CHST - Construction Health and Safety Technician Crane and Rigging Safety Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: According to OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC, when is a signal person required for crane operations?
- Only when the load being lifted exceeds 50% of the crane's rated capacity.
- At all times when a crane is in operation, regardless of visibility.
- When the point of operation is not in full view of the operator or the operator's view is obstructed in the direction of travel. (Correct answer)
- Only during critical lifts as defined by the company's internal safety plan.
Correct answer: When the point of operation is not in full view of the operator or the operator's view is obstructed in the direction of travel.
OSHA 1926.1419(a) explicitly states a signal person must be provided when the point of operation is not in full view of the operator, the equipment's direction of travel is obstructed, or the operator or person handling the load determines it's necessary for safety.
Question 2: A rigger is inspecting a synthetic web sling before a lift. Which of the following would be cause for immediate removal from service?
- Minor discoloration from sun exposure.
- The presence of knots or melting/charring. (Correct answer)
- Sling protection label is slightly faded but still legible.
- Dirt and grime on the sling from normal use.
Correct answer: The presence of knots or melting/charring.
According to ASME B30.9 and OSHA guidelines, synthetic slings must be immediately removed from service if they show signs of melting, charring, knots, or acid/caustic burns, as these conditions severely compromise the sling's integrity.
Question 3: A construction site supervisor is developing a critical lift plan. Which of the following situations would OSHA define as a critical lift, requiring such a plan?
- Any lift that occurs during nighttime hours.
- A lift where the load is valued at over $100,000.
- Lifting a load that exceeds 75% of the crane's rated capacity. (Correct answer)
- Using a brand new crane for the first time on a job site.
Correct answer: Lifting a load that exceeds 75% of the crane's rated capacity.
OSHA defines a critical lift as one that exceeds 75% of the rated capacity of the crane or involves the use of more than one crane. While other factors may be included in a company's specific plan, exceeding 75% capacity is a primary OSHA trigger.
Question 4: During a multi-crane lift, what is the most crucial element of communication between the crane operators and the lift director?
- Using hand signals exclusively for all communication.
- Ensuring all operators are on the same, dedicated radio channel. (Correct answer)
- Having each operator communicate only with their designated spotter.
- Relying on the lead operator to relay all commands to the other operator.
Correct answer: Ensuring all operators are on the same, dedicated radio channel.
For multi-crane lifts, effective and clear communication is paramount. OSHA requires a dedicated means of communication, such as a radio channel, for the lift director to coordinate with all operators simultaneously to ensure a safe and synchronized lift.
Question 5: What is the primary purpose of using outrigger pads or crane mats?
- To provide a level surface for the crane operator to stand on.
- To protect the ground surface from cosmetic damage.
- To increase the crane's lifting capacity beyond its rated limit.
- To distribute the crane's load over a larger area to ensure ground stability. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To distribute the crane's load over a larger area to ensure ground stability.
The primary safety function of outrigger pads or mats is to distribute the concentrated load from the outrigger floats over a larger surface area. This prevents the ground from failing, which could lead to the crane becoming unstable and tipping over.
Question 6: Prior to each shift, what is the minimum inspection requirement for rigging equipment according to OSHA?
- A documented inspection by a third-party inspector.
- A visual inspection by a qualified rigger.
- A thorough inspection by the site safety manager.
- A visual inspection by the competent person using the equipment. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: A visual inspection by the competent person using the equipment.
OSHA 1926.251(a)(1) requires that rigging equipment for material handling shall be inspected prior to use on each shift and as necessary during its use by a competent person to ensure it is safe. Defective equipment must be removed from service.
CHST - Construction Health and Safety Technician Crane and Rigging Safety Questions and Answers 1
According to OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC, when is a signal person required for crane operations?