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CSCS Mobile Crane study materials
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CSCS Mobile Crane practice questions

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Question 1Site and Lift Planning

Before a mobile crane is positioned on a construction site, which document defines the crane's allowable ground bearing pressure and outrigger loadings?

  1. The manufacturer's operating manual and load chart Correct answer.
  2. The site's daily lift plan sign-off sheet
  3. The operator's certification card
  4. The crane load chart for the boom length in use

Explanation

Outrigger and ground bearing data are published by the crane manufacturer in the operating manual and load chart, and planning must be based on those figures. Site documents reference those values but do not define them.

Question 2Site and Lift Planning

What is the primary purpose of a lift plan for a mobile crane operation?

  1. To record the operator's hours of service for the day
  2. To identify hazards and specify controls before the lift proceeds Correct answer.
  3. To document the crane's inspection and maintenance history
  4. To satisfy the crane rental invoicing requirement

Explanation

A lift plan is a planning document that identifies the load, the crane configuration, the hazards and the controls so the lift can be performed safely. It is completed and reviewed before work starts.

Question 3Site and Lift Planning

A crane is set up with its outrigger pad partly over a buried utility trench. What is the most appropriate planning response?

  1. Proceed if the outrigger pad is larger than the trench width
  2. Spread the load with timber mats placed over the trench
  3. Reduce the load to 50 percent of chart capacity and proceed
  4. Relocate the crane or bridge the excavation with engineered support Correct answer.

Explanation

Buried voids and trenches can collapse under outrigger load, so the crane must be repositioned or the area must be bridged with support designed by a competent person. Mats alone do not transfer load past a void.

Question 4Site and Lift Planning

When planning a lift near an overhead power line, which control is preferred first in the hierarchy of control?

  1. De-energize and isolate the line, or arrange a planned outage Correct answer.
  2. Install insulated boom covers on the crane
  3. Maintain the minimum approach distance by marking the ground
  4. Use a signal person to warn the operator as the boom approaches

Explanation

Eliminating the hazard by de-energizing and isolating the line is the most effective control and should be pursued first. Other measures manage the risk but leave the hazard present.

Question 5Site and Lift Planning

Which factor most directly determines the required boom length for a planned lift?

  1. The color coding of the rigging slings
  2. The number of personnel on the site
  3. The wind speed forecast for the shift
  4. The radius from the crane's rotation center to the load Correct answer.

Explanation

Boom length must be sufficient to reach the required radius and height while maintaining the needed capacity. Radius and lift height are the geometric inputs to boom length selection.

Question 6Site and Lift Planning

A lift requires the crane to travel with a suspended load. What must the lift plan confirm before this is permitted?

  1. That the load is slung with four-leg chain slings
  2. That the manufacturer permits travel with a load and capacity is taken from the travel chart Correct answer.
  3. That the crane is the largest model available on site
  4. That the operator has more than five years of experience

Explanation

Traveling with a suspended load is only allowed where the manufacturer's instructions permit it, and capacity must be read from the appropriate pick-and-carry or travel chart. Ground conditions along the route must also be assessed.

Question 7Site and Lift Planning

What is the purpose of a pre-lift meeting on site?

  1. To inspect the crane's wire rope for broken wires
  2. To calculate the crane's rental duration
  3. To assign payroll categories to the rigging crew
  4. To brief everyone involved on the lift plan, roles and hazards Correct answer.

Explanation

A pre-lift meeting communicates the plan, confirms responsibilities and ensures all personnel understand the hazards and controls. It is a communication step, not a technical inspection.

Question 8Site and Lift Planning

When two cranes are planned to lift a common load, what is essential in the lift plan?

  1. Each crane is loaded to its full chart capacity independently
  2. The lift is directed by a single designated person and load sharing is defined Correct answer.
  3. The load is kept as high as possible during travel
  4. Both operators use identical crane models

Explanation

Multi-crane lifts require a single person in charge and a defined load-sharing arrangement, with each crane's capacity reduced for the tandem configuration. Communication and synchronization are critical.

