Can You Operate a Crane Without a License in Marana, AZ?

Written by Jesse Higgins on April 8, 2024. Posted in General.

If you’re interested in becoming a crane operator, you may be wondering what you need to be legally at the helm of a crane. While crane operator certification differs from state to state, the path to being a crane operator, according to OSHA, is very much the same: get an accredited certification.

Whether you’re operating boom cranes or crawler cranes, you’ll need certification to operate them safely. If you’re wondering about the answer to the question, “Can you operate a crane without a license?” then let Hook Crane Services, a crane rental service in Arizona, explain everything you need to know.

Can You Operate a Crane Without a License?

No state licensing laws forbid Arizona residents from operating a crane, but OSHA requires a nationally accredited license for all operators. Since crane operators must follow numerous regulations and transport responsibilities, they need at least a driver’s license and training for crane operation in their state. These various regulations and qualifications are essential for maintaining proper safety operations on a worksite.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Crane Operator?

If you want to become a full-time crane operator, you may find that many employers are looking for operators with several years of experience. Since some states require licensure while others don’t, the time requirement to become a crane operator varies. If you want to train to become a crane operator, the training can last anywhere from four to eight weeks before the examination for your operating license.

How To Become a Crane Operator in Arizona

While the answer to “Can you operate a crane without a license?” is a resounding no, you can get a license and certification with some training and work. If you want to become a crane operator, the process is relatively straightforward:

1. Start Trade School

If you want to work toward becoming a crane operator, you’ll need to attend a trade school with a crane operator program. When searching for a program to learn under, keep an eye out for training programs with accreditation from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO). This group acts as the national standard for crane operators and will be responsible for awarding you your certification if you meet the requirements.

2. Begin an Apprenticeship

Once you’ve gone through a trade school approved by the NCCCO, you can hone the skills you’ll need by joining an apprenticeship. A trade that can help you prepare for a career in crane operation would be heavy machine operation since they abide by similar principles and awareness factors. Joining an apprenticeship can help give you the experience you need to excel at a crane operation job, tackling industry-related challenges that are common on a construction site.

While getting an apprenticeship is optional, there’s no harm in doing this while you go to trade school. Additionally, while it may be an optional step, some employers may prefer that you complete an apprenticeship before they consider you for crane operator roles. Gathering experience is important for jobs like crane operation, which is why it can be worth it to take the year or three required for one.

3. Obtain Certification From the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators

Once you’ve gone through your apprenticeship and trade school, you’ll likely be ready to obtain the certification required for crane operation. OSHA mandates require that all crane operators have an accredited certification.

While you don’t have to acquire a certification specifically from NCCCO, this route is the most common. It helps to pursue a certification, even if your employer doesn’t require it, as it can help demonstrate your expertise in the field.

The NCCCO offers several different CCO certifications for tower cranes, overhead cranes, and mobile cranes. There are two parts to the exam: written and practical.

During your examination, you’ll take either one or multiple written exams, followed by a practical exam on a test site with a crane. While you can complete your written exam and practical exam separately, you must complete these two tests within a year of each other.

Learn More About Crane Operation With Hook Crane Services

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Can you operate a crane without a license?” why not work with the crane experts? At Hook Crane Services, we provide our equipment quickly and easily to your projects, no matter the requirements.

If you want to work with us, you can easily get a quote today. We would love to hear from you, so call 520-323-0963 to get started with Hook Crane Services.

A Guide to Crane Lifting Capacity Requirements

Written by Jesse Higgins on March 8, 2024. Posted in General.

If you need a rental crane for a construction project, you should understand some basics on safely operating this impressive piece of equipment. Crane lifting capacity is how much a crane can lift without augmentations or extra safety measures. You can typically find this figure displayed on the crane load capacity chart, but it isn’t as simple as all that.

Whether you’re new to renting cranes or need a refresher course, this quick guide can help you understand this machinery better before you go ahead and operate it. Hook Crane Services, a trusted crane service in Tucson, AZ, shares more below.

What Is Crane Lifting Capacity?

In short, crane lifting capacity is another term for crane weight limit.

Every piece of heavy equipment can safely lift a specific number of pounds before the pressure causes problems. Cranes are no exception.

The lifting capacity also determines the following:

Load measurements: Crane load limits don’t depend on weight alone. They also specify the geometric measurements the equipment can handle.
Lift height: Knowing how high off the ground you can lift a load prevents frontward toppling.
Lift angle: Sharp angles can significantly reduce your load limits. Staying aware of how you maneuver the crane into an angle ensures you don’t overload it.

The crane load chart contains most of the details regarding the lift capacity. However, before you move on, it’s wise to refresh your memory about general crane safety.

Understanding Your Crane Load Chart

Typically, you will find the load capacity chart in your user’s manual or manufacturer’s guide, along with other essential instructions on safely and effectively operating the crane. The manual may contain one or multiple charts, and you’ll see them in the crane’s operating cab, as well.

#1 Crane Load Chart Anatomy

First, let’s review the elements a load chart commonly features, as follows:

The lifting capacity of cranes is the total tonnage the machinery can lift.
The boom length is the crane’s total arm length.
The boom angle is between the ground and the crane’s arm.
Capacity deductions refer to the weight you should subtract to account for the crane’s weight and other non-load accessories.
Operation notes help you account for environmental factors (like wind or ground slope).

#2 Calculating the Load Radius

Cranes move their loads from side to side in a circular motion called the load radius. Smaller radiuses will dictate a higher maximum crane load.

