OSHA Extends Comment Period for Proposed Rule

The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) reported that OSHA announced on Friday that it will extend the comment period on the proposed rule on crane operator certification through July 5, 2018. This 15-day extension will allow stakeholders more time to review the proposed rule and to provide comments, OSHA states.

Some industry groups have become concerned at the implications of the employer evaluation portion of the proposed rule, a new section developed by OSHA to address industry’s contention that certification, though valuable, is insufficient by itself to ensure an operator is qualified.

Among the organizations that had requested an extension, or were considering doing so, are AGC of America, NationsBuilders Insurance Services (NBIS), the Coalition for Crane Operator Safety (CCOS), Edison Electric Institute, and the American Petroleum Institute.

By providing thorough, independent assessments of knowledge and skills, NCCCO aims to enhance lifting equipment safety, reduce workplace risk, improve performance records, stimulate training, and give due recognition to the professionals who work in, with, and around cranes.

Comments may be submitted electronically until end of day on Thursday, July 5, 2018 at www.regulations.gov to Docket No. OSHA-2007-0066.