in the implementation of this specialized certification, co-chairing the task force (representing end users, utility companies, trainers and contractors) that developed the program. In addition to participating in the task force, Terex also donated trucks and materials for program development and held the industry’s first certification event in 2012. All of these steps have been taken to provide a national standard for operators to show they are qualified to operate Terex digger derricks safely.”

The NCCCO Digger Derrick Operator Certification Program will be accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The certification reflects important principles set by the ANSI A10.31 digger derrick standards and OSHA regulations. All digger derrick operators performing construction activities, such as erecting signs, lights, and telecommunication lines, may be required to carry the NCCCO Digger Derrick Operator Certification by Nov. 10, 2014. Electrical workers performing Subpart V work may be exempt. The certification is valid for a 5-year period. 

To be certified by NCCCO through the Terex certification event, candidates must demonstrate skills and knowledge that subject matter experts have deemed necessary for the safe operation of a digger derrick. Certifications will be achieved through a written examination, which tests candidates’ knowledge of applicable standards, safe operating procedures and load chart usage, as well as a practical exam, which requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to control a load, dig a hole and place a pole. Candidates must also attest to abide by NCCCO’s Code of Ethics and Substance Abuse Policy.

For more information about Terex training and certification schools, as well as to register for the NCCCO certification program in August, visit www.terexutilities.com.