Key Steps to Become an Authorized Exam Site
To become an Authorized Exam Site, your company must agree to adhere to specific CIC requirements, which include, for example, having qualified personnel, appropriate facilities for conducting exams, and a commitment to adhere to CIC testing policies and procedures for all examinations. CIC Authorized Exam Sites hold to the highest standards for safety and consistency in all testing processes.
1. Understand Certification Requirements
All CIC certification candidates are assessed solely on the criteria established by the CIC Governing Council which are based on OSHA Regulations in Standard 1926.1427 Subpart CC (Cranes and Derricks in Construction), and ASME (American Society for Mechanical Engineers) Standard B30.5-2021 (Regulation for Mobile and Locomotive Cranes).
2. Review Accreditation Standards
As an ANSI accredited personnel certification company, CIC is monitored by ANAB annually for compliance with international standards ISO/IEC 17024. The adherence to CIC Authorized Exam Site requirements for exam administration plays a critical role in our company’s compliance with accreditation standards. These include, but not limited to, a demonstrated commitment to safety, fairness, and the integrity with which our exams are administered. In practical terms, this means your site has adequate space to safely administer practical exams, reasonable equipment and facility space for securely administering virtual exams, and qualified exam site personnel. Make sure your facility has the necessary crane equipment, safety gear, and testing facilities to conduct exams according to CIC standards.
3. Prepare Your Facility
Ensure your facility is equipped to handle both virtual and practical examinations:
- Virtual Exams: Provide a quiet, well-lit room with adequate seating and computer stations.
- Practical Exams: Have access to the specific crane types for which certification is offered. The equipment must be in good working condition and meet all safety standards.
4. Trained and Certified Personnel
Staff involved in administering practical exams should be properly trained and, if required, certified:
- Practical Examiners: Must be certified crane operators authorized by CIC to conduct practical examinations. Only CIC Authorized Practical Examiners are permitted to administer CIC practical exams. Practical Examiners are permitted to play a dual role as both Practical Examiner and Exam Site Coordinator. Must adhere to the processes as described in the Practical Examiner Handbook.
- Assistant Practical Examiners: Must be trained by the Practical Examiner administering the exams and participate in the exam process as described in the Assistant Practical Examiner Handbook.
- Exam Site Coordinators: Must adhere to the process as described in the Exam Site Coordinator Handbook.
5. Apply for Authorization
Submit an application to the certifying organization to become an authorized exam site. The application process may include:
- Documentation: Provide details about your facility, equipment, and personnel.
- Site Inspection: Be prepared for an on-site evaluation to verify compliance with standards.
6. Maintain Compliance
Once authorized, adhere to all guidelines and procedures set forth by the certifying body. This includes:
Updates: Stay informed about any changes in certification requirements or testing procedures.
Regular Audits: Participate in periodic reviews to maintain your status as an authorized exam site.
Important Points to Consider
Crane types: Specify the types of crane operator certifications you wish to administer exams for, such as mobile crane, or articulating boom crane.
Exam formats: Understand the different types of exams offered, including Virtual Exams and Practical Exams.
Certification process: Be aware of the crane operator certification process and how to manage the testing process.