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Question 1Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
Under the model WHS Regulations, what must a person conducting a business or undertaking do before allowing a slewing mobile crane to be used for high risk work?
- Notify the manufacturer of the crane's intended use
- Register the crane with the regulator before each shift
- Obtain written approval from the crane's previous owner
- Ensure the operator holds the relevant high risk work licence Correct answer.
Explanation
High risk work such as operating a slewing mobile crane may only be performed by a person who holds the appropriate high risk work licence for that class. The PCBU must verify the licence is current and covers the crane class before work starts. Verification can include checking the card or the regulator's online licence register.
Question 2Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
A crane operator is directed by a site supervisor to lift a load that exceeds the crane's rated capacity. What is the operator's primary duty under WHS law?
- Refuse the lift and not perform work that is unsafe Correct answer.
- Perform the lift slowly to reduce the risk
- Ask a co-worker to sign off on the lift
- Follow the direction because the supervisor holds site authority
Explanation
Every worker has a duty to take reasonable care for their own safety and the safety of others, and must not carry out work that is unsafe. A direction from a supervisor does not override that duty. The operator should refuse the lift and report the unsafe instruction.
Question 3Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
Which document sets out the general duty to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of workers?
- The relevant Work Health and Safety Act Correct answer.
- The manufacturer's maintenance schedule
- The crane operator's logbook
- The site induction checklist
Explanation
The primary duty of care is imposed by the WHS Act in each jurisdiction. It requires the PCBU to ensure health and safety so far as is reasonably practicable. Other documents support compliance but do not create the primary duty.
Question 4Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
What does the term 'so far as is reasonably practicable' require a PCBU to do?
- Do only what is written in the Australian Standards
- Weigh the likelihood and severity of harm against the cost and difficulty of control Correct answer.
- Eliminate every conceivable risk regardless of cost
- Delegate all safety decisions to the crane operator
Explanation
The concept requires duty holders to do what is reasonably able to be done to control risk, weighing likelihood and degree of harm against the availability and cost of controls. It is not an absolute guarantee of zero risk. This balancing test is central to how duties are applied.
Question 5Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
A PCBU engages a subcontractor to operate a slewing mobile crane on site. Who holds the duty to ensure the crane is safe to use?
- The crane manufacturer, because they designed it
- Only the crane operator, because they control it
- Only the subcontractor, because they own the crane
- Both the site PCBU and the subcontractor, to the extent each has influence and control Correct answer.
Explanation
More than one duty holder can hold duties for the same matter, and each must discharge them to the extent of their influence and control. The site PCBU and the subcontractor both have overlapping obligations. Consultation and coordination between them are required.
Question 6Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
What is the main purpose of the hierarchy of control when managing crane hazards?
- To identify which worker holds the licence
- To list the cheapest controls first
- To rank controls from most to least effective, starting with eliminating the hazard Correct answer.
- To assign blame after an incident
Explanation
The hierarchy of control ranks risk controls by effectiveness, with elimination of the hazard at the top and personal protective equipment at the bottom. Duty holders should work down the hierarchy, using higher-order controls where reasonably practicable. This produces more reliable risk reduction than relying on administrative measures alone.
Question 7Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
A slewing mobile crane will operate near overhead powerlines. Which action best reflects the duty to consult workers under WHS law?
- Consulting only the crane owner, not the crew
- Leaving the decision to the electricity network operator alone
- Involving workers in identifying hazards and deciding on controls before work begins Correct answer.
- Informing workers of the decision after the lift plan is finalised
Explanation
The WHS Act requires duty holders to consult with workers who are, or could be, affected by matters that affect their health and safety. Consultation should occur early, when hazards are being identified and controls chosen. Informing workers after the fact does not satisfy the duty.
Question 8Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
Which of the following is a duty of a worker under WHS legislation?
- Providing their own personal protective equipment in all cases
- Taking reasonable care for their own health and safety and that of others Correct answer.
- Designing the crane's lifting plan
- Purchasing the crane's insurance
Explanation
Workers must take reasonable care for their own health and safety and for others who may be affected by their acts or omissions. They must also follow reasonable instructions and cooperate with safety policies. This is a personal duty that sits alongside the PCBU's obligations.
Question 9Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
What must a PCBU do when a notifiable incident involving a crane occurs at the workplace?
