Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Competence Assessment PDF

OPITO Approved Standard
Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Competence Assessment

© OPITO
OPITO APPROVED STANDARD
Offshore Crane Operator: Stage 3
Competence Assessment Standard
OPITO Standard Codes:
Competence Assessment Code Competence Reassessment Code

Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3
Competence Assessment 9038 Competence Reassessment 9039
[Fixed Structures] [Fixed Structures]
[Floating Structures] [Floating Structures]
[Vessel Subsea Lifting] [Vessel Subsea Lifting]
© OPITO
OPITO STANDARDS
OPITO is an Industry-owned not-for-profit organisation that exists solely to service the needs of
the Oil and Gas Industry.
OPITO is employer led in all aspects of what it does, therefore all standards development
activities are at the behest of industry employers. The standards are driven by the needs of
employers to help create a safe and competent workforce.
This standard is owned by the Oil and Gas Industry and maintained by OPITO who are the
nominated custodians of all Industry standards within the OPITO portfolio which carry the
OPITO logo.
The contents of this document were developed by an industry workgroup facilitated and
supported by OPITO. The workgroup consisted of representation from a cross section of oil and
gas industry employers, discipline experts working within the industry and members of the
OPITO Approved Training network.
This standard has been verified and accepted through the governance and integrity
management model for OPITO standards.
Guidance on this standard is available by contacting OPITO at: Standards enquiries
This standard has been designed to accommodate global variations in national legislation
and regulations. In the absence of relevant national legislation and regulations, OPITO
approved centres should use legislative and regulatory criteria specified within this Standard.
© OPITO
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval or
information storage system, or transmitted in any form or my any means, mechanical,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission in writing of the publisher
OCO Stage 3 Competence Rev 0 [OCT 2012] Page 2 of 65

© OPITO
Record of Changes to Standard

Revision & Amendments Agreed by Checked Approved
Industry
Revision 0 Sept 2012 Workgroup
M. Carr P. Lammiman
No. Amendment & Date Section Amended by Checked by Approved by
Any amendments to this Standard by OPITO will be recorded above
OCO Stage 3 Competence Rev 0 [OCT 2012] Page 3 of 65

© OPITO
CONTENTS
Introduction and Competence Route ...................................................................................... 5

SECTION A OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT ............................................... 8
A.1 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT TARGET GROUP ............................................ 8
A.2 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT CANDIDATE PRE-REQUISITES ......................... 8
A.3 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT PHYSICAL AND STRESSFUL DEMANDS ............ 9
A.4 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT AIM AND OBJECTIVES .................................. 10
A.5 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT OUTCOMES ................................................ 10
A.6 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT PROCESS ................................................... 11
A.7 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT DURATION .................................................. 13
A.8 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT UNITS......................................................... 13
SECTION B OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT ........................................ 18
B.1 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT TARGET GROUP ...................................... 18
B.2 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT CANDIDATE PREREQUISITES .................... 18
B.3 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT PHYSICAL AND STRESSFUL DEMANDS ...... 19
B.4 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT AIM AND OBJECTIVES .............................. 20
B.5 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT OUTCOMES ............................................ 20
B.6 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT PROCESS ............................................... 21
B.7 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT DURATION AND TIMING ............................ 23
B.8 OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT UNITS..................................................... 23
SECTION C CENTRE RESOURCES .................................................................................. 28
C.1 LOCATION OF ASSESSMENT .......................................................................................... 28
C.2 STAFF ......................................................................................................................... 29
C.3 FACILITIES ................................................................................................................... 30
C.4 EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................................. 30
C.5 CRANE SPECIFICATION ................................................................................................. 31
C.5.1 Crane Simulator .................................................................................................. 32
SECTION D CERTIFICATION & ADMINISTRATION .......................................................... 33
D.1 JOINING INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................................................ 33
D.2 VALIDITY AND RENEWAL ............................................................................................... 33
D.3 CERTIFICATION ............................................................................................................ 34
D.4 ADMINISTRATION .......................................................................................................... 34
Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations .................................................................................. 35
Appendix 1: OCO Stage 3 Workplace Logbook Requirements ........................................... 36
Appendix 2: OCO Stage 3 Knowledge Assessment ............................................................ 41
Appendix 3: OCO Stage 3 Practical Assessment and Reassessment Process ................ 42
Appendix 4: OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Record ............................................ 43
OCO Stage 3 Competence Draft 3 [Amendment NA] Page 4 of 65

© OPITO
Introduction and Competence Route
OPITO was tasked by industry to develop a robust minimum standard for training and
competence assessment for the offshore crane operator (OCO) role. An industry workgroup
which comprised of relevant crane operations and lifting experts agreed on a three-stage
training and competence route which took into consideration individuals who were new to crane
operations as well as experienced crane operators.
These offshore crane operator standards apply to operators of the main types of offshore
cranes which can undertake a range of crane lifting operations, which may include: lifts on
offshore installations, subsea lifts, diving support vessels lifts, well intervention vessels lifts and
offshore construction vessels lifts.
This standard specifies OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Competence Assessment,
Reassessment and OCO Stage 3 Workplace Logbook requirements only.
The OPITO Offshore Crane Operator’s training, competence assessment and re-assessment is
comprised of three key stages.
The three key stages are set out below:
OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 5 of 65

© OPITO
Offshore Crane Operator (OCO) Key Stages

OPITO OCO Stage 1: Introductory Training Programme
This programme provides introductory training for individuals that have little or no crane
operating experience. Delegates successfully completing the Introductory Training Programme
will be awarded an OPITO OCO Stage 1 Offshore Crane Operator Introductory Training
certificate; this entitles the delegate to progress to OCO Stage 2 Training followed by
supervised Stage 2 workplace experience.
This training programme does not deem the successful delegate competent to operate offshore
cranes unsupervised. The OCO Stage 1 Training certificate has no expiry but delegates wishing
to progress to Stage 2 must undertake OCO Stage 2 Training within twelve months otherwise
they will be required to repeat OCO Stage 1 Training.
OPITO OCO Stage 2: Training, supervised workplace experience and assessment
OCO Stage 2 Training, which is more advanced training than Stage 1, must be undertaken
within 12 months of gaining a Stage 1 OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Certificate. Crane
operators with verifiable experience can opt to undertake OCO Stage 2 Training without
completing OCO Stage 1 Training. OCO Stage 2 training must be completed before undertaking
Stage 2 workplace experience.
The OCO Stage 2 Workplace Experience part of the programme requires the offshore crane
operator candidate to complete a series of supervised workplace tasks in order to gain relevant
experience. The candidate must complete a log book record of the supervised crane operator
tasks. Candidates that have completed the Stage 2 log book requirements within two years of
successful completion of OCO Stage 2 Training will be eligible to undertake the next stage of
the programme, which is the OCO Stage 2 Competence Assessment programme. The OCO
Stage 2 Training Programme will have to be repeated if the Stage 2 Logbook isn’t completed
within the two-year time period.
OCO Stage 2 Competence Assessment programme: Candidates will be assessed against

specific criteria for conducting in-board lifts (deck lifts). Successful candidates will be awarded
with an OPITO OCO Stage 2 certificate of competence and become certified to conduct
unsupervised in-board (deck lifts) on fixed, floating structures and vessels which includes
loading or offloading from a floating structure or vessel when moored adjacent to a quayside.
The certificate is valid for 2 years.
OCO Stage 2 Competence Reassessment programme: OPITO-certified Stage 2 offshore

crane operators can maintain their OPITO OCO Stage 2 Competence certification by
successfully completing a reassessment within two years of their initial OCO Stage 2
assessment. Each successive certificate is valid for 2 years.
Continued.

