I85PREP
⌘ K
NCCCO Rigger study materials
NCCCO Rigger study resources

NCCCO Rigger practice questions

One question at a time. Build your NCCCO Rigger understanding.

First 50 of 199 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Inspection of rigging before use

How often must rigging slings be inspected before being used?

  1. Once each year
  2. Before each use Correct answer.
  3. Once each week
  4. Once each month

Explanation

Pre-use inspection is required before every lift. Periodic inspections supplement the pre-use check but do not replace it because damage can occur between lifts.

Question 2Inspection of rigging before use

A synthetic web sling is found without a legible identification tag. What is the correct action?

  1. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  2. Write the capacity on the web
  3. Reduce its capacity by half
  4. Use it for vertical lifts only

Explanation

Slings must be marked with their rated capacity and type so the user can verify the load limit. If the tag is missing or illegible, the capacity cannot be confirmed and the sling must be removed from service.

Question 3Inspection of rigging before use

A hook is removed from service when its throat opening has increased by more than what percentage of the original opening?

  1. 15 percent Correct answer.
  2. 10 percent
  3. 20 percent
  4. 5 percent

Explanation

Hook removal criteria include a throat opening increase of more than 15 percent. Wear of more than 10 percent of the original dimension and twist of more than 10 degrees are separate criteria.

Question 4Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling shows six broken wires in one strand within a single rope lay. What action is required?

  1. Use it only for choker hitches
  2. Return it to service if no other damage is found
  3. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  4. Shorten the sling by one lay

Explanation

Wire rope sling removal criteria include 10 broken wires in one rope lay or 5 broken wires in one strand in one rope lay. Six broken wires in one strand exceeds the strand limit, so the sling must be removed.

Question 5Inspection of rigging before use

Which condition on a synthetic web sling requires removal from service?

  1. Light surface dust
  2. A mild odor
  3. Charring or melting Correct answer.
  4. A slight storage crease

Explanation

Charring, melting, or burns indicate heat damage that weakens synthetic fibers. These conditions are removal criteria regardless of the sling's apparent capacity.

Question 6Inspection of rigging before use

A chain sling has a link that is visibly bent and twisted. What should be done?

  1. Straighten it with a hammer
  2. Use it at 50 percent capacity
  3. Use it only in a basket hitch
  4. Remove it from service Correct answer.

Explanation

Bent, twisted, or deformed links are removal criteria because they indicate overload or damage and create stress concentrations. Field straightening or derating is not permitted.

Question 7Inspection of rigging before use

A screw-pin shackle is inspected and the pin is worn more than 10 percent of its original diameter. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Use a larger pin
  2. Weld buildup on the pin
  3. Use only for static loads
  4. Remove it from service Correct answer.

Explanation

A shackle pin worn more than 10 percent of its original diameter is a removal criterion. Welding, substituting parts, or limiting the load does not restore the shackle.

Question 8Inspection of rigging before use

What is the main purpose of inspecting rigging before each use?

  1. To record the sling's purchase date
  2. To calculate the total load weight
  3. To detect damage that weakens it Correct answer.
  4. To satisfy the crane operator's request

Explanation

Pre-use inspection is a visual and functional check for defects such as broken wires, cracks, wear, or distortion that could reduce strength. It does not determine the weight of the load.

Question 9Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling has a section where the strands are separated and form a birdcage. What does this indicate?

  1. It is damaged and must be removed Correct answer.
  2. It has been properly lubricated
  3. It is a high-stretch design
  4. It can be used at reduced capacity

Explanation

Bird-caging is a distortion of the rope structure that indicates damage and loss of strength. It is a removal criterion and is not a normal condition or a design feature.

Question 10Inspection of rigging before use

During inspection, a synthetic web sling shows broken stitching at the eye. What action is required?

  1. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  2. Cover the eye with tape
  3. Repair the stitching with twine
  4. Use it if the web is intact

Explanation

Broken or worn stitching in a load-bearing splice is a removal criterion because the splice can fail. User repairs or covers do not restore the rated capacity.

