When making a lift, what position should the trolley be in?

When making a lift, what position should the trolley be in?

• A. Vertical to the load
• B. Horizontal to the load
• C. Depends on the load location
• D. Makes no difference

Answer: (A)

Keep the hoist line vertical by positioning the trolley directly over the load before lifting. When the rope hangs straight, there’s no sideways pull on the hook or rope, which helps keep the load stable, reduces swing, and minimizes side loading on the hoist and trolley. If the rope were horizontal, the load would pull to the side, making control harder and increasing the risk of damage or tipping. You should still aim for a vertical line of pull regardless of load location, because a vertical lift provides the safest and most controllable lift.

Keep the hoist line vertical by positioning the trolley directly over the load before lifting. When the rope hangs straight, there’s no sideways pull on the hook or rope, which helps keep the load stable, reduces swing, and minimizes side loading on the hoist and trolley. If the rope were horizontal, the load would pull to the side, making control harder and increasing the risk of damage or tipping. You should still aim for a vertical line of pull regardless of load location, because a vertical lift provides the safest and most controllable lift.