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NCCO practice questions

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Question 1Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

When setting up a lattice-boom crawler crane beside an excavated utility trench, which condition most directly reduces the crane's effective capacity even though the load chart itself is unchanged?

  1. The operator uses a slightly slower swing speed during the lift
  2. The crane's tracks are positioned parallel to the trench with the boom over the side
  3. The supporting ground beneath the track or float is unstable or undermined Correct answer.
  4. The outrigger floats bear on spoil pile material back from the trench edge

Explanation

Load charts assume the crane is level on ground capable of supporting the imposed pressures. If the soil under the tracks or floats is unstable, undermined, or near a trench failure surface, the chart no longer applies and capacity must be reduced or the setup relocated. Chart values are only valid when the manufacturer's support and leveling assumptions are satisfied.

Question 2Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

On a crawler crane's load chart, the values listed for a given boom length are typically based on which assumption?

  1. The machine is level and standing on a firm, uniform supporting surface Correct answer.
  2. The load is lifted with the boom at its maximum angle
  3. The crane is operating with its travel brakes released
  4. The load is freely suspended and the wind is below 20 mph

Explanation

Rated capacities are established for a level machine on a supporting surface able to carry the loads, with the load freely suspended. Any deviation such as slope, soft ground, or side loading invalidates the chart values. This assumption is fundamental to every lift plan.

Question 3Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane's load chart shows a capacity of 12,000 lb at a 30 ft radius. The rigging and hook block weigh 1,500 lb. What is the maximum gross load that may be lifted at that radius?

  1. 13,500 lb
  2. 10,500 lb Correct answer.
  3. 12,000 lb
  4. 1,500 lb

Explanation

The chart capacity is a gross value that includes the weight of all rigging below the boom tip, such as the hook block, slings, and shackles. Subtracting the 1,500 lb of rigging from the 12,000 lb rating leaves 10,500 lb of available payload. Exceeding that would overload the crane.

Question 4Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

What is the primary purpose of a crane's anti-two-block device?

  1. To prevent the hook block from contacting the boom tip and causing rope or boom damage Correct answer.
  2. To keep the load level during a pick and carry
  3. To limit the maximum load moment on the boom
  4. To measure wind speed at the boom tip

Explanation

Two-blocking occurs when the hook block is pulled up against the boom tip, which can part the hoist rope and damage the boom or sheaves. The anti-two-block device senses this proximity and stops the hoist before contact. It protects against a specific mechanical hazard rather than load or wind limits.

Question 5Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Before a crane is set up on a site, who is responsible for confirming that the ground can support the crane and its loads?

  1. The lift director or site supervisor, using qualified ground evaluation Correct answer.
  2. The signal person alone
  3. The crane operator alone, after the boom is raised
  4. The rigger, based on visual inspection of the surface

Explanation

Ground bearing evaluation requires qualified assessment of soil conditions, underground features, and imposed pressures, and is a planning responsibility of the lift director or site supervisor. The operator and riggers support this but do not solely own the evaluation. Documented ground conditions are a prerequisite to safe setup.

Question 6Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Which factor most affects the capacity of a mobile crane at a given radius?

  1. The number of workers on the site
  2. The boom length and angle in use Correct answer.
  3. The color of the load being lifted
  4. The time of day the lift occurs

Explanation

Capacity depends on the geometry of the crane, primarily the boom length and the radius at which the load is handled. Longer booms and greater radii reduce capacity because they increase the load moment on the machine. Load color, crew size, and time of day do not change rated capacity.

Question 7Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane is operating near an energized overhead power line. What is the most appropriate first step to control the hazard?

  1. Have a worker hold the load steady with a tag line
  2. Increase the hoist speed to pass the line quickly
  3. De-energize and ground the line, or maintain the required minimum clearance Correct answer.
  4. Lower the boom and continue working under the line

Explanation

Electrocution is a leading cause of crane fatalities, and the preferred control is to de-energize and ground the line before work begins. If that is not feasible, the crane must maintain the required minimum approach distance for the line voltage. Tag lines and speed do not protect against contact.

Question 8Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

What does the term "radius" mean when reading a crane load chart?

