What is an essential procedure before lifting a load at near capacity?

Testing the hoist brakes is crucial before lifting a load at near capacity because it ensures the safety and reliability of the crane's lifting mechanism. The hoist brakes are responsible for holding the load in place when suspended, and any failure in the braking system could lead to catastrophic accidents, such as dropping the load or causing the crane to become unstable. Ensuring that the hoist brakes function correctly helps prevent movement of the load during the lift and provides confidence that the crane can safely manage the tension and weight of the load being lifted.

While factors such as the ground surface, calibrating settings, and team member presence are also important safety considerations, they are secondary to confirming the operational integrity of the hoist brakes. If the brakes fail, no amount of preparation regarding ground stability or team coordination can mitigate the risks involved in a lift, especially when handling loads that approach the crane's capacity. Therefore, prioritizing the testing of hoist brakes establishes a fundamental safety measure prior to undertaking a heavy lift.