What should be checked against the crane's load chart before a lift?

• A. The weather forecast.
• B. The load weight in the current configuration.
• C. The operator's wage.
• D. The color of the load.

Answer: (B)

Before a lift, the key check is the load weight in the current configuration. The load chart shows the maximum allowable load for each combination of boom length, radius, and attachments. You must compare the actual weight of the load (including rigging and any lifting attachments) to the chart for the exact configuration you’ll use. If the weight fits within the chart’s limit, the lift is within the crane’s capacity. If it exceeds the chart, you need to reduce the load, change the configuration, or use a different crane. Weather, operator wages, or the color of the load don’t determine the charted capacity, though weather can affect overall safety planning.