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NCCCO Crane Inspector study materials
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NCCCO Crane Inspector practice questions

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Question 1Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Before a periodic inspection of a lattice boom crane, which document best establishes the manufacturer's acceptance criteria for wear on the boom pins?

  1. The rigging plan for the upcoming lift
  2. The operator's most recent hand signal log
  3. The manufacturer's published inspection and maintenance manual Correct answer.
  4. The crane's daily lift ticket

Explanation

Inspection acceptance limits for structural and mechanical components come from the manufacturer's manuals and bulletins, which state wear and rejection criteria specific to that crane model. Other site paperwork does not define component wear limits.

Question 2Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During a pre-use inspection, an inspector finds the wire rope hoist line has a cluster of broken wires within one lay length. What is the appropriate first action?

  1. Reduce the rated capacity by half and continue operating
  2. Apply a wire rope lubricant and re-inspect at the next shift
  3. Record the count and compare it to the rope removal criteria in the applicable standard Correct answer.
  4. Reverse the rope end-for-end and return the crane to service

Explanation

Broken wire counts within a lay length are a defined removal criterion, so the inspector must count them and compare against the applicable standard or manufacturer limit. Lubrication, derating, or end-for-ending does not address the structural loss in the rope.

Question 3Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which condition on a hook most clearly requires removal from service rather than monitoring?

  1. Light surface rust on the shank
  2. Normal polishing on the saddle from reeving
  3. A crack detected by magnetic particle examination Correct answer.
  4. A legible manufacturer stamp on the shank

Explanation

Cracks in a hook are a rejection condition because they indicate a loss of structural integrity that cannot be monitored away. Surface rust, polishing wear, and markings are handled by normal inspection criteria rather than removal.

Question 4Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What is the primary purpose of the anti-two-block device on a telescopic boom crane?

  1. Limit swing speed when the load approaches the machine
  2. Measure the weight of the load against the rated capacity
  3. Prevent the load block from contacting the boom tip and damaging the hoist rope Correct answer.
  4. Stop boom extension when the telescope cylinder reaches its stroke limit

Explanation

The anti-two-block device interrupts the hoisting or boom-lowering function before the load block or headache ball contacts the boom tip. It protects the rope and reeving from being pulled tight and damaged.

Question 5Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector is checking a pendant or standing rope on a lattice boom crane. Which observation indicates the component has failed its inspection?

  1. Slight rotation of the rope during boom assembly
  2. Uniform light oil film along the length
  3. Normal contact marks where the rope passes a sheave
  4. A broken wire at the end termination fitting Correct answer.

Explanation

Broken wires at or near a termination are a rejection condition because the fitting concentrates stress and the rope loses capacity there. Oil film, rotation during assembly, and sheave contact marks are normal.

Question 6Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which item is part of the required pre-shift inspection of crane controls?

  1. Repacking the swing bearing with grease
  2. Recalibrating the load moment indicator with test weights
  3. Verifying that control lever functions match the labeled crane motions Correct answer.
  4. Replacing the hoist brake friction discs

Explanation

Pre-shift inspection confirms that each control performs its labeled function and that motions respond correctly. Bearing greasing, indicator recalibration, and brake relining are maintenance tasks with longer intervals.

Question 7Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What does the load moment indicator on a telescopic boom crane compute to warn the operator of an overload?

  1. The hydraulic pressure in the swing motor circuit
  2. The tension in the boom extension cable
  3. The relationship of load moment to the crane's rated capacity at the current configuration Correct answer.
  4. The temperature of the hoist brake during lowering

Explanation

The load moment indicator uses boom length, angle, and load to calculate the moment and compares it to the rated capacity for the current configuration. It then warns or limits before capacity is exceeded.

Question 8Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which practice best preserves the legibility of a crane's rated capacity chart during inspection?

  1. Confirm the chart is present, legible, and matches the crane configuration Correct answer.
  2. Replace the chart with a generic capacity table of similar size
  3. Store the chart rolled tightly in the toolbox
  4. Laminate the chart to the boom surface with adhesive

Explanation

The inspector verifies the chart is in place, readable, and corresponds to the actual boom and jib configuration of that crane. A chart that is missing, illegible, or for the wrong configuration is a deficiency.