© OPITO
Offshore Crane Operator Key Stages - continued
Note 1: Experienced Stage 2 non-OPITO certified offshore crane operators can become OPITO
OCO Stage 2-certified by successfully completing the OPITO OCO Stage 2 Reassessment
programme.
Note 2: Experienced onshore crane operators and personnel that have undergone the
equivalent of the OPITO OCO Stage 1 Training (as a minimum), can start their OPITO certified
training and competence programme at OCO Stage 2 Training and Assessment programme –
provided they have the relevant evidence of the equivalent training.
OPITO OCO Stage 3: Workplace experience and competence assessment
OPITO OCO Stage 3 specifies the workplace experience requirement and the assessment
process and criteria for conducting over-side lifts for three different types of offshore structures:
1. Fixed structures e.g. offshore platforms, jack-up rigs etc.

2. Floating structures e.g. FPSOs and semi-submersibles.
3. Deployment and recovery of loads from vessels e.g. well intervention vessels and diving
support vessels.
OCO Stage 3 candidates must choose which type of structure they want to complete workplace
experience and undertake an assessment for. An OPITO OCO Stage 3 certificate of
competence will be awarded to the successful candidate for one of the three structure types;
candidates cannot gain all three certificates at the same time i.e. they must complete workplace
experience and undertake an initial assessment programme for one structure type.
Should an offshore crane operator want an OPITO certificate of competence for a different
structure type to the one they are certified for, they must complete logged workplace experience
and undertake an initial assessment programme for that specific structure type.
The OPITO OCO Stage 3 certificate is valid for 2 years. (Each certificate will specify a
structure type)
If OPITO-certified Stage 3 offshore crane operators want to maintain OPITO OCO Stage 3
certification, they will need to be reassessed every two years by undertaking an OPITO-
approved reassessment programme. Reassessment can be undertaken on a simulator only or a
combination of a simulator and actual crane.
Related OPITO Offshore Crane Operator standards:
1. OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 1 (Introductory) Training Standard

2. OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 2 Training Standard
3. OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 2 Competence Assessment Standard

© OPITO
SECTION A OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT
A.1 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Target Group
The OPITO OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment is intended for crane operators that wish to
become OPITO-certified Stage 3 offshore crane operators.
A.2 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Candidate Pre-requisites
Candidates for Stage 3 OCO assessment require [ A and C] or [ B and C ] – see details
below:
A. A valid OPITO-approved OCO Stage 2 Competence Assessment certificate
Or
B. A valid OCO Stage 2 or a Stage 3 industry-recognised Offshore Crane Operator

competence certificate.
And
C. A fully completed and valid logbook, based on the OPITO Stage 3 OCO
Standard workplace requirements (Appendix1: OCO Stage 3 Logbook
Requirements)

© OPITO
A.3 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Physical and Stressful
Demands
Training and/or assessment activities contained within this Standard may include physically
demanding and potentially stressful elements. All personnel who participate in such activities
must be physically and mentally capable of participating fully.
OPITO-approved Centres are therefore required, as a minimum, to ensure that prior to

participating in practical exercises the delegate or candidate provides written confirmation that
they deem themselves physically and mentally capable of undertaking all aspects of the training
or assessment. Centres must also make the delegate/candidate aware that they must
immediately inform the Centre staff if this capability changes – at any time prior to, or during the
programme.
Delegates/candidates must be advised that they are required to declare any current or pre-
existing medical conditions which may be exacerbated by, or impair their ability to complete, the
training/assessment programme. Should this be the case, the individual may be required to
provide an authentic medical certificate issued since any identified medical condition was
diagnosed.
The OPITO-approved Centre shall keep a record of the delegate’s/candidate’s declaration of
fitness in accordance with their document control policy(s) or procedures.
This information, along with summary details of the type of physical activities the
delegate/candidate will be asked to perform, will be given to delegates/candidates by the
OPITO-approved Centre and, if applicable, to their sponsoring company as part of the joining
instructions. The responsibility for declaring any known current or pre-existing medical
conditions that could have adverse effects to the individual’s state of health while undertaking
the training and/or assessment activities lies with the delegate/candidate and/or company
sponsoring the delegate.
Where doubt exists regarding the fitness of any delegate/candidate, the OPITO-approved
Centre should direct the individual to consult a medical officer familiar with the nature and extent
of the training.
Note: Practical exercises should be designed and delivered solely to meet this Standard,
and must not place on the delegates/candidates any physical or mental demands other
than those required to meet the Standard.

© OPITO
A.4 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Aim and Objectives
The aim and objectives of the OPITO Stage 3 OCO Competence Assessment are to establish
that the candidate has the required underpinning knowledge, understanding and practical skills
to fulfill the role of Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator safely and effectively.
Note: Duty holders (or equivalent) of the fixed structure, floating structure or vessel must ensure
that successful Stage 3 OCO candidates get sufficient familiarisation with the specific type of
offshore crane they will be expected to operate before undertaking lifting operations.
A.5 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Outcomes
The assessment outcomes of OCO Stage 3 are specified in the Performance and Underpinning
Knowledge and Understanding criteria of the Competence Units in Section A8.

© OPITO
A.6 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Process
Assessment Location
The assessment location must be offshore with the assessment process managed via an
OPITO-approved Centre.
Assessment of OPITO Stage 3 offshore crane operator candidates must be conducted using an
offshore crane on one of the following structure types:

3. Deployment and recovery of loads from vessels e.g. well intervention vessels and diving
support vessels.
The candidate OCO Stage 3 offshore crane operator must be assessed by a suitably qualified
assessor; refer to Section C.2 for the OCO Stage 3 Assessor requirements.
Assessment of Performance and Underpinning knowledge and Understanding
The OCO Stage 3 candidate will be assessed against the Performance and Underpinning
Knowledge and Understanding criteria specified in the Units within Section A.8 of this standard.
Important: OCO Stage 3 candidates cannot progress to the practical Stage 3 assessment
until they have successfully completed the written theory test.
The Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding of the candidate can be gleaned from a
combination of the following:
a) A written test
b) Inferred underpinning knowledge and understanding from the practical crane lifting
operations, and
c) The assessor questioning the candidate at appropriate times.
The initial part of the underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Assessment comprises a
written theory test.
The written test pass mark is 80%.
Note: The candidate can be supported verbally with the understanding of the questions (without
leading the candidate) by the Assessor or Invigilator, but the written test must be a ‘closed book’
format. Refer to Appendix 2 for information on the Knowledge Assessment.
Continued.