Question 9Site and Lift Planning

Which information is required on a rigging plan for a load with an offset center of gravity?

  1. The crane's fuel consumption estimate
  2. The location of the center of gravity and the resulting sling tensions Correct answer.
  3. The color of the tag lines to be used
  4. The sling manufacturer's warranty period

Explanation

An offset center of gravity causes unequal sling tensions and load tilt, so the plan must locate the center of gravity and calculate the tension in each leg. This ensures no sling is overloaded.

Question 10Site and Lift Planning

What is the effect of increasing the load radius on a mobile crane's lifting capacity?

  1. Capacity is unaffected by radius
  2. Capacity depends only on the load weight
  3. Capacity decreases as radius increases Correct answer.
  4. Capacity increases because the boom is more horizontal

Explanation

Capacity decreases as the load radius increases because the moment arm grows and stability and structural limits become more restrictive. Load charts reflect this reduction.

Question 11Site and Lift Planning

A crane must be set up on a slope that exceeds the manufacturer's limit for level operation. What is the correct planning action?

  1. Build a level, engineered pad or relocate the crane Correct answer.
  2. Chock the wheels and proceed normally
  3. Operate at reduced boom length only
  4. Use the crane only for light loads

Explanation

Cranes must be set up within the manufacturer's leveling tolerance, so an engineered level pad or a different location is required. Operating out of level affects stability and chart accuracy.

Question 12Site and Lift Planning

Which of the following best describes the role of a competent person in site lift planning?

  1. The crane rental company's sales representative
  2. A person who signs the payroll for the lifting crew
  3. A person with the training and authority to identify and control lift hazards Correct answer.
  4. Any worker who has operated a crane once

Explanation

A competent person is defined by having the training, knowledge and authority to identify hazards and take corrective action. That person may prepare or review the lift plan and inspect the setup.

Question 13Site and Lift Planning

During planning, a load is found to weigh 9,000 kg and the crane's chart capacity at the required radius is 10,000 kg. What does this indicate?

  1. The lift is acceptable only if wind is below 10 km/h
  2. The lift exceeds capacity and must be replanned
  3. The lift is within capacity and no further checks are needed Correct answer.
  4. The lift requires a larger counterweight to be safe

Explanation

A load below the chart capacity at the planned radius is within the crane's rated capacity for that configuration. The planner must still confirm rigging weight, ground conditions and other site factors.

Question 14Site and Lift Planning

What is the purpose of a site-specific hazard assessment before crane mobilization?

  1. To determine the crane's resale value
  2. To calculate the operator's overtime
  3. To identify site hazards and confirm controls before the crane arrives Correct answer.
  4. To select the paint colour of the crane

Explanation

A site-specific hazard assessment identifies conditions such as soft ground, overhead lines and access restrictions so controls can be arranged before mobilization. It informs the lift plan and setup location.

Question 15Site and Lift Planning

A crane's load chart shows a capacity of 12,000 kg at a given radius, but the configuration includes a jib that is not accounted for in that figure. What should the planner do?

  1. Use the correct chart for the jib configuration Correct answer.
  2. Add 10 percent to the 12,000 kg figure for safety
  3. Subtract the jib weight from the load and use 12,000 kg
  4. Use the 12,000 kg figure because radius is the only variable

Explanation

Capacity must be read from the chart that matches the actual crane configuration, including jib or extension. Using a chart for a different configuration can overstate capacity.

Question 16Site and Lift Planning

Which condition typically requires the lift plan to be reviewed and re-approved?

  1. A change in the crane's configuration or the planned radius Correct answer.
  2. A change in the number of tag lines available
  3. A change in the lunch break schedule
  4. A change in the colour of the load

Explanation

Changes to crane configuration, radius, load weight or site conditions can invalidate the original capacity and hazard assessment, so the plan must be reviewed. The lift plan is a living document tied to actual conditions.

Question 17Site and Lift Planning

What is the primary reason for barricading the swing radius of a rotating crane?