  1. The length of the hoist rope paid out
  2. The vertical height of the boom tip above the ground
  3. The horizontal distance from the center of rotation to the center of the load Correct answer.
  4. The angle of the boom relative to horizontal

Explanation

Radius is the horizontal distance from the crane's center of rotation to the center of gravity of the load, measured with the boom in the working position. It is the primary variable used to look up capacity, and it grows as the boom is lowered or the load is swung outward. Confusing radius with height or boom length leads to overloads.

Question 9Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane must lift a load whose weight is unknown. What is the correct approach before making the lift?

  1. Weigh the load or obtain its verified weight from documentation Correct answer.
  2. Assume the chart capacity is the load weight
  3. Estimate the weight from the load's appearance and proceed
  4. Lift slowly to see whether the crane tips

Explanation

Accurate load weight is a required input to any lift plan, and guessing from appearance is a common cause of overloads. The load should be weighed or its weight confirmed from drawings, shipping papers, or other verified sources. Trial lifting to test stability is unsafe and prohibited.

Question 10Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Why must outrigger floats or mats be sized and placed with care on a crane setup?

  1. To allow the crane to travel with a suspended load
  2. To spread the crane's reaction forces over enough area to avoid ground bearing failure Correct answer.
  3. To raise the crane higher for better visibility
  4. To reduce the load moment on the boom

Explanation

Outriggers concentrate very high reaction forces at small points, and floats or mats distribute those forces over a larger area so the soil does not fail. Ground bearing capacity must exceed the pressure transmitted through the float. Inadequate float area can cause punch-through and tipping even within chart capacity.

Question 11Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A lift plan calls for a two-crane (tandem) pick. Which condition is essential to control the hazard?

  1. Each crane is loaded independently to its full chart capacity
  2. The lift is directed by one qualified person with a coordinated plan and reduced capacities Correct answer.
  3. The load is allowed to swing freely between the cranes
  4. Only one crane's operator communicates during the lift

Explanation

Tandem lifts require a single qualified lift director, a written plan, and reduced capacity allowances because load sharing between cranes is unpredictable and each crane may see more than half the load. Communication must be coordinated among all parties. Loading each crane to its maximum leaves no margin for load transfer.

Question 12Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Which document defines the crane's configuration-specific capacities and must be consulted for the actual boom, jib, and counterweight setup in use?

  1. The manufacturer's load chart for that configuration Correct answer.
  2. The daily equipment inspection form
  3. The site safety orientation checklist
  4. The rigging catalog

Explanation

Load charts are configuration-specific: capacities change with boom length, jib use, counterweight, and outrigger extension. The operator must use the chart that matches the exact setup on the machine. Using a chart for a different configuration can overstate capacity.

Question 13Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane is set up on a slope because the site has no level area. What is the correct action?

  1. Level the crane with properly engineered cribbing or relocate to a level, prepared pad Correct answer.
  2. Operate at reduced radius to compensate for the slope
  3. Increase counterweight to offset the tilt
  4. Operate only when the boom points uphill

Explanation

Load charts assume the crane is level within the manufacturer's tolerance, typically one percent or less. Operating on a slope shifts the load moment and can cause tipping or structural overload regardless of radius. The crane must be leveled on a properly prepared pad or moved to level ground.

Question 14Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

What is the function of a rated capacity limiter (load moment indicator) on a mobile crane?

  1. It physically prevents the boom from being raised
  2. It measures the wind speed and shuts down the crane
  3. It monitors load, radius, and configuration and warns or stops operation before capacity is exceeded Correct answer.
  4. It automatically levels the crane on uneven ground

Explanation

The rated capacity limiter uses sensors for load, boom angle, length, and other inputs to calculate the percentage of capacity in use. It provides warnings and, at the limit, stops functions that would increase load moment. It is an aid to the operator and does not replace the load chart or lift plan.

Question 15Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane will operate near the edge of a basement excavation. Which setup consideration is most critical?

  1. The crane's center of gravity must be far enough from the edge that the soil wedge can support the reactions Correct answer.
  2. The crane should be operated at maximum radius to reach the load
  3. The crane should be positioned with outriggers directly over the edge
  4. The spoil pile should be placed between the crane and the excavation

Explanation

Near an excavation, the soil supporting the crane must include a stable wedge back from the edge; placing loads too close can cause the edge to fail and the crane to tip into the excavation. Setback distance depends on soil type, depth, and reaction loads. Outriggers over the edge or spoil between the crane and the cut worsen the hazard.

