6 Tips for Choosing the Right Crane & Rigging Training Program

So, the orders from above just came through.  You must enroll your employees into a crane and rigging, comprehensive training program that not only offers skills building, but also enforces safe practices and loss prevention.  Here are 6 tips to help you determine if the company you are considering will be the best fit.

1. Be specific - Know your employees skill level and communicate the desired results you wish to obtain with the training company.
2. Be selective - In the race to have your rigger, signalperson, operator, supervisors or directors qualified or certified, some training companies will offer a program that can get it done quickly. Just remember that faster is not always better. Select a company that allows the student adequate time to digest and incorporate the skills presented in the program.
3. Know the instructor - Request that the company provides background information (bio, resume or references) of the instructor. Don’t assume that the instructor is qualified or experienced, or that they are able to present information in a learning environment. Look for experience in formalized training programs and industry related field experience; this will help determine if the instructor is qualified.
4. Review References - Contact the references provided by the company. It is also helpful to speak with companies or organizations, not listed as references that have used the company in the past. Find out what they liked and disliked, ask for feedback or evaluations from the employees that attended the program.
5. View the facility - Students will digest information in many different formats. Look for facilities that offer not only classroom instruction but also hands-on training for the student who may digest information through application. The center should be clean, well-organized and properly equipped with equipment in good condition, gear that has documented proof of inspection and personal protection equipment available.
6. Get it in writing - Once you have agreed upon the course, topics and cost get the final agreement in writing.  A company in good standing will not hesitate to provide documentation that is detailed in description of the program requested.