MQF Level 3 Award in Mobile Crane Operator
Accreditation Category: Further education course
Accredited by: Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA)
MQF/ EQF Level: 3
Total Credits: 3 ECTS
Programme Fee: €160
Mode of Delivery: Fully face-to-face learning
Mode of Attendance: Full-time or Part-time
Programme Duration:
- Full-time: 3 Weeks
- Part-time: 6 Weeks
Target Audience: Skilled Workers not having Formal Training Certifications for the skills they are performing.
Language/s of Instruction: English / Maltese
Hours of Learning:
| Learning Component |
Hours |
| Contact Hours |
15 |
| Tutorial Hours |
24 |
| Self-Study Hours |
30 |
| Assessment Hours |
6 |
| Total |
75 |
Dates of next intake:
January 2026
Programme Structure:
The programme consists of 3 modules.
Module 1: Daily walk around checks prior to operating the mobile crane and setting up and demounting a mobile crane
Module 2: Draw and prepare a lift plan
Module 3: Carrying out a lifting operation using a mobile crane
Programme Learning Outcomes:
Learners will be able to:
-
Recall the health and safety requirements for mobile crane operation, including risk assessment and PPE use.
-
Identify different types of mobile cranes, components, and their specifications.
-
Interpret load charts and apply principles of weight distribution and stability.
-
Develop and implement lift plans in accordance with legal and technical requirements.
-
Operate mobile cranes to lift, move, and place loads safely and efficiently.
-
Perform daily inspections, maintenance checks, and post-lift reviews.
-
Communicate effectively with riggers, signalers, and supervisors during lifting operations.
-
Demonstrate full compliance with national and international standards governing crane operation.
Module 1 – Daily Walk Around Checks Prior to Operating the Mobile Crane and Setting Up and Demounting a Mobile Crane
Module Description:
This unit focuses on the essential checks and procedures required before, during, and after mobile crane operations. Learners are trained to perform daily inspections, identify faults, and safely set up and demount mobile cranes in accordance with manufacturer instructions and safety regulations.
Competences:
-
Perform and record pre-operational inspections of cranes.
-
Identify and report defects or safety concerns.
-
Set up and demount cranes following standard operating procedures.
-
Maintain stability and safety during operations.
-
Coordinate effectively with team members to ensure safe working practices.
Knowledge:
-
Pre-operational inspection procedures.
-
Safe work practices during setup and demounting.
-
Equipment stability principles and ground conditions.
-
Relevant health and safety standards and legislation.
Skills:
-
Conduct physical and visual inspections of cranes.
-
Document and report issues accurately.
-
Apply correct setup and dismantling techniques.
-
Maintain compliance with safety and operational requirements.
Module 2 – Draw and Prepare a Lift Plan
Module Description:
This unit provides learners with the knowledge and skills to design and document detailed lift plans. It includes site assessment, equipment selection, hazard identification, and communication procedures for safe lifting operations.
Competences:
-
Develop and document comprehensive lift plans.
-
Calculate load weights and dimensions.
-
Assess site and environmental conditions.
-
Select appropriate equipment and personnel.
-
Obtain approval from relevant authorities before execution.
Knowledge:
-
Legal and regulatory frameworks governing lift planning.
-
Key components of a lift plan.
-
Load chart interpretation and stability factors.
-
Risk assessment and contingency planning.
-
Effective communication and coordination in lifting operations.
Skills:
-
Interpret technical drawings and specifications.
-
Calculate load limits using manufacturer data.
-
Use planning software or templates to prepare lift plans.
-
Communicate plans effectively to all involved personnel.
Module 3 – Carrying Out a Lifting Operation Using a Mobile Crane
Module Description:
This module trains learners in the safe and effective operation of mobile cranes for various lifting tasks. Learners will gain hands-on experience in load rigging, signalling, crane operation, and post-operation maintenance.
Competences:
-
Plan and execute lifting operations in compliance with safety standards.
-
Conduct pre-lift inspections and safety checks.
-
Operate cranes to lift, move, and position loads accurately.
-
Manage emergency procedures and post-lift inspections.
-
Maintain effective communication with riggers and supervisors.
Knowledge:
-
Principles of lifting and load stability.
-
Pre-lift and post-lift inspection requirements.
-
Crane configuration and capacity limits.
-
Site safety and communication protocols.
-
Emergency response procedures during operations.
Skills:
-
Set up and position cranes correctly.
-
Operate cranes safely and efficiently.
-
Apply rigging and slinging techniques.
-
Monitor and adjust crane operations in real-time.
-
Conduct thorough post-lift maintenance and documentation.
Entry Requirements:
-
Applicants must be able to read and write in English.
-
Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
-
A health certificate from a general practitioner confirming fitness to operate machinery.
-
Successful completion of Award in Understanding Health and Safety – Construction MQF Level 2 or equivalent.
-
Successful completion of MQF Level 2 Award in Assistant Mobile Crane Operator or submission of a Work History Declaration showing at least three years of relevant experience.
-
Applicants may apply through the Academy’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy.
Grading system
| Grade |
Description |
Marks Range |
| A |
Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the topic with high competence, effectively using relevant literature and theory. |
80–100 |
| B |
Displays a critical understanding of the topic with significant competence and appropriate use of relevant materials. |
65–79 |
| C |
Shows evidence of some critical understanding and demonstrates basic competence. |
50–64 |
| R |
Requires further work to meet minimum standards in understanding and competence. |
0–49 |
Address/es where programme will be delivered: PG Offices, Ħal- Farruġ Road, Luqa, LQA 3078
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