According to OSHA, how many wraps must remain on the hoist drum of an overhead crane when the hook is at its lowest position?

The correct answer is that there must be a minimum of three wraps remaining on the hoist drum when the hook is at its lowest position. This requirement is in place to ensure that there is sufficient cable left on the drum to maintain proper tension and prevent the cable from becoming loose or slipping off the drum during operation.

Having at least three wraps provides a safety margin, which assists in safeguarding against the risk of the cable unwinding due to dynamic loads or sudden movements that can occur during crane operation. This precaution is crucial for maintaining stability and controlling the load safely.

Other options, such as one or two wraps, would not provide the necessary security or stability, increasing the risk of cable failure or loss of control over the load, which could lead to accidents. Maintaining a minimum of three wraps is a widely accepted industry standard supported by safety regulations.