When leaving an overhead crane unattended, how should any attached load be positioned?

When leaving an overhead crane unattended, how should any attached load be positioned?

• A. Raised to the upper limits
• B. Raised just above the floor
• C. Lowered to the floor
• D. Unhooked from the crane

Answer: (C)

The main idea is to place any attached load in the safest, most stable position when the crane is left unattended. Lowering the load to the floor achieves that stability: it keeps the load out of the air, so a brake failure, power loss, or unintended movement can’t cause it to drop or swing into people or equipment. A load left elevated or just above the floor remains suspended and can still pose a hazard if the crane shifts or if power is lost. Unhooking the load isn’t always practical or safer than simply letting it rest on the floor, where it won’t obstruct work areas. So, lowering the load to the floor minimizes risk and keeps the workspace safer while the crane is idle.

The main idea is to place any attached load in the safest, most stable position when the crane is left unattended. Lowering the load to the floor achieves that stability: it keeps the load out of the air, so a brake failure, power loss, or unintended movement can’t cause it to drop or swing into people or equipment. A load left elevated or just above the floor remains suspended and can still pose a hazard if the crane shifts or if power is lost. Unhooking the load isn’t always practical or safer than simply letting it rest on the floor, where it won’t obstruct work areas. So, lowering the load to the floor minimizes risk and keeps the workspace safer while the crane is idle.