A tower crane is a type of lifting device that is commonly used in the construction of tall structures like skyscrapers. A tall mast is secured to a concrete slab or other stable structure, and a horizontal jib extends outward from the top of the mast, with a hook system that can be raised or lowered to control the lifting of objects. To help balance the load, a balance jib is located opposite the horizontal jib. In most areas, you must first complete a high school education and be able to read at an eighth-grade level in order to work as a tower crane operator. Basic math skills are also required.
It’ll be crucial for you to figure out which governing body oversees your training to become a tower crane operator, as the governing body varies by country. The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators is the governing body in the United States (NCCCO). This governing body will issue you with certification that will allow you to work as a tower crane operator, and your training will focus on preparing you to pass the certification exams.
Classroom studies will help you identify different parts of the tower crane, how to operate the machine properly, and how to build the crane in various settings. During this phase of the training, students will learn common hand signals used by operators and ground crew. After four weeks of training, you will be required to take certification exams in order to work as a tower crane operator. If you do not pass the exam, you may be required to retake training courses or wait a certain amount of time before taking it again. You will be certified as a tower crane operator if you pass the examination.
A written exam and a practical exam are usually required for certification. You will be required to demonstrate your ability to operate a crane and maneuver in a variety of situations during the practical exam. This can be a challenging part of the exam, and it will take a lot of practice. You will be certified for a set period of time, usually five years, once you pass the exam. If you want to keep your status as a tower crane operator after your certification expires, you’ll need to recertify. After receiving your initial certification, you will most likely work as an apprentice for several years under the supervision of a more experienced crane operator before being considered a full-time, non-apprenticed crane operator.