AK SB97

Creates Chapter 64 of AS 18 establishing a licensing requirement for crane operators in Alaska, requiring either a valid crane operator license or a trainee license under direct supervision for mobile, tower, or overhead cranes used in construction, excavation, or demolition.

Crane operator licenses require valid certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators or comparable accredited entity; licenses valid for up to 5 years and must expire when the underlying certification expires.

Crane operator trainee licenses valid for up to 1 year and allow operation only under direct and continuous supervision of a licensed operator, who may conduct no other duties while supervising.

Establishes civil penalties of up to $5,000 for first violations not resulting in death or serious injury, and up to $50,000 for subsequent violations or those resulting in death or serious injury; knowing violations constitute class B misdemeanor.

Requires licensed operators to report crane accidents causing fatalities, in-patient hospitalizations, or property damage exceeding $5,000 within 8 hours; takes effect January 1, 2010, with transition provision allowing operators with 2,000+ hours prior experience to qualify without certification for one year.