Terex Supports NCCCO Certification for Drill Rig Operators

Watertown, South Dakota (March 6, 2019)—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 developed by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) in conjunction with the International Association of Foundation Drilling (ADSC). Following receipt of certification, Putman also became accredited as an NCCCO Practical Examiner for the program.

“Being knowledgeable about our customer’s business 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 operators of drill rigs to be certified, employers must ensure operators are trained and qualified. Until now no independent mechanism has existed for operators to demonstrate knowledge, skills and abilities 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 proactively sought the development of a certification because of increasing requests from project owners or general contractors for such credentials, explained Richard Marshall, CHST, ADSC’s director of safety. Development of the certification began in 2017. Putman and Jason Julius, technical support and training development for Terex Utilities, were members of the certification task force. 

To achieve NCCCO Foundation Drill Rig and/or Anchor/Micropile Drill Rig certification, candidates must successfully complete written and practical exams, including demonstration of inspection; use of safety protocols; identification of controls; and ability to pick and laydown pipe, position tools, drill and safely secure the equipment in shutdown.  In addition, one must pass the written core and specialty exams, as well as the practical exam. Then the examiner candidate must attend an NCCCO Practical Examiner Workshop to learn policy and procedures. 

For more information, visit nccco.org/DROor email [email protected].