Which statement is true about lifting personnel platforms?

Which statement is true about lifting personnel platforms?

• A. Rope type is irrelevant
• B. Rigging hardware must withstand 5x load
• C. Boom length indicator is optional for some cranes
• D. The minimum safety factor is 7 to 1 for all loads

Answer: (B)

For lifting personnel platforms, the key safety rule is providing a substantial margin between the load and the rigging hardware’s capacity. Rigging components such as shackles, hooks, slings, and other hardware must be able to withstand at least five times the maximum load the platform is expected to lift. This five-to-one factor accounts for dynamic forces, shocks, misloads, and wear, helping prevent failures that could injure workers. For example, if the platform’s maximum load is 1,000 pounds, you’d select hardware rated for at least 5,000 pounds. Rope type matters because different ropes have different strength, elongation, and dynamic performance, and using an unsuitable rope can undermine safety. Boom length indicators are not optional; knowing the boom position helps ensure the crane operates within safe load limits. The standard safety factor for lifting personnel isn’t seven to one; five to one is the typical requirement.

For lifting personnel platforms, the key safety rule is providing a substantial margin between the load and the rigging hardware’s capacity. Rigging components such as shackles, hooks, slings, and other hardware must be able to withstand at least five times the maximum load the platform is expected to lift. This five-to-one factor accounts for dynamic forces, shocks, misloads, and wear, helping prevent failures that could injure workers. For example, if the platform’s maximum load is 1,000 pounds, you’d select hardware rated for at least 5,000 pounds.

Rope type matters because different ropes have different strength, elongation, and dynamic performance, and using an unsuitable rope can undermine safety. Boom length indicators are not optional; knowing the boom position helps ensure the crane operates within safe load limits. The standard safety factor for lifting personnel isn’t seven to one; five to one is the typical requirement.