NCCCOF Co-Authors Study, Hosts Webinar

The NCCCO Foundation (NCCCOF) and the Work to Zero program at National Safety Council (NSC) recently partnered to conduct and publish new research on the impact of formal certification on workforce competency, jobsite safety and industry performance.

The study draws on existing research and analysis of national fatality data to explore the impacts of the 2010 OSHA Cranes and Derricks in Construction rule. Survey data and interviews with crane personnel were also used to supplement the analysis and provide additional context into how certification influences work in the field.

The study draws on existing research and analysis of national fatality data.

Key findings from the report include:

• More than 90% of survey respondents said certified personnel improve jobsite safety, technical competence and overall career prospects
• Nearly three-quarters of respondents support certification requirements for riggers and signalpersons, reflecting broad support for expanding standardized competency verification beyond crane operators
• Certification delivers the greatest safety benefits when combined with ongoing training, mentorship and practical experience

“This new report shares many interesting and instructive findings regarding how the combination of certification and quality training have significantly improved safety in the crane industry”, said T.J. Cantwell, NCCCO Foundation Executive Director.

Survey data and interviews with crane personnel were also used to supplement the analysis.

“Furthermore, the report demonstrates the key role certification plays in setting consistent standards across the crane industry and the significant value those working with cranes place on both certification and training,” Mr. Cantwell added.

• The NCCCO Foundation is also hosting a webinar on August 19, 2026, to discuss the research findings and recommendations along with real world examples of how companies are using certification and quality training to improve safety results. Anyone interested in attending can register free for the webinar at https://bit.ly/certificationandsafetywebinar.
• The Certification in Crane Operations: Impacts on Safety and Performance report and other safety research reports are available to download at https://www.ncccofoundation.org/research/safety/.