When lifting on outriggers, how should the outrigger floats be positioned?

When lifting on outriggers, securing the outrigger floats to the outrigger cylinder is essential for ensuring stability and safety during operations. Proper positioning of the outrigger floats helps distribute the load evenly and prevents any shifting that could lead to crane instability. When the floats are securely attached, they create a solid base that maximizes the crane's lifting capacity and enhances balance, which is particularly important when lifting heavy loads.

In contrast, loosely placing the floats or having them high above the ground does not provide the necessary support, potentially leading to an unsafe lifting operation. Additionally, keeping the floats in a raised position would negate their purpose, as they need to be in contact with the ground to effectively distribute the weight of the crane and the load being lifted. Thus, securing the outrigger floats is crucial for operational safety and efficiency when using a crane.