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

Under which circumstance is a crack in the windshield of a crane cab okay?

1. As long as it causes no visible distortion that would interfere with safe operations

2. As long as it is less than 6 inches long

3. As long as the windshield is replaced on the next annual inspection

4. It is never okay

The correct answer is: As long as it causes no visible distortion that would interfere with safe operations

A crack in the windshield of a crane cab is considered acceptable only if it does not cause any visible distortion that could interfere with the operator's ability to see clearly and operate the crane safely. This is crucial because visibility is a key factor in ensuring the safety of both the operator and those in the vicinity of the crane. If a crack is present but does not obstruct the view or distort what the operator sees, it may not pose an immediate risk. In contrast, a crack that exceeds a certain length may become a safety hazard, as it could expand over time, reduce visibility further, or compromise the structural integrity of the windshield. If the windshield is allowed to remain cracked without corrective action, it could lead to more severe safety issues over time, particularly if the crack becomes more prominent. Therefore, the focus remains on the crack's impact on visibility rather than solely on its size or the timing of repairs.