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HK Loadshifting Operator (CIC) study materials
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HK Loadshifting Operator (CIC) practice questions

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Question 1Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Under Hong Kong's loadshifting machinery operator arrangements, which document must a banksman hold to legally direct a vehicle-mounted crane during a lift?

  1. A Hong Kong driving licence for the class of the carrier vehicle
  2. A first-aid certificate from any recognised provider
  3. A valid certificate issued for the banksman role under the relevant safety training scheme Correct answer.
  4. A written letter of authority from the site agent only

Explanation

Banksmen directing lifting operations must hold a recognised certificate for that role, because they control the load and signal the operator. A driving licence proves road competence for the vehicle, not the ability to sling or signal loads. Site letters do not replace the required certified training.

Question 2Loadshifting Machinery Operators

During a lift, the banksman needs the operator to raise the load slowly. Which signalling approach is acceptable?

  1. A single agreed hand signal given by the designated banksman Correct answer.
  2. Radio calls from several workers at once
  3. Shouted instructions from any worker nearest the load
  4. A whistle code invented on site that morning

Explanation

Signals must come from one designated banksman using a pre-agreed system so the operator has a single unambiguous instruction. Improvised codes or multiple callers create conflicting commands. Only one person should signal at any time.

Question 3Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the primary purpose of the rated capacity indicator or load moment limiter fitted to a loadshifting machine?

  1. To warn the operator before the machine reaches its safe load limit Correct answer.
  2. To record the total tonnage lifted during each shift
  3. To measure wind speed at the boom tip
  4. To lock the slew brake automatically at the end of a lift

Explanation

Rated capacity indicators and load moment limiters give the operator warning as the load approaches the machine's safe capacity, allowing the lift to be stopped in time. They are safety devices against overloading, not production recorders. They do not control slew brakes or measure wind.

Question 4Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Before lifting a load, an operator notices the outriggers are only partly extended on soft ground. What is the correct action?

  1. Proceed at reduced boom radius without changing the outriggers
  2. Fully extend the outriggers onto properly rated spreader pads before lifting Correct answer.
  3. Ask the banksman to stand on the outrigger beam to add counterweight
  4. Lower the load onto the partly extended outrigger side to test stability

Explanation

Outriggers must be fully extended and bearing on ground of adequate bearing capacity, normally with spreader pads, because partial extension reduces the machine's stability and rated capacity. Testing stability with a live load is dangerous. Adding a person's weight is never a substitute for proper setup.

Question 5Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A loadshifting machine is working near overhead power lines. Which control measure is most appropriate where the lines cannot be de-energised?

  1. Rely on the operator watching the lines from the cab
  2. Maintain the designated safe clearance and fit a goalpost barrier with warning signage Correct answer.
  3. Schedule the lift for early morning when demand is low
  4. Brief the banksman to shout if the boom gets close

Explanation

Where live overhead lines cannot be isolated, the recognised control is to keep the machine outside the safe clearance distance, reinforced by physical barriers such as goalposts and warning signs. Operator vigilance alone is not a reliable control. Shouting or timing the lift does not prevent contact.

Question 6Loadshifting Machinery Operators

When slinging a load, which factor most directly determines the safe working load of a wire rope sling?

  1. The number of workers available to guide the load
  2. The sling's configuration and the angle between its legs Correct answer.
  3. The length of the carrier vehicle's boom
  4. The colour of the sling's identification tag

Explanation

A sling's safe working load depends on its construction, condition and, critically, the configuration and included angle between legs, since wider angles increase leg tension. Tag colour alone does not determine capacity. Boom length and manpower have no bearing on sling capacity.

Question 7Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What does the term 'working radius' mean for a loadshifting machine?

  1. The distance the machine can travel with a suspended load
  2. The total length of wire rope on the winch drum
  3. The vertical height of the boom above the ground
  4. The horizontal distance from the slewing centre to the load's centre of gravity Correct answer.

Explanation

Working radius is the horizontal distance from the machine's slewing centre to the centre of gravity of the suspended load. It is a key input to the load chart because capacity falls as radius increases. It is not a height, rope length or travel distance.

Question 8Loadshifting Machinery Operators

An operator must travel the machine with a suspended load. Which condition should be satisfied first?

  1. The machine's manufacturer permits such travel and the route is level and clear Correct answer.
  2. The load is kept swinging freely to reduce rope tension
  3. The banksman walks ahead without any agreed signals
  4. Travel speed is increased to shorten exposure time

Explanation

Travelling with a suspended load is only acceptable where the manufacturer's instructions allow it and the ground and route are suitable. The load should be kept as low and controlled as possible, not left swinging. Faster travel increases risk rather than reducing it.