  1. To keep the crane's paint clean
  2. To stop the operator from seeing the load
  3. To prevent personnel from being struck or crushed by the counterweight Correct answer.
  4. To reduce the crane's fuel use

Explanation

The tail swing and counterweight can strike or crush workers who enter the swing area, so the swing radius is barricaded or controlled. Exclusion of personnel is a key site planning control.

Question 18Site and Lift Planning

When planning a lift in high winds, which action is consistent with good practice?

  1. Compare forecast and measured wind speed to the manufacturer's limits and stop if exceeded Correct answer.
  2. Increase boom length to reduce wind effect
  3. Ignore wind if the load is light
  4. Remove tag lines to reduce wind resistance

Explanation

Manufacturers specify maximum wind speeds for operation, often lower for loads with large sail area. Planning must compare actual and forecast conditions to those limits and stop work when they are exceeded.

Question 19Site and Lift Planning

What role does a signal person play in a planned crane lift?

  1. They authorize changes to the lift plan
  2. They relay standardized hand or radio signals between the crew and the operator Correct answer.
  3. They calculate the crane's chart capacity
  4. They inspect the crane's hydraulic system

Explanation

The signal person provides clear, standardized communication so the operator can move the load as planned. Only one signal person should direct the operator at a time unless an emergency stop is needed.

Question 20Site and Lift Planning

A lift plan calls for a crane to be set up on a concrete slab of unknown thickness over a basement. What is the most appropriate next step?

  1. Place the outriggers directly on the slab without pads
  2. Reduce the load radius to compensate
  3. Assume the slab is adequate because concrete is strong
  4. Verify slab capacity with structural evaluation or use an engineered load-spreading system Correct answer.

Explanation

Concrete slabs over voids may not carry concentrated outrigger loads, so capacity must be confirmed by structural evaluation or load spreading designed for the load. Assumptions about slab strength are unsafe.

Question 21Site and Lift Planning

Which document should the planner consult to confirm the crane's maximum allowable outrigger float loading?

  1. The daily toolbox talk record
  2. The site emergency response plan
  3. The crane manufacturer's load chart and operating manual Correct answer.
  4. The operator's training certificate

Explanation

Float loading limits are published by the manufacturer in the operating manual and load chart. These values feed the ground bearing assessment and mat sizing.

Question 22Site and Lift Planning

What is the purpose of tag lines in a planned lift?

  1. To attach the load to the hook
  2. To increase the crane's lifting capacity
  3. To control load rotation and sway from a safe distance Correct answer.
  4. To replace the need for a signal person

Explanation

Tag lines let workers guide the load and control rotation without standing under or close to it. They supplement, but do not replace, proper rigging and signalling.

Question 23Site and Lift Planning

A planner is comparing two crane positions for the same lift. Position A has a shorter radius but soft ground; Position B has a longer radius but firm ground. What is the correct planning approach?

  1. Choose A because shorter radius always means more capacity
  2. Choose the position closest to the load delivery point
  3. Choose B because firm ground always governs
  4. Evaluate chart capacity and ground bearing for both positions and select the one that satisfies both Correct answer.

Explanation

Both capacity and ground support must be satisfied, so each option must be checked against the load chart and ground bearing assessment. The acceptable position is the one where both conditions are met.

Question 24Site and Lift Planning

What should be confirmed about the crane's counterweight before the lift plan is finalized?

  1. That it is heavier than the manufacturer specifies
  2. That it is painted in a high-visibility colour
  3. That it is removed for all lifts
  4. That it matches the configuration shown in the applicable load chart Correct answer.

Explanation

Chart capacity depends on the counterweight specified for that configuration, so the installed counterweight must match the chart being used. Incorrect counterweight invalidates the capacity figures.

Question 25Site and Lift Planning

Which practice best supports communication between the crane operator and the rigging crew during a blind lift?

  1. Relying on shouted instructions from multiple workers
  2. Using a designated signal person with radio contact and agreed signals Correct answer.
  3. Having the operator guess load position from the load chart
  4. Removing all personnel from the area and lifting without signals

Explanation

Blind lifts require a planned communication method, typically a single designated signal person using radio and standardized signals. Multiple instruction sources create confusion and risk.