© OPITO
Assessment of Performance and Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding -

continued.
Practical Assessment
The Practical Assessment requires the assessor to observe the candidate perform the
specified tasks detailed in Section 8 to the required standard.
Section A.8 contains the Competence Assessment criteria. A successful candidate must meet
all the Assessment criteria.
The successful candidate i.e. the candidate that fully meets the knowledge and practical
assessment standard will then be deemed certified to undertake overside offshore crane
operations in the workplace unsupervised - on specific structure types. Refer to note in A.4 for
further crane familiarisation requirements.
Candidate does not meet the Standard
Where a candidate does not meet the required assessment outcomes: the assessor must
clearly identify and record the outcomes which have not been met, and suggest any further
training requirement. The Assessment Centre must provide the candidate and the candidate’s
employer with a copy of the completed assessment record (Appendix 4) explaining why the
candidate was unsuccessful, identifying specific criteria that was not met and suggest any
further training requirement – within 7 days of the assessment.
If the candidate does not meet the requirements of the OCO Stage 3 Standard:
No certificate will be awarded and the candidate must retake the OCO Stage-3 Assessment to
be awarded a certificate.
Assessor/Candidate Ratio
The assessor-to-candidate ratio is 1:1

© OPITO
A.7 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Duration
The duration of the workplace assessment will depend on the nature of the crane lifting
operations, however, The OCO Stage 3 workplace assessment must be completed within one
trip or hitch; the length of the trip/hitch would depend on individual company work cycles.
1.5 hours allowed for the written test.
A.8 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Units
This section specifies the OCO Stage 3 Unit’s assessment criteria. The units comprise both the
Performance Criteria and the Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding criteria.
Unit 1: Planning the Lifting Operation

Unit 2: Checks to be undertaken on the Crane
Unit 3: Undertaking Crane Lifting Operations
Unit 4: Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms
The lifting operations must be planned workplace crane lifting operations (complete with risk
assessments and lifting plans) that tests the candidate against the Unit criteria specified in this
section.
Note: Risk assessments and lifting plans must be approved by a *competent person
*Competent Person: A person nominated to approve risk assessments and lifting plans by virtue
of relevant knowledge and expertise.

© OPITO
Competence Assessment Units
UNIT 1 Planning the Lifting Operation
Unit Scope: This unit is about the planning and organising of the crane lifting operations in
compliance with agreed procedures and statutory requirements.
Unit 1 Performance Criteria
The candidate must demonstrate the following:
1.1 Work to a prepared lifting plan and risk assessment

1.2 Contribute to a toolbox talk, to include discussing the crane lifting operations with the
banksman and slingers.
Note: During the assessment, the candidate must take account of the relevant worksite
operational requirements, procedures and safe working practices.
Unit 1 Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Criteria
The candidate must know and understand the following:
1.3 The roles and responsibilities of key personnel involved in the offshore crane lifting
operation.
1.4 The unsafe areas and unsafe positions for personnel when undertaking crane lifting
operations.
1.5 How to interpret the requirements of the lifting plan and risk assessment.
1.6 How to check the suitability of laydown areas for the load being lifted.

© OPITO
UNIT 2 Checks to be Undertaken on the Crane
Unit Scope: This Unit is about the offshore crane pre-start, pre-operational and the operational
function tests that an offshore crane operator must undertake.
2.1 Conduct pre-start checks on the crane.

2.2 Conduct pre-operational checks on the crane.
2.3 Set up the crane for overside lifts – as applicable to offshore structure type.
2.4 Conduct operational and functional tests on the crane.
2.5 Pre-start checks to be undertaken for the offshore crane.

2.6 Pre-operational checks to be undertaken for the offshore crane.
2.7 Operational and functional tests to be undertaken for the offshore crane.
2.8 Correct spooling and anchorage of ropes on drums.
2.9 How to inspect crane pennants, slings and hooks.
2.10 How to set up the particular crane for overside lifts applicable to the offshore structure
type, e.g. RCI, crane pennant, depth indicator, constant tension and active heave
compensation.
2.11 How to interpret RCI data on the offshore crane.
2.12 The function of gross overload protection systems and how they are activated.

© OPITO
UNIT 3 Undertaking Crane Lifting Operations
Unit Scope: This Unit is about operating a crane in a safe and correct manner whilst
undertaking lifting operations.
3.1 Lift, transfer and place the specified loads whilst undertaking the lifting operations
detailed below (Crane lifting operations to be assessed) - all within the safe working
capacity of the crane.
3.2 Operate the crane following the planned load path avoiding proximity hazards and
ground hazards.
3.3 Correctly centering the hook over the load.
3.4 Apply safe operating techniques, to include: slew/swing control, height judgment, and
crane controls coordination.
3.5 Apply correct height/distance judgment techniques.
3.6 For supply boat operations on fixed and floating structures only: applying good
techniques in picking up and landing loads from or onto a moving vessel deck.
3.7 For subsea lifts to and from vessels only: apply good control of:
3.7.1 The load through the splash zone
3.7.2 Uplifting load from the seabed
3.7.3 Positioning a load at the stand-off position and then onto the sea bed.
3.8 Simultaneously operate at least three crane control functions whilst raising or lowering
the load (if the crane has three function capability)
3.9 Correctly respond to the banksman’s hand signals and radio instructions.
3.10 How to apply safe crane operating techniques for the types of overside lifts to be
undertaken
3.11 Banksman hand signals and radio protocols
3.12 How to correctly implement shutdown procedures and make the crane safe following an
installation emergency alarm.
Crane lifting operations to be assessed.
The candidate must be assessed on five overside crane lifting operations from and five
lifting operations to the fixed or floating structure or vessel.

© OPITO
UNIT 4 Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms
Unit Scope: This Unit is about the Stage 3 offshore crane operator knowing how to respond to
typical crane malfunctions and alarms.
The assessor will question the OCO Stage 3 candidate on how he/she would respond and
actions to take if confronted with the following crane malfunctions and alarms:
Crane Malfunctions and Alarms

Unit No. Criteria
4.1 Crane Malfunctions
4.1.1 Diesel engine failure
4.1.2 Uncontrolled descent of the load
4.1.3 Boom is falling
4.2 Load Malfunctions
4.2.1 Sling break
4.2.2 Load shift
4.2.3 Load / hook snagged
4.3 Control Malfunctions
4.3.1 Lock hoist joystick at current setting
4.3.2 PLC failure: joysticks reversed
4.3.3 PLC low voltage: crane moves by itself
4.3.4 Limit switch failure
4.4 Alarms
4.4.1 Low lube oil pressure
4.4.2 High coolant temperature
4.4.3 High hydraulic oil temperature
4.4.4 90%, 100% and 110% of SWL

© OPITO
SECTION B OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE REASSESSMENT
B.1 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Target Group
If OPITO-certified Stage 3 offshore crane operators want to maintain OPITO OCO Stage 3
certification, they will need to be reassessed every two years by undertaking an OPITO-
approved reassessment programme. Reassessment can be undertaken on a simulator only or a
combination of a simulator and actual crane.
The OPITO Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator Competence Reassessment is intended for
offshore crane operators that wish to revalidate their OPITO-certified Stage 3 Offshore Crane
Operator Competence Assessment certificate.
B.2 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Candidate Prerequisites
OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Candidates require a valid OPITO-approved Stage 3

Offshore Crane Operator Competence Assessment Certificate (for a specific structure type –
see below) or a valid industry-recognised Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator certificate.
Structure Types
3. Vessels: deployment and recovery of loads from vessels e.g. well intervention vessels
and diving support vessels.