You can find the load radius by calculating the needed boom length and the position of the boom angle.

#3 Find the Lifting Capacity

After calculating the load radius, check the chart for its representation and see the lifting capacity. Most charts offer notes about other factors you should consider before you operate the crane to move a load. However, lifting capacity depends on the crane’s weight distribution and structure.

Always avoid moving the boom while you pivot the machine to prevent an accidental overload.

#4 Predict Surrounding Environmental Factors

The environment can affect the overall operation methods and weight capacity of cranes in motion or at rest. Steep ground slopes cause cranes to roll over, and high winds can also tip the equipment or load.

You’ll also need to look at ground compaction, which affects how a crane distributes its weight.

The Crane Experts Agree—Always Comply With OSHA’s Requirements

It’s wise to read through OSHA’s guidelines for safely operating cranes and other heavy machinery before you purchase, rent, or use a crane. It protects your team, the assets, and the overall project.

For example, essential mandates to remember include the following:

Don’t operate beyond the crane’s weight capacity: Overloading a crane is a dangerous, unpredictable game. It could tip or roll, leading to injuries or fatalities, legal action, and expensive destruction.
Carefully review the load chart: Reviewing all reading materials before cranking up the crane prevents overloads and other potentially lethal situations. Not all cranes have the same capacities or operating requirements, so take care.
Retain load charts, manuals, and other guides in the cab at all times: Accessible safety and usage materials ensure that operators can look at them when needed. It saves time and protects projects.
Only allow certified personnel to handle cranes and similar equipment: Cranes are complex machines that make construction work easier while simultaneously posing potential risks. An experienced operator with certifications and licenses is a must.

Contract Your Crane From Hook Crane Services

Do you have any questions about crane lifting capacity or other heavy equipment topics? Call 520-323-0963 to reach Hook Crane Services in Tucson, Arizona. We can also provide an estimate on crane rental for your upcoming project.

Which Construction Crane Truck Is Right for My Project?

Written by Jesse Higgins on February 8, 2024. Posted in General.

Are you breaking ground on a construction project and wondering which type of construction crane truck will work best? As the best crane service company in Tucson, AZ, Hook Crane Services can help you choose the right crane. Keep reading to learn how to decide the best crane truck for the job.

Types of Cranes for Construction Projects

One of the advantages of crane trucks in building projects is that you can find multiple types. Each type of crane has different benefits and disadvantages, but three varieties remain the most common.

Mobile

The advantage of mobile crane trucks in construction is that you can use them in multiple locations. So if you have a large site or your project incorporates several locations, you might opt for this type of crane. The biggest disadvantage is that mobile cranes usually have lower lifting capacity.

Crawler

Among the different types and uses of construction crane trucks, the crawler remains a popular option. While they’re mobile, they use tracks instead of wheels, which enables them to traverse more difficult worksites. However, these cranes are difficult to transport and take time to set up before you can operate them.

Telehandlers

Telehandlers are a mix of a crane and forklift. They offer increased mobility and reach and you can equip them with various attachments for better flexibility. Telehandlers are more susceptible to safety issues like tipping or the challenges of rugged terrain.

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Crane

When you’re choosing which construction crane truck to use for your project, consider the following factors.

Load Capacity

The utility of construction crane vehicles depends highly on how much they can lift, which is probably the most important consideration in choosing the right one. You might feel tempted to get the highest capacity crane. However, cranes with lower lifting capabilities often have extra features that offer other benefits.

Know the weight of the materials you’re lifting so you can find the right balance of power, maneuverability, and flexibility.

Height and Radius

You can find crane heights up to 260 feet, but you can use several different methods to extend their reach. The lift radius is also an important consideration, as it determines the horizontal distance the crane can swing a load without changing the location itself.

If you have a site with narrow spaces, you could benefit from a crane with a smaller radius. However, a higher radius can help you move your materials over a greater distance without going through the process of moving your crane. In general, the lower your lift radius, the higher your lift capacity.

Movement Distance

Consider how far you’ll need to move the crane to help transport materials, as well as the path you’ll take. If you need faster movement or have a farther distance between locations, you’ll find a mobile crane with wheels is your best option. Conversely, if you have short transportation distances and a fixed path, you’d benefit more from a crawler crane.

Site Conditions

As an essential part of construction site safety, always consider the site conditions when choosing your crane. The conditions at your site also affect how well you can optimize efficient lifting with crane trucks on construction sites. Factor in the following conditions in your crane choice:

Terrain: If your site has difficult terrain, you’ll need to consider what type of mobility your crane offers. Ignoring a rugged work site can lead to serious injury or damage if the crane tips over.
Weather: Sites with consistently high winds require more stable cranes, and a lot of rain can also make the terrain more difficult. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can adversely affect crane operations.
Structures: Powerlines and other potentially hazardous structures should play an important factor when deciding what type of crane you choose. It should help determine the height and radius you can allow.

Accessibility and Regulations

Your effectiveness in deploying crane trucks for building and infrastructure depends largely on the site’s accessibility and your location’s regulations. For example, can you use a crane that you can transport on-site, or do you need one you can assemble? Check local zoning laws to confirm what type of equipment you’re allowed on site.

Hook Crane Services Solves Your Crane Contracting Problems

If you’re looking for the best construction crane truck for your project, Hook Crane Services can help you choose. From finding suitable crane equipment for your project to providing certified operators, we meet all your crane needs. Contact us for a free quote, or call 520-323-0963 to speak with a team member.