The process of delaying OSHA crane operator certification requirements for a year has taken another step forward, making it appear likely to be adopted.
Last week, OSHA published updates expected in the next six months for the Crane Operator Qualification in Construction in the semiannual federal Regulatory Agenda.
Here is the important language that now appears: “OSHA will issue an extension of the effective date for one year to allow adequate time for the proposed rule to be published and finalized. Employers will continue to benefit from the protections of the current requirements during the delay.”
This is a clear indication that the U.S. Department of Labor intends to act in accordance with the OSHA advisory panel recommendation made earlier this year. OSHA will still need to take several steps for this 12-month extension to become official. If it moves forward fully to completion, mobile crane operators would be required to be certified by November 2018.
ISA will continue to monitor the issue as it makes its way through the regulatory process and will share additional details as they become available. To learn more, contact Kenny Peskin (Kenneth.Peskin@signs.org).