Question 9Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Why must a loadshifting machine's load chart be consulted for the specific configuration in use?

  1. The chart gives the legal speed limit for the carrier vehicle
  2. The chart records the machine's fuel consumption at each radius
  3. The chart lists the names of certified banksmen on site
  4. Rated capacity varies with radius, boom length and outrigger configuration Correct answer.

Explanation

A load chart is configuration-specific: capacity changes with radius, boom length, counterweight and whether the machine is on outriggers or wheels. Using a figure from the wrong column can overload the machine. The chart does not cover fuel, personnel or road speeds.

Question 10Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A hydraulic hose on the machine shows bulging and fraying. What is the correct response?

  1. Increase engine speed to maintain hydraulic pressure
  2. Continue lifting but avoid holding loads suspended
  3. Take the machine out of service and have the hose replaced before further lifting Correct answer.
  4. Wrap the hose with tape and continue at reduced load

Explanation

A bulging or frayed hydraulic hose may burst under pressure, causing sudden loss of load control, so the machine must be withdrawn and the hose replaced. Taping does not restore hose integrity. Avoiding suspended loads or raising pressure does not remove the failure risk.

Question 11Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which practice best controls the risk of the load striking the banksman during a lift?

  1. The banksman works from the machine's counterweight area
  2. The banksman stands directly under the load to steady it by hand
  3. The banksman stays outside the load's fall and swing zone while signalling Correct answer.
  4. The banksman holds the sling leg to feel tension changes

Explanation

The banksman must position outside the area where the load could fall or swing, using signals from a safe vantage point. Standing under a load or holding slings puts the person in the danger zone. The counterweight swing area is also hazardous.

Question 12Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the main function of a tag line during a lift?

  1. To replace the need for a banksman
  2. To measure the weight of the suspended load
  3. To increase the rated capacity of the lifting machine
  4. To control load rotation from a position outside the danger zone Correct answer.

Explanation

A tag line lets a worker restrain and guide load rotation while standing clear of the fall zone. It does not increase capacity, replace the banksman's signalling role or weigh the load. Its purpose is control of movement, not load measurement.

Question 13Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which weather condition should prompt an operator to stop lifting operations with a large-sail-area load?

  1. Wind speed approaching the limit stated in the machine's operating instructions Correct answer.
  2. Air temperature falling below twenty degrees Celsius
  3. Light drizzle with no measurable wind
  4. Overcast sky with good visibility

Explanation

Wind acting on a load with a large surface area creates forces that can exceed the machine's design limits, so lifting must stop as wind approaches the manufacturer's stated limit. Drizzle, moderate temperature and overcast skies do not by themselves prevent safe lifting.

Question 14Loadshifting Machinery Operators

When is it acceptable for a loadshifting machine to lift persons?

  1. Whenever the banksman agrees and a harness is worn
  2. Only with a purpose-designed man-riding platform and the manufacturer's and site's specific approval Correct answer.
  3. When the lift is short and the platform is a wooden pallet
  4. If the person holds a valid driving licence for the carrier

Explanation

Riding on a load is generally prohibited; it is permitted only with a purpose-built man-riding platform, full risk assessment and specific approval under the manufacturer's instructions and site rules. Improvised platforms such as pallets are never acceptable. A banksman's agreement or a driving licence does not authorise man-riding.

Question 15Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What should an operator do if the load's weight is not marked and cannot be confirmed from documentation?

  1. Assume a weight based on the load's apparent size
  2. Do not lift until the weight is established by a reliable method Correct answer.
  3. Ask the banksman to estimate the weight by eye
  4. Lift slightly to judge the weight from machine response

Explanation

An unknown load weight makes it impossible to confirm the lift is within rated capacity, so the lift must wait until the weight is reliably established, for example by weighing or from drawings. Estimating by size, feel or eye risks overloading. Trial lifting is itself an uncontrolled lift.

Question 16Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which item is part of the pre-use check an operator should carry out on the lifting machine?

  1. Checking the condition of wire ropes, hooks and their safety catches Correct answer.
  2. Reviewing the previous month's fuel invoices
  3. Checking the colour scheme of the site safety posters
  4. Confirming the site canteen opening hours

Explanation

Pre-use checks focus on safety-critical components such as wire ropes, hooks and safety catches, along with fluid levels, alarms and limiters. Administrative items such as invoices, canteen hours and poster colours are not part of the machine inspection. Defects found must be reported before use.