- Continue work and report at the next annual review
- Notify only the crane manufacturer
- Record the event in the logbook and take no further action
- Notify the regulator immediately and preserve the site until released Correct answer.
Explanation
A PCBU must notify the regulator immediately after becoming aware of a notifiable incident, such as a serious injury or dangerous occurrence. The site must be preserved, so far as reasonably practicable, until the regulator permits otherwise. This allows investigation and prevents disturbance of evidence.
Question 10Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
Which Australian Standard is commonly referenced for the safe design and use of cranes?
- AS 1684 for residential timber framing
- AS 3745 for emergency planning
- AS 3000 for electrical installations
- AS 2550 series for cranes Correct answer.
Explanation
The AS 2550 series covers the safe use, maintenance and inspection of cranes, including mobile cranes. It is commonly referenced in safety management for crane operations. The other standards listed address unrelated subject areas.
Question 11Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
A crane operator's high risk work licence has expired. What is the correct legal position?
- The operator may work if a supervisor watches
- The operator may work only on small lifts
- The operator may continue until the next renewal reminder
- The operator must not perform high risk work until the licence is renewed Correct answer.
Explanation
High risk work requires a current licence for the relevant class. Once the licence expires, the operator is no longer authorised to perform that work. Work must stop until the licence is renewed and valid again.
Question 12Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
What is the role of a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for high risk construction work involving a crane?
- It documents how the high risk work will be carried out and the controls applied Correct answer.
- It transfers safety responsibility to the client
- It replaces the need for a licensed operator
- It is only needed after an incident
Explanation
A SWMS sets out the high risk construction work, the hazards, and the control measures, and must be prepared before work begins. Work must be carried out in accordance with it, and it is reviewed when circumstances change. It does not remove any party's duties.
Question 13Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
A crane hire company supplies a crane with a documented defect in the slewing brake. Who is responsible for ensuring the defect is rectified before use?
- The PCBU with management or control of the plant, who must ensure it is safe and without risks Correct answer.
- Only the operator, because they run the pre-start check
- No one, if the defect is noted in the logbook
- The regulator, because defects are their responsibility
Explanation
The PCBU with management or control of plant must ensure the plant is safe to use and is inspected, maintained and repaired as needed. Recording a defect does not discharge the duty to fix it. The operator's pre-start check supports, but does not replace, this obligation.
Question 14Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
Under the WHS Act, what does the duty to 'consult, so far as is reasonably practicable' primarily aim to achieve?
- Giving workers a genuine opportunity to contribute to safety decisions Correct answer.
- Shifting liability to workers
- Reducing the number of licences issued
- Speeding up the permit approval process
Explanation
Consultation gives workers a genuine opportunity to raise concerns and contribute to decisions about hazards and controls. It improves risk management by drawing on the knowledge of those doing the work. It is not a mechanism for transferring liability.
Question 15Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
Which statement best describes the relationship between the WHS Act and the WHS Regulations?
- The Regulations are voluntary guidance only
- The Act sets broad duties and the Regulations provide more specific requirements Correct answer.
- The Act applies only to mines and the Regulations to all sites
- The Regulations override the Act wherever they conflict
Explanation
The WHS Act establishes the overarching duties and framework, while the WHS Regulations prescribe more detailed, specific requirements such as licensing and plant management. Regulations operate under and must be consistent with the Act. Together they form the legislative framework for crane operations.
Question 16Legislative, duty-of-care and standards framework
A crane crew is unsure whether a lift near a public footpath is high risk construction work requiring a SWMS. What is the most appropriate action?
- Proceed and prepare the SWMS afterwards if questioned
- Stop and seek advice from a competent person before starting the lift Correct answer.
- Assume the work is exempt because it is brief
- Rely on a verbal agreement from the client
Explanation
Where there is uncertainty about whether work is high risk construction work, work should not proceed until the matter is clarified. A competent person can determine the requirements and ensure controls are in place. Proceeding first and documenting later defeats the purpose of pre-planning.
Question 17Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
Under the hierarchy of control, which measure is the most reliable way to eliminate a crane-related hazard?
- Relying on a spotter to warn workers
- Issuing high-visibility clothing to the crew
- Physically removing the need to lift loads near the hazard Correct answer.
- Adding a hazard to the pre-start checklist
Explanation
The hierarchy of control ranks elimination highest because the hazard is removed entirely rather than managed. Administrative measures such as spotters, signage and checklists depend on human behaviour and are less reliable. Eliminating the task or relocating it removes exposure at the source.
