NCCCO LBT cheat sheet

Load weight total = lifted load + rigging (slings, shackles, spreader beam) + below-the-hook device + all attachments; add 10% for unknown weights or absorb moisture.

Percent capacity = (total load moment / rated capacity at that radius) x 100; any configuration over 75% of chart capacity triggers a critical lift per many site plans.

Net capacity = gross chart capacity minus the weight of all lifting attachments (jib, auxiliary head, block, hook, slings).

Deduct jib/auxiliary boom loads using the manufacturer's deduction chart; never read the main boom chart alone when a jib is installed.

Utilize the load-radius chart at the actual working radius measured from the center of rotation to the load centerline, not boom tip.

Multi-crane picks: keep total load on any single crane under 50-75% of its capacity and require a written engineered plan with a designated lift director.

Determine ground bearing pressure = total weight on outrigger / outrigger float area; compare to soil bearing capacity from geotechnical data.

Minimum clearance to energized power lines (per 29 CFR 1926.1408 Table A): 20 ft up to 50 kV; 20 ft + 0.4 in per kV above 50 kV; verify utility owner voltage.

Outrigger blocking must extend the full float area; cribbing must be level and rated for the calculated bearing pressure.

Barricade the swing radius and the full fall zone; keep personnel out of the area under the load and outside the counterweight swing path.

Check for underground utilities, voids, slopes, and recently backfilled trenches before setting outriggers; use mats or crane mats to spread load.

Ground slope limits per manufacturer (typically 1% or as specified); verify level within tolerance using a bubble level on the crane.

Wind speed limits: consult manufacturer's chart; stop lifts when wind exceeds the rated in-service wind speed or when the load sail area becomes uncontrollable.

Site access and egress: verify approach grades, overhead obstructions, and soil support along the travel path for crawler and carrier moves.

Standard hand signals per ASME B30.5 / 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC; only one designated signal person directs the operator at a time.

Stop signal may be given by anyone; operator must obey a stop signal from any person regardless of who is directing the lift.

Pre-lift meeting covers lift plan, roles, signals, tag line use, communication method, and emergency stop procedures; document attendance.

Tag lines control load rotation; never wrap tag lines around hands or body; keep personnel clear of the load path.

Test lift: raise load a few inches, verify rigging, brake holding, and load stability before hoisting to full height.

Operator must not leave controls while a load is suspended; if power fails, secure the load and lower using controlled descent procedures.

Critical lift criteria (typical): over 75% of chart capacity, multiple cranes, personnel lifting, over occupied areas, or near power lines.

OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC governs cranes and derricks in construction; 1910.180 covers general industry crawler cranes.

ASME B30.5 covers mobile and locomotive cranes; ASME B30.9 covers slings; ASME B30.10 covers hooks; ASME B30.20 covers below-the-hook devices.

Annual crane inspection required; monthly inspections by competent person; daily pre-shift inspection documented before use.

Operator certification per 1926.1427: NCCCO or equivalent nationally accredited certification plus employer qualification and evaluation.

Rigging inspection: remove slings with broken wires, kinks, excessive wear, or missing tags; document removal from service.

Load charts must be in the cab or with the operator at all times; use the manufacturer's chart for the specific crane configuration.

Signal person qualification and rigger qualification must be documented per 1926.1428 and 1926.1404.