Examining Tests to Ensure Accuracy and Safety

Last week, Crane Tech had the honor of hosting the NCCCO Mobile Crane Written Examination Management Committee (WEMC) winter meeting for the 11th year. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the performance of the written tests given to certify mobile crane operators (lattice boom, telescopic boom, service truck and boom truck cranes). 

During the meeting, the integrity of the test for each crane type is thoroughly reviewed using statistical analysis and outliers are discussed to determine if changes should be made. The committee also reviews the notes about individual questions from the candidates who have taken the tests, to ensure that clarity and accuracy are being achieved. "The goal is not to make the test too easy or too hard, it is not to try to trick the candidate, but to make sure it is fair and test on the knowledge the operator should have to safely manage the crane," stated Bo Collier, Crane Tech's president and member of the WEMC.

The committee is also in charge of developing new test questions, introducing new specialty exams and staying informed on legislative impacts to mobile crane operators. One of the key items discussed in this meeting was the development of load charts for a potential boom truck specialty exam.  When and how this will happen, only time will tell, but by reading this newsletter article you are a little more in the know!

While many would find the process of reviewing tests a chore, those on the committee are passionate about making sure that the NCCCO remains a fair, valid, reliable, authoritative, and defensible body to certify crane operators. Crane Tech feels that our volunteerism and involvement on this committee and with the NCCCO gives us a competitive advantage. While we do not know the exact questions that will be featured, we certainty have knowledge of what is covered and we have not only been very successful in preparing students for their national exams, but in helping to make sure the material covered is retained when they return to their worksite.

For more information on NCCCO certification classes happening in your area, or to have Crane Tech provide on-site NCCCO certification training, contact us today.