Question 11Inspection of rigging before use

A chain sling link measures longer than the original link length by more than the allowable amount. This condition is best described as:

  1. A valid manufacturer's mark
  2. Light surface corrosion
  3. Normal wear from service
  4. Elongation needing removal Correct answer.

Explanation

Chain elongation beyond allowable limits indicates overload or wear and is a removal criterion. The link should be measured and compared with the original dimensions.

Question 12Inspection of rigging before use

A hook on a chain sling is missing its safety latch. What is the correct pre-use action?

  1. Use the hook if the load is balanced
  2. Tie the hook closed with wire
  3. Remove the hook from service Correct answer.
  4. Use the hook only for vertical lifts

Explanation

Hooks used for lifting must have a functioning latch unless a specific exception applies; a missing latch allows the load to disengage. The hook should be removed from service until the latch is replaced.

Question 13Inspection of rigging before use

A shackle is found to have a crack in the bow during inspection. What should be done?

  1. Grind out the crack and use it
  2. Remove the shackle from service Correct answer.
  3. Use it at half its rated capacity
  4. Paint over the crack to monitor it

Explanation

Cracks in a shackle body are removal criteria because they can propagate and cause sudden failure. Grinding, derating, or painting does not restore the shackle's integrity.

Question 14Inspection of rigging before use

A turnbuckle used in a rigging assembly has a bent end fitting. How should it be handled?

  1. Use it if threads engage fully
  2. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  3. Straighten it in a press
  4. Use it only in compression

Explanation

Bent or deformed end fittings are removal criteria because the alignment and load path are compromised. Straightening does not restore the original strength of the fitting.

Question 15Inspection of rigging before use

A synthetic sling is exposed to acid but shows no visible damage. What is the appropriate action?

  1. Return it to service immediately
  2. Remove it for inspection Correct answer.
  3. Use it only for light loads
  4. Wash it and use at full capacity

Explanation

Chemical exposure can degrade synthetic fibers without visible signs. A sling exposed to acid or caustic must be removed from service and inspected by a qualified person before reuse.

Question 16Inspection of rigging before use

Rigging hardware shows an arc strike from welding. Why must it be removed from service?

  1. The hardware is too clean
  2. The threads are lubricated
  3. It can create a crack Correct answer.
  4. The paint is discolored

Explanation

Arc strikes cause localized heating and can create hard zones or cracks that reduce strength. Such hardware is removed from service rather than returned to use.

Question 17Inspection of rigging before use

Before using a forged eyebolt, which condition requires removal from service?

  1. Cracks or deformation Correct answer.
  2. Light oil on the threads
  3. A manufacturer's stamp
  4. A rounded thread crest

Explanation

Eyebolts with cracks, deformation, or damaged threads are removal criteria because the eye and shoulder carry the load. Normal markings and light oil are not defects.

Question 18Inspection of rigging before use

A master link in a chain sling assembly shows noticeable wear at the bearing point. What is the inspection rule?

  1. Wear only matters on the hook
  2. Wear is acceptable if painted
  3. Wear past limits needs removal Correct answer.
  4. Wear can be corrected by welding

Explanation

Master links and other end fittings must be inspected for wear, cracks, and deformation. Wear beyond allowable limits reduces capacity and requires removal from service.

Question 19Inspection of rigging before use

A synthetic round sling has a cut in its outer cover that exposes the core. What action is required?

  1. Use it if the core is not cut
  2. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  3. Tape the cover and use it
  4. Use it only in a choker hitch

Explanation

The cover protects the core, and exposure of the core is damage that requires removal because the core can be cut or contaminated. Taping does not restore protection or rating.

Question 20Inspection of rigging before use

What is the proper way to handle rigging found defective during a pre-use inspection?

  1. Mark it with a green tag
  2. Tag it and remove it from service Correct answer.
  3. Return it to the shelf for later use
  4. Place it in the tool room untagged

Explanation

Defective rigging must be removed from service immediately and tagged to prevent accidental use. It should not be returned to storage with usable equipment.

