The Utility Source March 2019 | Page 13

Terex Supports NCCCO Certification for Drill Rig Operators Terex Utilities announces that Dale Putman, Product Manager, was part of the first group of individuals to become a certified Foundation Drill Rig Operator. The designation is one of two new certifications de- veloped by the National Commission for the Certi- fication of Crane Operators (NCCCO) in conjunction with the International Association of Foundation Drilling (ADSC). Following receipt of Foundation Drill Rig certification, Putman also became accredited as an NCCCO Practical Examiner for the Foundation Drill Rig program. “Being knowledgeable about our customer’s busi- ness extends beyond just knowing how and where Terex equipment is used,” said Putman. “We think it’s important to be a driving force to promote safe work environments for operators in the drilling industry. By getting certified myself, I can set an example when I operate Terex auger drills in the field with customers,” he said. Putman is also an NCCCO-certified Digger Derrick Operator. Although OSHA does not currently require oper- ators of drill rigs to be certified, employers must ensure operators are trained and qualified. Until now no independent mechanism has existed for op- erators to demonstrate knowledge, skills and abil- ities for operation of this equipment. “The unique challenges and operational practices required by drill rig equipment necessitated new certification exams different from any other NCCCO program,” said NCCCO Director of Operations, Joel Oliva. The ADSC pro-actively sought the development of a certification because of increasing requests from