© OPITO
B.3 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Physical and Stressful
Demands
Training and/or assessment activities contained within this Standard may include physically
demanding and potentially stressful elements. All personnel who participate in such activities
must be physically and mentally capable of participating fully.
OPITO-approved Centres are therefore required, as a minimum, to ensure that prior to

participating in practical exercises the delegate or candidate provides written confirmation that
they deem themselves physically and mentally capable of undertaking all aspects of the training
or assessment. Centres must also make the delegate/candidate aware that they must
immediately inform the Centre staff if this capability changes – at any time prior to, or during the
programme.
Delegates/candidates must be advised that they are required to declare any current or pre-
existing medical conditions which may be exacerbated by, or impair their ability to complete, the
training/assessment programme. Should this be the case, the individual may be required to
provide an authentic medical certificate issued since any identified medical condition was
diagnosed.
The OPITO-approved Centre shall keep a record of the delegate’s/candidate’s declaration of
fitness in accordance with their document control policy(s) or procedures.
This information, along with summary details of the type of physical activities the
delegate/candidate will be asked to perform, will be given to delegates/candidates by the
OPITO-approved Centre and, if applicable, to their sponsoring company as part of the joining
instructions. The responsibility for declaring any known current or pre-existing medical
conditions that could have adverse effects to the individual’s state of health while undertaking
the training and/or assessment activities lies with the delegate/candidate and/or company
sponsoring the delegate.
Where doubt exists regarding the fitness of any delegate/candidate, the OPITO-approved
Centre should direct the individual to consult a medical officer familiar with the nature and extent
of the training.
Note: Practical exercises should be designed and delivered solely to meet this Standard,
and must not place on the delegates/candidates any physical or mental demands other
than those required to meet the Standard.

© OPITO
B.4 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Aim and Objectives
The aim and objectives of the OPITO-approved OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment is to
establish that Stage 3 OCOs have maintained their competence knowledge and skills
requirement for the Stage 3 OCO role for specific structure type/types.
Note: Duty holders (or equivalent) of the fixed structure, floating structure or vessel must ensure
that Stage 3 OCOs get sufficient familiarisation of the specific type of offshore crane they will be
expected to operate before conducting lifting operations.
B.5 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Outcomes
The assessment outcomes of OCO Stage 3 competence are specified in the Performance and
Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding criteria of the Competence Units in Section B.8.

© OPITO
B.6 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Process
Note: It is the responsibility of duty holders and employers to ensure their OCOs maintain their
competence to undertake lifting operations relevant to their role.
Reassessment of OCO Stage 3 offshore crane operators can be conducted using a simulator or
actual crane and simulator.
The OCO Stage 3 candidate must be reassessed by a suitably qualified assessor; refer to
Section C.2 for the OCO Stage 3 Assessor requirements.
Reassessment of Performance and Underpinning knowledge and Understanding
The OCO Stage 3 candidate will be assessed against the performance and underpinning
knowledge and understanding criteria specified in the Units within Section B.8 of this standard.
Important: Stage 3 OCOs cannot progress to the practical Stage 3 Reassessment until
they have successfully completed the written theory test.
The Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding of the candidate can be gleaned from a
combination of the following:
a) A written test
b) Inferred underpinning knowledge and understanding from the practical crane lifting
operations, and
c) The assessor questioning the candidate at appropriate times.
The initial part of the underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Assessment comprises a
written theory test.
The written test pass mark is 80%.
Note: The candidate can be supported verbally with the understanding of the questions (without
leading the candidate) by the Assessor or Invigilator, but the written test must be a ‘closed book’
format. Refer to Appendix 2 for information on the Knowledge Assessment.

© OPITO
Practical Reassessment
The Practical Reassessment requires the assessor to observe the candidate perform the
specified tasks to the required standard.
Section B.8 contains the Competence Assessment criteria. A successful candidate must meet
all the Assessment criteria.
Successful candidates i.e. candidates that fully meet the criteria for practical and knowledge
assessment standard, will revalidate their OCO Stage 3 certification. Refer to note in B.4 for
further crane familiarisation requirements.
Candidate does not meet the Standard
Where a candidate does not meet the required assessment outcomes: the assessor must
clearly identify and record the outcomes which have not been met, and suggest any further
training requirement. The Assessment Centre must provide the candidate and the candidate’s
employer with a copy of the completed assessment record (Appendix 4) explaining why the
candidate was unsuccessful, identifying specific criteria that was not met and suggest any
further training requirement – within 7 days of the assessment.
If the candidate does not meet the requirements of the OCO Stage 3 Competence
Reassessment Standard:
No certificate will be awarded and the candidate must retake the OCO Stage-3 Reassessment
to be awarded a certificate.
Assessor/Candidate Ratio
The assessor-to-candidate ratio is 1:1

© OPITO
B.7 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Duration and Timing
The duration of the Stage 3 OCO Reassessment will depend on the nature of the crane lifting
operations and whether it is completed on a simulator only. However, if conducted in the
offshore workplace, the OCO Stage 3 Reassessment must be completed within one trip or hitch;
the length of the trip/hitch would depend on individual company work cycles.
1.5 hours allowed for the written test.
B.8 OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Units
This section specifies the OCO Stage 3 Unit’s assessment criteria. The units comprise both the
Performance Criteria and the Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding criteria.
Unit 5: Planning the Lifting Operation

Unit 6: Checks to be undertaken on the Crane
Unit 7: Undertaking Crane Lifting Operations
Unit 8: Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms
The lifting operations must be planned workplace crane lifting operations (complete with risk
assessments and lifting plans) that tests the candidate against the Unit criteria specified in this
section.
Note: Risk assessments and lifting plans must be approved by a *competent person

© OPITO
OCO Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Units
UNIT 5 Planning the Lifting Operation
Unit Scope: This unit is about the planning and organising of the crane lifting operations in
compliance with agreed procedures and statutory requirements.
5.1 Work to a prepared lifting plan and risk assessment

5.2 Contribute to a toolbox talk, to include discussing the crane lifting operations with the
banksman and slingers.
Unit 6 Underpinning knowledge and understanding Criteria
5.3 The roles and responsibilities of key personnel involved in the offshore crane lifting
operation.
5.4 The unsafe areas and unsafe positions for personnel when undertaking crane lifting
operations.
5.5 How to interpret the requirements of the lifting plan and risk assessment.
5.6 How to check the suitability of laydown areas for the load being lifted.

© OPITO
UNIT 6 Checks to be Undertaken on the Crane
Unit Scope: This Unit is about the offshore crane pre-start, pre-operational and the operational
function tests that an offshore crane operator must undertake.
6.1 Conduct pre-start checks on the crane.

6.2 Conduct pre-operational checks on the crane.
6.3 Set up the crane for overside lifts – as applicable to offshore structure type.
6.4 Conduct operational and functional tests on the crane.
6.5 Pre-start checks to be undertaken for the offshore crane.

6.6 Pre-operational checks to be undertaken for the offshore crane.
6.7 Operational and functional tests to be undertaken for the offshore crane.
6.8 Correct spooling and anchorage of ropes on drums.
6.9 How to inspect crane pennants, slings and hooks.
6.10 How to set up the particular crane for overside lifts applicable to the offshore structure
type, e.g. RCI, depth indicator, crane pennant, constant tension and active heave
compensation.
6.11 How to interpret RCI data on the offshore crane.
6.12 The function of gross overload protection systems and how they are activated

© OPITO
UNIT 7 Undertaking Crane Lifting Operations
Unit Scope: This Unit is about operating a crane in a safe and correct manner whilst
undertaking lifting operations.
7.1 Lift, transfer and place the specified loads whilst undertaking the lifting operations
detailed below (Crane Lifting Operations to be Assessed) - all within the safe working
capacity of the crane.
7.2 Operate the crane following the planned load path avoiding proximity hazards and
ground hazards.
7.3 Correctly centering the hook over the load.
7.4 Apply safe operating techniques, to include: slew/swing control, height judgment, and
crane controls coordination.
7.5 Apply correct height/distance judgment techniques.
7.6 For supply boat operations applying good techniques in picking up and landing loads
from or onto a moving vessel deck
7.7 For subsea lifts to and from vessels: apply good control of
7.7.1 The load through the splash zone
7.7.2 Uplifting the load from the sea bed
7.7.3 Positioning a load at the stand-off position and then onto the sea bed.
7.8 Simultaneously operate at least three crane control functions whilst raising or lowering
the load ((if the crane has three function capability)
7.9 Correctly respond to the banksman’s hand signals and radio instructions.
7.10 How to apply safe crane operating techniques for the types of overside lifts to be
undertaken..
7.11 Banksman hand signals and radio protocols.
7.12 How to correctly implement shutdown procedures and make the crane safe following an
installation emergency alarm.
Crane Lifting Operations to be Assessed.