Question 17Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Why is the hook's safety catch important during a lift?

  1. It increases the hook's rated load capacity
  2. It allows the load to be released remotely
  3. It helps prevent the sling from slipping off the hook when tension slackens Correct answer.
  4. It measures the tension in the sling legs

Explanation

The safety catch keeps slings and fittings on the hook when tension is briefly lost, reducing the risk of the load slipping free. It does not increase capacity, provide remote release or measure tension. A damaged catch means the hook should not be used.

Question 18Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A mobile crane is set up on a slope. Which consequence most directly affects the lift plan?

  1. The load chart values can be used unchanged because capacity depends only on boom length
  2. The outriggers may be left retracted to keep the machine level
  3. The slope improves stability so a higher load may be lifted
  4. The rated capacity must be reduced in line with the manufacturer's instructions for slope operation Correct answer.

Explanation

Operating on a slope changes the machine's geometry and stability, so the manufacturer's instructions normally require reduced capacity or prohibit the setup. Standard load chart values assume a level machine. Retracting outriggers or assuming improved stability is unsafe.

Question 19Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the correct action when a loadshifting machine's audible travel alarm fails during a shift?

  1. Use the machine only for short lifts
  2. Replace the alarm with a worker shouting warnings
  3. Continue working if the banksman walks alongside
  4. Stop using the machine and report the defect for repair Correct answer.

Explanation

The travel alarm warns people nearby that the machine is moving; without it, pedestrians may be struck. A failed alarm is a defect that requires the machine to be stopped and reported. Substituting a person's voice or limiting lift duration does not restore the required warning.

Question 20Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which factor most affects the ground bearing pressure under a loadshifting machine's outrigger?

  1. The number of slings used on the load
  2. The size of the spreader pad distributing the outrigger load Correct answer.
  3. The length of the tag line
  4. The colour of the machine's paintwork

Explanation

Ground bearing pressure is the outrigger force divided over the area of the pad or mat, so a larger spreader pad lowers the pressure on the ground. Paintwork, sling count and tag line length have no effect on bearing pressure. This is why pads are sized to the ground conditions.

Question 21Loadshifting Machinery Operators

When two loadshifting machines are used together for a tandem lift, what must be in place?

  1. A decision that only one banksman signals whichever machine he faces
  2. An informal agreement between the two operators
  3. A written lift plan with a nominated supervisor coordinating both operators Correct answer.
  4. A rule that the heavier machine lifts first

Explanation

Tandem lifts are complex because the load is shared between machines, so they require a planned operation with a nominated supervisor coordinating both operators and a clear signalling arrangement. Informal agreement leaves load share and communication uncontrolled. Sequencing by machine weight is not a safe basis.

Question 22Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the purpose of the rated capacity limit switch on a loadshifting machine?

  1. To prevent the machine from lifting beyond its rated capacity Correct answer.
  2. To control the cab's air conditioning
  3. To set the engine idle speed
  4. To limit the maximum travel speed on site roads

Explanation

The rated capacity limit switch acts as a safety device that stops or restricts the lifting function before the machine exceeds its rated capacity. It is not a speed governor, nor does it control cab comfort or engine idle. Its role is overload prevention.

Question 23Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A banksman loses sight of the load and the operator during a lift. What should happen?

  1. The operator continues slowly using previous signals
  2. The operator raises the load higher to improve visibility
  3. The banksman moves under the load to regain sight
  4. The lift stops until communication and a clear view are restored Correct answer.

Explanation

Lifting must stop whenever the banksman and operator cannot see each other or the load, because signals cannot be reliably given or received. Continuing on assumed signals risks uncontrolled movement. Moving under the load or raising it to see better creates new hazards.

Question 24Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Why should a loadshifting machine's counterweight and slew area be kept clear of people?

  1. People in that area improve the machine's balance
  2. The area is needed for storing slings during the lift
  3. The rear of the machine sweeps a large arc that can crush anyone struck Correct answer.
  4. The counterweight needs space to be removed during each lift

Explanation

As the machine slews, the counterweight sweeps through a wide arc outside the operator's view, and anyone in that arc can be crushed against fixed objects. The area must be barriered and kept clear. The counterweight is not removed for each lift, and people or stored gear do not belong there.

Question 25Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which statement correctly describes the operator's responsibility when a lift plan and an on-site instruction conflict?

