EXAM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS | LATEST UPDATE
Section A: Core Crane Operations (Questions 1-80)
1. What is the primary purpose of a pre-operational inspection?
* ANSWER: To identify any potential deficiencies, damage, or wear on the crane and its
components *before* the crane is put into service, ensuring it is in safe operating condition and
preventing accidents.
2. According to OSHA 1926.1412, a frequent crane inspection must be performed by a
competent person:
* ANSWER: Daily or at the beginning of each shift.
3. A qualified rigger must be used during assembly/disassembly when:
* ANSWER: Employees are engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding the load, or in the initial
connection of a load to a component or structure.
4. What are the four main causes of crane-related accidents?
* ANSWER: 1. Contact with power lines. 2. Overturns. 3. Falls (of materials or personnel). 4.
Mechanical failures.
5. What information must be included on a lift plan?
* ANSWER: Crane location and setup, load weight and dimensions, lift radius, required boom
length and angle, rigging configuration, personnel roles, and steps to mitigate site-specific
hazards.
6. Define "working radius."
* ANSWER: The horizontal distance from the center of rotation of the crane's superstructure to
the center of the vertical load line when hoisting a load.
,7. What is the fundamental rule for controlling load swing when operating a crane?
* ANSWER: To minimize load swing, move the crane smoothly and slowly, avoiding abrupt
starts and stops.
8. When is it mandatory to use a signal person?
* ANSWER: When the point of operation is not in full view of the operator, or when the
operator's view is obstructed, or when the operator and the person handling the load feel that a
signal person is necessary for safety.
9. What are the three standard methods of communication allowed by OSHA?
* ANSWER: Hand signals, voice signals (using audio systems), and new signals (like radio).
10. What is the primary responsibility of the crane operator?
* ANSWER: The safe operation of the crane and the safety of all personnel in the work area.
11. What does the term "competent person" mean according to OSHA?
* ANSWER: One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the
surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to
employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
12. What is a "qualified person"?
* ANSWER: One who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional
standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully
demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work,
or the project.
13. Before lifting, what must the operator be certain of regarding the load?
* ANSWER: The total weight of the load and the rigging.
, 14. What is the purpose of a swing circle or roller path?
* ANSWER: To allow the upper works (superstructure) of the crane to rotate on the carbody or
carrier.
15. When must an annual inspection be performed on a crane?
* ANSWER: At least every 12 months, as required by OSHA 1926.1412(f).
16. What is the effect of side-loading a boom?
* ANSWER: It can cause structural damage to the boom, such as bending or collapse, and can
lead to crane failure.
17. What is the standard hand signal for "STOP"?
* ANSWER: Arm extended, palm down, held motionless.
18. What is the standard hand signal for "EMERGENCY STOP"?
* ANSWER: Both arms extended, palms down, moving back and forth horizontally.
19. What is the signal for "DOG EVERYTHING"?
* ANSWER: Clasp hands in front of the body.
20. What is the primary safety device designed to prevent a crane from being overloaded?
* ANSWER: The Load Moment Indicator (LMI) or Rated Capacity Indicator (RCI).
21. What is the minimum safe distance a crane and its load must maintain from an energized
power line of 50kV to 200kV?
* ANSWER: 20 feet.