The candidate must be assessed on five overside crane lifting operations from and five
lifting operations to the fixed or floating structure or vessel.

© OPITO
UNIT 8 Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms
Unit Scope: This Unit is about the Stage 3 offshore crane operator knowing how to respond to
typical crane malfunctions and alarms.
The assessor will question the OCO Stage 3 candidate on how he/she would respond and
actions to take if confronted with the following crane malfunctions and alarms:
Crane Malfunctions and Alarms

Unit No. Criteria
8.2.1 Sling break
8.2.2 Load shift
8.4 Alarms
8.4.4 90%, 100% and 110% of SWL

© OPITO
SECTION C CENTRE RESOURCES
C.1 Location of Assessment
It is recognised that certain elements of competence assessment can be more robust when
carried out ‘on-the-job’. Accordingly, this Standard has been deemed suitable for ‘on-location’
assessment. However, prior to any such assessments taking place, OPITO-approved Training
and Assessment Centres must comply with the following requirements:
(a) Prior to initial approval, the Training and Assessment Centre will specify a single
onshore ‘approved site’ and advise OPITO of its intention to carry out assessments
remotely, i.e. ‘on-location’.
(b) Prior to initial approval, the Training and Assessment Centre will advise OPITO where
all their remote assessments are expected to take place. After approval is awarded,
any additional locations must be communicated to OPITO as and when they arise.
(c) The Training and Assessment Centre shall ensure the suitability of ‘on-location’
facilities and arrangements prior to each assessment.
(d) Documented evidence will be retained to show that assessment at the remote site
meets the criteria detailed in this OPITO standard including, but not limited to, facilities,
equipment and qualifications of relevant staff (see Section C2).
(e) Documented evidence shall be retained that record all measures required to assure the
quality and safety of ‘on-location’ assessment activities.
(f) All records must be retained at the single onshore ‘approved site’ (see Point (a) above).
(g) OPITO reserves the right to audit any or all of the remote sites operated by the Training
and Assessment Centre at any time.

© OPITO
C.2 Staff
In order that an assessment programme may be delivered successfully it is essential that the
right people are in place to support the programme.
OPITO-approved assessment centres must ensure that assessors are competent and qualified
to conduct the assessment of candidates undertaking the Stage 3 OCO Competence
Assessment and Reassessment programmes.
Assessor Requirements
Assessors must:
(a) Be occupationally competent i.e. they must have a valid OPITO Stage 3 OCO
certificate (*or equivalent OCO Stage 3 certificate) and a minimum of 3 years’
experience in this role.
(b) Hold an industry-recognised assessor’s qualification.
(c) Fully understand the OPITO-approved Assessment Centre’s internal quality
assurance of assessment processes and practices.
(d) Fully understand the requirements of this Industry Standard
(e) Fully understand the OPITO requirements for recording assessment decisions
and securely maintaining accurate records of these.
(f) Participate in regular standardisation meetings or events to ensure a consistent
approach to assessment.
(g) Undertake and record continuing professional development (CPD).
*Approved centres must have a working plan to ensure that instructors that hold OCO Stage 3
non-OPITO certificates will become OPITO-approved Stage 3 competent Offshore Crane
Operators.

© OPITO
C.3 Facilities
OPITO-approved Assessment Centres must, as a minimum, comply with the following:

Administration arrangements must be made available to support candidates through the
assessment process and recording of the assessment outcome.
Practical assessments must be planned in advance to ensure that all the candidates get an
equal opportunity to demonstrate their skills - as specified in this Standard.
First Aid Facilities

Appropriate first aid facilities and equipment as specified in the OPITO-approved centre’s risk
assessments, and sufficient staff, trained in the use of the facilities and equipment.
All facilities must be maintained and where appropriate, inspected and tested in accordance
with current standards/legislation.
Risk assessments must be conducted and documented for all training/assessment facilities and
equipment.
C.4 Equipment
As a minimum, the following equipment is required to meet the stated content of the
assessment:
1. Appropriate PPE e.g. safety helmets, safety boots. Also high-visibility vests for
candidates/assessors.
2. An offshore crane on the structure type that the candidate will be assessed on.
3. A crane simulator (refer to C.5 for crane simulator specification)
4. Overside loads to be lifted.
All equipment must be maintained and inspected and tested in accordance with applicable
legislation and standards. Certificates and maintenance schedules should be available at all
times.

© OPITO
C.5 Crane Specification
For initial OPITO OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessments, candidates will be assessed on an
offshore crane on the structure type that they require OPITO certification in (structure type: fixed
or floating structures or overside lifts to and from vessels).
Competence Reassessment of OPITO Stage 3 offshore crane operators can be conducted on a

simulator only or actual crane and simulator.

© OPITO
C.5.1 Crane Simulator
Crane Simulator (minimum) Specification
The crane simulator must be able to replicate the main functions of offshore cranes and must
have the following:
1. Offshore Crane Operators Chair
2. Crane Controls (Joysticks or equivalent)
3. Two LCD Screens – one for boom-tip camera and one for SLI system
4. Crane Panniers – one generic set
5. Instructors Control Station with PC/Screens, Instructor Software, Joystick, Fly-around
View.
6. Image Generation (via projector onto screen/wall or through LCD Screens)
7. Sound and speaker system for crane sound effects
8. Full Collision Detection within the 3D world
9. Software capable of generating various offshore structures (rig types):
a. Fixed Installation
b. Floating (Semi-Sub or FPSO)
c. Vessels
10. Software capable of generating the main functions of various types of offshore cranes,
such as:
a. Offshore Pedestal Cranes (Rope-Luffer and King post)
b. Knuckleboom Crane
c. Box-Boom Crane
11. Software for subsea operations, replicating lifting loads through the splash zone, to
include heave compensation, along with appropriate loads for subsea lifts.
12. Software capable of generating various types of supply/standby vessels along with
appropriate loads – CCU’s, hoses, tubulars, personnel lifting devices and control of
vessels.
13. Software capable of generating a variety of environmental conditions:
a. Wind speed and direction
b. Dark and bright conditions
c. Fog, snow and rain
d. Sea states varieties (wave height and length).
14. System allows full recording and printing of data generated by delegates/candidates
while working on simulator.
15. Software capable of generating a selection of crane malfunctions and alarms, as
specified within the relevant standard.
16. Software capable of generating emergency response scenarios, as specified within the
relevant standard.

© OPITO
SECTION D CERTIFICATION & ADMINISTRATION
D.1 Joining Instructions
The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must provide the candidate either with a copy of the
OPITO-approved OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Standard or a link to the Standard on
the OPITO website - so that the candidate can make himself/herself aware of the requirements
of the Standard.
Prior to each programme commencing, delegates must sign a declaration indicating they have
read and understood a written statement regarding the nature of the programme and the need
for candidates to be in good health.
D.2 Validity and Renewal
The Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Competence Assessment Certificate is valid for two
years.
The Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Competence Reassessment Certificate is valid for two
years.