  1. The operator should follow the most recent verbal instruction
  2. The operator should split the difference between the two instructions
  3. The operator should proceed because the banksman accepts responsibility
  4. The operator should stop and resolve the conflict through the nominated supervisor before lifting Correct answer.

Explanation

The operator remains responsible for the safety of the lift, so a conflict between the plan and a site instruction must be resolved before work continues, normally through the nominated supervisor. Following the latest verbal instruction or a compromise leaves the lift uncontrolled. Responsibility cannot simply be passed to the banksman.

Question 26Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Under Hong Kong's Factories and Industrial Undertakings (Lifting Appliances and Lifting Gear) Regulations, who is responsible for ensuring a lifting appliance is not loaded beyond its safe working load?

  1. The owner, the operator and any person using the appliance all share the duty Correct answer.
  2. Only the registered safety officer for the site
  3. Only the competent examiner who last tested it
  4. Only the manufacturer who rated the appliance

Explanation

The regulations place duties on the owner, the operator and any person who uses or permits use of the appliance, so responsibility is shared rather than resting on one party. The manufacturer sets the rating but does not control day-to-day loading, and neither the safety officer nor the examiner is on the controls during a lift.

Question 27Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Before starting a shift, an operator finds the load moment indicator of a lorry loader displaying a fault code. What is the correct course of action?

  1. Reset the indicator and resume normal lifting
  2. Continue working but reduce the load by half
  3. Take the machine out of service and report the fault Correct answer.
  4. Note the code in the logbook and finish the shift

Explanation

A load moment indicator is a safety device; when it is faulty the rated capacity protection is lost, so the machine must not be used until the fault is rectified. Halving the load or resetting the display does not restore the protective function and leaves the lift unprotected.

Question 28Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the primary purpose of a daily inspection of lifting gear such as chains and shackles before use?

  1. To measure the gear's paint thickness
  2. To record the gear's purchase price
  3. To satisfy the insurance policy
  4. To detect damage or wear that could cause failure Correct answer.

Explanation

Pre-use inspection exists to find defects such as cracks, deformation, cuts and excessive wear before the gear is loaded, because these defects reduce strength and can lead to sudden failure. Commercial or administrative reasons are secondary to this safety purpose.

Question 29Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A loadshifting machine operator is directed by radio. Which radio protocol keeps the lift safe?

  1. Only the banksman and operator speak, using agreed call signs and commands Correct answer.
  2. The operator keeps the channel open continuously for background noise
  3. Any worker on site may give instructions over the channel
  4. Either party may speak whenever they wish

Explanation

Effective radio control depends on a dedicated, disciplined channel where only the authorised signaller and the operator communicate, using pre-agreed call signs and unambiguous commands. Allowing others to interrupt or leaving the channel permanently open creates confusion and misheard instructions.

Question 30Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which statement best describes the role of a banksman during a lift?

  1. To stand under the load and steady it by hand
  2. To guide the operator with clear signals and keep people clear of the load Correct answer.
  3. To attach the load to the hook while the lift is in progress
  4. To operate the machine if the operator is briefly absent

Explanation

The banksman directs the operator through agreed signals and controls the exclusion zone around the load and machine. Attaching gear, operating the machine and standing beneath a suspended load are all unsafe or outside the signaller's role.

Question 31Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Why must an operator avoid sudden starts and stops when travelling with a loadshifting machine?

  1. It keeps the engine at a lower temperature
  2. It reduces tyre wear on the machine
  3. It shortens the machine's braking distance
  4. It prevents load swing and loss of stability Correct answer.

Explanation

Sudden acceleration or braking transfers dynamic forces into the load and machine, causing the load to swing and shifting the machine's centre of gravity, which can lead to overturning. Smooth control keeps the load and machine stable.

Question 32Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What does the safe working load marked on a lifting accessory represent?

  1. The weight of the accessory itself
  2. The average load it carries over a working week
  3. The maximum load it may lift under stated conditions Correct answer.
  4. The load at which it was last proof tested to destruction

Explanation

The safe working load, or working load limit, is the maximum mass the accessory is rated to support in the specified configuration and conditions. It is not the accessory's own weight, a destructive test result, or an average of daily loads.

Question 33Loadshifting Machinery Operators

An operator notices the machine's seat belt is frayed and the buckle does not latch securely. What should the operator do?

  1. Place a cushion over the buckle and proceed
  2. Use the machine but avoid fast travel
  3. Report it and use the machine only after repair Correct answer.
  4. Tie the belt in a knot and continue

Explanation

The seat belt is a restraint that prevents the operator being thrown from the machine in a tip or impact; a frayed belt and faulty buckle defeat that protection. The defect must be reported and rectified before the machine is used.

