Driven Machinery Regulations, 1988

National Code of Practice for the Evaluation of Training Providers for Lifting Machine Operators

Appendix 2: Applicable crane standards

Assessment Criteria for Learner Achievements

1 .The following assessment criteria are to be demonstrated by the learner on completion of a course applicable to the lifting machine codes category Cranes - Refer also to the applicable unit standard.

1. Theoretical knowledge and the safety rules applicable to the lifting machine and the work environment or as found in a typical work environment;
2. Correctly identify and state the purpose of all controls and main components. Including the completion of a checklist prior to using a lifting machine and state any actions that are required on the discovery of a defect or suspected fault. Apply the correct start up procedure for the lifting machine and the use of all the lifting machine controls correctly;
3. Correctly read and understand the lifting machine information plates. Be conversant with and able to apply load charts, range diagrams, load moment indicator’s (LMI) load and de-rating factors;
4. Have the ability to competently operate the lifting machine correctly using all its operating functions, identify loads, hoist, transport and position the load in a safe manner;
5. Show a capability to undertake the correct method of operating the crane in various operating positions, for example on inclines; and
6. Proof to be conversant with various hand signs used to hoist and position a load.

Criteria for Learner’s not Achieving Outcomes

1. Any learner who does not achieve the outcomes for certification on a designated day, the accredited provider may afford the learner a further opportunity after on-site training and before a further attempt is undertaken.

2. ln cases were the outcome/s are not achieved on the second attempt a new assessment date must be set with further appropriate training.

3. In the case of a third unsuccessful attempt to achieve the outcome/s, remedial interventions with the employer must be applied if further attempts are to be considered.

Equipment Requirements:

2. The accredited provider shall ensure that the following equipment is available for the duration of'the training and assessment -

1. A lift machine in good working order applicable to the code, which shall include a load chart, range diagrams, load moment indicator (LMI) and a valid load test certificate in accordance with the Driven Machinery Regulations 18 or original equipment manufacturer specification. Further suitable;
2. A course to adequately train and assess the competence of the operator performing the assessment criteria as described above and the requirements of the applicable unit standard, and
3. The relevant attachments, lifting tackle for rigging a variety of loads and suitable loads for the practical operations. It is permissible for the physical equipment and facilities to be provided by the client organisation.

Additional Entrance Qualification Conditions

1. An appropriate drivers licence for the particular vehicle;

2. Shall be wearing protective footwear (steel toe-capped); and

3. As from the final approval date of the Code of Practice, all new entrants intended under these categories shall hold a General Education and Training Certificate Grade 10 (Std 8), or National Qualifications Framework level 2 (Maths and English) or equivalent.

4. Conditions 1 and 3 do not apply to wall / pillar mounted jib cranes.

Recommended Learning Programme for Cranes

1. The following subject matter, where applicable, shall be included in the learning programme applicable to lifting machines under the category cranes -

1. The identification and knowledge of principle components, functions and
2. Understand safety rules and best practices applicable to operating . environments and emergency situations;
3. The procedures to conduct pre-operational checks, start-up and shut down operations and the operation of all controls; The Learner/operator shall provide the assessor with a duly completed daily inspection list for the particular. crane and recognise and report any possible defects.
4. The principles and rules applicable to load charts, range diagrams, load moment indicators (LMI) de-rating, and load-centres, at various jib/boom extension, counterweight mass, outrigger positions, and quadrant configurations;
5. The hazards and safety rules regarding the refuelling of the lifting machine as applicable to diesel/petrol, electrical supply (battery), liquefied petroleum gas or any other fuel;
6. The importance and requirement for maintaining lifting machine logbooks and reports;
7. The standards regarding the manoeuvring of the lifting machine in various environments and conditions, especially with reference to wind loading;
8. A thorough knowledge of the standard hand signals and communication methods used between ground staff and operators; and
9. The practices of determining the mass of different loads, understanding the hazards applicable to the load and ensuring stability during any operation, this includes knowledge of lifting tackle, rope reeving; (Basic slinging)

Theoretical Examination for Crane Operators

1. The-theoretical examination must consists of a minimum of 40 questions aimed to assess the learner’s achievement of the outcomes of the applicable unit standard

2. Illiterate or semiliterate learners (only currently certified) may be assessed by means of a verbal test in the presence of a witness. The theory test sheet used in such cases is to be endorsed as a verbal test. 3. The format of the theoretical questions is optional, but it is recommended that a combination of Yes/No and multiple-choice questions be used. The requirement for written explanatory type answers is not recommended.

Practical Tests for Crane Operators

1. The practical test is to be so organised to assess the operator’s competence and proficiency in achieving both the unit standard and assessment criteria standards as set out above. Further, any unique competencies required of the operator should be included in the practical test.

Marking of Assessments

1. Only a registered assessor shall perform assessments.

2. The minimum assessment topics/criterion are set out under the assessment mark sheet, Appendix 7.2. Each topic/criterion are assigned penalty points for each occurrence of non-compliance or error, which are to be totalled by the assessor to determine the level of competence.

3. The total penalty points accumulated may not exceed the following -

c. A maximum of 30 penalty points accumulated under the pre-start and pre- operational assessment topics/criterion, excluding any critical items; and

Learners must demonstrate competence on the critical knowledge (theory) assessment before being allowed to participate in the skills (practical) assessment.

Practical Assessment

Pre-Start procedure
In the parked position, the learner shall carry out, without his daily operator checklist, the specific pre-start checks required for the code of crane used.

Start up procedure
Perform the start -up procedure and functional checks. These checks shall include the operation of all the controls for the various crane movements.

Verbal Theory Questions
Answer five (5) verbal questions based on the safety aspects of the above procedures.

To determine competence on the pre start and start up assessment the learner shall not incur more than 20 penalties, excluding the critical items per the assessment tool.

Operational Procedure Assessment
Perform a series of actions designed to show operator competence and understanding of the principle manoeuvres involved.

Mobile Jib Cranes (including Tower Cranes)
Practical assessment shall include a prepared pre lift plan, set up, lifting and manoeuvring the load over and about objects to test the various operating skills required. The operator shall safely lift a load of at least 10% of the crane capacity over the side quadrant of the crane and deposit the load over the rear quadrant. The duration of the practical assessment including pre-start, start up, operational and close down procedures should be at minimum of one hour per operator. The results of the assessment are to be recorded on an assessment document, which allows for the recording of operational faults at each stage, which are to be noted and the final assessment calculated.

Overhead cranes
Practical assessment shall include the preparation of a lift and manoeuvring the load over and about objects to test the various operating skills required. The operator shall lift a load of at least 10% of the crane capacity and deposit the load in three different positions. The duration of the practical test including start up, operational and close down procedures should be at least a half an hour per operator.

Close down procedure
Perform the close down procedure on completion of the operation and complete the necessary documentation on the specific machine code.

The results of the assessment shall be recorded on a standard form (refer to Appendix 7.2, which allows for the operational faults at each stage to be noted and the final score calculated.

A maximum of 50 penalty points are permissible on a combined score for all practical assessments detailed above, in order to be declared competent.