#United States #Washington #National Safety Council #Crane Safety #NCCCO Foundation

New Findings on Crane Safety Certification

The National Safety Council (NSC) and the NCCCO Foundation have jointly released a significant research report titled Certification in Crane Operations: Impacts on Safety and Performance. This essential study highlights the undeniable role that certification plays in enhancing crane safety across various industries. With crane-related incidents continuing to pose grave risks for workers, the findings of this research could not come at a better time.

The Importance of Certification

As per the data explored in this comprehensive report, certified personnel are seen as an integral part of improving safety standards within crane operations. Over the course of the study, which included a survey of crane professionals, extensive reviews of existing research and interviews with industry experts, the report emphasized that certified workers not only enhance safety on job sites but also exhibit greater technical competence and improved career prospects.

Interestingly, between 2015 and 2024, crane-related fatalities in the United States amounted to a staggering 405 incidents. The report underlines that only 29% of these fatalities involved crane or tower operators, indicating that a significant number of incidents occurred involving personnel surrounding crane operations.

Dr. Matt Law, the director of the Work to Zero initiative at NSC, stated, “Certification is a foundation for safe work practices, consistent performance, and a stronger safety culture.” This assertion underscores the notion that the ability to protect workers and prevent serious accidents is intricately tied to investing in personnel and their training alongside equipment advancements.

Key Findings from the Report

Some crucial findings highlighted in the report include:

• - Over 90% of respondents indicated that certified personnel contribute significantly to improved job site safety and overall career advancements.
• - Nearly three-quarters of those surveyed voiced their support for mandatory certification requirements for riggers and signalpersons, advocating for standardized competency verification to expand beyond just crane operators.
• - The findings further suggested that certification yields the most extensive safety benefits when it is coupled with ongoing training, mentorship opportunities, and practical experience.

These findings serve as a clear message to employers and industry leaders about the importance of fostering a more competent workforce through robust training and certification standards.

T.J. Cantwell, the Executive Director at the NCCCO Foundation, remarked, “The findings and recommendations in the report will provide valuable evidence to advocate for improved training and certification standards across the construction industry.”

Upcoming Webinar

To delve deeper into the implications of these findings and practical strategies aimed at strengthening certification and workforce development, the NSC and the NCCCO Foundation will facilitate a webinar on August 19, 2026. Those interested in gaining insights can register for the webinar here.

About the Organizations

The National Safety Council stands as America's foremost nonprofit safety advocate, dedicated to eradicating preventable deaths and injuries for over a century. They focus on fostering a culture of safety not just in the workplace but extending beyond it, encouraging individuals to lead safer lives.

Founded in 2018, the NCCCO Foundation promotes safety in industries through education, research, and workforce development, striving to reduce hazards and improve safety protocols.

In conclusion, as the crane industry grapples with ongoing safety challenges, the insights derived from this research report illuminate the path towards enhancing job site safety through certification and workforce competency. The commitment from both NSC and NCCCO Foundation to improving safety standards is commendable and pivotal for preventing future incidents.

For further information and resources, please visit nsc.org/worktozero.