Question 18Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
A slewing mobile crane is set up on compacted fill beside an excavation. Which control best addresses the risk of ground collapse under the outrigger?
- Reduce the load chart by ten percent
- Keep workers clear of the slew radius during lifting
- Have the ground bearing capacity assessed and use engineered spreader mats Correct answer.
- Use timber packing under the outrigger pad
Explanation
Outrigger loads are concentrated and must be transferred to ground verified as capable of carrying them. An engineering assessment plus properly sized spreader mats addresses the actual failure mode. Guessing at load reductions or using scrap timber does not verify capacity.
Question 19Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What is the primary purpose of a documented risk assessment before a lift?
- To calculate the hire charge for the crane
- To record the crane operator's qualifications
- To identify hazards and decide controls before work starts Correct answer.
- To satisfy the client's paperwork requirements
Explanation
Risk assessment is a proactive process that identifies what could cause harm and determines controls before exposure occurs. Its value lies in decision-making, not in producing documents for their own sake. Records support the process but are not its purpose.
Question 20Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
During a lift, the operator notices the load drifting and the crane beginning to tip. Which immediate action is most appropriate?
- Lower the boom quickly to reduce radius
- Continue the lift and report the issue afterwards
- Increase engine speed to complete the lift faster
- Stop the lift, lower the load if safe, and make the area safe Correct answer.
Explanation
When control is lost, the priority is to stop, minimise exposure and stabilise the situation. Continuing or accelerating the lift increases the chance of catastrophic failure. The incident is then reported and investigated before work resumes.
Question 21Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
Which condition most commonly causes mobile cranes to overturn during slewing?
- Working on a level concrete hardstand
- Slewing at the manufacturer's recommended speed
- Operating with the boom at a radius beyond the rated capacity Correct answer.
- Using a certified lifting sling
Explanation
Cranes overturn when the load moment exceeds the stability provided by the counterweight and outrigger base. Exceeding the rated capacity at a given radius is the classic trigger. Level ground, correct slinging and moderate slew speed all reduce risk.
Question 22Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
A load is to be lifted near overhead power lines. Which control should be applied first?
- Arrange de-energising or isolation of the lines Correct answer.
- Use a spotter with a radio
- Erect warning signs at the site boundary
- Ask the operator to watch the lines closely
Explanation
Eliminating the electrical hazard through isolation is the highest-order control and removes the risk of contact entirely. If isolation is not practicable, exclusion zones and spotters may be used as back-up. Signs alone do not prevent contact.
Question 23Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What does the term 'slew radius' refer to when planning a lift?
- The weight of the counterweight
- The distance from the crane slew centre to the load's centre of gravity Correct answer.
- The angle between the boom and the horizontal
- The height of the boom above the ground
Explanation
Slew radius is the horizontal distance from the centre of rotation to the load, and it directly determines the load moment. Load charts are based on this value, so it must be measured accurately. Boom height and angle are separate parameters.
Question 24Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
A crane is required to lift a load over a live pedestrian walkway. Which control combination best manages the risk?
- Lift during a quiet period without other controls
- Close the walkway or use a full exclusion zone and lift plan Correct answer.
- Ask pedestrians to look up while passing
- Sound the horn continuously during the lift
Explanation
The safest approach is to remove pedestrians from beneath the load using barricades or a temporary closure. A documented lift plan then governs the lift itself. Relying on pedestrians to avoid a falling load is not a credible control.
Question 25Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
Why must the wind speed be monitored during a lift with a large sail-area load?
- Wind affects only the operator's comfort
- Wind increases the load's effective area and can exceed capacity or control limits Correct answer.
- Wind has no effect on a crane with outriggers extended
- Wind improves the load chart capacity
Explanation
Large flat loads act as sails and wind force adds to the load moment and can push the load out of control. Manufacturers specify maximum wind speeds for operation. Monitoring ensures the lift stays within those limits.
Question 26Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What is the main hazard associated with a two-crane (tandem) lift?
- Reduced communication between operators
- Uneven load sharing and increased risk of overload Correct answer.
- Faster slew speeds than a single crane
- Lower fuel consumption
Explanation
In a tandem lift, the load distribution between cranes is difficult to predict and can shift as the load moves. If one crane takes more than its share, it may be overloaded. A detailed plan and continuous communication are essential.
