Concrete Pump Operator

Program Overview

The CCO Concrete Pump Operator certification is a nationally recognized program developed for operators of concrete pumping equipment used on commercial, residential, industrial and infrastructure projects. The program covers truck-mounted concrete pumps with boom systems used to place concrete in areas that are difficult to access directly.

Who Is a Concrete Pump Operator?

A certified concrete pump operator operates a concrete pump with a boom length of 28 meters or greater. The certified operator directly controls the functions of a concrete pump and has demonstrated knowledge and/or skills in pre-trip planning, driving the truck, setting up the pump, conducting concrete placement operations, preparing the pump for travel at the end of the day, and conducting end-of-day procedures.

Standard
ASME B30.27
Exam Format
Written + Practical
Validity
5 Years
 

The Path to Certification

Follow these four steps to earn your CCO Concrete Pump Operator certification.

01 Confirm Eligibility

Be at least 18 years old and comply with CCO’s Substance Abuse Policy and Code of Ethics.

02 Apply Online

Submit your application and pay the exam fees through the myCCO portal.

03 Take the Written Exam

Take and pass the written exam. Choose from online proctored, event-based, or test-center testing.

04 Take the Practical Exam

Schedule with a CCO Practical Proctor to complete and pass the hands-on exam at an approved site.

Written & Practical Exam Content

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Written

Written Exam Content

Exam Format

Written Examination: Tests knowledge and skills related to the safe operation of concrete pump equipment.

Knowledge Areas

  • Pre-Trip Planning (15%) – Jobsite preparation, required materials and PPE, truck inspections, pump inspections, safety documentation, and equipment readiness.
  • Driving the Truck (9%) – Route planning, vehicle dimensions and permits, defensive driving, CDL requirements, and FMCSA regulations.
  • Set Up Pump (34%) – Jobsite assessment, hazards, communication, boom setup, outrigger placement, ground conditions, leveling, safety procedures, and ASME B30.27 requirements.
  • Placement Operations (25%) – Concrete placement, boom and hose control, communication, pump monitoring, blockages, troubleshooting, maintenance, and safe pumping procedures.
  • Prepare Pump for Travel (10%) – Cleanout procedures, shutdown, equipment preparation, route planning, environmental requirements, and pre-trip inspections.
  • End-of-Day Procedures (7%) – Offsite cleanout, post-trip inspections, preventative maintenance, documentation, and equipment preparation.
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Practical

Practical Exam Content

Exam Format

Practical examination demonstrating proficiency operating a Concrete Pump. Candidates must complete eight hands-on tasks demonstrating safe equipment operation, pre-operational inspection, boom control, hose handling, attachment procedures, setup, and shutdown practices.

Skills Tested

  • Task 1: Pre-Operational (Shift) Inspection – Demonstrate the ability to conduct a pre-use inspection by identifying designated equipment components, explaining inspection procedures, recognizing potential deficiencies, and identifying the emergency shutoff method.
  • Task 2: Set Up & Unfold the Boom – Demonstrate the ability to safely set up the concrete pump, properly position outriggers on pads, level the equipment, and unfold the boom into the required operating position.
  • Task 3: Add Attachments – Demonstrate the ability to properly install required attachments, including setting gaskets, pins, clamps, and securing slings/cables while preparing the pump for operation.
  • Task 4: Hose in Designated Area (DA-1) – Demonstrate controlled hose and chain movement by lifting the hose clear of obstacles and personnel and accurately placing the chain within a designated area without contacting the course or surrounding objects.
  • Task 5: Zigzag Corridor – Demonstrate precision boom and hose control by maneuvering the hose and chain through a designated obstacle corridor while maintaining control, avoiding contact with poles and hurdles, and placing the chain within the designated area.
  • Task 6: A-Frame Wash Out – Demonstrate proper boom positioning and hose control by placing the chain within the designated area while maintaining the required A-frame boom configuration and avoiding contact with obstacles.
  • Task 7: Remove Attachments – Demonstrate the ability to safely remove attachments after operation by positioning the boom correctly, avoiding contact with equipment, and properly disconnecting and securing components.
  • Task 8: Stow Boom/Shut Down – Demonstrate proper shutdown procedures by safely stowing the boom, securing outriggers and pads, and preparing the concrete pump for travel or the next operation.

Candidates are evaluated on pre-operational inspection, equipment setup, boom operation, hose and attachment handling, precision maneuvering, obstacle avoidance, safe operating practices, equipment securing procedures, and the ability to complete tasks accurately and efficiently. Unsafe acts, failure to follow procedures, or improper equipment handling may result in point deductions or failure of the practical examination.

What It Costs to Certify

Written Exam

Per written exam, across any modality (OPT, EOT, or TCT).

$210

Practical Exam

Per practical exam, administered by a CCO-credentialed Practical Proctor.

$70

Fees are paid through the myCCO portal at the time of application. The Concrete Pump Operator certification requires both a written and a practical exam.

Prepare to Succeed

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Candidate Handbook

Get the official Concrete Pump Operator candidate handbook which contains the exam outline, program overview, reference list, and policies. Download Handbook →

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Training Providers

Find an Accredited Training Provider (ATP) or other providers near you offering Concrete Pump program training.Find a Provider →

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Exam Reference Materials

See the reference materials used by Subject Matter Experts to develop exam content for this program.View Reference Materials →

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Exam Prep Materials

Purchase ASME standards to help you prepare for the exam through the CCO Store.Visit CCO Store →

Ready to Get Certified?

Apply for your Articulating Crane Operator exam through the myCCO portal today.

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