© OPITO
D.3 Certification
Candidates successfully meeting the OPITO-approved Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3

Assessment and Reassessment Standard will be issued with an OPITO Offshore Crane
Operator Stage 3 certificate of competence for the structure type that the offshore crane
operator is assessed on i.e. fixed or floating structures or subsea lifts from vessels.
The issue of the certificate indicates that the candidate has achieved the required level of
competence as defined by oil and gas industry employers under a process approved by OPITO.
The details of each candidate will be updated on Vantage, the industry’s central recording data
base.
OPITO-approved Assessments Centres are responsible for issuing a certificate directly to

the candidate that has successfully completed the assessment, and to the sponsoring company
(when required), or if the candidate is unsuccessful, providing the candidate and candidate’s
employer with a written report identifying why the candidate was unsuccessful and suggest any
further training requirement. A copy of the candidate’s Assessment Record and checklists could
be used as the report.
Each certificate must indicate that the candidate has been assessed against and met the
required standard for one of the following structure types: fixed offshore structures, floating
offshore structures or subsea lifts from vessels.
The certificate must contain the following:
(a) Assessment Centre name

(b) Full OPITO course title stating that it is OPITO-approved
(c) OPITO Registration Code
(d) Candidate's name
(e) Assessment date(s)
(f) Expiry date
(g) Unique Certificate Number (UCN) - Refer to OPITO UCN Guidance doc. For details
(h) Assessment Centre Signatory.
D.4 Administration
Each candidate undertaking any OPITO-approved programme must be registered with the
Central Register (CR) operated by OPITO. Registration must be made by the OPITO-approved
Assessment Centre to OPITO within one week following the candidate’s successful OCO Stage
3 Assessment or Reassessment.
OPITO confirms that information on the registration form will be contained in a computerised
register which will be available to employers, prospective employers and training providers in
the oil and gas industry to verify training/assessment records. At all times, use of this data will
be strictly in accordance with principles laid down in relevant data protection legislation.

© OPITO
Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations
Assessor A suitably qualified and experienced person appointed by the OPITO-

approved Centre to make accurate and objective decisions as to
whether an individual’s knowledge and performance meet the
requirements specified in the relevant OPITO-approved standard.
Candidate An individual whose ability, knowledge and skills are to be assessed

against the expected performance requirements of the relevant OPITO-
approved standard.
FPSO Floating Production Storage and Offloading – (Installation or vessel)

OCO Offshore Crane Operator
RCI Rated Capacity Indicator
TBT Toolbox Talk
Valid Certificate An authentic certificate which is in-date i.e. has not expired

© OPITO
Appendix 1: OCO Stage 3 Workplace Logbook Requirements
Stage 3 OCO Offshore Crane Operator Logbook Completion Period
This Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator (OCO) Workplace Experience Logbook must be
completed within two years from starting the logbook to undertaking the OCO Stage 3
competence assessment on the offshore structure that the OCO candidate will be assessed on
i.e. fixed or floating structures, or subsea lifting to/from vessels.
All OCO Stage 3 crane lifting operations must be overside lifts i.e. overside of the fixed
structure, floating structure or vessel.
Company Logbooks
Although OPITO-approved Centres may develop their own versions of the OCO Stage 3
Logbook, logbooks must, as a minimum requirement, contain the guidance notes, lifting
operations completion record and signatory details specified in this OCO Stage 3 Logbook.
Existing company logbooks may be used as part of the OCO Stage 3 logbook requirement until
new company logbooks are printed.

© OPITO
Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator Workplace Experience Logbook
For the Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator (OCO) candidate to become eligible to undertake the
OPITO OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment, a fully completed and valid Stage 3 OCO
logbook must be presented to the OPITO-approved Assessment Centre that is conducting the
assessment, within two years from the completion of the first supervised logged Stage 3 OCO
lifting operation.
The Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator candidate must complete a minimum of 50 hours in the
offshore crane cab i.e. undertaking ‘overside’ crane lifting operations under the *direct
supervision of a competent, certified Stage 3 offshore crane operator on the structure type that
the Stage 3 OCO candidate intends to be assessed on (fixed structure, floating structures or
vessels)
The logged hours starts when the candidate crane operator starts to lift the load and finishes
when the lift is complete.
*direct supervision: The competent, certified Stage 3 offshore crane operator supervising the
candidate must be able to take control of the crane quickly should a critical or emergency
situation arise.
The Stage 3 OCO candidate must record and obtain the required signatures in the Stage 3
Logbook for all overside lifts.
Lifting Operations
1. The overside lifting operations must include a minimum of three bulk hose overside
transfer lifts (Fixed and floating structures only)
The overside lifting operations will typically include all of the following:
2. Participating in lift planning and risk assessment of overside lifts
3. Contributing to pre-lift meetings (Tool-box-talks) with relevant lifting personnel
4. Crane checks
5. Undertake overside lifting operation
6. Setting down the crane
7. Parking the crane in a safe position – as per installation/vessel-specific requirements
8. Post-lifting operations learning debriefs.
Logbook Statement
‘All OCO Stage 3 workplace experience lifting operations to be completed satisfactorily’.
This means that although it is not regarded as a formal assessment of the candidate, the
competent crane operator directly supervising the candidate must be satisfied that each of the
lifting operations specified above has been completed in a safe manner, before signing the
logbook - understanding that the candidate is still undergoing on-the-job training and workplace
experience.
Note: Completion of this logbook does not imply that the candidate is competent to undertake
overside lifting operations unsupervised; the candidate must successfully complete the
next stage, which is the OPITO OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment, before being
deemed as competent by an employer.
The above statement must be included in company-specific logbooks.
© OPITO
OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Workplace Experience - Record of Hours
The Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator candidate must complete a minimum of 50 hours in the offshore crane cab
conducting supervised overside lifting operations i.e. operating the crane under the supervision of a competent,
certified Stage 3 offshore crane operator.
Logbook
OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Record of Hours [Sheet1] Rev 0
Candidate Name
Candidate’s Employer
Candidate Vantage No
OCO Stage 3 candidate to log hours working in crane cab – supervised by a certified competent offshore crane operator
Site/Installation/ Type of overside No. of Certified Competent Offshore Crane Operator

vessel lifting operation hours Name Sign Date

© OPITO
OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Workplace Experience - Record of Hours
The Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator candidate must complete a minimum of 50 hours in the offshore crane cab
conducting supervised overside lifting operations i.e. operating the crane under the supervision of a competent,
certified Stage 3 offshore crane operator.
Logbook
OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Record of Hours [Sheet2] Rev 0
Candidate Name
Candidate’s Employer
Candidate Vantage No
OCO Stage 3 candidate to log hours working in crane cab – supervised by a certified competent offshore crane operator
Site/Installation/ Type of overside No. of Certified Competent Offshore Crane Operator

vessel lifting operation hours Name Sign Date

© OPITO
Certified Competent Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator Details

OCO Stage 3 Signatory Role Title Signatory Role Definition
A competent offshore crane operator responsible for overside crane
Certified Stage 3 Competent lifting operations on the structure type that the candidate OCO intends
Offshore Crane Operator be assessed on. The competent offshore crane operator must hold a
valid Stage 3 offshore crane operator competence certificate.
If there is more than one competent offshore crane operator involved in the completion of the
Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 lifting operations, ensure that their details are recorded in the
section below.
Certified Competent Stage 3 Offshore Crane Operator 1 Details