Question 27Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What should be done if a hazard is identified during a pre-lift inspection that cannot be controlled with available resources?
- Record it and continue with a reduced load
- Ask the rigger to sign a waiver
- Stop work and escalate until the hazard is controlled Correct answer.
- Proceed and monitor the hazard during the lift
Explanation
Work should not proceed while an uncontrolled hazard remains. The correct response is to stop, make the area safe and escalate to the responsible person. Proceeding under observation does not remove the risk.
Question 28Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
Which factor most affects the ground bearing pressure under a crane outrigger?
- The operator's experience
- The colour of the outrigger pad
- The length of the boom
- The size of the pad and the load it carries Correct answer.
Explanation
Bearing pressure equals force divided by contact area, so enlarging the pad reduces pressure. The load carried by the outrigger is determined by the lift geometry. Boom length affects load moment but not pad pressure directly.
Question 29Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What is the purpose of a lift study or lift plan for a complex lift?
- To record the crane's service history
- To list the names of site visitors
- To document the engineering and controls for a specific lift Correct answer.
- To replace the need for a risk assessment
Explanation
A lift plan records the crane selection, configuration, load calculations, ground checks and controls for a specific lift. It complements rather than replaces the risk assessment. Service records and visitor logs are separate documents.
Question 30Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
A crane is working near a trench. Which control best prevents the crane from destabilising the trench wall?
- Position the crane at a distance based on the trench depth and soil conditions Correct answer.
- Ask workers in the trench to watch for cracking
- Fill the trench with water to reduce dust
- Place the outriggers as close to the edge as possible
Explanation
Crane loads and outrigger pressure can cause trench walls to collapse if the crane is too close. The safe distance depends on depth, soil type and surcharge loading, and is often specified by the excavation designer. Workers in the trench must never be relied on as a warning system.
Question 31Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
Which of the following is a personal protective equipment control for a crane crew?
- A pre-start inspection checklist
- A documented lift plan
- A hard hat and safety boots Correct answer.
- A barricaded exclusion zone
Explanation
Personal protective equipment is worn by the individual and is the last line of defence. Hard hats and safety boots protect against impact and foot injuries. Lift plans, barricades and checklists are administrative or engineering controls.
Question 32Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What is the key hazard when slewing a crane with a suspended load near other workers?
- The engine may overheat
- The load may strike workers as it swings through the slew path Correct answer.
- The crane's radio may lose signal
- The load may become lighter during the lift
Explanation
Slewing moves the load through an arc, and anyone inside that arc can be struck or crushed. Exclusion zones and controlled slew paths prevent this. Radio, load weight and engine temperature are unrelated to the swing hazard.
Question 33Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
Why is a dynamic load (sudden stop or snatch) more dangerous than a static load of the same mass?
- Dynamic loads are always heavier in mass
- Dynamic loads reduce the load moment
- Dynamic loads do not affect the crane structure
- Dynamic loads create forces greater than the static weight Correct answer.
Explanation
A sudden stop or snatch decelerates the load rapidly, producing inertial forces that can far exceed the static weight. These forces act on the boom, ropes and structure and can cause failure. The mass itself does not change.
Question 34Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What should be included in a hazard identification process for a crane task?
- Hazards from the task, environment, equipment and people Correct answer.
- Only hazards visible from the operator's cab
- Only hazards reported by the client
- Only hazards listed in the crane manual
Explanation
Effective hazard identification considers the task, the environment, the equipment and the people involved. Restricting the process to one source leaves significant risks unidentified. Manuals and reports are inputs, not the whole picture.
Question 35Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
A crane is set up on a slope. Which control is most appropriate before lifting?
- Operate with the boom downhill only
- Increase the counterweight to compensate
- Use the manufacturer's slope limits and level the crane with properly rated packing Correct answer.
- Reduce the slew speed to the minimum
Explanation
Manufacturers specify maximum slope limits for safe operation, and cranes must be levelled within those limits. Rated packing transfers load safely and maintains stability. Counterweight changes and speed reductions do not correct an unsafe slope.
Question 36Hazard identification, risk assessment and control
What is the purpose of a pre-start inspection of the crane?
- To record the crane's hire rate
- To confirm the client's payment schedule
- To replace the need for operator licensing
- To detect defects or hazards before the crane is used Correct answer.