Question 9Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector measures a boom pin bore and finds the wear exceeds the manufacturer's limit. Which conclusion is correct?

  1. The crane may be operated at reduced radius only
  2. The component must be repaired or replaced per the manufacturer's instructions before use Correct answer.
  3. The bore may remain in service if the pin is replaced with a larger one
  4. The wear is acceptable if no visible cracking is present

Explanation

Exceeding a published wear limit means the component no longer meets the manufacturer's acceptance criteria and must be repaired or replaced as directed. Oversized pins, derating, or absence of cracks do not restore compliance.

Question 10Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During a functional test, the boom hoist holding brake allows the boom to drift downward when the control is released. What is the correct inspector response?

  1. Instruct the operator to hold the control to prevent drift
  2. Accept the drift because it is within normal hydraulic bleed
  3. Note the drift and recheck it at the next annual inspection
  4. Tag the crane out of service until the brake is adjusted or repaired Correct answer.

Explanation

A holding brake that does not hold the boom is a safety deficiency requiring the crane to be removed from service until corrected. Operator compensation or deferred inspection leaves an uncontrolled load hazard.

Question 11Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector finds that the swing brake on a crawler crane does not hold the upper works on a slope. Which factor should the inspector evaluate first to determine whether this is a deficiency?

  1. The manufacturer's specification for swing brake holding capability Correct answer.
  2. The type of sling used in the last lift
  3. The number of hours on the hour meter
  4. The color of the brake release indicator light

Explanation

Whether a swing brake must hold on a slope depends on the manufacturer's design specification and the crane's intended use. The inspector compares observed performance to that specification before deciding.

Question 12Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What is the correct method for inspecting a sheave groove for wear on a crane boom tip?

  1. Rotate the sheave by hand and listen for noise only
  2. Measure the sheave outside diameter with a tape measure
  3. Check the sheave for paint coverage
  4. Visually compare the groove profile to a new sheave or use a groove gauge Correct answer.

Explanation

Groove wear is assessed by comparing the groove profile to the original contour with a gauge or known-good sheave. Excessive groove depth or a sharpened profile damages rope and is a rejection condition.

Question 13Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector observes that the crane's outrigger pads are sinking into soft ground during setup. What is the appropriate inspection finding?

  1. The outrigger cylinder seals are leaking
  2. The outrigger extension limit switch has failed
  3. The ground bearing capacity is inadequate for the outrigger loading Correct answer.
  4. The outrigger beams are structurally cracked

Explanation

Sinking pads indicate the supporting soil cannot carry the outrigger reaction forces, which is a setup and ground condition issue. The remedy is improved matting or a different location, not component repair.

Question 14Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which inspection result on a hydraulic system most directly indicates an internal leak requiring attention?

  1. Slow boom drift with the control valve centered and no external leakage Correct answer.
  2. Normal temperature rise during continuous operation
  3. A faint hiss at the reservoir breather
  4. A slight film of oil on a fitting that wipes clean

Explanation

Drift with the valve centered and no external leak points to internal bypass past seals or valves. External films, normal temperature rise, and breather noise are not by themselves internal leak indicators.

Question 15Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

When inspecting a crane's electrical system, which finding requires immediate correction before operation?

  1. A fuse rated to the manufacturer's specification
  2. A cable tie securing a harness to the boom
  3. A missing cover on a junction box exposing live terminals Correct answer.
  4. A ground strap with clean, tight connections

Explanation

Exposed live terminals present an electrocution and fire hazard and must be corrected before the crane is operated. Secured harnesses, clean grounds, and correctly rated fuses are acceptable conditions.

Question 16Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector is evaluating a lattice boom section for damage after a side load event. Which inspection technique is most appropriate for detecting cracks at welded chord connections?

  1. Visual inspection supplemented by magnetic particle or dye penetrant testing where specified Correct answer.
  2. Tapping the chord with a wrench and listening for a ring
  3. Visual inspection only, because paint hides all cracks
  4. Measuring the boom length with a tape

Explanation

Surface and near-surface cracks at welds are detected with non-destructive methods such as magnetic particle or penetrant testing, used where the manufacturer or standard specifies. Visual inspection alone may miss tight cracks, and tapping or measuring does not detect them.

Question 17Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What is the purpose of verifying the crane's level indicator during inspection?

