Do Digger Derrick operators need certification?

Yes, if the digger derrick is used for general construction tasks such as setting light poles, traffic signals, or lifting materials. Certification is not required if used for utility or telecom pole work as defined by OSHA 1926.1400(c)(4).

When is Digger Derrick certification NOT required?

Certification is not required when the digger derrick is used exclusively for utility or telecom-related tasks, such as placing poles or handling materials directly associated with electric or telecommunication lines.

Is certification required for installing light poles?

Yes. OSHA considers streetlights, stadium lights, and parking lot lighting to be general construction work. Therefore, certification is required.

Is certification required for traffic signal installation?

Yes. Although traffic signals involve electricity, they are not part of electric power distribution systems, so certification is required.

When Digger Derrick Certification Is Required

Are you required to be certified to operate a Digger Derrick? It depends entirely on the type of work being performed. Here's how OSHA explains it.

When Digger Derrick Certification Is NOT Required

Under OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC, crane operators must usually be certified by an accredited organization (such as NCCCO). However, digger derricks are exempt from this requirement when used specifically for electric utility or telecommunications work.

✅ According to OSHA 1926.1400(c)(4), Digger Derricks are exempt if used for:

Augering holes for utility or telecom poles
Placing and removing those poles
Handling materials attached to the poles

When Certification IS Required

Certification is required if the Digger Derrick is used for general construction or anything unrelated to telecom or power line poles.

This includes tasks such as:

Lifting construction materials like steel or rebar
Installing light poles (e.g., parking lots, stadiums)
Setting traffic signal poles

Why Light Poles Don't Qualify for the Exemption

Installing light poles is not considered utility work. Even though they may involve electricity, OSHA classifies these tasks as general construction work-so crane operator certification is required.

⚠️ OSHA says: "Setting poles that are not part of electric power transmission and distribution (such as street lights) is considered construction work and falls under Subpart CC."

Traffic Signals and Stoplights

Installing traffic signal poles also requires certification. These poles are not part of utility distribution networks, so the same exemption does not apply.

Quick Reference: What Requires Certification?

✅ No Certification Required: Poles for electric or telecom lines
❌ Certification Required: Light poles (e.g., streetlights, stadium lights)
❌ Certification Required: Traffic signal poles
❌ Certification Required: General construction work with a Digger Derrick

Important Notes

Even when certification isn't required, OSHA still mandates that operators be trained and competent.
Some states (like California) have stricter rules than OSHA and may require certification regardless of exemption.

Conclusion

The key to knowing whether you need Digger Derrick operator certification comes down to the type of work being done. If it's directly tied to setting telecom or electric power poles, certification is usually not required. For everything else-including lighting, signage, or structural lifting-you must be certified.

If you need comprehensive, hands-on Digger Derrick crane training to ensure OSHA compliance, APC Crane Training offers expert certification services nationwide.

For full regulatory details, see the official OSHA digger derrick exemption rule.