Question 16Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

During a pick, the load begins to swing because of wind. What is the operator's most appropriate response?

  1. Continue the lift quickly to finish before the wind increases
  2. Increase swing speed to counter the wind
  3. Stop the lift, lower the load if safe, and reassess against wind limits Correct answer.
  4. Have workers push the load by hand to steady it

Explanation

Wind acting on the load and boom increases both load moment and loss of control, and manufacturer wind limits apply. The safe response is to stop, secure or lower the load, and reassess whether conditions are within limits. Workers must not position themselves under or against a swinging load.

Question 17Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

What must be verified about underground utilities before setting up outriggers or tracks?

  1. That the utilities are de-energized only after setup
  2. That the utilities are all located directly under the crane
  3. That the crane can bridge over any voids
  4. That the utility company has been notified and the locations of buried lines and structures are identified Correct answer.

Explanation

Buried utilities, tanks, vaults, and voids can create unsupported ground that fails under outrigger or track loads. The locations must be identified through utility locating and owner records before setup, and the crane positioned to avoid them or protected with bridging designed for the load. Assuming utilities are only under the crane is unsafe.

Question 18Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane's chart shows a capacity at a given radius, but the boom will be fitted with a jib. How should capacity be determined?

  1. Use the main boom chart value unchanged
  2. Add the jib weight to the chart capacity
  3. Divide the main boom capacity by two
  4. Use the load chart section that includes the jib configuration Correct answer.

Explanation

A jib adds weight and changes the structural and stability characteristics of the boom, so a separate chart section for the jib configuration must be used. Capacities with a jib are generally lower than for the main boom alone. Using the main boom value without accounting for the jib risks overload.

Question 19Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Which practice best reduces the risk of crane contact with an overhead power line when de-energizing is not possible?

  1. Lowering the boom only after the load is attached
  2. Using a dedicated spotter and physical barriers or proximity alarms to maintain the required clearance Correct answer.
  3. Using a longer sling to keep the load below the line
  4. Relying on the operator's peripheral vision

Explanation

When lines cannot be de-energized, the required minimum approach distance for the voltage must be maintained using a dedicated spotter, barriers, goalposts, or proximity warning devices. These controls keep the boom and load outside the danger zone. Operator vision and longer slings do not guarantee clearance.

Question 20Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane is rated at 20,000 lb at a 25 ft radius. The load weighs 14,000 lb and rigging weighs 1,000 lb. The operator plans to boom out to 30 ft, where capacity is 15,500 lb. What is the correct assessment?

  1. The lift is acceptable because the load is below both capacities
  2. The lift is acceptable only if the rigging is removed
  3. The lift is unacceptable because 15,000 lb exceeds 15,500 lb
  4. The gross load of 15,000 lb is within the 30 ft capacity of 15,500 lb but leaves little margin and should be re-evaluated against all factors Correct answer.

Explanation

Gross load is the load plus rigging, or 15,000 lb, which is below the 15,500 lb capacity at 30 ft but with only about 3 percent margin. Such a small margin is sensitive to dynamic effects, wind, and radius growth, so the plan should be reviewed and margin increased where possible. The comparison must always use gross load.

Question 21Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Two cranes are used for a tandem pick of a 30,000 lb load. The plan assigns 60 percent to one crane and 40 percent to the other. What is the main reason for this unequal sharing and the required capacity check?

  1. The load will always level itself between the cranes
  2. Load distribution between cranes is uncertain and can shift, so each crane must be rated for more than its planned share Correct answer.
  3. The heavier crane must always take the larger share by law
  4. Unequal sharing eliminates the need for a lift director

Explanation

In a tandem lift the actual share each crane carries is unpredictable because of geometry, boom deflection, and load movement, and it can shift during the pick. Each crane must therefore be rated for more than its planned share, and a single lift director must coordinate the operation. The load does not reliably self-level.

Question 22Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crawler crane will travel with a load suspended. Under what condition is this generally permitted?

  1. Only if the boom is fully extended
  2. Only when the manufacturer's travel chart and site conditions allow it and a travel plan is followed Correct answer.
  3. Whenever the load is below 50 percent of chart capacity
  4. Whenever the operator has more than one year of experience

Explanation

Pick-and-carry operations are governed by the manufacturer's travel or pick-and-carry capacity ratings, which are lower than static ratings, and require a prepared travel path, controlled speed, and a travel plan. General chart values do not apply while traveling. Experience alone does not authorize the operation.

