Signalperson Written Exam

The Signalperson Written examination portion of the NCCCO certification program tests the following knowledge areas:

Domain 1: Hand Signals
(Approximately 33% of the test)
Domain 2: Voice Communication
(Approximately 13% of the test)
Domain 3: Basic Knowledge of Crane Operations
(Approximately 27% of the test)
Domain 4: Situational Awareness (Site Specific Considerations)
(Approximately 13% of the test)
Domain 5: Safety Standards and Regulations
(Approximately 13% of the test)

DOMAIN 1: HAND SIGNALS
(Approximately 33% of the test)

1. Know the ASME B30.5 standard hand signals for mobile cranes.

2. Know the ASME B30.3 standard hand signals for tower cranes.

3. Know the necessity of moving the load while remaining visible to the operator.

4. Know the importance of providing clear and visible hand signals.

5. Know the importance of keeping in constant communication and understanding with the operator.

DOMAIN 2: VOICE COMMANDS
(Approximately 13% of the test)

1.  Know the proper use of the equipment being used as well as the benefits and limitations.

2.  Be aware of communication barriers, i.e. wind, language, interference.

3.  Know the importance of ensuring fully charged batteries are used and communication device is in acceptable working order.

4.  Know the importance of keeping constant communications and understanding with the operator.

5.  Know the standard as per ASME B30.5 pertaining to function/direction, speed and/or distance and function/stop.

6.  Understand the importance of operator perspective while swinging.

7.  Know what action to take if the operator is not following signals correctly.

DOMAIN 3: BASIC KNOWLEDGE OF CRANE OPERATIONS
(Approximately 27% of the test)

1.  Know the basic crane terminology and definitions.

2.  Understand the effect of size, shape, weight and center of gravity of load being lifted.

3.  Understand boom deflection and how to compensate for it.

4.  Know the effect a moving load has on a crane.

5.  Understand that boom length, angle and load weight may effect boom deflection.

6.  Know the importance of keeping hoist line vertical when load is applied.

7.  Understand what causes drift and how to compensate for it.

8.  Know the effects of side loading.

9.  Know the causes and consequences of two blocking.

10. Know the importance of keeping personnel from path of load.

11. Understand when applying load to crane that center of gravity needs to be below the boom tip.

DOMAIN 4: SITUATIONAL AWARENESS (SITE SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS)
(Approximately 13% of the test)

1.  Know the importance of reviewing lift requirements with site supervision/operator/crew.

2.  Know how to identify and avoid hazards and obstacles.

3.  Understand the effects of weather conditions.

4.  Know how and when to use voice or hand signals.

5.  Know the emergency procedures.

DOMAIN 5: SAFETY STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS

(Approximately 13% of the test)

1.  Know the applicable OSHA and ASME standards including, but not limited to:

     a). people under loads;

     b). suspended personnel platforms;

     c). hand signal posting requirements.

2.  Know the electric power line hazards and applicable regulations and safety practices.