If the load does not balance after being raised off the floor, what should you do first?

If the load does not balance after being raised off the floor, what should you do first?

• A. Lower to the floor and adjust the rigging
• B. Carry low to the ground until you can place it
• C. Work a little slower than you normally would
• D. Carry as high as possible away from crane

Answer: (A)

When a load isn’t balanced after being raised, the priority is to restore balance by adjusting the rigging. A balanced load has its center of gravity directly under the crane hook, which keeps the load from tilting or swinging and reduces the risk of tipping or striking nearby people or structures. Lowering the load to the floor creates a stable base and lets you reposition or reconfigure the slings, shackles, or other rigging so the weight’s center of gravity lines up with the hook. Once balanced, lift again with better control. Carrying the load low without fixing the rigging won’t correct the balance, and trying to move it more slowly doesn’t address the root cause. Carrying the load high away from the crane increases leverage and swing, creating more danger.

When a load isn’t balanced after being raised, the priority is to restore balance by adjusting the rigging. A balanced load has its center of gravity directly under the crane hook, which keeps the load from tilting or swinging and reduces the risk of tipping or striking nearby people or structures. Lowering the load to the floor creates a stable base and lets you reposition or reconfigure the slings, shackles, or other rigging so the weight’s center of gravity lines up with the hook. Once balanced, lift again with better control.

Carrying the load low without fixing the rigging won’t correct the balance, and trying to move it more slowly doesn’t address the root cause. Carrying the load high away from the crane increases leverage and swing, creating more danger.