  1. To check the hydraulic oil temperature
  2. To record the total hours of crane operation
  3. To confirm the operator can level the crane within the manufacturer's tolerance before lifting Correct answer.
  4. To measure the wind speed at the boom tip

Explanation

Cranes must be set up level within the manufacturer's tolerance because out-of-level conditions change load distribution and reduce capacity. The level indicator lets the operator confirm that condition before lifting.

Question 18Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector finds the crane's horn is inoperative during a pre-use check. How should this be classified?

  1. A required safety device deficiency that must be corrected before use Correct answer.
  2. A cosmetic issue with no operational effect
  3. An optional accessory failure that can be deferred
  4. A maintenance item for the next quarterly service

Explanation

The horn is a required warning device used to alert personnel before and during crane movement. An inoperative horn is a deficiency that must be corrected before the crane is placed in service.

Question 19Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During inspection of a running rope, the inspector notes that the rope is riding hard against the side of a sheave flange. Which condition should be investigated?

  1. The date of the last annual inspection
  2. The color of the rope's identification tag
  3. Sheave alignment and fleet angle relative to the drum Correct answer.
  4. The rated capacity of the hoist brake

Explanation

Rope contact with a sheave flange indicates misalignment or excessive fleet angle, both of which cause rope wear and damage. The inspector should check sheave alignment and fleet angle rather than unrelated records.

Question 20Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector is reviewing a crane's wire rope for rotation-resistant rope used in a single-part hoist. Why is this application a concern?

  1. Rotation-resistant rope cannot be inspected visually
  2. Rotation-resistant rope is prohibited on all cranes
  3. Rotation-resistant rope has a lower breaking strength than any other rope
  4. Rotation-resistant rope may develop a tight loop or kink and fail when loaded in a single-part configuration Correct answer.

Explanation

Rotation-resistant rope relies on multiple parts or specific reeving to control spin; in single-part hoisting it can form loops or kinks that damage the rope. The inspector should verify the rope is applied per the manufacturer's reeving requirements.

Question 21Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector suspects a crane's rated capacity indicator has been bypassed because the crane continued lifting after the indicator alarmed. Which action best verifies the concern?

  1. Review the crane's fuel consumption records
  2. Compare the indicator's output and limiting function against the manufacturer's calibration procedure Correct answer.
  3. Check the crane's paint for fading near the indicator
  4. Ask the operator whether the alarm sounded loud enough

Explanation

Verifying that the indicator both alarms and limits correctly requires functional testing against the manufacturer's calibration and test procedure. Operator opinion, cosmetic clues, and fuel records cannot confirm a bypass.

Question 22Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

A crane inspector finds that a welded repair was made to a boom chord without documentation. What is the most defensible inspection conclusion?

  1. The repair requires engineering review and manufacturer approval before the boom is returned to service Correct answer.
  2. The repair is acceptable because it is painted over
  3. The repair is acceptable if the crane is derated by 10 percent
  4. The repair is acceptable if the weld looks smooth

Explanation

Unauthorized structural repairs on a boom chord affect the crane's rated capacity and require engineering evaluation and manufacturer approval. Cosmetic appearance, paint, or arbitrary derating cannot substitute for that review.

Question 23Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector must decide whether a crane with a cracked boom pivot lug may continue a critical lift already in progress. Which principle governs the decision?

  1. The lift may continue if the crack is shorter than 25 mm
  2. The lift may continue if the load is reduced below 50 percent of capacity
  3. The crane must be removed from service because a cracked structural lug is a rejection condition Correct answer.
  4. The lift may continue if the operator monitors the crack during the lift

Explanation

A crack in a primary structural component such as a boom pivot lug is a rejection condition that removes the crane from service regardless of load size. No arbitrary crack length, derating, or in-lift monitoring makes continued operation acceptable.

Question 24Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector comparing two annual inspection reports notices that a boom section was replaced, but the capacity chart still reflects the original boom configuration. What is the correct finding?

  1. The chart is acceptable if the old boom is stored on site
  2. The chart must be updated to match the installed boom configuration before operation Correct answer.
  3. The chart is acceptable because capacity charts are generic to the crane model
  4. The chart is acceptable if the operator calculates reduced capacity manually

Explanation

The capacity chart must correspond to the boom and jib actually installed because ratings depend on that configuration. Operating with a mismatched chart can lead to exceeding the crane's rated capacity.