Explanation
A pre-start inspection checks critical components such as ropes, brakes, hydraulics and safety devices before work begins. Defects found are reported and the crane is taken out of service until rectified. It does not substitute for licensing or commercial arrangements.
Question 37Crane types, configurations and load charts
On a slewing mobile crane load chart, what does the working radius represent?
- The horizontal distance from the centre of rotation to the vertical hoist line Correct answer.
- The distance between the front and rear outrigger pads
- The vertical height from ground level to the boom head
- The length of the boom from its foot pin to the head sheave
Explanation
Working radius is measured horizontally from the crane's centre of rotation out to the vertical line of the hoist rope, with the load hanging freely. It is not boom length or height, and it changes as the boom is luffed or slewed. Because capacity falls sharply as radius increases, this measurement drives every load chart reading.
Question 38Crane types, configurations and load charts
A load chart shows a capacity of 12.0 t at 10 m radius and 9.5 t at 12 m radius. The load including rigging weighs 10.0 t and the final radius is 12 m. What is the correct conclusion?
- The lift is acceptable if the swing is slow and controlled
- The lift is acceptable if the boom is kept short
- The lift is acceptable because the crane is rated above 10 t at short radius
- The lift is unacceptable because the load exceeds the rated capacity at the actual radius Correct answer.
Explanation
Rated capacity must be checked at the radius where the load will actually be handled, not at a shorter radius used earlier in the lift. At 12 m the chart allows 9.5 t, so a 10.0 t load exceeds the rating. Smooth operation does not increase the chart capacity.
Question 39Crane types, configurations and load charts
Why do most slewing mobile crane load charts show a structural rating for some configurations and a stability rating for others?
- Because stability ratings apply only when the crane is on outriggers
- Because the two ratings are identical and shown for convenience
- Because structural ratings are used only for pick-and-carry work
- Because structural limits govern heavy loads at short radius while stability governs long radius or long boom Correct answer.
Explanation
At short radius with a heavy load, the boom or pin strength usually limits the lift, giving a structural rating. As radius and boom length increase, the overturning moment becomes dominant and the chart becomes stability-limited. The chart shows whichever value is lower for that configuration, so the operator must respect both.
Question 40Crane types, configurations and load charts
A crane is set up on outriggers with the chart marked for fully extended outriggers. The operator plans to extend the outriggers only halfway. What applies?
- The crane may be operated on the tyre chart instead
- The chart for the actual outrigger configuration must be used, which usually gives lower capacities Correct answer.
- Capacity is unaffected because outrigger length does not appear on charts
- The fully extended chart may be used if the ground is firm
Explanation
Load charts are published for specific outrigger and axle configurations, and partial extension normally reduces the effective base and therefore the capacity. Using a chart for a configuration the crane is not in overstates the rating. The correct chart for the actual setup must be selected before lifting.
Question 41Crane types, configurations and load charts
What is the purpose of deducting the weight of the hook block, slings and other lifting gear from the gross chart capacity?
- To reduce the number of parts of hoist line required
- To account for the fact that all rigging is part of the load the crane must support Correct answer.
- To convert the chart from metric to imperial units
- To allow a margin for wind gusts
Explanation
The chart capacity is the total load the crane can handle, which includes the hook block, slings, spreader beams and any attached gear. These items must be subtracted to find the net load that can be lifted. Ignoring rigging weight is a common cause of overloading.
Question 42Crane types, configurations and load charts
A lift requires a net load of 7.0 t. The hook block and slings weigh 0.6 t. The chart at the planned radius shows 7.8 t. What is the correct assessment?
- Safe, because rigging weight is already included in the net load
- Safe, because 7.0 t is less than 7.8 t
- Overloaded, because the gross load of 7.6 t leaves little margin and must be checked against all chart notes Correct answer.
- Safe, because the margin of 0.8 t covers the rigging
Explanation
The gross load is 7.0 t plus 0.6 t of rigging, giving 7.6 t against a 7.8 t rating, which is only a small margin. The operator must confirm the chart figure, radius, configuration and any notes or deductions before accepting the lift. Treating the margin as spare capacity is incorrect.
Question 43Crane types, configurations and load charts
Which boom configuration typically allows the greatest capacity at a given radius on a telescopic slewing crane?
