What actions constitute proper response to a suspended load in an emergency?

• A. Enter under the load to guide it.
• B. Do not enter under the load; keep clear; lower the load with the controls or tag out for emergency assistance; call for rescue if there is an injury.
• C. Swing the load to relieve tension.
• D. Ignore and wait for someone else.

Answer: (B)

A suspended load is a high-risk situation where the load can shift, drop, or swing with little warning. The safest response is to stay clear of the load path and act only using controlled, safe procedures. Do not enter under the load, because any movement or failure could cause severe injury or death. If it is safe to do so, lower the load with the crane controls to bring it to a stable resting position. If lowering isn’t safe or possible, tag out the equipment to prevent others from reactivating it and call for emergency assistance. If there’s anyone injured, call for rescue so trained personnel can perform the extraction safely. Swinging the load to relieve tension is dangerous and can create unpredictable motion, so it should not be attempted. The priority is to maintain distance from the hazard and secure the situation through proper procedures.