Question 25Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During inspection of a crane's hoist drum, the inspector observes that the rope is spooling over itself in multiple layers and the drum flange does not extend above the top layer. Which conclusion is correct?

  1. The drum flange must extend above the top layer of rope as required for proper spooling Correct answer.
  2. The drum must be replaced with a larger diameter drum
  3. This is acceptable if the rope is lubricated
  4. This is acceptable if the load is kept below rated capacity

Explanation

Drum flanges must extend above the top layer of spooled rope to keep the rope contained and prevent it from slipping off the drum. Lubrication or reduced load does not correct inadequate flange height.

Question 26Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which document establishes the load ratings an inspector uses to judge whether a crane is being operated within its capacity?

  1. The rigging plan prepared by the lift director for the day's work
  2. The crane operator's daily logbook of lifts performed
  3. The manufacturer's rated capacity chart for the specific crane configuration Correct answer.
  4. The site-specific lift plan approved by the general contractor

Explanation

Capacity is configuration-specific and is published by the manufacturer for each boom length, radius, counterweight arrangement, and outrigger condition. Site plans and operator logs describe how the crane was used, but they do not define the allowable load. The inspector compares observed radius and load against the manufacturer's chart.

Question 27Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector is checking the crane's load moment indicator before a lift. Which verification best confirms the system is functioning?

  1. Asking the operator whether the system has alarmed unexpectedly during recent lifts
  2. Confirming that the display powers on and shows a numeric value for boom length
  3. Reading the last calibration sticker to verify it is less than twelve months old
  4. Comparing displayed radius and boom angle against a measured radius and an angle indicator Correct answer.

Explanation

A load moment indicator is only useful if its sensed values match reality, so the inspector compares displayed radius and boom angle to independent measurements. Powering on and reading a calibration date do not prove the sensors are accurate. Operator recollection is supplemental and cannot substitute for a direct comparison.

Question 28Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During a periodic inspection, an inspector finds the crane's anti-two-block device is present but its weight and chain are missing. What is the correct determination?

  1. The crane may operate at reduced capacity until a replacement weight arrives
  2. The device is acceptable because the horn and light still activate at the boom tip
  3. The device is not functional and the crane must be removed from service until it is repaired Correct answer.
  4. The deficiency may be logged and corrected at the next scheduled annual inspection

Explanation

An anti-two-block device depends on its weight and chain to actuate the switch that stops hoisting before block contact. Without those components the protective function is defeated, which is a safety device deficiency requiring removal from service. Reduced capacity or deferred correction does not restore the protective function.

Question 29Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which condition on a crane's hook most clearly requires the hook to be removed from service?

  1. A safety latch that closes fully and seats against the hook tip
  2. A twist or bend in the hook shank that prevents the hook from hanging freely Correct answer.
  3. Light surface rust on the shank that wipes off with a rag
  4. Normal polishing of the saddle from repeated contact with sling eyes

Explanation

A hook that has been twisted or bent out of plane has yielded and cannot be relied on to carry rated loads, so it must be replaced rather than straightened. Polishing at the saddle and light surface rust are cosmetic. A latch that closes and seats properly is a satisfactory condition.

Question 30Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector observes that the crane's swing lock is engaged while the crane is being traveled with a suspended load. How should this be evaluated?

  1. It is acceptable if the operator reduces travel speed to a walking pace
  2. It is required whenever a load is suspended, to prevent the upper works from rotating
  3. It is a procedural violation, because the swing lock is not a travel brake and should not be used to control a suspended load Correct answer.
  4. It is acceptable practice whenever the travel path is level and the load is kept low

Explanation

The swing lock or swing brake is designed to hold the upper works during operations, not to arrest the dynamic forces of a traveling crane with a suspended load. Using it that way can damage the swing mechanism and does not control load swing. The inspector should treat it as a misuse of the equipment.

Question 31Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which finding during inspection of a hydraulic outrigger system indicates the outrigger may not hold a set position under load?

