NM Crane Operator study plan

Define rated capacity, gross load, net load, boom length, radius, and quadrant of operation, and explain how each changes the number read from a load chart

Compute net capacity for 12 practice scenarios by subtracting all deductions (jib, stowed attachments, auxiliary head, block and hook, rigging weight) from the gross chart value

Convert between boom length, radius, and boom angle using basic trigonometry, and verify five worked examples against a chart

Identify the difference between structural and stability limits on a chart and state which governs at long radius with a light load

Calculate sling tension for vertical, choker, basket, and bridle hitches using the load angle factor, and solve 10 tension problems

Determine center of gravity for symmetric and asymmetric loads and select a pick point that keeps the load level

Compute required sling working load limit from manufacturer tags and confirm the assembly is rated for the calculated tension

Size shackles, hooks, and lifting eyes to the load and verify the weakest link governs the lift

Inspect and identify the rejection criteria for chain, wire rope, synthetic web, and round slings, and list the removal-from-service defects for each

Describe crane types (lattice boom crawler, hydraulic truck, rough terrain, carry deck, overhead bridge) and match each to the site conditions where it is the correct choice

Name the function of major components: boom sections, jib, counterweight, outriggers, swing drive, hoist drum, boom angle indicator, load moment indicator, and anti-two-block device

Plan a lift by writing a rigging arrangement that states hitch type, sling angle, hardware, and load protection for three different load shapes

Evaluate ground bearing pressure for outrigger floats by calculating pressure per float from crane and load weight and comparing to soil capacity

Identify the setup requirements for outrigger extension, cribbing, level tolerance, and clearance from excavations and trenches

State the OSHA approach to power line safety, including voltage-based minimum clearance distances and the role of a spotter or dedicated observer

Explain the crane operator's required actions when electrical contact occurs, including staying in the cab and the exit procedure if fire forces evacuation

Perform a documented pre-operational inspection sequence covering walk-around items, fluid levels, wire rope, hooks, limit switches, and horn and alarm function

Demonstrate and interpret standard hand signals and voice/radio signals, and state the rule on who may direct the operator and how a stop signal is handled from anyone

List the conditions that require stopping a lift, including wind limits, two-blocking, side loading, and personnel under the load

Describe load control techniques for travel, swing, and placement, including tag line use and swing brake behavior

Summarize the employer and operator duties under the OSHA cranes and derricks standard, including operator certification, qualification, and the requirement to know and follow the load chart

Explain the role of the lift director, signal person, rigger, and spotter and how responsibility is assigned on a multi-employer site

Identify New Mexico specific requirements, including state crane operator licensing through the appropriate state agency and any permitting or notification obligations, and note where state rules add to federal rules

Outline documentation an operator should be able to produce: certification card, medical qualification, inspection records, and load chart for the specific configuration

Review and correct weak areas identified in weeks 1 through 6, prioritizing load chart problems and ground condition calculations

Rehearse reading a load chart under time pressure, answering 20 chart questions in 30 minutes

Explain maintenance items that affect capacity and safety, including wire rope replacement criteria, sheave wear, and brake adjustment intervals

Describe how configuration changes (jib installed, counterweight removed, outriggers partially extended) alter capacity and what must be verified before the next lift

Complete two full-length timed practice exams under test conditions and review every missed item to its source rule or chart method

Recite the power line clearance table and the emergency response sequence from memory without notes

State the operator's authority and duty to refuse an unsafe lift, and describe how to document the refusal

Build a one-page final review sheet covering formulas, clearance distances, inspection rejection criteria, and signal meanings