The Department of Public Safety ("Department") licenses and regulates the operation of hoisting equipment. The Department derives its authority to regulate hoisting operators from Massachusetts General Laws chapter 146, section 53. Additionally, the Department has promulgated regulations which are codified in section 6.00 of title 520 of the Code of Massachusetts Regulations.

Anyone who wishes to operate hoisting equipment (including derricks, cableways, machinery used for discharging cargoes, and temporary elevator cars used on excavation work or used for hoisting building material) must obtain a license from the Department. Hoisting operators must be 18 years of age, complete an application, and successfully pass an examination covering all working parts of the hoisting machinery, safe operating practices, hand signals, and inspection procedures in order to obtain a license.

Prior to contacting the Department with any questions, please review the FAQ ("Frequently Asked Questions") link below for further information. All applications, inquiries, or suggestions should be mailed to:

Department of Public Safety
Hoisting Division
PO BOX 414376
Boston, MA 02108

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