OSHA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield OSHA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Under OSHA rules, a crane operator trainee must be supervised by whom? → A qualified evaluator or journeyman operator
2. What must occur before anyone on the ground approaches or touches a crane that has made contact with an energized overhead power line? → The utility company must deenergize and confirm the line is safe
3. What environmental protection measure applies to maintenance protocols? → Proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials according to environmental regulations
4. What minimum clearance distance does OSHA require when crane operations are conducted near power lines energized between 350 kV and 1,000 kV? → 35 feet
5. What must be used when lifting materials over workers? → Tag lines
6. Why are ground conditions important in crane operation? → To prevent tipping
7. What environmental protection measure applies to code compliance? → Proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials according to environmental regulations
8. Under OSHA 1926.1408, who is responsible for notifying the utility company before crane work begins near overhead power lines? → The employer or controlling entity
9. What should a signal person do immediately if a crane load begins to drift toward an overhead power line during a pick? → Immediately give the emergency stop signal
10. How should hazardous conditions be handled during code compliance work? → Stop work, secure the area, report the hazard, and follow safety protocols
11. How should equipment be maintained for material selection operations? → Follow manufacturer-recommended preventive maintenance schedules
12. What code compliance requirement applies to code compliance? → All work must comply with applicable local, state, and national codes
13. How does OSHA enforce crane safety regulations? → Site inspections and citations
14. How should the operator respond if signals are unclear? → Stop crane movement
15. What inspection procedure is essential for maintenance protocols? → Systematic inspection following established checklists and standards
16. How should equipment be maintained for safety procedures operations? → Follow manufacturer-recommended preventive maintenance schedules
17. What percentage of the crane's rated capacity is typically used as the threshold to define a 'critical lift' under many OSHA and industry guidelines? → 75%
18. What information must be confirmed about the load before referencing the load chart? → Load weight, center of gravity, and attachment points
19. How should hazardous conditions be handled during material selection work? → Stop work, secure the area, report the hazard, and follow safety protocols
20. What inspection procedure is essential for technical measurements? → Systematic inspection following established checklists and standards
21. A lift plan requires a crane to work near overhead power lines. What is the minimum clearance required under OSHA 1926.1408 for lines up to 50 kV? → 10 feet
22. What is the most critical safety requirement in environmental standards? → Following all applicable safety regulations and wearing required PPE
23. Which of the following signals means 'lower the load'? → Arm extended down, fingers open and closed
24. What is the most critical safety requirement in equipment operation? → Following all applicable safety regulations and wearing required PPE
25. Before beginning crane operations near overhead power lines, what must the crane operator or employer determine first? → The voltage of the power lines
26. What should an operator do if a crane alarm sounds? → Stop the crane and investigate
27. Which of the following is an unsafe crane operation practice? → Lifting over people
28. Which control moves the crane’s boom up and down? → Boom hoist lever
29. What is the minimum age requirement for a crane operator trainee under OSHA 1926.1430? → 18 years old
30. How should hazardous conditions be handled during safety procedures work? → Stop work, secure the area, report the hazard, and follow safety protocols