Exam – Full 300-Question Practice with
Answers & Rationales
This comprehensive 300-question practice exam is designed for construction professionals,
ironworkers, and safety personnel preparing for the NM GS24 Structural Steel Erection
certification. It covers all critical topics including steel erection safety, rigging, crane operations,
fall protection, welding, bolting, temporary bracing, and OSHA compliance.
Each question includes correct answers and detailed rationales, helping you understand key
safety protocols, proper erection procedures, and hazard mitigation strategies. This resource is
ideal for exam preparation, on-the-job training, and mastery of structural steel erection principles
to ensure workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
1. Which of the following is the most important factor when
selecting a crane for structural steel erection?
A. Crane color
B. Load capacity and reach
C. Operator experience
D. Manufacturer’s warranty
Rationale: The crane must safely handle the weight of steel members at
the required height and radius.
2. OSHA requires fall protection for employees working at heights
above:
A. 4 feet
B. 6 feet
C. 8 feet
D. 10 feet
Rationale: OSHA standard 1926.501 mandates fall protection for steel
erection at 6 feet or more.
,3. What is the primary purpose of a tag line during steel erection?
A. Measure the steel member
B. Control rotation and movement of loads
C. Secure the crane hook
D. Mark placement points
Rationale: Tag lines help workers guide steel members safely into
place.
4. Before lifting a steel beam, the rigging should be inspected for:
A. Length
B. Color
C. Wear, fraying, and proper rated capacity
D. Manufacturer’s label only
Rationale: Safety inspections prevent accidents caused by defective
rigging.
5. What is the minimum distance a crane must be kept from power
lines rated at 50 kV?
A. 10 feet
B. 15 feet
C. 20 feet
D. 25 feet
Rationale: OSHA standard 1926.1408 requires maintaining minimum
clearance distances to avoid electrocution.
,6. Which type of steel connection is preferred for rapid erection on
high-rise projects?
A. Welded connection
B. Bolted connection
C. Riveted connection
D. Adhesive connection
Rationale: Bolted connections allow faster assembly and safer
installation at height.
7. When using a chain fall or hoist, the load must never exceed:
A. 50% of the rated capacity
B. The rated capacity
C. Twice the rated capacity
D. None of the above
Rationale: Exceeding rated capacity can cause catastrophic failure of
lifting equipment.
8. What is the purpose of a “plumb bob” during steel erection?
A. Measure weight
B. Ensure vertical alignment
C. Guide the crane operator
D. Secure bolts
Rationale: Plumb bobs help maintain verticality for columns and other
members.
9. Which PPE is mandatory during steel erection?
A. Hard hat, gloves, safety boots, fall protection
B. Sunglasses only
, C. Sandals
D. None
Rationale: Proper PPE prevents injuries from falling objects, sharp
edges, and falls.
10. A “gusset plate” is used to:
A. Provide a platform for workers
B. Connect beams and columns
C. Paint steel structures
D. Measure steel dimensions
Rationale: Gusset plates transfer forces at joints in steel structures.
11. When erecting a steel beam, the first step is:
A. Bolt the beam in place
B. Ensure the base is level and stable
C. Apply primer paint
D. Tighten all bolts
Rationale: A stable foundation is critical for safe and accurate erection.
12. Which of the following is a common hazard during steel
erection?
A. Sunburn
B. Struck-by falling steel
C. Paper cuts
D. Noise from office equipment
Rationale: Steel erection has a high risk of falling objects; OSHA
requires protective measures.