Name
Company
Installation/Site
Job Title
Work Contact Number
Contact email
Name
Company
Installation/Site
Job Title
Work Contact Number
Contact email
Name
Company
Installation/Site
Job Title
Work Contact Number
Contact email
Name
Company
Installation/Site
Job Title
Work Contact Number
Contact email

© OPITO
Appendix 2: OCO Stage 3 Knowledge Assessment
The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must confirm that that the candidate is eligible to
undertake the OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment or Reassessment.
The Knowledge Assessment package (bank of questions for the written theory test) will be sent
to OPITO-approved centres by OPITO when they become approved to deliver the OPITO OCO
Stage 3 Competence Assessment programme.
The Written Theory Test
Important: OCO Stage 3 candidates cannot progress to the Stage 3 practical assessment
or reassessment until they have successfully completed the written theory test.
The written theory test is based on the underpinning knowledge and understanding criteria of
OCO Stage 2 Units 1 through 3 for the initial assessment and 5 through 7 for subsequent
reassessments.
The written test comprises 75 questions taken from the Bank of Questions which will be given
to assessment centres that have been approved to deliver the OPITO OCO Stage 3
Competence Assessment programme. Candidates will be allowed 90 minutes to complete the
test.
Pass mark for the written test is 80% and candidates will have up to 1.5 hrs. to complete it.
Candidates that don’t achieve the required pass mark must be informed of the specific
underpinning knowledge and understanding criteria that they had not achieved – they will be
allowed to keep their own record of this.

© OPITO
Appendix 3: OCO Stage 3 Practical Assessment and Reassessment
Process
The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must confirm that that the candidate is eligible to
undertake the OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment or Reassessment.
The practical assessment will consist of the following:
(a) The candidate must be briefed to ensure he/she knows how the assessment will be
conducted and what is expected of him/her during the assessment.
(b) The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must provide candidate with relevant
lifting plans for the lifting operations to be undertaken, that have been approved by a
*competent person.
(c) The OPITO-approved Assessment Centre must provide candidate with risk
assessments for the lifting operations to be undertaken, that have been approved by
a *competent person.
(d) The assessor must provide feedback to the candidate following completion of the
practical assessments.
Assessment Underpinning knowledge and Understanding criteria
The Assessor can infer underpinning knowledge and understanding by:
(a) Observing the candidate performing the lifting operation

Or
(b) Asking the candidate relevant questions during the assessment
Notes for the Assessor
1. Where the assessment is conducted at the worksite, the tasks associated with the
practical assessment must be conducted within a realistic timeframe. The Assessor will
determine a reasonable timeframe for the candidate to complete each task – taking into
account worksite environment and activities.
2. An approved assessment checklist and record sheet must be used, and will be made
available to the Assessor (Refer to Appendix 3) by the OPITO-approved Assessment
Centre.
© OPITO
Appendix 4: OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Record
The following pages contain the OPITO OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessor Checklists and the
Assessment Record sheets.
Although OPITO-approved Centres may develop their own versions of the Assessor Checklist
and Competence Assessment Record, these must, as a minimum, include all the information
contained in the Assessor Checklists and Competence Assessment Record sheets specified
within this standard – see next pages for the Assessor Checklist and Assessment Record.
Checklist Notes
Assessment Performance Criteria
Checklist Reference numbers relate to Performance and Underpinning Knowledge and

Understanding Criteria specified in Unit 1.
Assessment Underpinning knowledge and Understanding criteria
The Assessor can infer Underpinning knowledge and Understanding by:
(a) Observing the candidate performing the lifting operation

Or
(b) Asking the candidate questions during the assessment
Checklist Abbreviations
VQ Verbal Questioning
OBS Observation
WT Written Test

© OPITO
OPITO OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment - Assessor Checklist

Assessment Centre
Assessment Centre Address
Candidate Name Employer No.
Assessor Name Employer No.
Unit 1 Planning the Lifting Operation Performance
Achieved VQ /
Ref No. Performance Criteria Y/N OBS / Comments
Work to a prepared lifting plan and risk

1.1 assessment.
Contribute to a toolbox talk; to include discussing

1.2 the crane lifting operations with the banksman
and slingers.
Assessor Signature Assessment Date
OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment [Amendment NA] Page 44 of 65

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 1 Planning the Lifting Operation Knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ / OBS
Ref No. Underpinning knowledge and Understanding Criteria Y/N / WT Comments
The roles and responsibilities of key personnel
1.3 involved in an offshore crane lifting operation.
The unsafe areas and unsafe positions for

personnel when undertaking crane lifting
1.4 operations.
How to interpret the requirements of the lifting

1.5 plan and risk assessment.
How to check the suitability of laydown areas for

1.6 the crane load.
OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Revision 1 [Amendment 1] Page 45 of 65

© OPITO

Assessment Centre
Unit 2 Checks to be undertaken on the Crane Performance
Achieved VQ /
Ref No. Performance Criteria Y/N OBS Comments
2.1 Conducted pre-start checks on the crane.
Conducted pre-operational checks on the crane.

2.2
Correctly set up the crane for overside lifts – as

2.3
applicable to offshore structure.
Conducted operational and functional tests on

2.4
the crane.

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 2 Checks to be undertaken on a Crane Knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ /
Ref No. Underpinning Knowledge & Understanding Criteria Y/N OBS / Comments
WT
Pre-start checks to be undertaken for an offshore
2.5
crane.
Pre-operational checks to be undertaken for an

2.6
offshore crane.
Operational and functional tests to be undertaken

2.7
for an offshore crane.
Correct spooling and anchorage of ropes on

2.8
drums.
How to inspect crane pennants, slings and

2.9
hooks.
How to set up the particular crane for overside
lifts applicable to offshore structure, e.g. RCI,
2.10
crane pennant, depth indicator, constant tension
and active heave compensation.
2.11 How to interpret RCI data on the offshore crane
The function of gross overload protection

2.12
systems and how they are activated

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Undertaking Crane Lifting Operations
Unit 3 Performance
The candidate must be assessed on five overside crane lifting operations from
Lifting Operations and five lifting operations to the fixed or floating structure or vessel - as
applicable
Achieved VQ /
Lift, transfer and place the specified loads whilst
3.1 undertaking lifting operations detailed above - all
within the safe working capacity of the crane.
Operate the crane following the planned load
3.2 path avoiding proximity hazards and ground
hazards.
Correctly centering the hook over the load.
3.3
Apply safe operating techniques, to include:

3.4 slew/swing control, height judgment, and crane
controls coordination.
Apply correct height/distance judgment
3.5 techniques.
For supply boat operations applying good

3.6 techniques in picking up and landing loads from
or onto a moving vessel deck
For subsea lifts to and from vessels: apply good
control of:
1. The load through the splash zone
3.7 2. Uplifting the load from the sea bed
3. Positioning a load at the stand-off
position and the onto the sea bed.
Simultaneously operated at least two crane

3.8 control functions whilst raising or lowering the
load.
Correctly responded to the banksman’s hand
3.9 signals and radio instructions.
Note: Assessment of 3.6 and 3.7 will depend on which structure type the candidates is being assessed
on.

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 3 Knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ /
WT
How to apply safe crane operating techniques for
3.10 the types of overside lifts to be undertaken
Banksman hand signals and radio protocols

3.11
How to correctly implement shutdown procedures

3.12 and make the crane safe following an installation
emergency alarm

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 4 Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ /
WT
4.2.1 Sling break
4.2.2 Load shift
4.4 Alarms
4.4.4 90%, 100% and 110% of SWL

© OPITO

Assessment Centre
Unit 5 Planning the Lifting Operation Performance
Achieved VQ /
Work to a prepared lifting plan and risk

5.1 assessment.
Contribute to a toolbox talk; to include discussing

5.2 the crane lifting operations with the banksman
and slingers.

