NCCO study plan

Identify the four crane capacity-limiting factors (structural, stability, hydraulic, and rigging) and state which one governs a given lift scenario

Read and interpret a manufacturer load chart to find rated capacity for a specific radius, boom length, and quadrant, including deductions for jib and auxiliary head

Explain ground bearing pressure and describe how outrigger mats, cribbing, and flotation distribute load to soil

List site hazards that affect crane setup: slope, excavations, underground utilities, overhead power lines, and adjacent structures

Compute net capacity by subtracting the weight of all lifting attachments from the gross chart value

Determine crane configuration limits by matching boom length and jib combinations to the required lift radius and height

Calculate total load weight including rigging, slings, shackles, and hook block, and compare it against net capacity with a documented margin

Explain the effect of boom deflection, radius increase under load, and chart deductions for travel or pick-and-carry conditions

Describe how wind, side loading, and swing forces reduce usable capacity and when to stop operations

Interpret quadrants and swing restrictions on a load chart and apply them to a planned lift path

Select sling type (wire rope, synthetic web, chain, roundsling) for a given load based on weight, surface, environment, and edge protection needs

Compute sling tension for vertical, choker, basket, and multi-leg bridle configurations using the load angle factor

Identify the working load limit markings on shackles, hooks, turnbuckles, and master links and verify compatibility with the sling assembly

Inspect slings and hardware for rejection criteria: broken wires, cuts, heat damage, stretched links, missing tags, and distorted hooks

Describe center-of-gravity determination and load balance for asymmetric and off-center lifts

Perform a documented pre-operational walkaround covering wire rope, sheaves, hooks, brakes, outriggers, and safety devices, and record deficiencies

Distinguish between daily operator checks, periodic inspections, and annual certification responsibilities and who performs each

Demonstrate standard and emergency hand signals and describe radio protocol including designated signalperson and lost-communication stop rule

Explain the operator's authority to stop work for unsafe conditions and how to communicate a refusal professionally

Identify the function of limiters, anti-two-block devices, load moment indicators, and boom angle indicators and how to verify they work

Analyze load dynamics: swing, stopping, and hoisting acceleration effects on effective load and structural stress

Explain stability principles including counterweight, boom angle, tipping axis, and the difference between stability-limited and structural-limited ratings

Calculate ground bearing pressure for outrigger floats and compare it against assumed soil capacity for a given mat size

Determine when a lift requires a critical lift plan, engineering review, or two-crane analysis

Apply the load moment concept to explain why capacity falls as radius increases

Outline the immediate actions after a dropped load, contact with a power line, tip-over, or injured person, in correct priority order

Describe power line emergency procedure including staying in the cab versus exiting, and safe egress technique if fire forces exit

Explain how to secure the scene, preserve evidence, notify authorities, and document an incident factually

Identify the elements of an emergency action plan: roles, muster points, communication channels, and rescue considerations for elevated loads

Recognize warning signs of impending instability or failure and the correct response to each

Map operator responsibilities to the governing framework: employer duties, operator duties, inspection records, and qualification requirements

Explain the role of the signalperson, rigger, lift director, and competent or qualified person in a lift

Describe recordkeeping obligations for inspections, maintenance, and operator certification and how long records are typically retained

Identify the consequences of operating outside rated capacity or without required inspections

State the operator's pre-lift checklist responsibilities that cannot be delegated

Execute a simulated pre-lift briefing covering hazard review, lift plan, signal protocol, and stop-work triggers

Perform a hands-on sequence: setup, leveling, pre-lift checks, controlled lift with signalperson, and safe shutdown

Demonstrate smooth control inputs to minimize load swing and explain each input aloud

Self-assess performance against a scored rubric and identify the two weakest skills for continued practice

Complete a timed mixed review of load chart and rigging calculations under exam conditions