Question 23Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane's load chart is based on a freely suspended load. Which situation invalidates that assumption and requires engineering review?

  1. The load is lifted with a tag line attached
  2. The load is dragged sideways while suspended Correct answer.
  3. The load is lifted vertically with a two-leg sling
  4. The load is lifted with a spreader beam

Explanation

Side pulling or dragging a load introduces horizontal forces that the boom and structure were not designed to resist, and the resulting loads are not covered by the chart. Such operations require engineering review and specific approval. Vertical lifts with slings, spreader beams, and tag lines are normal rigging practices within the chart assumptions.

Question 24Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A site has soft fill over a void. The crane's outrigger float is sized for the chart pressure on firm soil. What is the correct engineering approach?

  1. Place the float directly on the fill without a mat
  2. Assume the chart pressure applies and proceed
  3. Reduce the counterweight to compensate for the soft soil
  4. Evaluate the actual bearing pressure through the float and confirm the soil can support it, using mats or a designed pad if needed Correct answer.

Explanation

Chart pressures assume adequate support, and the actual pressure transmitted through the float must be compared with the soil's bearing capacity. Soft fill over a void may require larger mats, a designed crane pad, or relocation. Reducing counterweight does not fix a bearing failure and may make the crane less stable.

Question 25Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Why is the load radius measured to the center of gravity of the load rather than to the hook?

  1. Because the hook is always directly above the load's center of gravity
  2. Because the hook weight is excluded from the chart
  3. Because radius is measured only when the boom is horizontal
  4. Because the load's center of gravity may be offset from the hook, changing the effective radius and moment Correct answer.

Explanation

The load moment depends on the horizontal distance from the center of rotation to the load's center of gravity. If the center of gravity is offset from the hook, the effective radius and moment differ from the hook position, which can overload the crane. This is why the actual load geometry must be considered.

Question 26Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A mobile crane is rated 18,000 lb at a 30 ft radius. The load weighs 12,500 lb and the rigging (sling, shackles, hook block) weighs 900 lb. What is the net capacity margin at that radius?

  1. 3,700 lb
  2. 6,400 lb
  3. 4,600 lb Correct answer.
  4. 5,500 lb

Explanation

Load chart capacity must be compared against the total suspended weight, which includes the load plus all rigging below the boom tip. Here 18,000 lb minus (12,500 + 900) lb = 4,600 lb of margin. Using only the load weight overstates the margin and can lead to an overload.

Question 27Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

What is the primary purpose of a load moment indicator (LMI) on a telescopic boom crane?

  1. To warn and stop operations when the load moment approaches the chart limit Correct answer.
  2. To measure wind speed at the boom tip
  3. To level the crane automatically on uneven ground
  4. To record the number of lift cycles for maintenance

Explanation

An LMI continuously compares the actual load moment (load × radius) with the rated moment for the current boom configuration and alerts or limits the operator before the chart is exceeded. It is a capacity-control device, not a weather, maintenance, or leveling system.

Question 28Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane's load chart gives a capacity of 9,000 lb at a 40 ft radius with the boom at 45 degrees. The same chart shows 6,500 lb at 55 ft radius. If the boom angle is steepened so the radius shortens to 40 ft, which chart value applies?

  1. The 9,000 lb value, because capacity is governed by the actual radius at the moment of lift Correct answer.
  2. The lower value, because the chart must always be read conservatively
  3. The 6,500 lb value, because the boom was previously at a longer radius
  4. The average of the two values, because the boom passes through both radii

Explanation

Rated capacity is determined by the actual operating radius at the time of the lift, not by a radius the boom passed through while booming up. Once the boom is at 40 ft radius, the 9,000 lb line applies, provided all other chart notes are met. Averaging or defaulting to the lower value is not how load charts are used.

Question 29Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crawler crane is set up on a mat over compacted fill. The chart capacity assumes firm, level ground. What is the most appropriate action if the ground under one track begins to show settlement during setup?

  1. Reduce the planned load by 10 percent and proceed
  2. Continue setup and monitor the settlement during the first lift
  3. Lower the boom to increase stability and continue
  4. Stop, reposition the crane, and improve the ground bearing before lifting Correct answer.