  1. The outrigger cylinder rod shows a light film of hydraulic oil at the wiper
  2. The outrigger beam creeps inward and the jack loses pressure with the control valve centered Correct answer.
  3. The outrigger control lever returns to neutral when released
  4. The outrigger pad shows uniform contact wear across its face

Explanation

Creep of the beam or loss of jack pressure with the valve centered points to internal leakage in the cylinder or holding valve, which can allow the crane to settle during a lift. Uniform pad wear and a returning control lever are normal. A light film at the wiper is a minor seepage observation rather than proof of load-holding failure.

Question 32Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What is the primary purpose of inspecting the crane's counterweight mounting during a periodic inspection?

  1. To check that the counterweight can be removed quickly for transport
  2. To verify the counterweight surface is free of paint chips and cosmetic blemishes
  3. To measure the counterweight thickness for wear against a manufacturer's limit
  4. To confirm the counterweight is secured and matches the configuration on the capacity chart Correct answer.

Explanation

Counterweight quantity and securement determine the crane's stability and must match the configuration for which the capacity chart was issued. Loose or missing counterweight changes the ratings and creates a tipping hazard. Appearance, thickness wear, and removal speed are not the governing inspection concerns.

Question 33Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During inspection of a lattice boom, the inspector finds a bent lacings member adjacent to a main chord. Which evaluation is most appropriate?

  1. The lacing is a secondary member, so the crane may continue at full capacity with the bend logged
  2. The bend may be ignored if the main chords show no visible deformation
  3. The damaged section must be evaluated against the manufacturer's criteria and repaired or replaced before the crane is returned to service Correct answer.
  4. The lacing may be straightened in the field with a hydraulic jack and returned to service without documentation

Explanation

Lacing transfers shear between chords and a bent lacing alters the load path in the boom section. Repairs must follow the manufacturer's published criteria and be documented, because field straightening without engineering direction can leave hidden damage. The absence of chord deformation does not clear a damaged lacing.

Question 34Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which inspection method is most suitable for detecting tight cracks in a boom weld that are not visible to the unaided eye?

  1. Magnetic particle inspection of the weld toe and heat-affected zone Correct answer.
  2. Measuring the weld with a fillet gauge
  3. Tapping the weld with a hammer and listening for a change in sound
  4. Visual inspection with a magnifying glass under bright light

Explanation

Magnetic particle inspection reveals surface and near-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic weld material that visual methods can miss. Magnification improves visual acuity but cannot resolve tight cracks. Hammer tapping and fillet gauges assess fit and profile rather than crack presence.

Question 35Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector notes that a crane's wire rope has a broken wire count within the allowable removal criteria but the broken wires are concentrated in one lay. How should this be treated?

  1. The rope is acceptable because the total count governs regardless of distribution
  2. Concentrated broken wires in one lay warrant removal even when the total count is within the general limit Correct answer.
  3. The rope is acceptable if the concentrated breaks are in the non-load-bearing portion of the lay
  4. The rope may remain in service if the broken ends are clipped and the count rechecked

Explanation

Removal criteria for running rope account for distribution, and a cluster of broken wires in one lay signals localized deterioration such as a damaged sheave or drum. Such concentration is treated more severely than scattered breaks. Clipping ends or relying on total count alone does not address the localized damage.

Question 36Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What does an inspector check when verifying that a crane's leveling system is functioning correctly?

  1. That the level indicator reads correctly and the crane can be leveled within the manufacturer's tolerance before lifting Correct answer.
  2. That the bubble level is replaced at each annual inspection regardless of condition
  3. That the crane is level only when the boom is over the front
  4. That the level indicator is illuminated and visible from the operator's seat only

Explanation

Leveling affects rated capacity and must be achieved within the manufacturer's stated tolerance before the lift begins. The indicator must be accurate, not merely illuminated or visible. Replacement on a fixed schedule and leveling only in one boom orientation do not verify the system.

Question 37Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector finds that a crane's boom hoist wire rope has a pronounced kink that cannot be removed by tensioning. What is the correct disposition?

  1. The affected rope must be removed from service because a kink permanently distorts the strand structure Correct answer.
  2. The kink may be worked out by cycling the boom through its full range under load
  3. The kink may remain if the rope passes a visual inspection after tensioning
  4. The kink is acceptable if it is located within the drum anchorage zone

Explanation

A kink deforms the strands and redistributes load unevenly, and it cannot be corrected by tensioning or cycling the boom. Rope with a permanent kink must be replaced. Location near the anchorage does not exempt the rope, and passing a visual check after tensioning does not restore strand geometry.

