How to Become a Crane Operator

So, you have an interest in becoming a crane operator, but you are not sure where to start. This blog covers all the ways in which you can achieve this and what courses are available for you to start immediately.

There is no required way to become a crane operator, you can achieve this by going down many paths. Before trying to become an operator, you need to consider if you have the basic skills required such as great concentration, attention to detail, you can work well with others, communication skills, the ability to stay calm, good dexterity, etc. Most of these skills can be developed but it is advantageous to have them before beginning your training.

Crane operators are responsible for the safe operation of cranes while shifting and lifting materials to where they need to be. A skilled operator will be capable of a range of different lifts such as the precise placement of glazing in multi-storey buildings, capable of transporting loads with the crane, and is able to adapt to changes in a lift plan.

Typically, as a crane operator, you can carry out our safety checks and set the crane up, load and unload with the crane, monitor changes in weather, crane stability, and load weights. If needed you will make minor repairs to the crane, and have good communication regarding issues and with those working with and around you.

How to Become a Crane Operator

Now you have decided to pursue becoming a crane operator you need to consider what options there are for achieving this.

College – You can do a college qualification such as a Level 2 Certificate in Plant Operations which often only requires having passed your Health, Safety and Environment test and having a good understanding of spoken and written English and/or GCSEs in English and Maths at grade 3 or above. This can change depending on the course.

Apprenticeship – These can have varying requirements from none to needing English and Maths GCSEs at a level 3 and above. Some require more GCSEs or a higher level and some may require you to have a driver’s license.

Work – If you begin as a construction labourer you can work up to becoming a crane operator after gaining experience in other plant operations. You will receive training on the job and may receive your training/final exam for free from your employer.

Direct Application – Sometimes you can apply to employers for the opportunity to be trained by them. Some may ask for qualifications such as standard GCSEs.

Courses – You can find courses available to inexperienced crane operators that only last for 2 – 5 days at places like GGR Group. You can cut your training time down to less than a week and begin your career as a crane operator without the lengthy process of the above options.

How Can GGR Group Help You?

Since being founded in 1995 GGR Group has expanded their lifting fleet and range of operators. With expert operatives, they are entrusted with creating personalised lift plans and carrying them out perfectly for customers. In 2008 GGR Group launched their first courses and has since expanded into eLearning which was launched last year in a successful attempt to make training more accessible.

Our courses cover cranes, vacuum lifters, glass robots, floor cranes, electric hoists, and many others. The majority of our courses are LEEA-accredited, RTITB-accredited, or CPCS A66-endorsed.

Our Courses

We have 4 courses available for aspiring and experienced crane operators covering a range of crane models.

CPCS A66 Endorsement A Static Stabiliser Cranes Course

Covering both theory and legislation and hands-on training the course will take you through terminology, health and safety, regulations, pre-use checks, using compact cranes, and lifting and placing loads. The course lasts 2 – 5 day

s depending on experience and will use our URW 095, 295, 376, and 506 cranes during training.

CPCS A66 Endorsement B Mobile Industrial Cranes Course

The training in this course uses our G20, G35, and G120 Pick and Carries which will cover compact cranes with the capability for pick and carry duties, wheeled or tracked chassis, and non-slewing telescopic cranes. Course length varies from 2 – 5 days depending on experience.

CPCS A66 Endorsement C Static Luffing Crane Course

Using our Starworker 1600 you will complete a 2 – 5 day training course and practical test. This accredited course will cover trailer-mounted cranes, 4 outriggers minimum, 360-degree slewing upper structure, telescopic boom with luffing extension, derricking, slewing, and telescoping.

CPCS A66 Endorsement D 360° Pick & Carry Cranes Course

Gain the understanding and practical knowledge to operate a range of pick and carry cranes such as the MCC495, MCC505, MCC804, and MCC805. You will cover health and safety, best practice, pre-use checks, lifting and placing loads, etc. After completing the 2 – 5-day course you will receive a CPCS accreditation.

GGR Group has a selection of trusted and accredited courses that cover many of our products. To discuss any questions you have with a specialist trainer you can contact us by phone or by clicking here