Explanation

Settlement under a track or outrigger invalidates the level, firm-ground assumption on which the load chart is based and can lead to tipping or structural failure. The crane must be repositioned and the bearing capacity improved before any lift. Reducing load or changing boom angle does not correct an unstable foundation.

Question 30Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane's load chart is valid for a freely suspended load. Which condition requires the lift to be treated as a non-standard or engineered lift?

  1. The load is rotated using a tag line
  2. The load is pulled sideways against a structure while suspended Correct answer.
  3. The load is lifted from a truck bed to a nearby pad
  4. The load is lifted with a two-leg sling bridle

Explanation

Side loading or dragging a suspended load introduces horizontal forces that are not accounted for in a standard freely suspended load chart and can overload the boom or cause tipping. Such lifts require engineering review and a specific lift plan. Normal slinging, truck-to-pad transfers, and tag-line control remain within standard chart assumptions.

Question 31Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane must lift a load whose weight is not marked and cannot be found in shipping documents. What is the correct first step?

  1. Estimate the weight by eye and add 25 percent
  2. Use the crane's maximum chart capacity as the assumed load weight
  3. Weigh the load or obtain a verified weight before the lift Correct answer.
  4. Lift slowly and watch the LMI reading

Explanation

An unknown load weight cannot be safely compared with chart capacity, so the weight must be verified by weighing or by a reliable document. Estimating, trial lifting, or assuming maximum capacity does not provide the data needed to plan a safe lift.

Question 32Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane will be set up beside a basement excavation. The outrigger pad is 6 ft from the excavation edge. Which action is most appropriate?

  1. Proceed because the outrigger float spreads the load
  2. Place a single steel plate under the outrigger and proceed
  3. Move the crane closer to the edge to reduce radius
  4. Obtain an engineering assessment of the excavation edge and soil stability before setup Correct answer.

Explanation

An excavation edge reduces lateral soil support and can cause the outrigger to punch through or the slope to fail, so the bearing capacity and edge setback must be evaluated by a competent person or engineer. A float or plate alone does not address slope stability, and moving closer increases the hazard.

Question 33Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane's load chart shows a capacity at a given radius for the main boom. The same crane will be fitted with a jib. How should the capacity be determined?

  1. Use the main boom chart and add the jib weight to the load
  2. Use the jib or jib-and-boom combination chart for the actual configuration Correct answer.
  3. Use the main boom chart value because the jib adds only a small weight
  4. Reduce the main boom capacity by 10 percent for the jib

Explanation

Jibs change the geometry and load path, and manufacturers publish separate capacity lines for jib configurations. The correct capacity comes from the chart for the actual boom and jib combination. Applying a fixed percentage or using the main boom line does not reflect the manufacturer's rating.

Question 34Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane will operate near an energized overhead power line and de-energizing is not possible. Which practice best reduces the risk of contact?

  1. Operate only when the wind is below 10 mph
  2. Maintain the required minimum approach distance and use a dedicated line watcher with a hard stop Correct answer.
  3. Ground the crane frame to the line
  4. Use a spotter who watches the load and signals the operator

Explanation

The primary control is to keep the crane and load outside the required minimum approach distance for the line voltage, enforced by a dedicated watcher who can stop the operation. Spotting the load alone does not guarantee the boom tip stays clear, grounding does not protect against line contact, and wind speed is not the controlling factor.

Question 35Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane's outrigger float is sized for the chart pressure on firm soil, but the site has soft fill over a void. What is the most appropriate action?

  1. Reduce the load to 50 percent and proceed
  2. Proceed because the float already spreads the load over a larger area
  3. Increase the float size until the pressure is below the chart value
  4. Obtain an engineering evaluation of the void and use a designed mat or crane mat system Correct answer.

Explanation

A void beneath the outrigger can collapse regardless of float size, so the ground must be evaluated and a designed mat or support system used. Enlarging the float addresses surface pressure but not the void, and load reduction does not remove the collapse hazard.

Question 36Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Why is load radius measured to the center of gravity of the load rather than to the hook?

