What is a key consideration when using a crane's load chart?

When using a crane's load chart, a key consideration is the crane setup and maintenance level. The crane's load chart provides critical information regarding the maximum allowable load for different configurations of the crane, which are heavily influenced by how the crane has been set up and its ongoing maintenance status. Ensuring that the crane is correctly configured with appropriate outriggers or counterweights is essential for safe operations, as an improperly set up crane could lead to tipping or structural failure even if the load itself is within the chart's limits.

Regular maintenance also ensures that all components of the crane are functioning correctly, including the operational mechanisms that determine lifting capacity. If a crane has not been properly maintained, its load capacity may be compromised, leading to unsafe lifting conditions. This is why understanding the crane's setup and maintenance condition is vital when referring to the load chart, as it ensures that all safety measures are in place and that the crane is capable of performing as expected under the indicated loads.