Practical operation and hands-on performance
Domain 8 tests hands-on control: setup, function checks, smooth operation, load placement, and shutdown. The examiner looks for safe habits, not speed.
Practical sequence
Walk the crane and setup area; verify load weight, rigging, and chart for the planned radius. Extend outriggers fully, use mats, level the crane, and confirm tires clear if required. Complete the pre-shift and function tests. Lift the load a few inches, check the brake and rigging, then move smoothly with the load low. Use tag lines and the signal person; stop if the view or signal is lost. Set the load, release rigging, retract, and shut down per the manual.
Worked example
Pick a 6,000 lb load at 20 ft radius, swing 90 degrees, and set it in a marked square. Check the chart: capacity at 20 ft is 12,000 lb; deductions 1,000 lb, net 11,000 lb. Rig with a two-leg bridle at 60 degrees, each leg 3,464 lb. Lift a few inches, confirm no shift, swing slowly with the load low, use a tag line, follow the signal, lower to the mark, and land without dropping. Shut down with the boom stowed and controls neutral.
Traps
Skipping the test lift; dragging or side-pulling the load; swinging fast; watching the load instead of the signal person; setting up without leveling; leaving the controls with the load suspended; failing to secure the crane at shutdown.