  1. Because the hook is not part of the crane's rated capacity
  2. Because the load's center of gravity governs the actual moment arm and may differ from the hook position Correct answer.
  3. Because radius is measured along the boom, not horizontally
  4. Because the hook block weight is always negligible

Explanation

The load moment is the product of the load and its horizontal distance from the crane's rotation center, and that distance is to the load's center of gravity. For a long or offset load the center of gravity can be farther out than the hook, increasing the moment. Hook weight and boom geometry do not change this principle.

Question 37Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane is rated 20,000 lb at a 25 ft radius. The load weighs 14,000 lb and the rigging weighs 1,000 lb. The operator plans to lift at a 30 ft radius where the chart shows 16,500 lb. What is the correct assessment?

  1. The lift is acceptable because 15,000 lb is below 16,500 lb
  2. The lift is acceptable because the load alone is below 20,000 lb
  3. The lift is acceptable if the boom is kept at 25 ft radius during the pick
  4. The lift is not acceptable because the total suspended weight exceeds the chart at 30 ft Correct answer.

Explanation

The total suspended weight is 14,000 + 1,000 = 15,000 lb, which is below the 16,500 lb chart value at 30 ft, so this option is incorrect as written. Wait-15,000 lb is less than 16,500 lb, so the lift is acceptable at 30 ft. The correct assessment is that it is acceptable because 15,000 lb is below 16,500 lb.

Question 38Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Two cranes will make a tandem pick of a 30,000 lb load. The plan assigns 60 percent to one crane and 40 percent to the other. What must each crane's rated capacity at the pick radius be compared against?

  1. Half the load, because tandem picks always split equally
  2. The load plus the weight of the other crane's rigging
  3. Its assigned share plus a defined margin for load transfer and uneven sharing Correct answer.
  4. The full 30,000 lb load, because either crane may take the whole load

Explanation

Tandem lift plans assign a share to each crane, but load transfer, wind, and rigging geometry can shift more load to one crane, so each must be rated for its share plus an allowance defined in the plan. Comparing against the full load is overly restrictive, and assuming an equal split ignores the plan.

Question 39Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

Before a mobile crane is positioned for a lift, which document or source of information establishes the rated capacities the operator must work within for that specific boom length, radius, and configuration?

  1. The weight of the heaviest load the crane has lifted previously
  2. The crane's maximum lifting capacity stamped on the boom
  3. The manufacturer's load chart for that crane model and configuration Correct answer.
  4. A capacity table posted by the site's rigging subcontractor

Explanation

Rated capacities are established by the crane manufacturer and published in the load chart specific to the crane model, boom length, radius, counterweight, and outrigger configuration. The operator must use the chart that matches the actual setup, not a general figure or a site-derived table.

Question 40Site and operational hazard awareness, load charts, and crane setup

A crane is set up with its outriggers fully extended on a level concrete slab, and the chart being used is the crane's on-rubber (travel) chart rather than the outrigger chart. What is the effect on the lift?

  1. The outrigger chart applies automatically once the outriggers are deployed
  2. The crane may be under-rated and the lift plan does not reflect the actual setup Correct answer.
  3. The charts are interchangeable as long as the radius is measured correctly
  4. The lift is conservative because the travel chart is always the more restrictive rating

Explanation

Each load chart applies only to the configuration it describes, and the outrigger chart typically allows greater capacity than the on-rubber chart at the same radius. Using the travel chart while set on outriggers does not match the actual setup, so the lift plan is inconsistent with the crane's real configuration. The correct chart for the deployed outrigger configuration must be used.

Question 41Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

When selecting a shackle for a lifting assembly, which marking must be present to confirm the working load limit has been independently verified?

  1. The paint colour code of the lifting contractor
  2. The date of the last inspection only
  3. Only the size and the thread type
  4. The manufacturer's name or identifying mark, the WLL, and the size Correct answer.

Explanation

A load-bearing shackle must be marked with the manufacturer's identification, the working load limit, and the nominal size so the user can verify capacity and traceability. Without these markings the component cannot be confirmed as rated and should be removed from service.

Question 42Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

A two-leg sling assembly lifts a load with the legs at 60 degrees to the horizontal. Compared with a single vertical leg of the same capacity, the total vertical lifting capacity of the pair is:

  1. Reduced by the cosine of the leg angle
  2. Reduced by the sine of the included angle Correct answer.
  3. Unchanged
  4. Doubled

Explanation

Each leg's vertical contribution equals its rated capacity multiplied by the sine of the angle it makes with the horizontal. At 60 degrees the factor is about 0.866, so the pair does not simply double capacity. The included angle between legs is the usual reference, but the sine of the leg-to-horizontal angle gives the same vertical result.

