NCCCO Rigger Level I

The Rigger Level I certification requires both a written and a practical examination. The written exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have 60 minutes to complete it. The practical exam assesses basic rigging competency through hands-on tasks. Both exams must be passed to earn certification.

The difficulty varies by individual, but the exam is designed for persons who have been trained to handle and move loads. It covers four main areas: inspection, selection and attachment of rigging, hazard recognition, and use of equipment and hitches. Adequate preparation and practical experience are key to success.

Yes. Candidates have 12 months from the time they pass their first Written or Practical Exam for each rigger level in which to pass the corresponding (Written or Practical) Exam. For example, if you fail the written exam but pass the practical, you have 12 months from the practical exam date to pass the written exam.

CCO certification is valid for five years. Candidates must pass both Written and Practical Examinations to be certified for a five-year period. Recertification requires completing all requirements during the 12 months prior to the expiration date.

To recertify, candidates must pass the applicable written examination and comply with CCO’s Substance Abuse Policy and Code of Ethics. There is no requirement for a practical examination for recertification. All recertification requirements must be completed during the 12 months prior to the certification’s expiration date.

The exam covers four job domains: inspecting rigging before use; identifying, selecting, and attaching rigging with basic knowledge of hitch configurations, capacities, and basic knots; recognizing associated hazards; and using various types of rigging equipment and basic hitches and their applications.

Focus on the four domains outlined by NCCCO. Gain hands-on experience with synthetic slings, chain slings, wire rope slings, metal mesh slings, and rigging hardware. Study inspection criteria, hitch configurations, capacity calculations, and hazard recognition. Review the Candidate Handbook for detailed exam content and policies.

Common pitfalls include insufficient knowledge of inspection criteria, misunderstanding of hitch capacities and configurations, failure to recognize hazards, and lack of familiarity with rigging hardware. Practical experience and thorough study of the exam domains can help avoid these issues.

Candidates must be at least 18 years of age, comply with CCO’s Substance Abuse Policy, pass the Written Examination, pass the Practical Examination, and comply with the NCCCO Code of Ethics. No specific experience is required, but the exams are designed for trained individuals.