Question 26Site and Lift Planning

Which factor is most critical when determining the required boom length for a lift?

  1. The load weight
  2. The color of the load
  3. The crane's age
  4. The load radius and lift height Correct answer.

Explanation

Boom length must be sufficient to reach the required lift height and radius while maintaining adequate capacity. The load radius and lift height directly determine the necessary boom length and angle.

Question 27Site and Lift Planning

When planning a lift near power lines, which of the following is the most appropriate action?

  1. Ground the crane to the power line
  2. Increase the lift speed to minimize exposure time
  3. Use a spotter to watch the load
  4. Ensure the crane maintains the minimum clearance distance specified by regulations Correct answer.

Explanation

Regulations specify minimum clearance distances from power lines to prevent electrical contact. The lift plan must ensure that the crane, load, and rigging maintain these distances at all times.

Question 28Site and Lift Planning

What is the primary purpose of a ground bearing pressure calculation in lift planning?

  1. To calculate the wind load on the load
  2. To select the correct rigging hardware
  3. To ensure the ground can support the crane's outrigger loads Correct answer.
  4. To determine the crane's travel speed

Explanation

Ground bearing pressure calculations verify that the soil or surface beneath the outriggers can withstand the forces imposed by the crane and load. This prevents settlement or failure that could lead to tipping.

Question 29Site and Lift Planning

In lift planning, what is the purpose of determining the load's center of gravity?

  1. To select the proper sling angles and hitch type
  2. To determine the crane's maximum travel speed
  3. To ensure the load remains level during lifting Correct answer.
  4. To calculate the crane's fuel efficiency

Explanation

Knowing the center of gravity allows the planner to position the lifting points so that the load remains level and stable during the lift. This prevents shifting or rotation that could cause loss of control.

Question 30Site and Lift Planning

A planner must verify that the total weight used for a lift does not exceed the crane's rated capacity. Which combination best represents the total load that must be accounted for against the load chart?

  1. Only the bare load weight shown on the shipping documents
  2. The bare load weight plus the operator's estimate of wind force
  3. The bare load weight plus the weight of all rigging, slings, and below-the-hook devices Correct answer.
  4. The bare load weight minus the weight of the hook block

Explanation

Load charts rate the crane for the total suspended weight, so the planner must add the load's weight to the weight of rigging, slings, shackles, spreader beams, and any other below-the-hook equipment. Wind and dynamic effects are handled separately through capacity reductions or the manufacturer's restrictions, not by subtracting hook weight. Comparing only the bare load weight against chart capacity overstates the available margin.

Question 31Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

Before a mobile crane begins lifting, the ground beneath the outrigger floats must be able to do what?

  1. Resist only the weight of the crane carrier itself
  2. Support the maximum outrigger load with an adequate safety margin Correct answer.
  3. Match the slope of the crane's travel path
  4. Drain freely so water never pools under the floats

Explanation

Ground bearing pressure under each outrigger float can far exceed the load on the tires, so the supporting surface must carry the maximum outrigger reaction with a margin of safety. Cranes have overturned when floats punched through inadequate ground.

Question 32Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

A crane's load chart shows capacity for 'outriggers fully extended.' The operator sets up with outriggers only partially extended. What applies?

  1. The fully extended outrigger chart still applies because the boom length is unchanged
  2. The load chart does not depend on outrigger extension
  3. The crane may be operated at 50 percent of the fully extended capacity
  4. A different chart or reduced rating for the actual outrigger configuration must be used Correct answer.

Explanation

Load charts are valid only for the configuration they describe, and outrigger extension is part of that configuration. Partial extension generally reduces stability and requires a correspondingly reduced rating or a separate chart.

Question 33Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

What is the primary purpose of the outrigger floats (pads) under a mobile crane?