Question 21Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling has heavy corrosion and pitting that has reduced wire diameter. Why is this a removal condition?

  1. It improves grip on the load
  2. It reduces area and hides breaks Correct answer.
  3. It is only a cosmetic issue that is harmless
  4. It makes the rope lighter

Explanation

Corrosion reduces the metallic cross-sectional area and can obscure broken wires, both of which reduce strength. Severe corrosion or pitting is therefore a removal criterion.

Question 22Inspection of rigging before use

A hook is twisted 12 degrees from its original plane. What is the correct disposition?

  1. Use it if throat opening is normal
  2. Use it only for side pulls
  3. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  4. Twist it back by hand

Explanation

Hook removal criteria include a twist of more than 10 degrees, so a 12-degree twist exceeds the limit. Bending it back is not permitted because it can introduce cracks.

Question 23Inspection of rigging before use

A chain sling shows wear at a link bearing point equal to 12 percent of the original link diameter. What action is required?

  1. Use only in a basket hitch
  2. Remove from service Correct answer.
  3. Use at reduced capacity
  4. Dress the link with a grinder

Explanation

Chain sling removal criteria include wear exceeding 10 percent of the original link diameter at any point. A 12 percent wear measurement exceeds that limit, so the sling must be removed.

Question 24Inspection of rigging before use

A synthetic sling has been shock-loaded but shows no visible damage. What is the best inspection decision?

  1. Return it to service after wiping it
  2. Use it only if the tag is readable
  3. Use it at full capacity because it looks fine
  4. Remove it for a thorough inspection Correct answer.

Explanation

Shock loading can damage synthetic fibers internally without visible signs. The sling should be removed from service and inspected before it is used again.

Question 25Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling has a swaged end fitting with a visible crack. What is the correct action?

  1. Cover the crack with tape
  2. Remove the sling from service Correct answer.
  3. Use it at 75 percent capacity
  4. Use it only in a vertical hitch

Explanation

Cracked or deformed end fittings are removal criteria because the termination can fail suddenly. Reducing capacity or covering the crack does not restore the termination.

Question 26Inspection of rigging before use

How often should rigging equipment be inspected before it is used?

  1. Only after it has been used for a month
  2. Once each week, regardless of use
  3. Once each year by the manufacturer
  4. Before each use or shift Correct answer.

Explanation

Rigging must be inspected before each use or at the start of each shift so damage from the previous use is found before a lift. More frequent use or severe conditions may require additional inspections.

Question 27Inspection of rigging before use

Who is responsible for performing the pre-use inspection of rigging?

  1. Only the rigging manufacturer's representative
  2. Only a certified crane operator
  3. A designated person trained to recognize defects Correct answer.
  4. Any person on the job site

Explanation

Pre-use inspections are performed by a designated person who has been trained to recognize removal criteria. The inspection is not limited to crane operators or manufacturer representatives.

Question 28Inspection of rigging before use

A web sling is in good condition but its identification tag is missing. What is the correct action?

  1. Remove it from service until identified Correct answer.
  2. Use it for vertical lifts only
  3. Use it at half of its apparent capacity
  4. Attach a new tag with an estimated capacity

Explanation

The identification tag gives the sling's capacity, type, and material. Without it, the sling cannot be verified for safe use, so it must be removed from service until identified.

Question 29Inspection of rigging before use

How should synthetic slings be stored when not in use?

  1. Coiled tightly on a concrete floor
  2. In an open bin with sharp tools
  3. Hanging from an outdoor hook in direct sunlight
  4. On a dry rack away from heat and chemicals Correct answer.

Explanation

Synthetic slings should be stored on a rack in a dry area away from heat, sunlight, chemicals, and sharp objects. Proper storage prevents damage that may not be visible until inspection.

Question 30Inspection of rigging before use

What should be done to a dirty wire rope sling before a visual inspection?

