ISA Helps Members Clarify Crane Rule in Connecticut
Sign companies in Connecticut now have clarification on crane operator certification rules in the state, thanks to engaged members and ISA. Earlier this month, ISA staff traveled to Connecticut to meet with members and a representative of the state to discuss Connecticut’s rules on crane operator certification.
In preparation for the enactment of OSHA 1926, which requires mobile crane operators to carry certification, sign companies are looking at ways to ensure that they meet all qualifications. In most areas of the United States, companies simply have to meet the federal OSHA standards to be in compliance. However, in the New England states and Connecticut in particular, state governments have discussed holding up their own standard over the OSHA requirements. The result of this would be increased costs in time, money, and management for ISA members who operate in that region.
In June 2012, Connecticut passed a law that would seem to exempt cranes handling between 2,000 and 10,000 lbs. from the state requirements, provided they carry one of the national certifications. Since this type of crane is the most commonly used in the sign industry, this has enormous potential to affect ISA members. ISA members Pat Quinn of Lauratano Signs and Russ Hassmann of National Sign Corporation, along with ISA staff, met with state employee Eliot Henowitz to clarify questions around this rule. Henowitz confirmed that for cranes between 2,000 and 10,000 lbs., the federal certificate, from organizations such as NCCCO, suffices to operate within the state. More information on the rule is available at the link below.
http://www.cga.ct.gov/2012/sum/2012SUM00099-R02SB-00323-SUM.htm
