For additional information: Kenny Boggs, CAGC Safety Director, 704/372-1450 ext. 5249, kboggs@carolinasagc.org

CAROLINAS AGC EARNS ONE OF ONLY EIGHT NCCER CRANE CERTIFICATION ENDORSEMENTS

Charlotte, NC - December, 2009 -Carolinas Associated General Contractors (AGC) is the only organization on the east coast endorsed to administer the new mobile crane operator certification developed by the National Center for Construction Education and Research. This news is particularly meaningful for North Carolina firms, in light of NC OSHA's new set of crane standards.

One of the most significant aspects of 13 NCAC 07F.0900, which took effect in October, is requiring the certification of crane operators by October 1, 2011. Companies with mobile crane operations have three options for certifying their operators:

• Through the US military;
• Through a nationally accredited program such as NCCER's;
• Through an employer's own qualification program as approved by a recognized auditor such as ANSI (this option can be quite costly).

In addition to certification exams, Carolinas AGC also offers optional Professional Crane Operator training classes.

As the largest AGC chapter in the nation with 2,800 member firms, Carolinas AGC's mission is to build its members' businesses through workforce development, business development and profit management. More than 75% of commercial and industrial construction (buildings, highways/bridges, utility facilities) in both North and South Carolina is performed or supported by Carolinas AGC members.