Massachusetts Crane operators

[DSmith]

I have been studying for some time and am ready to put my application in for the test. I have been studying the moble crane manual and bobs rigging book along with the online sources given by the Massachusetts department of safety. Any other good references that would help on the test? I am applying for the telescopic booms with wire ropes. Also, is this a written only test or is there a "hands on" so to speak. Any information would be a plus, I would appreciate your help.

 

[BostonBull]

If your going for the 1B, there are plenty of schools that offer 2 days courses specially preparing you for the exam.

Good Luck!

 

[diltree]

When I took the test 5 years ago the Exam was written, and there was no hands on or practical parts, I'm pretty sure the exam is the same to date. I went to the Peterson School to prep for the Exam and studied under my brother as an apprentice operating the crane. Once I passed the test, a started operating the crane doing simple jobs such as setting trussers and air conditioners, and once I was comfortable I moved onto doing tree's.

 

[9th year rookie]

Hoist Lic.

Check out the website for Mass Dept. Public Safety.

I took a class last year for the 3A, then passed the 3A hoist test.
I thought it was more common sense than anything and thought the class was almost a waste of time/money.

Then I took the 1b.
I think that covers everything but lattice.
There is a description of categories and application on web site.

If you have the time, try to take it w/out the class.
Then, if you have trouble, take class and test again.
my two bits.

Also,
The Peterson school is probably the most available, the most expensive but not the only game in town.

 

[diltree]

I would have to disagree w/ 9th year rookie. Assuming that your plans are to get a job operating a crane someday; you will want all the preparation and knowledge you can get. Just trying to squeeze by with a low score on the test really isn't enough. Operating a crane requires more skill and knowledge then any other piece of equipment, and also caries a greater responsibility. Spending some cash on the schooling will be a valuable investment, it will help you on your hoisting exam and also be a major plus on your resume. Most importantly the knowledge will be invaluable the day you sit in that operators seat.

 

[DSmith]

Thanks for the info and opionions. Just because I go take a test for the 1B, does that mean I'm responsible for other classes such as 2A, 3B, 4C, just as an example, or does the test cover the information only in 1B class?

 

[BostonBull]

If you take a test and pass it your covered for everything in that class from your level and down. Most classes have 3 levels, some like the 4 I believe have 4.

So if you test out at the 1B, you covered for 1C as well. 2A covers you for all levels of class 2 machines etc etc etc....

Hope that is clear enough, might be confusing.

 

[DSmith]

Hey BostonBull or Diltree, are there examples of certain crane set-ups where they ask you for net capacities, maximum loads, parts of line, etc? Basically giving you a situation and having to solve the question with the use of load charts and range diagrams? Or is it more straight forward, safety, inspection and other various questions? I appreciate all of your help. Thanks.