  1. Paint it to mark the inspected length
  2. Clean it so defects are visible Correct answer.
  3. Oil it heavily to hide surface rust
  4. Bend it sharply to loosen dirt

Explanation

Dirt, grease, and rust can hide broken wires, cracks, and other defects. The sling should be cleaned enough for a thorough visual inspection before use.

Question 31Inspection of rigging before use

A color-coded tag system is used for rigging inspection. What does a missing current color tag usually mean?

  1. The sling is new and needs no inspection
  2. The sling has a higher capacity
  3. It has not passed the current inspection Correct answer.
  4. The sling is reserved for crane use only

Explanation

A color-coded tag system shows that a sling has passed its current inspection. A missing or outdated color tag means the sling should not be used until inspected.

Question 32Inspection of rigging before use

Before using a screw-pin shackle, what should you confirm about the pin?

  1. It is shorter than the shackle body
  2. It can be removed by hand
  3. It is coated with grease and left loose
  4. It is fully seated and tightened Correct answer.

Explanation

A screw-pin shackle relies on the pin being fully seated and tight to carry the load. A loose or partially engaged pin can back out or damage the threads.

Question 33Inspection of rigging before use

Before lifting with a forged eyebolt, what should be checked about its installation?

  1. It is welded to the load
  2. It is painted to match the load
  3. It is seated flush on the load Correct answer.
  4. It is tightened with a pipe extension

Explanation

A forged eyebolt must seat flush against the load so the shoulder carries the load properly. Gaps or damaged threads can cause the eyebolt to bend or pull out.

Question 34Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling has 10 broken wires distributed randomly in one rope lay. What action is required?

  1. Remove the sling from service Correct answer.
  2. Use it only for vertical lifts
  3. Reduce the rated load by 25 percent
  4. Cut off the damaged end and reuse

Explanation

A common wire rope sling removal criterion is 10 broken wires in one rope lay or 5 broken wires in one strand in one lay. Randomly distributed broken wires at this count require removal.

Question 35Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling has a permanent kink that will not straighten. What is the correct disposition?

  1. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  2. Use it only in a choker hitch
  3. Use it with a softener
  4. Straighten it with a maul

Explanation

A permanent kink is a distortion that cannot be straightened without damaging the rope. It reduces strength and is a removal condition.

Question 36Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling shows a crushed area where the core has collapsed and the diameter is reduced. What should be done?

  1. Use it at half capacity
  2. Mark the area and monitor it
  3. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  4. Cover the area with tape

Explanation

Core collapse and reduced rope diameter mean the wire rope has lost structural integrity. The sling must be removed from service.

Question 37Inspection of rigging before use

A synthetic web sling has a tear that extends through the webbing. What action is required?

  1. Stitch the tear with twine
  2. Fold the sling to hide the tear
  3. Use it for light loads only
  4. Remove it from service Correct answer.

Explanation

A tear through the webbing removes load-bearing fibers and is a removal condition. The sling should not be used even for light loads.

Question 38Inspection of rigging before use

A synthetic sling stored outdoors is stiff and faded, with a dull surface. What does this most likely indicate?

  1. Normal wear that increases strength
  2. Ultraviolet degradation Correct answer.
  3. Paint contamination only
  4. A need for extra lubrication

Explanation

Sunlight and ultraviolet exposure degrade synthetic fibers, often making the sling stiff and faded. Because the loss of strength may not be visible, the sling should be removed.

Question 39Inspection of rigging before use

A synthetic web sling has melted or charred fibers along one edge. What should be done?

  1. Trim the charred edge and use it
  2. Cover the edge with tape
  3. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  4. Use it only for choke hitches

Explanation

Heat damage melts or chars synthetic fibers and reduces sling strength. A sling with melted or charred fibers must be removed from service.

Question 40Inspection of rigging before use

A rigging hook's throat opening has increased by 15 percent from its original dimension. What is the correct action?

  1. Return it to service after painting
  2. Use it for vertical lifts only
  3. Use it with a safety latch
  4. Remove it from service Correct answer.

Explanation

A hook throat opening that has increased by 15 percent or more indicates deformation and loss of strength. The hook must be removed from service.

