Crane Operator Certification Exam (NCCCO)
Practice Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026
Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the primary purpose of a crane load chart?
A. To determine the type of crane to purchase
B. To calculate the crane’s maintenance schedule
C. To determine the maximum load a crane can lift at a given radius
D. To record operator training hours
Rationale: The load chart shows the crane’s lifting capacity at
various boom lengths and angles, which is essential for safe
operation.
2. What is the first step an operator should take before operating a
crane?
A. Start lifting the load immediately
B. Review the job schedule
, C. Perform a pre-operation inspection
D. Consult the construction drawings
Rationale: A pre-operation inspection ensures the crane is safe to
operate and all systems are functioning properly.
3. Which signal indicates “Hoist” in standard hand signals?
A. One hand raised, circling motion
B. One hand pointed down
C. Forearm vertical, hand moving in small circles
D. Both hands waving
Rationale: The standard “Hoist” signal is the forearm vertical with a
circular hand motion.
4. What is the purpose of outriggers on a mobile crane?
A. To lift heavier loads
B. To increase travel speed
C. To stabilize the crane and prevent tipping
D. To store tools
Rationale: Outriggers extend from the crane to provide stability and
prevent the crane from tipping during lifts.
5. What is the maximum allowable load on a crane hook?
A. Twice the rated capacity
B. The weight of the boom
C. The rated load as specified by the manufacturer
D. Any load that the operator feels safe to lift
, Rationale: Exceeding the manufacturer-rated capacity can result in
structural failure or tipping.
6. Which type of crane is typically used for high-rise building
construction?
A. Crawler crane
B. Truck-mounted crane
C. Tower crane
D. Floating crane
Rationale: Tower cranes are commonly used for tall buildings
because they can reach high elevations and have a long jib.
7. What is the main hazard when operating a crane near power lines?
A. Noise
B. Falling objects
C. Electrocution
D. Tire punctures
Rationale: Contact or proximity to energized power lines can cause
severe electrical shock or electrocution.
8. What is the purpose of a load moment indicator (LMI)?
A. To increase crane speed
B. To log operator hours
C. To warn when the crane is approaching its tipping point
D. To measure wind speed
, Rationale: LMIs monitor crane load and boom position to prevent
overloading and tipping.
9. How often must a crane undergo a formal inspection according to
OSHA standards?
A. Weekly
B. Annually
C. After every lift
D. Every 5 years
Rationale: OSHA requires a thorough annual inspection to ensure
structural integrity and safe operation.
10. What does a “boom angle” indicator show?
A. Speed of crane travel
B. Load weight
C. Angle of the boom relative to horizontal
D. Operator fatigue level
Rationale: The boom angle indicator helps the operator maintain
safe lifting positions.
11. What is a “swing radius” on a crane?
A. Length of the crane boom
B. Distance between outriggers
C. The area covered by the rotating superstructure
D. Maximum height of lift
Practice Questions And Correct Answers
(Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026
Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the primary purpose of a crane load chart?
A. To determine the type of crane to purchase
B. To calculate the crane’s maintenance schedule
C. To determine the maximum load a crane can lift at a given radius
D. To record operator training hours
Rationale: The load chart shows the crane’s lifting capacity at
various boom lengths and angles, which is essential for safe
operation.
2. What is the first step an operator should take before operating a
crane?
A. Start lifting the load immediately
B. Review the job schedule
, C. Perform a pre-operation inspection
D. Consult the construction drawings
Rationale: A pre-operation inspection ensures the crane is safe to
operate and all systems are functioning properly.
3. Which signal indicates “Hoist” in standard hand signals?
A. One hand raised, circling motion
B. One hand pointed down
C. Forearm vertical, hand moving in small circles
D. Both hands waving
Rationale: The standard “Hoist” signal is the forearm vertical with a
circular hand motion.
4. What is the purpose of outriggers on a mobile crane?
A. To lift heavier loads
B. To increase travel speed
C. To stabilize the crane and prevent tipping
D. To store tools
Rationale: Outriggers extend from the crane to provide stability and
prevent the crane from tipping during lifts.
5. What is the maximum allowable load on a crane hook?
A. Twice the rated capacity
B. The weight of the boom
C. The rated load as specified by the manufacturer
D. Any load that the operator feels safe to lift
, Rationale: Exceeding the manufacturer-rated capacity can result in
structural failure or tipping.
6. Which type of crane is typically used for high-rise building
construction?
A. Crawler crane
B. Truck-mounted crane
C. Tower crane
D. Floating crane
Rationale: Tower cranes are commonly used for tall buildings
because they can reach high elevations and have a long jib.
7. What is the main hazard when operating a crane near power lines?
A. Noise
B. Falling objects
C. Electrocution
D. Tire punctures
Rationale: Contact or proximity to energized power lines can cause
severe electrical shock or electrocution.
8. What is the purpose of a load moment indicator (LMI)?
A. To increase crane speed
B. To log operator hours
C. To warn when the crane is approaching its tipping point
D. To measure wind speed
, Rationale: LMIs monitor crane load and boom position to prevent
overloading and tipping.
9. How often must a crane undergo a formal inspection according to
OSHA standards?
A. Weekly
B. Annually
C. After every lift
D. Every 5 years
Rationale: OSHA requires a thorough annual inspection to ensure
structural integrity and safe operation.
10. What does a “boom angle” indicator show?
A. Speed of crane travel
B. Load weight
C. Angle of the boom relative to horizontal
D. Operator fatigue level
Rationale: The boom angle indicator helps the operator maintain
safe lifting positions.
11. What is a “swing radius” on a crane?
A. Length of the crane boom
B. Distance between outriggers
C. The area covered by the rotating superstructure
D. Maximum height of lift