Question 34Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the main reason for keeping a load as close to the machine as practical during a lift?

  1. It reduces the load moment and improves stability Correct answer.
  2. It increases the machine's lifting height
  3. It avoids the need for a banksman
  4. It allows the load to be swung faster

Explanation

Load moment is the product of load and distance from the tipping point, so moving the load closer reduces the moment and leaves a greater margin against overturning. It does not remove the need for a signaller or increase reach.

Question 35Loadshifting Machinery Operators

During a lift the machine begins to tip slowly forward. What is the operator's most appropriate immediate action?

  1. Raise the boom to move the load further out
  2. Continue the lift and complete it quickly
  3. Lower the load quickly and reverse at full power
  4. Lower the load under control and reduce radius if safe to do so Correct answer.

Explanation

A slow forward tip indicates the load moment has exceeded the machine's stability margin, so the load should be lowered under control and brought closer to reduce the moment. Raising the boom or accelerating increases the moment and can turn a slow tip into a collapse.

Question 36Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A load is suspended and the wind begins to gust, causing the load to rotate. What is the safest operator response?

  1. Lower the load to the ground and suspend the lift Correct answer.
  2. Swing the load quickly to the landing point
  3. Speed up the lift to finish before the wind rises
  4. Ask the banksman to hold the load steady by hand

Explanation

A rotating load indicates loss of control under wind loading, and the sail area of the load makes further movement unpredictable. Landing the load removes the suspended hazard and allows the lift to be reassessed.

Question 37Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which factor should be assessed before a loadshifting machine travels over a buried service duct?

  1. The colour of the duct marker tape
  2. The number of workers on site that day
  3. The load-bearing capacity of the ground above the duct Correct answer.
  4. The length of the machine's exhaust pipe

Explanation

Ground bearing capacity determines whether the surface can carry the machine and its load without collapsing the duct or the ground beneath. Marker tape colour and unrelated machine or staffing details do not establish whether travel is safe.

Question 38Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the correct way to store lifting chains that are not in use?

  1. Piled under the machine for convenience
  2. Hung on a rack clear of the ground and traffic Correct answer.
  3. Coiled on the ground in a walkway
  4. Left attached to the hook during travel

Explanation

Chains stored on a rack are kept clear of dirt, moisture and vehicle traffic, which prevents corrosion and impact damage and keeps them visible for inspection. Leaving them on the ground or under the machine exposes them to damage and contamination.

Question 39Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Two slings are used in a bridle to lift a load. Why does the angle between the sling legs matter?

  1. It controls the radio channel used
  2. It sets the machine's engine speed
  3. It changes the tension in each leg and the load on the attachment points Correct answer.
  4. It determines the colour coding of the slings

Explanation

As the angle between sling legs widens, the tension in each leg rises for the same vertical load, and the horizontal component pushes the legs apart. This affects both the sling capacity and the strength required at the lifting points.

Question 40Loadshifting Machinery Operators

An operator must place a load on a roof edge where the ground is soft. Which action best manages the risk?

  1. Spread the load using timber or mats under the outrigger pads Correct answer.
  2. Increase engine speed to lift the load faster
  3. Use only two outriggers to save time
  4. Lower the outriggers onto bare soil without preparation

Explanation

Load-spreading mats enlarge the bearing area and reduce the pressure transmitted to soft ground, lowering the risk of settlement or punch-through. Using bare soil, omitting outriggers or rushing the lift all increase the chance of instability.

Question 41Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Why should the operator test the brakes of a loadshifting machine after starting it at the beginning of a shift?

  1. To warm the hydraulic oil for lifting
  2. To reset the load moment indicator
  3. To confirm the machine can be stopped before it is used Correct answer.
  4. To check the accuracy of the hour meter

Explanation

A brake function test confirms the machine can be brought to a stop under control before it is committed to work with a load. It is not a method of warming oil, checking the hour meter or resetting safety electronics.

Question 42Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A pedestrian walks into the slewing area while the machine is turning with a load. What should the operator do first?

  1. Stop the slew movement until the area is clear Correct answer.
  2. Slew faster to clear the pedestrian's path
  3. Lower the load onto the pedestrian's side
  4. Continue slewing and sound the horn

Explanation

Stopping the slew removes the immediate crushing hazard and gives the banksman time to move the pedestrian clear. Continuing or speeding up the movement, or lowering the load towards the person, increases the danger.

