How To Prepare for a Crane Operator Course

by | Mar 14, 2023 | Blog, Crane Certification, Cranes, Heavy Equipment School | 0 comments

Before you can start a career as a crane operator, it’s highly recommended that you take a crane operator course. While you can learn about the field and earn your necessary certifications on your own, having high-quality, hands-on training makes all the difference. You’ll walk away from the class with the skills and knowledge you need to safely operate and manage cranes. 

Here are a few tips on how to prepare for a crane operator course:

Research the Course

Before you turn up, do a bit of reading into your prospective course and make sure it’s the right place for you. What kinds of cranes will you be covering? Are there any requirements you need to meet before you can enroll? Does the course offer preparation for necessary certification exams after its completion? Does the school meet certification standards?

If you’re going to commit to taking a crane operator course, you need to be certain it’s high quality. Make sure the school can offer you thorough classroom and practical training and can also back up that training with plenty of experience and knowledge.

Familiarize Yourself With the Subject Matter

While you’ll learn everything you need to know in your course, there’s no harm in coming in with a base knowledge. As you’ll be quick to learn, there are many different types of cranes. Not all are covered with the same certifications, so be sure you know what your course will and will not allow you to work on.

It would also be wise for you to learn some of the terminology. That way, you won’t be in the dark when first learning about booms, hooks, cables, and other crane components. Finally, in the construction industry safety is paramount. Dig into the current OSHA safety standards so you know what will be expected of you.

Brush Up on Your Math Skills

Operating a crane requires detailed mathematical knowledge. After all, you’re working with a massive machine built to lift and transport heavy loads. The laws of physics tend to play a large factor in the work. If it’s been a minute since physics class, it’s not a bad idea to give yourself a quick refresher on the basic principles and equations. You don’t need to be ready to pass the SAT; just be comfortable enough that you’re able to understand the information you’re given in class.

Take a Look at the NCCCO Test Overview

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) sets the standards for crane operator certification in the country. While you should take every opportunity to become a well-rounded professional during your crane operator course, it’s ultimately their test that you’ll need to pass. Luckily, you can familiarize yourself with their exams ahead of time and prepare yourself for what you’ll need to know. Take this opportunity to hone your learning experience, identifying any weak spots you might have so you can focus your studying before you actually have to take the exam.

With these simple steps, you’ll be ready to dive into any crane operator course with confidence. If there’s anything else you’d like to know beforehand, reach out to West Coast Training. We offer top-level crane operator training and are happy to provide any additional information you might be looking for.