Question 41Inspection of rigging before use

A hook shows wear at the saddle that exceeds 10 percent of its original dimension. What should be done?

  1. Use it with a larger pin
  2. Weld buildup the worn area
  3. Use it only for light loads
  4. Remove it from service Correct answer.

Explanation

Hook saddle wear that exceeds 10 percent of the original dimension is a removal condition. Welding or building up the worn area is not an approved repair.

Question 42Inspection of rigging before use

A shackle's body is visibly bent out of shape. What is the correct disposition?

  1. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  2. Use it with a larger pin
  3. Use it for lower loads
  4. Straighten it in a press

Explanation

A bent shackle has been overloaded или damaged and may fail under load. It must be removed from service rather than straightened or used at a lower rating.

Question 43Inspection of rigging before use

A forged eyebolt has crossed, damaged threads on its shank. What should be done?

  1. Weld it to the load
  2. Chase the threads with a die and use it
  3. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  4. Use it with fewer threads engaged

Explanation

Damaged or crossed threads on an eyebolt reduce the strength of the threaded connection. The eyebolt must be removed from service and not repaired by chasing the threads.

Question 44Inspection of rigging before use

A turnbuckle assembly is being inspected before use. Which condition makes it unfit for service?

  1. The threads are lightly oiled
  2. The end fittings are fully engaged
  3. The turnbuckle is painted yellow
  4. Too few threads are engaged Correct answer.

Explanation

A turnbuckle must have the required thread engagement in the body to develop its rated strength. Too few engaged threads can strip out under load.

Question 45Inspection of rigging before use

A chain sling link has a deep gouge that reduces its cross-section. What action is required?

  1. Use the sling at half capacity
  2. Use it only in a basket hitch
  3. Remove the sling from service Correct answer.
  4. File the gouge smooth and use it

Explanation

A deep gouge reduces the link's cross-section and its capacity. The chain sling must be removed from service rather than filed down or used at reduced load.

Question 46Inspection of rigging before use

What should a periodic rigging inspection record include?

  1. The crane operator's name and the load weight
  2. Sling ID, date, condition, and inspector Correct answer.
  3. The sling's color and the day's weather forecast
  4. Only the date of the next inspection

Explanation

Periodic inspection records should identify the sling, the inspection date, the condition found, and who performed the inspection. These records show that required inspections were completed and help track defects.

Question 47Inspection of rigging before use

A wire rope sling has a broken wire at the point where the rope enters the swaged fitting. What action is required?

  1. Remove it from service Correct answer.
  2. Cut the fitting off and tie a knot
  3. Cover the area with a softener
  4. Use it at reduced capacity

Explanation

Broken wires at the end fitting indicate severe stress or damage at the termination, which is a removal condition. The sling must not be used at reduced capacity.

Question 48Inspection of rigging before use

A snatch block has a sheave with a deep groove worn into it. What should be done before use?

  1. Oil the groove and continue
  2. Remove the block from use Correct answer.
  3. Use it only for light loads
  4. Use it with a larger rope

Explanation

A deeply grooved sheave can damage wire rope and indicates the block needs repair or replacement. The block should be removed from service before use.

Question 49Inspection of rigging before use

A spreader beam has a bent top flange and a missing capacity tag. What is the correct action?

  1. Remove it from service for inspection Correct answer.
  2. Use it at half its normal capacity
  3. Use it only with four-leg slings
  4. Attach a new tag with an estimated rating

Explanation

A bent structural member and a missing capacity tag both prevent safe use of a spreader beam. The beam must be removed from service until it is inspected and properly rated.

Question 50Inspection of rigging before use

An edge protection pad for a synthetic sling is cut through and worn thin. What should be done?

  1. Replace the pad before the lift Correct answer.
  2. Use it only on rounded edges
  3. Fold the pad double and use it
  4. Use it as long as the sling is new

Explanation

Edge protection must be intact to prevent the sling from rubbing on sharp edges. A cut or worn-through pad should be replaced before the lift.