Oilers/Plant Tenders (HHC) Civil Service Practice Exam

The minimum factor of safety of a wire rope used for grab buckets should be NOT less than __________.

1. 4

2. 5

3. 6

4. 7

The correct answer is: 6

The minimum factor of safety of a wire rope used for grab buckets is designated to ensure the rope can withstand dynamic loads and potential hazards associated with lifting operations without failure. A factor of safety of 6 provides a reliable margin against unexpected stresses that may occur during operation, such as sudden loads, wear and tear, environmental influences, and potential overload situations. This level of safety is typically recommended in industry standards and practices, as it accounts not only for the static weight of the load but also for dynamic factors that could increase the stress on the wire rope. Using a factor of safety of 6 helps ensure the longevity and reliability of the equipment, minimizing the risk of failure which may lead to accidents or injuries in a workplace setting. Thus, maintaining a factor of safety at this level is paramount for safe operation in handling heavy loads with grab buckets.