The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, can certify individuals to operate cranes in America. Through a series of classes, individuals are trained in crane safety and crane operation. Only after the person has completed these courses and passed testing are they qualified to operate cranes.
Classes on crane operation and safety are taught at a number of facilities across the country. In Seattle, Washington, people can seek OSHA training at the University of Washington. In San Diego, California, OSHA courses are taught at the University of California, San Diego. OSHA courses are also taught at the University of Wisconsin in Whitewater, Wisconsin.
Crane operators must undergo a specific training regimen to avoid the risk of injury during crane operations. Hundreds of workers are injured yearly due to improper crane operation. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health, around fifteen crane operators are electrocuted each year in the United States when their crane contacts power lines. Proper training and certification will help reduce the number of crane-related injuries that occur each year.