Ironworkers International Certification Board (IICB) Develops Ironworker Rigger and Signal Person Certification 

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Why We Did It

The Iron Workers have had a Qualified Rigger and Signal Person program for years, where training, testing and record keeping were key parts of the program.

OSHA’s Subpart CC requires signal person qualification by a third-party qualifier and that riggers must be qualified. While a letter of interpretation from OSHA recognizes that apprenticeship programs that train and assess signal persons and riggers would meet the definition for a third-party qualified evaluator, many contractors, states and municipalities have requested or required a Qualified Rigger and Signal Person Certification.

A true certification requires testing, record keeping and recertification by a third party, causing many of our members to solicit training and testing from other sources, costing hundreds of dollars to maintain their certification; all without any input on the test content from Iron Workers' subject matter experts, the Iron Workers and their contractors.

In response, the Ironworker Rigger and Signal Person Certification Program was developed.

Mission Statement

The Ironworker Rigger and Signal Person Certification Program provides members a practical method to obtain a certification accurately evaluating their rigging and signaling competence. By ensuring that only trained, skilled and competent ironworkers complete rigging and signaling tasks, workplace risk is reduced, and safety is increased, standing true to our efforts to ensure all workers return home safe at the end of the day. By certifying skilled and qualified workers, the Ironworkers International Certification Board is promoting a safe and efficient jobsite for the worker, the public and the industry.

Exam Development

Subject matter experts, along with a psychometric expert, performed a job task analysis to identify the required skills and knowledge of a rigger and signalperson. These domains were then validated by survey and a written and performance exam was developed. The exams were piloted and weighed to determine the passing score. 

How Do I Become a Certified Rigger and Signalperson? 

Eligibility Requirements for the Ironworker Rigger and Signal Person Certification

To ensure ironworkers have the specialized knowledge and skill sets required to safely and properly perform the duties of a rigger and signal person, it is necessary that applicants meet certain prerequisite requirements as detailed below.  

Requirements for certification include the following:

• Must be a member of the Iron Workers in good standing
• Comply with the IICB substance abuse policy
• Have 6,000 hours of industry-related experience
• Must have completed and passed the Ironworkers Rigging and Crane course or equivalent
• Sign the confidentiality policy and examination rules
• Pass the written examination
• Pass the practical examination

Eligibility requirements from other rigging and signalperson certifications:

1. Be at least 18 years of age
2. Comply with the IICB substance abuse policy
3. Pass written exam
4. Pass practical exam 

All eligible candidates must pass a written and practical exam.