Preparing to take the CCO Mobile Crane Certification Written Exam can be a daunting task when reviewing the different Domains and Exams outlined by CCO and the Reference Materials used to make up the exam questions. Whether you are taking the exam for the first time, recertifying or retesting, reviewing a self study guide will prepare you to successfully pass the exam and truly understand the material.
Total Equipment Training has made this process easier by going through the difficult to follow ASME’s and OSHA regulations, pulling out the pertinent information, and converting it into easy to read and understandable layman’s terms.
You can also find our entire collection of study guides for CCO certification, which includes downloadable PDFs and are sectioned the same as the CCO exam.
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What Is CCO Certification?
CCO Certification (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators ) is a recognized credential that ensures crane operators possess the necessary skills and knowledge to operate cranes safely. Established in 1996, this certification includes various types, such as Mobile Crane, Signal Person, and Rigging certifications.
The certification process involves written exams and practical assessments, covering core topics like safety, operations, and load charts. Benefits include enhanced safety, improved job prospects, and industry recognition. Recertification is required every five years to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills. Overall, CCO Certification plays a crucial role in promoting safety and efficiency in crane operations.
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Overview of the CCO Mobile Crane Certification Written Exam
The CCO mobile crane written exam is broken down into three different parts: The Core Exam, the Specialty Exam and the Load Chart Exam. All applicants take the Core Exam. Then, depending on their licensing requirements, they will choose their specialty(ies) from the following list: Telescopic Boom Cranes-Fixed Cab (TSS), Telescopic Boom Cranes – Swing Cab (TLL), Lattice Boom Truck Cranes (LBT), or Lattice Boom Crawler Cranes (LBC).
The Core Exam
- Site – Approximately 20% of the Test – Elements that affect ground stability, use of supporting material, electrical hazards, travel without load, evaluating hazards, responsibilities of controlling entity, lift requirements.
- Operations – Approximately 26% of the test – Crane safety inspection, leveling the crane, leveling and setting up the crane, hazards during operation, wire rope knowledge, crane signals, lift requirements for different types of lifts, lifting in the blind, tagline requirements, use and function of operator aids and when they malfunction, use and function of safety devices, emergency procedures, effects of dynamic loading, side loading, operating in different weather conditions, backward stability limitations, attachments and their effect, stop operation authority, shut down and secure crane.
- Technical Knowledge – Approximately 28% of the test -This portion of the exam tests the knowledge of the ASME B30.5, B30.10, OSHA 1910.180 and 1926 Subpart CC knowledge. Candidates should pay close attention to definitions, basic crane terminology, know function limitations of cranes and attachments, inspection requirements, basic procedures for rigging devices and their use, use of wire rope, hook blocks, overhaul ball, replacement criteria for rigging components, relationship between line pull and safe working load of running ropes, requirements of fall protection, access and egress of crane.
- Load Charts – Approximately 26% of the test – Know the terminology of load charts and how to use them, demonstrate basic math skills.
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The Specialty Exam
The second test for CCO Certification is the Specialty Exam. Candidates will be tested on the type of crane they operate and will be taking the practical exam on. The test covers knowledge areas relating to the operation of the crane (TLL, TSS, LBC, LBT). Each type of crane has a different load chart test to choose from. The load charts are from different manufacturers’ cranes and they are used for testing purposes only. Find the actual load charts on CCO’s website.
The Specialty Exam is broken down into four Domains.
- Site – Approximately 23% of the test – Tests the knowledge of setting up the crane, use of supporting materials, boom assembly/disassembly, use of outriggers and stabilizers, crawlers, outrigger position indicators and sensors.
- Operation – Approximately 23% of the test – Operation of the crane, pick and carry, shut down and secure the crane, use and function of operator aides, use and function of safety devices, power flow systems procedures when approaching two blocking.
- Technical Knowledge –Approximately 19% of the test – Basic crane terminology specific to crane types, functions and limitations specific to crane types, wire rope replacement and inspection criteria.
- Manufacturer Load Charts – Approximately 35% of the test – Understand different elements of the load chart, be able to apply notes, specifications, read range diagram, work area diagram, boom/jib erection charts and rated capacity charts, understand and apply manufacturer’s load charts given various configurations. be able to determine maximum radius for load placement, determine gross capacity and net capacity.
Total Equipment Training offers study materials and practice specialty and load chart tests by crane type. Each specialty comes with a practice test, load chart and load chart practice test and answer key. Download the PDFs for $29 available on our website.
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Strategies for Studying for CCO Written Test
Preparing for the CCO Certification requires a structured approach. Here are some effective strategies to enhance your study efforts:
CCO Training Resources
- Make sure you are using the most updated and accurate study guides for CCO certification.
- Take CCO practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and identify areas needing more focus.
- Consider taking online heavy equipment courses to supplement your learning.
- If your business is looking for expert, instructor-led training (or refresher training) for your operators then consider signing up for company heavy equipment training.
- Total Equipment Training offers live, onsite training, group training of your heavy equipment operators using YOUR equipment.
Combining structured self-study with instructor-led training maximizes your preparation efforts and increases your chances of passing the CCO Certification exams. Thorough preparation is key, so leverage available resources for success!
Get CCO Study Guides for Certification Today!
If you’re ready to take your heavy equipment career to the next level, you’ll need to earn your CCO Mobile Crane Certification. Total Equipment Training offers a variety of learning options to fit your needs, from downloadable PDFs to live, on-site training.
Don’t wait! Invest in your future and get started with Total Equipment Training today.
