How to Become a Certified Crane Operator in Singapore

Did you know that crane operators earn between $2,000 to $7,000 a month? According to Straits Times, former National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan revealed that more than 1,200 Singaporeans have stepped forward to inquire about being crane operators in 2013. This overwhelming response may be a fresh start to piquing the interest of locals to kick start a career in the construction industry. 

It is compulsory to be a registered crane operator to operate a mobile crane (other than a lorry loader) or tower crane in a workplace. And if you’re currently looking at becoming a certified crane operator, fret not! No matter how far you would like to go in your training, the path to becoming one is quite straightforward. 

How to apply to be a certified crane operator?

Firstly, you must be 21 years old and above. Next, earn a pass on the relevant crane operator course conducted by an accredited training provider (ATP) in Singapore. Once it is done, you must obtain the certificate within the 6 months you are applying. 

However, from 1st April 2016, if you are aged 50 years or above, you must pass the medical examination before you can apply. The additional steps required are as follows:

1. Download the relevant medical form via the MOM website (https://www.mom.gov.sg/workplace-safety-and-health/wsh-professionals/crane-operator/medical-examination):
   • Medical examination form for Crane Operators aged 50 to 69 years
   • Medical examination form for Crane Operators aged 70 years and above
2. Fill up the sections to be completed by the applicant.
3. Arrange and go for a medical examination with any GP or polyclinic. Bring along the medical examination form.

Check out How to Rent the Right Crane here!

How Long Does It Take to Become a Crane Operator?

There is no set time frame for becoming a crane operator. It depends on how far you want to go in the field. If you are eager to get started in this career, you can complete your basic crane operator training programs and certification in as little as four to eight months by an accredited training provider (ATP) in Singapore. 

Duties and Responsibilities of a Crane Operator

• Operate cranes and hoists.
• Monitoring crane stability and load weights 
• Working with a rigger and signalman to ensure site safety 
• Transfer loads to construction sites and discharges safely.
• Bind loads to cranes.
• Inspect equipment and machinery.
• Keep and update maintenance and activity logs.
• Carry out basic repairs to machines.
• Set up machinery based on complex manuals.

There are many different types of cranes and different types of equipment operators, such as mobile crane operators and tower crane operators, and each type involves specialized training. However, regardless of the kind of crane you are operating, you will be working with a complex system of wheels, pedals, and levers to safely move those heavy materials.

As a crane operator, you may find yourself working on multiple construction projects, varying from ports to warehouses, or commercial to residential construction sites. The common denominator, though, is that you will probably spend most, if not all, of your workday in your crane.

Conclusion

As a certified crane operator in Singapore, you will still have time to grow your skills and expand your opportunities if you choose to pursue professional certifications correctly. This is because the construction industry is expecting significant growth in the coming years. With the right training and operator’s temperament, you can enter a career that will offer excitement, challenges, opportunities, and prosperity for decades to come.

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