Pre-Operational Inspection, Setup, and Site Conditions
What the exam tests
This domain tests the shift inspection, setup decisions, and ground conditions that must be controlled before the first load. Expect questions on inspection types, outrigger blocking, leveling, swing radius, and site hazards.
Core rules
- OSHA 1926.1412 requires inspection types: shift, monthly, annual, post-assembly, after modification or repair, and after severe service. The operator performs the shift inspection; a qualified person performs periodic and annual inspections.
- Pre-shift items include fluids and leaks, tires, brakes, steering, horn, lights, alarms, LMI/RCL, anti-two-block device, wire rope, hook latch, rigging, fire extinguisher, load chart, and seat belt.
- Ground conditions must be evaluated by a competent person. Avoid uncompacted fill, excavations, slopes, underground utilities, and frost-affected ground. Use mats or cribbing sized for the actual bearing pressure.
- Outriggers must be fully extended and pinned, floats set on blocking, and the crane leveled within the manufacturer's tolerance. Never use the boom to level the crane.
- Barricade the swing radius and any crush points. Check clearance for counterweight, boom, and load throughout the swing.
Worked example
An outrigger carries 9,000 lb. The float is 12 in x 12 in = 144 in2. Bearing pressure = 9,000 / 144 = 62.5 psi. The soil is rated at 2,000 psf, which is 2,000 / 144 = 13.9 psi. The float alone is unacceptable. Required mat area = 9,000 / 13.9 = 648 in2, so a 26 in x 26 in mat (676 in2) is needed, assuming the mat is strong enough to spread the load. The operator must also add dynamic and wind allowances per the lift plan.
Traps
- Treating the shift inspection as a substitute for the monthly or annual inspection.
- Setting outriggers on asphalt without checking what is under it.
- Leveling with the boom or with only one outrigger.
- Forgetting to barricade the rear swing radius.
- Using a mat that is large enough in area but too weak to spread the load.