NCCER RIGGER LEVEL 3 PRACTICE EXAM
QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS PLUS
RATIONALES 2025
1. When planning a lift with a mobile crane, what should be done first?
Determine the load weight and center of gravity
Knowing the load weight and COG is the foundation for choosing
equipment and rigging.
2. Which document provides the allowable lifting capacity for a crane?
Load chart
The load chart specifies limits based on configuration and radius.
3. A lift plan should always include which of the following?
Rigging method and load path
A safe lift plan must specify how the load will be rigged and its travel
path.
4. What is the effect of increasing the lift radius on a mobile crane?
Decreases lifting capacity
As radius increases, the leverage effect reduces capacity.
5. What must be done before any critical lift begins?
Conduct a pre-lift meeting
Pre-lift meetings ensure everyone understands roles and hazards.
,6. Which type of hitch is most stable for controlling a load’s position?
Double basket hitch
A double basket evenly distributes weight and minimizes swinging.
7. Which condition can cause a sling to fail below its rated capacity?
Shock loading
Shock loading imposes sudden force that can exceed capacity instantly.
8. Which of these must be verified when inspecting wire rope slings?
Broken wires, kinks, and crushing
These are common damage indicators that reduce strength.
9. The load’s center of gravity is directly beneath the:
Hook
Loads will naturally shift until the hook is above the COG.
10.When lifting a load with an off-center center of gravity, what must be
done?
Adjust sling lengths to level the load
Unequal sling lengths balance uneven loads.
11.What is the main function of tag lines?
Control rotation and swinging
Tag lines help riggers guide loads safely.
12.Which of these requires a lift director?
A critical lift
Critical lifts must have a designated leader per OSHA.
, 13.What factor should be considered for rigging hardware selection?
Load weight and sling angle
Hardware must be rated for the forces involved, including angle effects.
14.Which statement about spreader bars is true?
They reduce sling angles to maintain capacity
Spreader bars prevent slings from pulling inward.
15.Which best describes a “critical lift”?
A lift involving high risk or exceeding 75% of capacity
Critical lifts have potential for significant consequences if failed.
16.Which sling type should not be used where sharp edges are present
without protection?
Synthetic web sling
Synthetic slings can easily cut without edge protection.
17.What is the recommended minimum design factor for lifting slings?
5 to 1
This provides a safety margin to account for wear and defects.
18.Who is responsible for ensuring rigging equipment is inspected before use?
The rigger using the equipment
The user must confirm equipment is safe.
19.Which is the correct hand signal to raise the boom?
Arm extended with thumb pointing upward
Standard signals prevent miscommunication.
QUESTIONS AND CORRECT ANSWERS PLUS
RATIONALES 2025
1. When planning a lift with a mobile crane, what should be done first?
Determine the load weight and center of gravity
Knowing the load weight and COG is the foundation for choosing
equipment and rigging.
2. Which document provides the allowable lifting capacity for a crane?
Load chart
The load chart specifies limits based on configuration and radius.
3. A lift plan should always include which of the following?
Rigging method and load path
A safe lift plan must specify how the load will be rigged and its travel
path.
4. What is the effect of increasing the lift radius on a mobile crane?
Decreases lifting capacity
As radius increases, the leverage effect reduces capacity.
5. What must be done before any critical lift begins?
Conduct a pre-lift meeting
Pre-lift meetings ensure everyone understands roles and hazards.
,6. Which type of hitch is most stable for controlling a load’s position?
Double basket hitch
A double basket evenly distributes weight and minimizes swinging.
7. Which condition can cause a sling to fail below its rated capacity?
Shock loading
Shock loading imposes sudden force that can exceed capacity instantly.
8. Which of these must be verified when inspecting wire rope slings?
Broken wires, kinks, and crushing
These are common damage indicators that reduce strength.
9. The load’s center of gravity is directly beneath the:
Hook
Loads will naturally shift until the hook is above the COG.
10.When lifting a load with an off-center center of gravity, what must be
done?
Adjust sling lengths to level the load
Unequal sling lengths balance uneven loads.
11.What is the main function of tag lines?
Control rotation and swinging
Tag lines help riggers guide loads safely.
12.Which of these requires a lift director?
A critical lift
Critical lifts must have a designated leader per OSHA.
, 13.What factor should be considered for rigging hardware selection?
Load weight and sling angle
Hardware must be rated for the forces involved, including angle effects.
14.Which statement about spreader bars is true?
They reduce sling angles to maintain capacity
Spreader bars prevent slings from pulling inward.
15.Which best describes a “critical lift”?
A lift involving high risk or exceeding 75% of capacity
Critical lifts have potential for significant consequences if failed.
16.Which sling type should not be used where sharp edges are present
without protection?
Synthetic web sling
Synthetic slings can easily cut without edge protection.
17.What is the recommended minimum design factor for lifting slings?
5 to 1
This provides a safety margin to account for wear and defects.
18.Who is responsible for ensuring rigging equipment is inspected before use?
The rigger using the equipment
The user must confirm equipment is safe.
19.Which is the correct hand signal to raise the boom?
Arm extended with thumb pointing upward
Standard signals prevent miscommunication.
