User:Lee Lander/sandbox

HISTORY

It has traditionally been the goal of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), the contractors who have signed collective bargaining agreements (Signatory Contractors), and their respective associations, to maintain the highest levels of safety, skill, performance, and competence for their members. These entities have always been in the forefront of state-of-the-art training techniques--in the classroom, with hands on training, and on the jobsite. Over the years, cranes have received increased attention from the public, industry, the media, and regulatory agencies. Unfortunately, this attention has usually been the result of a major crane accident. In the construction industry, cranes represent a very small percentage of the total heavy equipment found on the jobsite--yet they account for a significant portion of the construction accidents that result in one or more fatalities. The cost of these accidents can be staggering in human life, property damage, and subsequent legal liabilities. Although both industry and regulatory agencies have recognized the need for the certification of crane operators, it has historically been difficult to achieve because of the wide diversity of the available crane types in this industry. Recently though, The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), as well as many states have enacted regulations that require some form of crane operator certification. The IUOE and the Signatory Contractors are some of the strongest supporters of this legislation. This support has been realized through the development of a joint labor - management certification program. A historical timeline of the program includes the following key events:

•July 2002 -- In response to California State legislation mandating crane operator certification, the Southern California Crane & Hoisting Certification Program (SCCHCP) is formed and begins assessment and certification services under the auspices of IUOE Local 12. •November 2004 -- The SCCHCP obtains accreditation from the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) for its mobile crane operator certifications. •May 2005 -- The SCCHCP obtains accreditation from the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) for its tower crane operator certification. •June 2008 -- With increased use of SCCHCP certifications across the country, the program reorganizes and incorporates as the Operating Engineers Certification Program (OECP). •October 2008 -- The U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety & Health Administration signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the OECP that recognizes OECP certifications as meeting applicable regulations and standards in the determination of crane operator competence. •March 2009 -- The OECP signs agreements with the National Training Fund of the IUOE to provide assessment and certifications for all IUOE locals desiring such services.

•August 2010 – The United States Department of Labor, through the Occupational Safety & Health Administration announces the Cranes and Derricks in Construction Final Rule has been published in the Federal Register (29 CFR 1926.1400 -1446).