What is relevant is the qualification of an operator based on a crane's configuration, such as use of a luffing jib or super-lift attachment. Because of the hundreds of configurations possible for each type of crane, however, it is not feasible for a certification body to test candidates on every variable.

Certification must be viewed in the same way as licensing of commercial pilots: While the Federal Aviation Administration certifies that pilots have the basic skills to fly a jet plane, it is the airline's responsibility to qualify them to run something as sophisticated as a Boeing 747. Likewise, it is up to the employer to determine whether operators have the skills to run a Manitowoc 4100 Ringer, even if they only have a certification for a generic crawler crane.

We also must face the fact that the majority of crane operators in this country are certified to crane type only. Shortly after the C-DAC draft was published, NCCCO eliminated its one reference to capacity. Soon thereafter, the International Union of Operating Engineers introduced a type-only certification.

In the years since, both organizations have certified more than 75,000 operators nationwide. Based on the words in the standard, however, OSHA would consider these certifications invalid, potentially crippling our industry. This cannot be allowed to happen.

Robert Weiss is vice president of Cranes Inc. He can be reached at robertw@cranesinc.com.