OSHA proposes new crane operator safety rule

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has proposed a rule that would provide long-term clarity regarding crane operator certification requirements.

The proposal would also reinstate the employer duty to ensure that a crane operator is qualified to safely operate equipment. Under the proposed rule, a change to the categories of certifications for crane operators would ensure more operators are able to meet the requirement.

The proposal discontinues a 2010 requirement, which never took effect, that crane operator certification must include the crane lifting capacity for which the operator is certified. The proposal would also expand the type of certification programs for crane operators.

Comments regarding the proposed rule may be submitted electronically at www.regulations.gov, the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal. Comments must be submitted by June 20.