Question 43Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What does it mean when a lifting beam is described as being used to spread the load?

  1. It increases the load's weight
  2. It shares the load between two lifting points and reduces sling angles Correct answer.
  3. It replaces the need for a banksman
  4. It reduces the machine's lifting capacity

Explanation

A spreader beam keeps the sling legs more vertical and distributes the load between two attachment points, reducing the tension and horizontal forces compared with a single-point lift. It does not change the load's mass or remove the need for signallers.

Question 44Loadshifting Machinery Operators

An operator is asked to lift a load whose centre of gravity is clearly offset to one side. What is the main concern?

  1. The load will become lighter on one side
  2. The machine's fuel consumption will rise
  3. The radio signal will be weakened
  4. The load will tilt and may slip from the slings Correct answer.

Explanation

An offset centre of gravity makes the load hang at an angle, shifting tension unevenly between slings and increasing the chance of the load tilting or slipping out of the gear. The lifting arrangement must be adjusted to account for it.

Question 45Loadshifting Machinery Operators

Which practice best protects the operator when a loadshifting machine is working near an excavation edge?

  1. Parking one wheel on the edge for a better view
  2. Positioning the machine so its tracks or wheels are set back from the edge Correct answer.
  3. Relying on the horn to warn workers below
  4. Operating with the outriggers fully retracted

Explanation

Setting the machine back from the edge keeps the load and machine weight away from the unsupported ground, reducing the risk of the edge collapsing under the machine. Parking on the edge, relying on warning devices or keeping outriggers retracted all increase the hazard.

Question 46Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A load chart shows a lower capacity for a configuration with the outriggers fully extended than for one with them partially extended. What does this indicate?

  1. The machine is stronger with outriggers retracted
  2. The load chart applies only to the boom length shown
  3. The chart has been printed incorrectly and should be ignored
  4. The fully extended configuration has a longer radius and greater load moment Correct answer.

Explanation

Rated capacity falls as the working radius increases because the load moment rises; a fully extended outrigger setup often allows a longer radius, which reduces capacity at that radius. The chart must be read for the actual configuration and radius in use.

Question 47Loadshifting Machinery Operators

What is the purpose of a lift plan for a complex or tandem lift?

  1. To calculate the machine's fuel usage
  2. To record the names of the site visitors
  3. To set out the sequence, roles, capacities and controls before the lift Correct answer.
  4. To replace the need for a competent examiner

Explanation

A lift plan documents how the lift will be carried out, who does what, the capacities and radii involved, and the controls that make the lift safe. It does not replace statutory examinations or serve administrative or fuel purposes.

Question 48Loadshifting Machinery Operators

An operator is asked to lift a load that is heavier than the machine's rated capacity at the required radius, but the banksman says the load is 'probably lighter than it looks'. What should the operator do?

  1. Lift slowly to test whether the machine can manage
  2. Refuse the lift until the weight is confirmed and the radius is within capacity Correct answer.
  3. Lift with the boom at maximum reach to reduce strain
  4. Ask a colleague to stand on the counterweight for balance

Explanation

Rated capacity is a limit that must not be exceeded, and an unverified weight cannot be assumed to be within it. The lift should not proceed until the weight is confirmed and the configuration is shown to be within capacity.

Question 49Loadshifting Machinery Operators

A loadshifting machine has been modified by welding an additional counterweight to the rear. How does this affect the operator's use of the load chart?

  1. The operator may add the extra weight to the chart's capacity
  2. The chart no longer represents the machine and the modification must be assessed and approved Correct answer.
  3. The original chart still applies because the machine model is unchanged
  4. The modification only affects travel speed, not lifting

Explanation

Welding on a counterweight alters the machine's structure and stability, so the manufacturer's chart no longer reflects the machine's actual configuration. Such a modification must be engineered, assessed and approved before use, and the chart updated accordingly.

Question 50Loadshifting Machinery Operators

During a lift, the operator hears a sharp crack from the boom and the load begins to drop slightly. What is the correct immediate response?

  1. Lower the load to the ground as quickly and safely as possible and clear the area Correct answer.
  2. Raise the boom to relieve the load
  3. Slew the load over the workers so they can catch it
  4. Continue the lift to the landing point before inspecting

Explanation

A crack and sudden drop indicate possible structural failure of the boom, so the priority is to land the load and clear people from the danger zone. Raising, slewing over workers or continuing the lift keeps the failing structure under load and endangers everyone beneath it.