Overhead Crane Operating Engineers Certification Program (OECP)
International Union of Operating Engineers
The Operating Engineers Certification Program (OECP) is designed to provide members of the International Union of Operating Engineers a means to obtain a valid and reliable certification that accurately assesses their competence in crane operations, thereby directly promoting a safer jobsite environment for the worker, the public, and the industry.
Format
Hybrid
Skills developed through this program
- Apply wire rope, rigging, and overhead crane safety standards in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations
- Conduct visual pre-operational inspections covering structural integrity, mechanical systems, wire rope, rigging, hooks, and sheaves
- Perform functional pre-operational checks on crane controls, limit switches, communication systems, and operator aids
- Execute pre-operational maintenance procedures including daily recordkeeping and deficiency reporting
- Coordinate pre-lift and jobsite meetings to select rigging hardware and confirm scheduled work scope
- Operate overhead crane components using standard nomenclature, operator manual guidance, and auxiliary equipment
Occupations this program prepares you for
Credentials this program stacks toward
No program pathways.
What You'll Learn
AI-generatedKey competencies developed through this program
- Hands-onOperate overhead cranes to lift and position loads following safety protocols and load capacity specifications in industrial settings.Developing
- KnowledgeCalculate load weights, center of gravity, and rigging requirements using crane specifications and engineering data to ensure safe lifting operations.Developing
- Hands-onPerform pre-operational crane inspections and equipment checks following OSHA standards and manufacturer guidelines.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret load charts, rigging diagrams, and crane capacity specifications to plan and execute safe lifting operations.Developing
- Hands-onExecute crane control movements with precision to safely maneuver loads in confined spaces and around obstacles.Developing
- MindsetCommit to workplace safety practices and hazard awareness when operating cranes in proximity to workers and the public.Developing
- KnowledgeIdentify hazardous conditions and operational limitations during jobsite assessments and daily crane operations.Developing
- Hands-onHandle rigging equipment and attach loads using appropriate hitches and hardware per load specifications.Developing
- KnowledgeApply industry safety standards and regulatory requirements to ensure compliant crane operations on construction and industrial jobsites.Developing
- MindsetEngage in effective communication with signal persons and ground crew using standard hand signals and radio protocols during lifting operations.Developing
Detailed information about this program
The Operating Engineers Certification Program (OECP) is designed to provide members of the International Union of Operating Engineers a means to obtain a valid and reliable certification that accurately assesses their competence in crane operations, thereby directly promoting a safer jobsite environment for the worker, the public, and the industry.
What you need to earn this credential
Internship/Fieldwork/Practicum Requirements
Be a member in good standing with the International Union of Operating Engineers. Possess a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Medical Card or a state issued Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Medical Card. Comply with the OECP’s substance abuse policy. Have 1,000 hours of documented crane-related experience and/or training in the last five (5) years. Note: For tower cranes, 500 hours of this 1,000 hour requirement must be in documented, tower crane-related experience and/or training. Pass written examinations (mobile crane candidates must pass the mobile crane written examination; overhead crane candidates must pass the overhead crane written examination; and tower crane candidates must pass the tower crane written examination). Pass practical examination(s).
Eligible funding programs
No funding information available.
Scholarships
No scholarships listed.