  1. To spread outrigger force over a larger ground area Correct answer.
  2. To provide a jacking point for tire changes
  3. To level the carrier frame before lifting
  4. To prevent the outrigger beams from rotating

Explanation

Floats increase the contact area between the outrigger and the ground, which lowers the pressure applied to the soil. Lower bearing pressure reduces the risk of ground failure beneath the crane.

Question 34Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

During assembly, a pin is found to be missing from a boom section connection. What is the correct action?

  1. Continue assembly and install the correct pin before the lift
  2. Install a substitute pin of similar diameter from the shop
  3. Wire the connection temporarily and proceed with reduced capacity
  4. Stop and obtain the manufacturer-specified pin before proceeding Correct answer.

Explanation

Boom connections must use the exact pins specified by the manufacturer; substitutions can fail under load. Assembly should not continue past a missing critical component until the correct part is installed.

Question 35Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

A crane is being assembled near an energized overhead power line. Which practice is required before boom assembly begins?

  1. Assign a signal person to watch the line during the lift only
  2. Confirm the required clearance distance and de-energize or maintain the mandated approach distance Correct answer.
  3. Lower the boom to within 3 m of the line to save assembly time
  4. Ground the crane chassis to the line's support structure

Explanation

Assembly often brings the boom closer to lines than normal operation, so the required approach distance must be established and the line de-energized or the distance maintained throughout assembly. Clearance rules apply during erection, not just lifting.

Question 36Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

What does the term 'slew' refer to on a mobile crane?

  1. The telescoping of boom sections
  2. The extension of the outrigger beams
  3. The lifting or lowering of the boom
  4. The rotation of the upper works about the vertical axis Correct answer.

Explanation

Slewing is rotation of the superstructure on the crane's center pin or bearing. It is distinct from booming, telescoping, and outrigger functions.

Question 37Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

When should the crane's level indicator be checked during setup?

  1. Once at the start of the shift regardless of setup
  2. Only when the load exceeds half of rated capacity
  3. After the outriggers are set and again before the first lift Correct answer.
  4. Only after the boom has been fully extended

Explanation

The carrier must be level for the load chart to be valid, so level is confirmed after outriggers are set and re-verified before lifting. Outrigger settling or ground movement can change level after initial setup.

Question 38Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

A crane is set up on a slope that cannot be avoided. What is the correct approach?

  1. Extend outriggers only on the uphill side
  2. Operate at reduced capacity without leveling the crane
  3. Level the crane with outriggers and use cribbing to distribute load, verifying the manufacturer's limits Correct answer.
  4. Chock the tires and operate normally

Explanation

The crane must be leveled using its outriggers, and cribbing is used to distribute load and prevent settling. Manufacturer limits on outrigger stroke and level must be respected.

Question 39Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

Why must outrigger beams be fully extended and pinned per the manufacturer before lifting?

  1. To reduce the crane's overall transport height
  2. To allow the boom to telescope faster
  3. To achieve the stability and capacity assumed by the load chart Correct answer.
  4. To keep the tires from contacting the ground

Explanation

The load chart is based on a specific outrigger configuration, and full extension with pins in place provides the stability that rating assumes. Pins also prevent the beam from creeping under load.

Question 40Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

During disassembly, the counterweight is being removed. What precaution is most important?

  1. Leave the outriggers retracted during counterweight removal
  2. Remove counterweight before the boom is lowered to save time
  3. Remove counterweight with the boom at maximum radius
  4. Follow the manufacturer's sequence and support the crane against tipping as weight is removed Correct answer.

Explanation

Removing counterweight shifts the crane's center of gravity and can create a tipping condition if the boom and outriggers are not in the prescribed configuration. The manufacturer's disassembly sequence accounts for this balance.

Question 41Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

What is the function of cribbing placed under outrigger floats?

  1. To distribute load and provide a stable, level bearing surface Correct answer.
  2. To raise the crane so the tires clear the ground
  3. To absorb vibration during slewing
  4. To insulate the crane from electrical hazards

Explanation

Cribbing spreads the outrigger reaction over a wider area and helps create a stable, level bearing surface. It is not a substitute for adequate ground capacity but complements it.

