HK Loadshifting Operator (CIC) flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Rated capacity (SWL)

The maximum load a machine may lift in a stated configuration, as set by the manufacturer and shown on the load chart; it falls as radius or boom length increases.

Working radius

The horizontal distance from the crane's slewing centre to the vertical hoist line above the load. Capacity is read from the chart at this radius, not at the boom tip.

Load chart

The manufacturer's table or graph giving permitted load for each radius, boom length and configuration. The operator must use the entry matching the actual setup.

Centre of gravity

The point through which the whole weight of a load acts. The hook must be vertically above it, otherwise the load tilts and sling loads become unequal.

Sling angle factor

A multiplier applied to a sling leg's share of the load as the leg moves away from vertical: 1.0 vertical, 1.155 at 60 degrees, 1.414 at 45 degrees, 2.0 at 30 degrees from horizontal.

Two-leg sling tension

For equal legs at angle theta from horizontal, each leg carries W divided by (2 sin theta). At 30 degrees from horizontal each leg carries the full load.

Outrigger bearing pressure

Outrigger load divided by the pad contact area. Spreader mats increase the area and reduce pressure so it stays within the ground's allowable bearing capacity.

Pick-and-carry

Travelling with a suspended load. Permitted only within the manufacturer's on-tyres chart and travel configuration, with the load low and the route planned and clear.

Load moment limiter

A device that senses load and radius and warns or stops the machine before the rated load moment is exceeded. It supplements, and never replaces, the load chart.

Forklift load centre

The horizontal distance from the fork face to the load's centre of gravity, commonly 500 to 600 mm. Moving it forward or adding an attachment reduces safe capacity.

Daily pre-use inspection

The operator's check of brakes, steering, hydraulics, ropes, hooks, limits, alarms and fluids before each shift. It does not replace the statutory thorough examination.

Thorough examination

A statutory examination of lifting appliances and lifting gear by an appointed examiner, at least every 12 months and after substantial repair, alteration or a safety-affecting accident.

Competent person

A person with the relevant practical and theoretical knowledge and experience to inspect or assess the plant. Statutory examination reports require an appointed examiner.

Designated signaller

The single person agreed to direct the operator by hand signal or radio. The operator obeys that person, but must stop for an emergency stop from anyone.

Emergency stop signal

Both arms raised above the head. Any person on site may give it, and the operator must stop the operation immediately and lower the load safely.

Exclusion zone

The barricaded area beneath and around the load and slew radius where no person may stand. It is set in the lift plan and enforced throughout the lift.

Tag line

A rope attached to the load so a person outside the fall zone can control rotation and swing. It keeps hands off the load and prevents the load striking structures.

Safety latch

The spring clip on a crane hook that closes the throat and stops slings slipping off. A missing or bent latch means the hook is taken out of service.

Wire rope discard

Removal criteria for a rope sling or hoist rope: broken wires in a set length, diameter reduction, corrosion, kinking, crushing or end-fitting damage, per the standard table.

Shock load

A sudden dynamic force from a snatch, jerk or dropped load. It can exceed the static load many times and requires the appliance to be examined before further use.

Lift plan

A documented assessment for a complex lift stating load weight, radius, capacity, ground bearing, rigging, exclusion zone and emergency arrangements, approved before the lift starts.

Tandem lift

Two cranes sharing one load. It needs a written plan, agreed load share per crane, matched hoist speeds and one controlling supervisor, because load share shifts during the lift.

Spreader beam

A rigid beam that takes the sling legs apart so they stay near vertical, reducing horizontal compression on the load and keeping leg tension close to the vertical share.

Gin wheel

A pulley fixed to a scaffold or structure to redirect a hoist rope. Its SWL, anchorage, rope condition and securing must be checked before use.

Load density estimate

Weight found by multiplying volume by density: steel about 7,850 kg per cubic metre, concrete 2,400, water 1,000. Add slings and hook block to the total.

On-tyres chart

The reduced capacity table for a mobile crane lifting without outriggers. It is far lower than the outrigger chart and governs any pick-and-carry operation.

Hydraulic injection injury

Injury from fluid forced through the skin by a pinhole leak in a pressurised hose. Never feel for leaks with the hand; use cardboard and seek immediate medical help.

Overhead line clearance

The minimum distance kept between any part of the machine or load and live power lines, as set by the supply authority. Lines are treated as live until confirmed isolated.

Out-of-service tag

A tag fixed to a defective machine or sling to show it must not be used. The item stays quarantined until repaired and, where required, re-examined and certified.

Operator certificate

The recognised training and competence certificate for the specific plant type. The operator confirms it is current and valid for that machine before taking control.

Level ground setup

The machine must stand level, on ground checked for voids, trenches and services, with outriggers fully extended and locked, before any load is lifted.

Safe shutdown procedure

Land the load, lower the attachment, apply the parking brake, neutralise controls, remove the key and isolate power. Chock the machine if it is left on a slope.