NCCCO Tower Crane Operator 3

Question 1

What is unique about a tower crane operator's daily climb to the cab?

Accepted Answer

Many tower cranes require the operator to climb a ladder inside the tower — potentially hundreds of feet — making physical fitness essential

Answer

While some modern tower cranes have personnel hoists, many require the operator to climb internal ladders to reach the cab. This can be several hundred feet, requiring good physical condition.

Question 2

How does a tower crane operator determine wind speed at operating height?

Accepted Answer

Using an anemometer mounted at or near the jib level of the crane

Answer

Tower cranes have anemometers mounted at elevation to measure actual wind speed at operating height, which is typically much higher than ground-level wind speed.

Question 3

What must the tower crane operator do during a lightning storm?

Accepted Answer

Cease operations, secure the crane (free-slewing if designed for it), and evacuate the cab to a safe location at ground level

Answer

Tower cranes are the tallest structures on site and attract lightning. Operations must stop, the crane may need to be set for free-slewing (weathervaning), and the operator must descend to ground level.

Question 4

What is 'trolleying' on a tower crane?

Accepted Answer

Moving the trolley along the jib to change the operating radius and load position

Answer

Trolleying moves the hook trolley along the jib (horizontal boom), changing the operating radius. Moving the trolley outward increases radius (reducing capacity); inward decreases radius (increasing capacity).

Question 5

What is 'free-slewing' and when is it used?

Accepted Answer

When the crane's upper structure is allowed to rotate freely with the wind, typically during high winds when the crane is not in operation

Answer

Free-slewing allows the crane to weathervane (rotate like a weather vane) with the wind, reducing wind loads on the structure. It's engaged during storms and when the crane is out of service in high winds.

NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) Practice Test

NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) Practice Test

NCCCO Tower Crane Operator 3