Free Verification of Competency (Pick and Carry Crane) Template

Purpose of the Free Verification of Competency (Pick and Carry Crane) Template

This free Verification of Competency (Pick and Carry Crane) Template provides a structured framework for assessing an operator's ability to safely handle this specific type of mobile crane. While a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) is mandatory for crane operation, a VOC goes a step further.

It helps a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) confirm that an operator can apply their skills and knowledge practically and safely within the specific context of your workplace, using your equipment and following your procedures. It serves as crucial evidence that you are taking proactive steps to ensure worker competency.

Using this template helps formalise the assessment process, ensuring key criteria are consistently evaluated. It forms a critical component of robust WHS management systems by documenting how your organisation verifies skills for high-risk tasks.

The template covers theoretical knowledge, pre-operational checks, practical operation, and shutdown procedures, providing a comprehensive evaluation tool.

How to use the Free Verification of Competency (Pick and Carry Crane) Template

Using this Pick and Carry Crane VOC template effectively involves several key steps to ensure a thorough and fair assessment. The process begins after an operator provides their relevant High Risk Work Licence (CN for non-slewing cranes, or a higher class).

The assessor, who must be a competent person with extensive experience on the specific crane, then uses the template to guide the verification.

Assessment Workflow:

• Customise the Template: Download the DOCX file and adapt it to your site. Add your company logo and details. Most importantly, update the checklist to reflect the specific models of pick and carry cranes used, your site-specific hazards (e.g., uneven ground, overhead powerlines), and your safe work procedures.
• Brief the Operator: Explain the purpose and process of the VOC. Ensure the operator is clear on what will be assessed and feels prepared.
• Theory Assessment: Use the provided questions to gauge the operator's understanding of crane principles, load charts, legislative requirements, and site rules.
• Practical Assessment: Observe the operator performing a series of tasks, from pre-start inspections and function tests to conducting a lift, travelling with a load, and correctly shutting down the machine.
• Record and Review: Document the outcomes directly in the template. If competency is verified, both the assessor and operator sign off. If gaps are identified, document them clearly and create an action plan for further training. These records are vital during a WHS compliance auditing process.

Important Note: This document is a template and must be customised. It provides a starting point aligned with Australian WHS practice, but we cannot be responsible for its application.

You must adapt it to the specific equipment, procedures, and risks of your workplace to ensure it is fit for purpose.

When to use it

A Verification of Competency for a pick and carry crane operator should be conducted at several key points to manage risk effectively. It is not a one-off event but an ongoing part of the competency management lifecycle.

• Pre-Employment: To verify the skills and claims of a new hire before they begin work.
• New Equipment Introduction: When an experienced operator is required to use a new or unfamiliar model of pick and carry crane.
• Post-Incident: Following a near miss or incident involving the crane to identify and address any competency gaps that may have contributed.
• Periodic Reassessment: At regular intervals (e.g., every 2-3 years) as part of a scheduled competency maintenance program, similar to how you might use a free Grader VOC for other plant operators.
• Observed Unsafe Behaviour: If a supervisor or co-worker observes an operator performing a task in an unsafe or incorrect manner.

Who should use it

The responsibility for using this VOC template falls to individuals tasked with managing and ensuring site safety and operator proficiency. This includes a range of roles within an organisation.

Primarily, the assessment should be conducted by a person who is not only familiar with the VOC process but is also a subject matter expert on pick and carry cranes. This individual must hold the relevant competencies and have significant, demonstrable experience in operating the specific class and model of crane being assessed.

This could be a site supervisor, a dedicated trainer, or an external consultant. The process for verifying mobile crane skills shares principles with assessments for other specialised equipment, such as that detailed in the Verification of Competency for a Rough Terrain Forklift.

Additionally, WHS managers, safety advisors, and human resources personnel should be familiar with the template and its role in the broader safety framework. They are often responsible for scheduling VOCs, maintaining records, and organising gap training, ensuring the process aligns with the organisation's overall risk management strategy.

This structured approach isn't limited to cranes; a similar process applies when using a Verification of Competency (Water Cart) template for plant operators. You can find more templates and safety documents in our free WHS resources library to build out your competency program.