This section provides a summary of the assessment process at Stage 3 level where the candidate is assessed on his skills as a crane operator.
The candidate is fully briefed on the assessment format but does not receive any form of prior tuition, unless the assessment is being delivered in conjunction with a training programme.

Crane Operator Stage 3 Assessment Format
The Assessor will accompany the crane operator into the cab and ask the operator to familiarise him with the crane as if he were handling it over to a new member on board. Points to be noted will include, but not be limited to:
Use and understanding of load indicator functions, both static and dynamic modes
Limiting devices
Drive train
Wires fitted to the crane in use
Crane controls
Understanding of the crane operator's responsibilities under LOLER regulations or prevailing legislation
Through the calibre of response, the assessor can identify any areas of weakness in the operator's knowledge of the equipment, safety systems or company operating procedures.

The practical assessment will be structured, where possible, around normal operations, scheduled to
coincide with the arrival of a supply vessel.

The Instructor will visually check whether the system has been adjusted to reflect differing operating criteria, ie sea state, then leave the cab and observe.

The operator will undertake a series of lifts to demonstrate his ability to:
Operate the crane in a safe manner, displaying awareness of any conflicting activity
Control the crane whilst operating unloaded and with load on hook
Demonstrate the ability to remove swing from the load
Follow instructions given by the banksman through hand signals and radio contact

Successful completion of the assessment process allows operators to carry out all lifts unsupervised.