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

When should tag lines be utilized during operations?

1. Always

2. Always, except when the use of the tagline becomes hazardous

3. When the rotation of the load becomes hazardous

4. When the operator cannot see the load

The correct answer is: When the rotation of the load becomes hazardous

Tag lines are an important safety tool in crane operations, primarily used for controlling and guiding loads as they are being lifted and moved. The correct situation for utilizing tag lines is when the rotation of the load poses a hazard. This is critical because when a load starts to spin or rotate, it can become difficult for the operator to maintain control and ensure the safety of all personnel in the vicinity. The use of a tagline helps to stabilize the load and prevent uncontrolled movement. In scenarios where the load is rotating, utilizing a tagline allows a ground worker, positioned safely away from the crane's path, to control the load's orientation actively. This practice enhances overall safety by reducing the likelihood of the load striking nearby workers, equipment, or structures. Even though a case could be made for using tag lines in other situations, such as when the operator cannot see the load, it is fundamentally most crucial in situations where load rotation is hazardous. This direct relationship between load stability and the potential for dangerous spinning explains why the correct choice focuses specifically on when rotation becomes hazardous.