What action should be taken when a crane reaches its load capacity?

When a crane reaches its load capacity, the appropriate action is to reduce the load or stop lifting. This is critical for ensuring safety during crane operations. Exceeding the load capacity can lead to several serious hazards, including equipment failure, structural collapse, and accidents that could result in injury or loss of life.

Reducing the load helps maintain the crane's stability, allowing for safe operations within the defined limits. Stopping the lift prevents further risk of overloading, which is essential for protecting both the crane and personnel in the vicinity. Proper adherence to the crane's rated load capacity is paramount, as it directly impacts the operational integrity of the equipment and ensures compliance with industry safety standards.

Operating with caution when at capacity could still lead to unsafe conditions, as there’s no guarantee of stability. Similarly, attempting a different type of lift or increasing stability supports does not address the fundamental issue of surpassing the crane's load limit, which is the primary concern when it comes to safety and operational integrity.