Question 42Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

A crane's load chart is based on a level crane. If the crane is out of level by a small amount, what is the effect on capacity?

  1. Capacity is reduced because the load radius and stability change Correct answer.
  2. Capacity increases because the load hangs closer to the boom
  3. Capacity is unchanged because the chart includes a tolerance
  4. Capacity is unaffected as long as outriggers are fully extended

Explanation

An unlevel crane changes the effective load radius and shifts the center of gravity, reducing stability and capacity. Manufacturer leveling tolerances are small and must be met before the chart applies.

Question 43Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

Before assembling a lattice boom, what should be verified about the boom sections?

  1. That all sections are the same length
  2. That the lightest section is placed nearest the boom tip
  3. That sections are matched and oriented per the manufacturer's markings Correct answer.
  4. That sections are painted to match

Explanation

Lattice boom sections must be assembled in the correct order and orientation, which manufacturers mark on the sections. Incorrect assembly can compromise strength and geometry.

Question 44Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

What is the purpose of the boom angle indicator during setup and lifting?

  1. To show the boom's angle so the operator can determine radius and capacity Correct answer.
  2. To indicate hydraulic oil temperature
  3. To measure the load weight on the hook
  4. To confirm outrigger extension

Explanation

Boom angle, together with boom length, determines load radius, which is used to find capacity on the load chart. The indicator helps the operator stay within the rated configuration.

Question 45Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

During assembly, the crane's anti-two-block device is found to be inoperative. What is the correct action?

  1. Disable the alarm so it does not distract the crew
  2. Continue only if the load is light
  3. Proceed with assembly and repair before the first lift Correct answer.
  4. Proceed if a spotter watches the boom tip

Explanation

The anti-two-block device is a safety device that must be functional before the crane is placed in service. Assembly can continue, but the crane must not lift until it is repaired and tested.

Question 46Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

Which factor most directly determines the required outrigger spread for a given lift?

  1. The operator's preference for stability
  2. The length of the haul route
  3. The manufacturer's configuration for the rated capacity needed Correct answer.
  4. The color of the crane's load chart

Explanation

The needed capacity determines which load chart applies, and each chart specifies the outrigger configuration it assumes. The operator must set up to match that configuration.

Question 47Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

What should be done if the ground under an outrigger float begins to settle during a lift?

  1. Extend the outrigger further without cribbing
  2. Increase engine speed to compensate
  3. Stop, lower the load, and re-set the outrigger with improved ground support Correct answer.
  4. Continue the lift and monitor the level indicator

Explanation

Settling indicates the ground cannot support the reaction and can lead to overturning. The lift must be stopped, the load lowered, and the setup corrected with better bearing support.

Question 48Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

Why is the crane's swing area barricaded during assembly and lifting?

  1. To prevent the outriggers from extending
  2. To mark the crane's travel lane
  3. To keep the operator from leaving the cab
  4. To protect personnel from the rotating superstructure and suspended load Correct answer.

Explanation

The superstructure swings and the load travels over an area where people can be struck or crushed. Barricading the swing radius keeps personnel clear of these hazards.

Question 49Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

A crane is being assembled on a site where underground utilities are present. What should be done before setting outriggers?

  1. Assume utilities are deep enough to be unaffected
  2. Ask the utility owner to move the lines after setup
  3. Set outriggers directly over the utility for stability
  4. Locate and mark utilities and avoid setting floats over them Correct answer.

Explanation

Outrigger loads can crush buried utilities or cause ground collapse, so utilities must be located and avoided. Setting a float over a utility risks both the utility and the crane.

Question 50Crane Setup, Assembly, and Disassembly

What is the correct order for retracting a crane after completing a lift, per typical manufacturer guidance?

  1. Retract outriggers, then lower and stow the boom
  2. Travel with the boom extended and outriggers down
  3. Retract outriggers and boom simultaneously
  4. Lower and stow the boom, then retract the outriggers Correct answer.

Explanation

The boom and load must be stowed before the crane's support base is reduced by retracting outriggers. Retracting outriggers first removes stability while the boom is still elevated.