How Hard Is It to Operate a Crane?

Are you thinking of a career as a crane operator? The good news is that operating a crane can be a rewarding career, but it takes some time to learn how to operate a crane safely. You need to acquire the right skills and training before you step onto a jobsite.

Here’s a brief overview of what’s involved in operating a crane and what you can expect to learn at West Coast Training:

Comprehensive Skill Set

There’s more to becoming a certified crane operator with the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) than learning how to operate a crane. You need to have strong written and communication skills as well.

The Crane Operator & Rigger course at West Coast Training will cover the technical skills required on the job, including the proper setup of cranes and proper operating methods through hands-on training. You’ll also balance your time with classroom instruction that includes lessons on crane safety procedures and how to correctly read a load chart—the chart that helps crane operators understand a crane’s lifting capacity.

Situational Awareness

Crane operation is fulfilling but dangerous work. Heavy equipment can be noisy, meaning you have to rely heavily on situational awareness and nonverbal communication skills. For instance, in order to communicate effectively with your team, you’ll have to know how to give and interpret hand signals.

You’ll also need to learn to recognize any jobsite hazards and implement proper safety protocols. For example, you may find yourself working near electric lines or dangerous equipment. You’ll also need to keep an eye out for others working around you.

Heavy equipment operators must be mindful of their surroundings at all times and adhere to strict safety procedures. Keeping everyone safe on the jobsite is the highest priority, aside from completing the job to standards.

Information Retention

Crane operation requires the retention of a lot of information, particularly about safety protocol. You have to know how to set up equipment properly and how to correctly wear protective gear, such as safety harnesses. Operating a crane involves understanding the dangers of the job and how to reduce the risk of injury and workplace accidents.

In layman’s terms, operating a crane is difficult. It requires a specialized skill set and strict adherence to safety guidelines. So, if you want to learn how to operate a crane, you should enroll in a program that upholds rigorous standards, such as West Coast Training’s NCCCO Crane Operator & Rigger program. After the successful completion of our eight-week course, you’ll be ready to embark on your new career with all the requisite know-how.

While operating a crane is difficult, you simply have to have the right skill set. The first step in acquiring that skill set is enrolling in the right training program. Uncertain whether being a crane operator is the right career for you? Reach out to West Coast Training for more information or to start your journey to becoming a heavy equipment operator today.