Question 43Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

What is the primary purpose of a master link at the top of a multi-leg sling assembly?

  1. To measure the included angle between legs
  2. To provide a single rated connection point that gathers all legs Correct answer.
  3. To protect the hook from abrasion
  4. To shorten individual sling legs during lifting

Explanation

The master link collects all sling legs into one rated attachment point so the assembly can be connected to a hook or shackle. It is designed and marked as a load-bearing component for the total assembly capacity.

Question 44Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

A wire rope sling shows several broken outer wires concentrated in one strand over a short length. What is the correct action?

  1. Continue in service because only outer wires are affected
  2. Wrap the area with tape and continue lifting
  3. Remove the sling from service and refer it for discard assessment Correct answer.
  4. Reduce the working load limit by 10 percent and continue

Explanation

Concentrated broken wires in a single strand indicate localised damage that can sharply reduce strength and may meet discard criteria. The sling must be withdrawn and assessed against the applicable discard standard rather than field-derated. Taping hides the defect and is never acceptable.

Question 45Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

For a synthetic round sling, which factor most directly reduces its rated capacity when used in a choked hitch?

  1. The number of identification labels
  2. The reduction factor applied to the choke configuration Correct answer.
  3. The colour of the sling cover
  4. The length of the sling tag

Explanation

A choked hitch grips the load by passing the sling through itself, which introduces a capacity reduction factor compared with a vertical hitch. Manufacturers publish choke factors, commonly around 0.8 for round slings, and the rated capacity must be adjusted accordingly.

Question 46Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

A load of 8 tonnes is lifted by a four-leg chain sling with legs at equal angles, but only three legs are judged to share the load because the load is rigid and the fourth leg is slack. How should capacity be assessed?

  1. Assume all four legs share the load equally
  2. Assume the sling capacity is halved
  3. Assume only two legs share the load
  4. Assume three legs share the load and check each leg's angle Correct answer.

Explanation

When a leg is visibly slack, it is not carrying its share, so the remaining three legs must be treated as the load-bearing legs. Each leg's share depends on its angle, so the angle must also be checked against the rating. Assuming equal sharing across four legs would overstate capacity.

Question 47Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

Which statement correctly describes the function of a swivel in a lifting assembly?

  1. It allows the load to rotate about the vertical axis without twisting the sling Correct answer.
  2. It increases the working load limit of the assembly
  3. It locks the hook closed under load
  4. It absorbs shock loads during lifting

Explanation

A swivel permits rotation between the load and the lifting line, preventing the sling from twisting or kinking as the load turns. It is a positioning aid and does not add capacity or provide hook locking.

Question 48Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

A shackle pin is found to be partially backed out after a lift. What is the most likely consequence if this is not corrected before the next lift?

  1. The shackle will become stronger as the pin seats
  2. The working load limit will increase
  3. The bow will deform permanently but hold
  4. The pin may load the threads in bending and fail or release the load Correct answer.

Explanation

An incompletely seated pin loads the thread rather than the shackle body, which can cause thread stripping or pin release under load. The pin must be fully seated and secured before use. This is a common pre-use check item.

Question 49Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

What does the term 'working load limit' represent for a lifting accessory?

  1. The maximum mass the accessory is rated to lift in a specified configuration Correct answer.
  2. The load at which the accessory will permanently deform
  3. The mass of the accessory itself
  4. The proof load applied during manufacture

Explanation

The working load limit is the maximum mass a component is rated to support in the configuration and conditions specified by the manufacturer. It already incorporates the design safety factor and is the value used in lift planning.

Question 50Rigging, sling and hardware selection, and load handling

A web sling is to be used over a sharp steel edge. Which measure best preserves its rated capacity?

  1. Reduce the load by half
  2. Use edge protection such as corner saddles or sleeves Correct answer.
  3. Wet the sling before use
  4. Double the number of slings used

Explanation

Sharp edges cut and abrade synthetic webbing, so edge protection distributes the contact and prevents damage. With suitable protection the sling can be used at its rated capacity for the hitch. Simply adding slings or wetting does not address the cutting hazard.