Certification Exam Practice Questions

Port & Container Equipment Operator Certification Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary function of a gantry crane in a container terminal?

a) Transport containers to trucks

b) Load and unload containers from ships

c) Inspect containers for damage

d) Secure containers in the yard

b) Load and unload containers from ships

Rationale: Gantry cranes are specifically designed to lift containers

on and off vessels efficiently.

• What safety device must operators always use when working near

heavy machinery? 1 / 4

a) Sunglasses

b) High-visibility vest

c) Rubber gloves

d) Safety shoes

b) High-visibility vest

Rationale: High-visibility vests ensure operators are easily seen by

other personnel and machinery drivers.

• What does the term “TEU” stand for in container operations?

a) Terminal Equipment Unit

b) Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit

c) Transport Efficiency Unit

d) Total Equipment Usage

b) Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit

Rationale: TEU is the standard measure used to describe the capacity

of container ships and terminals.

• Which type of crane is commonly used for moving containers in the

yard?

a) Tower crane

b) Rubber-tyred gantry crane (RTG)

c) Overhead bridge crane

d) Jib crane

b) Rubber-tyred gantry crane (RTG) 2 / 4

Rationale: RTGs are mobile cranes used to stack and retrieve

containers in container yards.

• What is the recommended procedure before starting any container

handling equipment?

a) Read the ship manifest

b) Perform a pre-operational inspection

c) Sign the logbook

d) Check weather reports

b) Perform a pre-operational inspection

Rationale: Pre-operational inspections ensure equipment is safe to

operate and identify potential hazards.

• Which factor is critical when stacking containers?

a) Container color

b) Weight distribution

c) Container brand

d) Shipping route

b) Weight distribution

Rationale: Proper weight distribution prevents tipping and structural

damage during stacking.

• What is the primary hazard when operating a reach stacker?

a) Falling objects

b) Overloading

c) Tire puncture 3 / 4

d) Noise

b) Overloading

Rationale: Overloading reach stackers can cause tipping or structural

failure, posing serious risks.

• What is the purpose of a twistlock in container operations?

a) Lock the crane operator’s cabin

b) Secure containers to each other or the chassis

c) Fasten safety harnesses

d) Lock the terminal gates

b) Secure containers to each other or the chassis

Rationale: Twistlocks mechanically secure containers during

transport or stacking.

• How often should equipment maintenance be carried out on container

handling machines?

a) Annually

b) Daily, weekly, or as per manufacturer’s schedule

c) Only when there is a problem

d) Every five years

b) Daily, weekly, or as per manufacturer’s schedule

Rationale: Regular maintenance ensures safe and efficient operation

of heavy equipment.

• What is the maximum stacking height for containers in a

terminal yard?

• / 4