Question 38Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which item belongs in the documentation an inspector should review before performing a periodic crane inspection?

  1. The project schedule for upcoming lifts
  2. The operator's personal training certificates only
  3. Prior inspection reports and records of repairs and modifications Correct answer.
  4. The supplier invoices for replacement parts

Explanation

Prior reports and repair or modification records show the crane's history and reveal whether earlier deficiencies were corrected or whether changes affect the capacity chart. Training certificates, lift schedules, and parts invoices do not document the crane's structural and mechanical condition. Reviewing history guides where the inspector should focus attention.

Question 39Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During a functional check, the inspector finds that the crane's boom extension limit switch does not stop boom extension at the specified point. Which conclusion is correct?

  1. The switch may be adjusted during operation by the operator as the boom extends
  2. The switch is advisory only and does not affect the crane's rated capacity
  3. The limit switch is a safety device and the crane must not be operated until it functions correctly Correct answer.
  4. The switch may be bypassed if the operator watches the boom extension indicator

Explanation

A boom extension limit switch prevents structural damage and is a required safety device, so a failed switch places the crane out of service until corrected. Operator monitoring or field adjustment during operation does not substitute for a functioning device. Advisory-only status does not apply to a limit switch.

Question 40Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector is evaluating a crane's turntable bearing for wear. Which observation most strongly suggests the bearing requires further evaluation?

  1. Slight discoloration of the bearing paint near the grease fittings
  2. A uniform film of grease at the bearing seal
  3. Visible movement between the upper and lower structures when the boom is swung and a load is applied Correct answer.
  4. A grease fitting that accepts grease slowly during lubrication

Explanation

Relative movement between the upper works and the carbody under load indicates looseness in the turntable bearing or its mounting, which affects stability and alignment. Grease at the seal, paint discoloration, and a slow grease fitting are minor conditions. Movement under load should trigger closer evaluation against manufacturer criteria.

Question 41Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What is the correct way to verify that a crane's rated capacity limiter alarm functions during inspection?

  1. Simulate an overload condition using the manufacturer's approved procedure and confirm the alarm and lockout respond Correct answer.
  2. Raise the boom to maximum angle and listen for any audible signal
  3. Disconnect the sensor and observe whether the display shows a fault code
  4. Ask the operator to recall the last time the alarm sounded

Explanation

The rated capacity limiter must be tested by simulating the condition it is designed to detect, following the manufacturer's procedure, and confirming both alarm and control lockout. Disconnecting sensors, relying on memory, or raising the boom does not reproduce an overload condition. The test must confirm the protective action, not just a signal.

Question 42Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector observes that the crane's fire extinguisher is present but its gauge reads in the recharge zone. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Accept the extinguisher because it is mounted in the required location
  2. Note the reading in the report and continue operating until the next inspection
  3. Discharge the extinguisher partially to check that it still operates
  4. Tag the extinguisher for recharge or replacement before the crane is placed in service Correct answer.

Explanation

A gauge in the recharge zone means the extinguisher may not discharge effectively, so it must be recharged or replaced before use. Presence and mounting do not establish readiness. Deferring correction leaves the crane without functional fire protection, and test discharging reduces the available charge.

Question 43Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector finds the crane's swing circle guard bolts are missing on several locations. What is the most appropriate evaluation?

  1. The guard may be secured with wire until the next scheduled inspection
  2. The guard is decorative and missing bolts do not affect safe operation
  3. The guard may remain if the swing area is marked with cones during operation
  4. Missing guard fasteners expose personnel to a pinch hazard and must be replaced before operation Correct answer.

Explanation

Guards protect personnel from the pinch and shear points at the swing circle, and missing fasteners defeat that protection. Marking the area with cones or treating the guard as decorative does not substitute for a properly secured guard. Wire is not an acceptable substitute for specified fasteners.

Question 44Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which condition on a crane's cab best indicates a deficiency requiring correction before operation?

