What is involved in a load test and what does it demonstrate?

• A. A casual inspection of rigging and brakes after a test.
• B. A controlled test at or near rated capacity to confirm crane control responses, stability, and rigging integrity.
• C. A full-load test exceeding rated capacity to ensure safety margins.
• D. A check of equipment color coding during the test.

Answer: (B)

A load test is a controlled evaluation where the crane is operated with a load at or near its rated capacity to see how it behaves under real operating conditions. It demonstrates that the crane’s control responses (how it starts, stops, moves, and hoists), its stability (no unexpected tipping or excessive sway), and its rigging integrity (the condition of hooks, slings, and attachments) are all capable of handling the specified load safely. The test is performed under the supervision of qualified personnel and uses the actual or near-actual rated load to confirm that safety systems, limits, and indicators function correctly and that all components perform as designed under load.

This isn’t just a casual visual check after a test, and it isn’t about exceeding the crane’s rated capacity—doing so would be unsafe and is not how a load test is conducted. Checking color coding, while important for general safety, doesn’t demonstrate the crane’s ability to lift and control a load.