Every lift has a lift director, even when one isn't officially assigned. Directing lifts safely and efficiently requires extensive knowledge of crane and rigging principles. Lift directors play a critical role by considering all the necessary factors before letting lifts proceed.
Although ASME states that lift director responsibilities apply to all industries, many companies using cranes are unaware of the role. This is an issue considering OSHA has been citing companies for "failure to designate a competent lift director" since 2013.
Continue reading to discover why this role is essential to all lifting operations.
What is a Lift Director?
A lift director oversees load-handling activities, verifies key factors, and reviews and implements lift plans. These professionals aim to protect lives and assets through expertly planned and executed lifts.
Through effectively executed lifts, lift directors establish workplaces that minimize risks to equipment operators, nearby personnel, and properties. These individuals act as leaders for crane and rigging crews. The lift director must be present on-site during operations.
Responsibilities of Lift Directors
The role of lift directors includes a wide range of responsibilities. Common duties include:
- Implementing lift plans: A lift director will implement a lift plan for a load-handling job. Even when not devising the lift plan, they must understand the scope of the work and the selection of equipment for the project based on the load weight, lifting capacity of the cranes, and environmental conditions.
- Verifying personnel: These leaders verify the relevant qualification standards of the lifting crew. They need to confirm that a qualified signalperson is appointed and that a qualified rigger performs the rigging.
- Communicating with crews: Lift directors conduct pre-lift meetings where key personnel are identified. They cover all aspects of the job, including overhead and underground hazards and environmental conditions that may arise during the project.
- Supervising lifting: Lift directors monitor crews when cranes are in use. They must remain on the job site during lifting operations.
- Site preparation: A lift director ensures the crane operation area is appropriately prepared before starting operations.
Changes in Lift Director Certification Requirements
In October 2023, the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) changed the number of exams required to become a certified Lift Director from six to two — a Lift Director Core exam and a Lift Director Specialty exam. The recent changes in CCO lift director requirements aim to help professionals advance in their careers quickly while minimizing costs.
Previously, lift directors were required to complete written exams for crane operator and rigger certifications specific to their specialization. While these exams are no longer mandatory, the essential topics from those exams, including load chart calculations and understanding equipment limitations, have been integrated into the Lift Director Specialty exams.
Candidates will still need to be versed in the same scope of information to pass the two exams and earn their lift director certification. They must demonstrate the ability to interpret custom-designed lift plans and crane load charts through scenario-based questions with real-world scenarios.
Prospective lift directors now have one year to complete certification requirements, which is a shorter timeframe than the previous 24-month period. CCO lift directors in need of recertification will only need to complete and pass the two exams mentioned to continue in this role.
Lift Director Certification Training With CICB
CICB trains construction, manufacturing, and industrial employees to help them reach certification goals and conduct lifts in compliance with relevant standards. Our mission is to protect lives and assets with world-class expertise and education.
Our professionals offer a CCO® Lift Director Training class that helps you meet corresponding ASME standards. Prepare for the CCO Mobile Crane Lift Director Exams with a three-day class at your facility or at our Houston, TX, and Orlando, FL training centers.
Contact CICB for a Training Consultation
Learn more about the training courses available when you fill out a contact form for a consultation.