- Longest available boom fully extended
- Boom with the fly jib fitted
- Shortest boom length that reaches the required height and radius Correct answer.
- Boom luffed to maximum angle
Explanation
For a given radius, a shorter boom reduces the load moment and typically yields a higher rated capacity. The operator should use the shortest boom that safely achieves the required height and radius. Extra boom length adds weight and reduces capacity even if radius is unchanged.
Question 44Crane types, configurations and load charts
What does the term 'parts of line' refer to on a telescopic mobile crane?
- The number of outrigger beams deployed
- The number of load chart pages supplied
- The number of boom sections in the telescope
- The number of rope falls between the boom head and the hook block Correct answer.
Explanation
Parts of line is the number of rope falls supporting the hook block, which determines the line pull available and the load the rope can lift. More parts reduce line pull per fall but increase friction losses. It is distinct from boom sections and outrigger setup.
Question 45Crane types, configurations and load charts
Why must a load chart be consulted for the specific crane serial number rather than a chart from a similar model?
- Because charts are interchangeable between models of the same capacity
- Because charts from other cranes are always more conservative
- Because each crane's chart reflects its own boom, counterweight and configuration details Correct answer.
- Because serial numbers are needed for maintenance records only
Explanation
Load charts are issued for a specific crane and reflect its actual boom, counterweight, outrigger and attachment configuration. A chart from a similar model may not match the crane's setup and could overstate capacity. The chart in the cabin must match the machine being operated.
Question 46Crane types, configurations and load charts
A crane is required to travel with a suspended load on site. Which statement is correct?
- The load chart does not apply while the crane is moving
- Capacity increases because the outriggers are retracted
- The standard load chart applies with a reduction for travel speed
- Pick-and-carry ratings from the manufacturer's chart for the travel configuration must be used Correct answer.
Explanation
Pick-and-carry is a separate operating mode with its own ratings that account for tyre capacity, axle loads, ground conditions and travel speed. The stationary load chart does not cover a moving crane. The manufacturer's travel configuration chart must be used and site conditions assessed.
Question 47Crane types, configurations and load charts
What is the effect of increasing the counterweight on a slewing mobile crane?
- It increases capacity equally at all radii including short radius
- It has no effect on the load chart
- It increases capacity at long radius but may reduce allowable axle loads and travel configurations Correct answer.
- It only affects the crane's travel speed
Explanation
Additional counterweight increases the resisting moment, which mainly benefits capacity at longer radii where stability governs. It also adds mass that affects axle loads, transport and travel ratings. Structural limits at short radius are largely unaffected.
Question 48Crane types, configurations and load charts
What does the load chart note 'capacity above the bold line is based on strength, below the line on stability' tell the operator?
- That the bold line marks the maximum permitted radius
- That both limit types are shown and the lower governing value must always be respected Correct answer.
- That the crane must not be operated below the line
- That stability ratings only apply when the boom is fully retracted
Explanation
The note explains which physical limit governs in each region of the chart, but in every case the published value is the maximum permitted. The operator simply uses the chart value at the actual radius and configuration. Understanding the limit type helps with planning but does not allow exceeding the rating.
Question 49Crane types, configurations and load charts
A crane chart lists capacities for a 10.5 m and a 17.6 m boom. The job needs a boom length of 15 m. Which approach is correct?
- Use the 17.6 m chart because it is the next listed length above 15 m
- Use the 10.5 m chart because the actual boom is shorter than 17.6 m
- Interpolate freely between the two charts for any value
- Use the chart for the actual boom length if published, otherwise use the next longer listed length Correct answer.
Explanation
Where the exact boom length is not published, the operator uses the next longer listed length, which gives a conservative capacity. Interpolating between boom lengths is not generally permitted unless the manufacturer explicitly allows it. Using a shorter boom chart would overstate capacity.
Question 50Crane types, configurations and load charts
Which of the following best describes the term 'gross capacity' on a mobile crane load chart?
- The weight of the crane itself
- The maximum load the hook can physically hold
- The total load the crane may handle at a given radius and configuration, including hook block and rigging Correct answer.
- The load that can be lifted after deducting all rigging
Explanation
Gross capacity is the total rated load at a stated radius and configuration, and it includes the hook block and all lifting gear. Net capacity is what remains after those deductions. Confusing the two is a frequent source of overload.