What position should all controllers be in when energizing?

What position should all controllers be in when energizing?

• A. The raised position
• B. The lowered position
• C. Either raised or lowered
• D. Either neutral or off

Answer: (D)

Before energizing a crane, set every control to neutral or off so there is no energy going to any motion or hoisting function. This safe default prevents unexpected movement as power is applied, protecting people and equipment from sudden starts, swings, or unintended lowering/raising of the load. If a control were in a raised position, it would command lifting; if in a lowered position, it could command lowering or another motion—both dangerous at the moment of energizing. Allowing either raised or lowered does not guarantee a static state, whereas neutral or off ensures the system is quiescent as power comes on.

Before energizing a crane, set every control to neutral or off so there is no energy going to any motion or hoisting function. This safe default prevents unexpected movement as power is applied, protecting people and equipment from sudden starts, swings, or unintended lowering/raising of the load. If a control were in a raised position, it would command lifting; if in a lowered position, it could command lowering or another motion—both dangerous at the moment of energizing. Allowing either raised or lowered does not guarantee a static state, whereas neutral or off ensures the system is quiescent as power comes on.