Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Practice Exam

Under which condition must a hook on an overhead crane be removed from service?

1. Visible rusting

2. Wear exceeding 10% of the original dimension

3. Cracks in the surface

4. Improper lubrication

The correct answer is: Wear exceeding 10% of the original dimension

The removal of a hook from service is crucial for maintaining safety and operational reliability in overhead crane operations. When the wear on a hook exceeds 10% of its original dimension, it indicates that the structural integrity of the hook has been compromised. This level of wear can significantly decrease the hook's ability to safely bear loads, increasing the risk of failure during operation. Hence, strict adherence to this criteria is vital for ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment. While visible rusting, cracks in the surface, and improper lubrication can all be factors in assessing the condition of a hook, the specific wear limit of 10% serves as a clear and quantitative threshold for when a hook must be serviced or removed. Visible rusting could indicate deterioration but may not impair the hook’s structural integrity unless it leads to significant wear. Cracks are serious but may not always be visible until inspected closely. Improper lubrication is more about maintenance and operational efficiency than structural safety, which is why removing the hook for severe wear is emphasized.