If you fall between the radius listed on the load chart while operating a crane, you must use the?

When operating a crane, it is essential to adhere to the load chart to maintain safety and prevent overload situations. If the load radius falls between two listed radii on the load chart, using the next greater radius listed is crucial because it provides a safety buffer. This approach ensures that you account for the fact that the actual load being lifted may not be within the safe limits if using the lower radius.

The load chart is designed to provide specific capacity information based on the radius from the load to the center of the rotation of the crane's boom. By choosing the next greater radius, you are effectively ensuring that the capacity you assume is conservative enough to account for any potential inaccuracies in load positioning or lifting conditions. This practice helps to prevent accidents or crane tipping due to incorrect load assumptions.

Opting for the lowest radius could lead to exceeding the crane's capacity, thereby increasing the risk of a load drop or crane failure. Conversely, averaging radii or referencing maximum radius capacities does not yield accurate safety measures and can lead to miscalculations that jeopardize safety. Thus, using the next greater radius is the correct and safest method in such circumstances.