Scope
2 hours
Learning Objectives
- •State exactly which equipment the 2B restriction authorizes you to operate
- •Explain how the Class 2 restriction hierarchy works (2A through 2D)
- •List the four 230 CMR 6.00 operating rules that apply to all Class 2 equipment
- •Identify the SAE hand signal standard required and who may direct the operator
Topics Covered
- •2B scope: combination loader/backhoe machines (backhoe loaders / TLBs) with manufacturer-approved attachments
- •2B also includes 2C equipment (front-end loaders) and 2D equipment (compact hoisting machinery up to 10,000 lb GVW)
- •Class 2 hierarchy: 2A is the broadest (all excavators, backhoes, loaders); each later letter covers progressively less equipment
- •2B does NOT authorize full-size crawler or rubber-tired excavators — that requires a 2A license
- •Operating equipment outside your restriction is unlicensed operation under MGL §53
- •230 CMR 6.00 operating rules: only an approved signaler may direct the operator
- •No unauthorized personnel on the machine during operation; one apprentice permitted under direct supervision
- •No persons within the working radius during loader or backhoe movement; operators must follow manufacturer specifications
- •SAE J1307 hand signals required by 230 CMR 6.00 for excavating machinery
Resources
Self-Check Questions
Question 1: Which machine does a 2B license authorize you to operate?
- A. A full-size crawler excavator
- B. A combination loader/backhoe machine (backhoe loader)(correct)
- C. A tower crane
- D. A truck-mounted hydraulic crane
Show Explanation
Explanation:
The 2B restriction covers combination loader/backhoe machines with manufacturer-approved attachments. Crawler excavators require a 2A license, and cranes fall under Class 1 — not Class 2.
Question 2: You hold only a 2B license. A job calls for a full-size rubber-tired excavator. May you operate it?
- A. Yes, a backhoe loader and an excavator are close enough
- B. Yes, if a 2A holder supervises you
- C. No — a full-size excavator requires a 2A license; operating it on a 2B is unlicensed operation(correct)
- D. Yes, for up to 8 hours per project
Show Explanation
Explanation:
A 2B does not authorize full-size excavators. Operating equipment outside your restriction is unlicensed operation under MGL §53, exposing you and your employer to penalties of up to $500 per day.
Question 3: How does the Class 2 restriction hierarchy work?
- A. Each letter covers entirely separate, unrelated equipment
- B. 2A is the broadest; 2B, 2C, and 2D each cover progressively less equipment, and 2A includes them all(correct)
- C. 2D is the broadest and 2A the narrowest
- D. The letters indicate exam difficulty, not equipment scope
Show Explanation
Explanation:
In Class 2, the "A" license covers everything in the group; each subsequent letter covers less. A 2B holder can operate 2B, 2C, and 2D equipment, but a 2C holder cannot operate a backhoe loader.
Question 4: Besides combination loader/backhoe machines, what other equipment does a 2B license cover?
- A. Tower cranes and gantry cranes
- B. Front-end loaders (2C) and compact hoisting machinery (2D)(correct)
- C. Only attachments, not whole machines
- D. Nothing — 2B is limited strictly to backhoe loaders
Show Explanation
Explanation:
Because the Class 2 hierarchy flows downward, a 2B license also authorizes 2C equipment (front-end loaders) and 2D equipment (compact hoisting machinery up to 10,000 lb GVW).
Question 5: Under 230 CMR 6.00, who is the ONLY person authorized to direct a backhoe loader operator's movements?
- A. The general contractor's superintendent
- B. Any crew member on site
- C. The approved signaler assigned to the machine(correct)
- D. The operator and the site safety officer jointly
Show Explanation
Explanation:
230 CMR 6.00 requires that only an approved signaler direct the operator. Taking direction from anyone else — even a supervisor — violates the regulation and creates unsafe conditions.
Question 6: Which SAE standard specifies the hand signals required by 230 CMR 6.00 for excavating machinery?
- A. SAE J386
- B. SAE J1307(correct)
- C. SAE J320a
- D. SAE J237
Show Explanation
Explanation:
SAE J1307 is the standard hand signal set for excavating machinery required by 230 CMR 6.00. SAE J386 covers seat belts, J320a covers ROPS, and J237 covers braking.
Question 7: Beyond the licensed operator, how many additional people may be on a backhoe loader during operation under 230 CMR 6.00?
- A. No additional personnel — operator only
- B. One apprentice under the direct supervision of the operator(correct)
- C. Two helpers if the superintendent approves
- D. As many as can fit in the cab
Show Explanation
Explanation:
230 CMR 6.00 allows one apprentice in addition to the licensed operator, but only under direct supervision. Unauthorized passengers on the machine at any time violate the regulation.