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 5 Planning the Lifting Operation Knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ / OBS
Ref No. Underpinning knowledge and Understanding Criteria Y/N / WT Comments
The roles and responsibilities of key personnel
5.3 involved in an offshore crane lifting operation.
The unsafe areas and unsafe positions for

personnel when undertaking crane lifting
5.4 operations.
How to interpret the requirements of the lifting

5.5 plan and risk assessment.
How to check the suitability of laydown areas for

5.6 the crane load.

© OPITO

Assessment Centre
Unit 6 Checks to be undertaken on the Crane Performance
Achieved VQ /
Ref No. Performance Criteria Y/N OBS Comments
6.1 Conducted pre-start checks on the crane.
Conducted pre-operational checks on the crane.

6.2
Correctly set up the crane for overside lifts – as

6.3
applicable to offshore structure
Conducted operational and functional tests on

6.4
the crane.

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 6 Checks to be undertaken on a Crane Knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ /
WT
Pre-start checks to be undertaken for an offshore
6.5
crane.
Pre-operational checks to be undertaken for an

6.6
offshore crane.
Operational and functional tests to be undertaken

6.7
for an offshore crane.
Correct spooling and anchorage of ropes on

6.8
drums.
How to inspect crane pennants, slings and

6.9
hooks.
How to set up the particular crane for overside
lifts applicable to offshore structure, e.g. RCI,
6.10
crane pennant, depth indicator, constant tension
and active heave compensation
6.11 How to interpret RCI data on the offshore crane
The function of gross overload protection

6.12
systems and how they are activated

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit 7 Performance
The candidate must be assessed on five overside crane lifting operations from
Lifting Operations and five lifting operations to the fixed or floating structure or vessel - as
applicable
Achieved VQ /
Lift, transfer and place the specified loads whilst
7.1 undertaking lifting operations detailed above - all
within the safe working capacity of the crane.
Operate the crane following the planned load
7.2 path avoiding proximity hazards and ground
hazards.
Correctly centering the hook over the load.
7.3
Apply safe operating techniques, to include:

7.4 slew/swing control, height judgment, and crane
controls coordination.
Apply correct height/distance judgment
7.5 techniques.
For supply boat operations applying good

7.6 techniques in picking up and landing loads from
or onto a moving vessel deck
For subsea lifts to and from vessels: apply good
control of:
4. The load through the splash zone
7.7 5. Uplifting the load from the sea bed
6. Positioning a load at the stand-off
position and the onto the sea bed.
Simultaneously operated at least two crane

7.8 control functions whilst raising or lowering the
load.
Correctly responded to the banksman’s hand
7.9 signals and radio instructions.

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 7 Knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ /
WT
How to apply safe crane operating techniques for
7.10 the types of overside lifts to be undertaken
Banksman hand signals and radio protocols

7.11
How to correctly implement shutdown procedures

7.12 and make the crane safe following an installation
emergency alarm

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Underpinning
Unit 8 Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms knowledge &
Understanding
Achieved VQ /
WT
8.2.1 Sling break
8.2.2 Load shift
8.4 Alarms
8.4.4 90%, 100% and 110% of SWL

© OPITO
OPITO OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment - Record

Assessment Centre
Vantage No (If applicable)

Unit Unit 1 OCO role
Unit Title Planning the Lifting Operation
I can confirm that the candidate *has met / has not met the assessment criteria for this Unit
Assessor comments
*Delete as applicable
Feedback to Candidate:
Note: If the candidate has not met the Assessment Criteria for this Unit: state the reasons why, and suggested any training
requirement to address the competence gap.
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Candidate comments (optional)
Sign
Date

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit Title Checks to be undertaken on the Crane
Assessor comments
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Sign
Date

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit Title Undertaking Crane Lifting Operations
Assessor comments
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Sign
Date

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit Title Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms
Assessor comments
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Sign
Date

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit Title Planning the Lifting Operation
Assessor comments
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Sign
Date

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit Title Checks to be undertaken on the Crane
Assessor comments
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Sign
Date

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit Title Undertaking Crane Lifting Operations
Assessor comments
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Sign
Date

© OPITO

Assessment Centre

Unit 8
Unit OCO role
Unit Title Response to Crane Malfunctions and Alarms
Assessor comments
Assessor
Sign
Date
Candidate
Sign
Date

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OPITO Approved Standard

Offshore Crane Operator Stage 3 Competence Assessment

OPITO APPROVED STANDARD

Offshore Crane Operator: Stage 3

Competence Assessment Standard

OPITO Standard Codes:

Competence Assessment Code Competence Reassessment Code

Guidance on this standard is available by contacting OPITO at: Standards enquiries

OCO Stage 3 Competence Rev 0 [OCT 2012] Page 2 of 65

Record of Changes to Standard

No. Amendment & Date Section Amended by Checked by Approved by

Any amendments to this Standard by OPITO will be recorded above

OCO Stage 3 Competence Rev 0 [OCT 2012] Page 3 of 65

Introduction and Competence Route ...................................................................................... 5

OCO Stage 3 Competence Draft 3 [Amendment NA] Page 4 of 65

Introduction and Competence Route

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 5 of 65

Offshore Crane Operator (OCO) Key Stages

OPITO OCO Stage 2: Training, supervised workplace experience and assessment

OCO Stage 2 Competence Assessment programme: Candidates will be assessed against

OCO Stage 2 Competence Reassessment programme: OPITO-certified Stage 2 offshore

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 6 of 65

Offshore Crane Operator Key Stages - continued

OPITO OCO Stage 3: Workplace experience and competence assessment

1. Fixed structures e.g. offshore platforms, jack-up rigs etc.

Related OPITO Offshore Crane Operator standards:

1. OPITO Offshore Crane Operator Stage 1 (Introductory) Training Standard

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 7 of 65

SECTION A OCO STAGE 3 COMPETENCE ASSESSMENT

A.1 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Target Group

A.2 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Candidate Pre-requisites

A. A valid OPITO-approved OCO Stage 2 Competence Assessment certificate

B. A valid OCO Stage 2 or a Stage 3 industry-recognised Offshore Crane Operator

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 8 of 65

A.3 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Physical and Stressful

OPITO-approved Centres are therefore required, as a minimum, to ensure that prior to

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 9 of 65

A.4 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Aim and Objectives

A.5 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Outcomes

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 10 of 65

A.6 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Process

1. Fixed structures e.g. offshore platforms, jack-up rigs etc.

Assessment of Performance and Underpinning knowledge and Understanding

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 11 of 65

Assessment of Performance and Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding -

Candidate does not meet the Standard

The assessor-to-candidate ratio is 1:1

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 12 of 65

A.7 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Duration

1.5 hours allowed for the written test.

A.8 OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment Units

Unit 1: Planning the Lifting Operation

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 13 of 65

Competence Assessment Units

UNIT 1 Planning the Lifting Operation

Unit 1 Performance Criteria

The candidate must demonstrate the following:

1.1 Work to a prepared lifting plan and risk assessment

Unit 1 Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Criteria

The candidate must know and understand the following:

OCO Stage 3 Competence Assessment –Rev 0 [Amendment NA] Page 14 of 65

UNIT 2 Checks to be Undertaken on the Crane

Unit 2 Performance Criteria