  1. A cracked windshield that obstructs the operator's view of the load and signal person Correct answer.
  2. A worn floor mat at the entry step
  3. A seat cushion with normal wear at the edges
  4. A slightly loose radio antenna mount

Explanation

The operator must maintain an unobstructed view of the load, the signal person, and the travel path, so a cracked windshield that blocks vision is a deficiency. Seat wear, an antenna mount, and a floor mat do not impair the operator's ability to control the crane safely.

Question 45Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector is reviewing a crane's load chart and notices that the chart in the cab is for a different boom length than the one installed. What is the correct conclusion?

  1. The chart discrepancy is acceptable if the crane is equipped with a load moment indicator
  2. The crane may operate using the chart if the operator calculates reduced ratings manually
  3. The crane may operate at the ratings for the shorter of the two boom lengths
  4. The crane cannot be operated because the capacity information does not match the installed configuration Correct answer.

Explanation

The capacity chart must correspond to the installed boom length and configuration, and operating with a mismatched chart means there is no valid rating to work from. Manual recalculation by the operator is not an approved substitute. A load moment indicator does not replace the chart, and using shorter-boom ratings is arbitrary.

Question 46Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

What is the purpose of inspecting the crane's boom angle indicator during a periodic inspection?

  1. To confirm the indicator reads accurately so the operator can determine radius and capacity Correct answer.
  2. To check that the boom telescope cylinder is fully retracted
  3. To measure the boom's structural deflection under load
  4. To verify that the boom can be lowered to the ground for inspection

Explanation

Boom angle is used with boom length to determine radius, which drives capacity, so an inaccurate indicator can lead to overload. It does not measure deflection, control boom lowering, or indicate cylinder position. The inspector verifies accuracy against a known reference.

Question 47Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector finds that a crane's hoist brake holds the load but the drum rotates slightly before stopping when the control is released. How should this be characterized?

  1. The rotation indicates the load exceeds capacity and the lift must be replanned
  2. Some controlled stopping distance is normal and the brake should be evaluated against the manufacturer's specified limits Correct answer.
  3. The rotation is caused by rope stretch and requires no evaluation
  4. Any drum rotation after release indicates the brake has failed and the crane must be removed from service

Explanation

Hoist brakes are permitted a limited amount of stopping travel, and the inspector compares observed behavior to the manufacturer's specified limit. Not every small rotation constitutes failure. Load capacity and rope stretch are separate concerns that do not explain brake stopping distance.

Question 48Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

Which practice is appropriate when an inspector finds a deficiency that does not immediately endanger operation but must be corrected?

  1. Wait until the next annual inspection to record all deficiencies together
  2. Record the deficiency only in the inspector's personal notes
  3. Document the deficiency, notify the responsible party, and set a defined correction interval Correct answer.
  4. Correct the deficiency without documenting it to avoid paperwork

Explanation

Deficiencies that are not immediately hazardous still require a documented record, notification to the responsible party, and a defined timeframe for correction so the item is tracked to closure. Personal notes, undocumented repairs, and batching items until the annual inspection all break the correction trail.

Question 49Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

An inspector observes that the crane's wire rope is contacting the boom tip sheave flange and the rope has visible flattened areas. Which conclusion is best supported?

  1. The rope may continue in service if the broken wire count is zero
  2. The fleet angle or sheave alignment is incorrect and the rope and sheave both require evaluation Correct answer.
  3. The flattened areas are normal break-in wear and require no action
  4. The sheave flange should be ground down to clear the rope

Explanation

Rope running against a sheave flange indicates misalignment or excessive fleet angle, which flattens and abrades the rope and can damage the sheave. Both components must be evaluated against removal criteria. Flattened areas are not normal break-in wear, and altering a sheave flange is an unauthorized modification.

Question 50Crane Inspection Knowledge and Skills

During inspection, the inspector finds that the crane's outrigger beams lack the required extension limit markings. Why does this matter for safe operation?

  1. Beam extension affects the crane's capacity, and markings allow the operator to confirm the correct setup position Correct answer.
  2. The markings show the load limit of the outrigger pad itself
  3. The markings are required only for cranes operating on public roads
  4. The markings indicate the maximum hydraulic pressure in the outrigger circuit

Explanation

Outrigger beam extension determines the effective support geometry and therefore the crane's rated capacity, so markings let the operator confirm proper setup. They are not a road-use requirement, a pressure indicator, or a pad load rating. Missing markings can lead to operation at an incorrect configuration.