Certified Rigger and Signaler Program FAQs

What is the format of the CRS written examination?

Candidates are allotted three (3) hours to complete the CRS written examination. The content of the examination follows the plan (detailed below), which was derived from an in-depth practice analysis validation effort that was completed in 2012.

The written examination has a total of 120 questions, which includes 20 experimental items throughout. These experimental items do not count against a candidate’s exam score and are included to collect information on questions that may be incorporated into future test forms.

Dimension & Sub-Dimension	Number of Items on Exam
Rigging & Equipment Components
Inspection	15
Selection	30
Rigging Procedures
Hitch Configuration	14
Application	14
Signaling	7
Rigging Safety
Critical Hoist/Planning	5
Site Awareness/Personnel Safety	10
Load Stability	5
TOTAL	100

What does it take to pass the CRS written examination?

Because there are multiple forms of the written examination, it is not appropriate to set a specific pass point. For this reason, the pass point for each examination form is changed statistically based on the difficulty of the questions on that form of the examination.

Specifically, the differences in exam difficulty among different administrations are calculated and then the pass points of the new examination forms are adjusted, so the same benchmark standard can be used for each examination. By accounting for differences in difficulty across examination forms, all candidates have a comparable opportunity to pass the examination, regardless of when they take it.

For example, if the new examination is more difficult relative to previous examinations, the percent correct necessary to pass the examination will be lowered to equal the benchmark standard. On the other hand, if a new examination turns out to be easier, the percent correct necessary to pass will be increased to equal the benchmark standard. Candidates who do not meet the benchmark standard on the written examination will not achieve certification.

What is the format of the CRS practical assessment?

The practical assessment is organized into the following areas:

Voice Signals: Asymmetrical Hitch with a Live Leg
Transferring Hand Signals: Making A Three-Point Hoist of the Rigging Prop: Hand Signals with Two Signalers
Hand Signals: making a one-point rollover hoist of the rigging prop.

What does it take to pass the CRS practical assessment?

The practical assessment includes 15 scoring units, comprised of 5-point components that range from 1 (Does Not Meet Expectations) to 5 (Exceeds Expectations). The validated standard for the practical assessment is scoring a minimum score of 45 out of a possible 75 points that are captured across the three assessments, noted above. Candidates who do not meet the 45 point standard in the practical assessment will not achieve certification.

How can I prepare for the CRS written examination?

The following reference list provides suggested materials that could assist you in preparing for the CRS written examination. This is not an open book examination; candidates are not allowed to bring reference materials into the test administration site.