1926.1427(f)(1)(i): Operator Skills and Knowledge
Employers must evaluate crane operators to verify they have the skills, knowledge and ability to recognize and avert risk needed to operate the equipment safely. This includes knowledge of the safety devices, operational aids, software, and the size and configuration of the equipment, such as lifting capacity, boom length, attachments, luffing jib and counterweight set-up.
Key takeaways
- 1926.1427(f)(1)(i) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart CC).
- OSHA cited it 5 times in the last 3 years, in 5 inspections, with $27,667 in current penalties.
- 1 death is linked to inspections that cited this rule.
- Related part: 1926.1427(f) Evaluation (9 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.1427(f)(1)(i) is one requirement inside 1926.1427 Operator training, certification, and evaluation, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart CC). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(i) The skills and knowledge, as well as the ability to recognize and avert risk, necessary to operate the equipment safely, including those specific to the safety devices, operational aids, software, and the size and configuration of the equipment. Size and configuration includes, but is not limited to, lifting capacity, boom length, attachments, luffing jib, and counterweight set-up. 5 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.1427.
Injuries linked to this rule
1 death is linked to inspections where OSHA cited 1926.1427(f)(1)(i).
At 11:15 a.m. on October 20, 2023, an employee was lifting pipe with a crane. The crane tipped over and the employee was killed.
Where and how often it was cited
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.1427(f)(1)(i), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1926.1427(f)(1)(i).
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.1427(f) Evaluation 9 citations
- 1926.1427(f)(1) 8 citations
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Frequently asked questions
What must an operator show to be evaluated as qualified?
The skills, knowledge and ability to recognize and avert risk needed to operate the equipment safely.
Does this include knowing the crane's software?
Yes. It includes skills specific to safety devices, operational aids, software, and the size and configuration of the equipment.
What does size and configuration cover?
It includes, but is not limited to, lifting capacity, boom length, attachments, luffing jib, and counterweight set-up.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.1427 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-19
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.