If the load does not balance properly after being raised, what action should be taken?

When a load does not balance properly after being raised, the safest action is to lower the load to the ground. This step is crucial because an unbalanced load can lead to tipping, swinging, or other hazardous situations that pose risks to both the operator and nearby personnel. Lowering the load allows for a reassessment of the lifting configuration, including the load’s weight distribution and the rigging setup. It is an essential safety precaution to ensure that the load can be secured and hoisted properly once it has been safely returned to the ground.

For the other actions, moving the load horizontally could exacerbate the instability, as an unbalanced load is more likely to swing or fall during movement. Increasing the load limit would not address the underlying issue of the load being improperly balanced and could create further danger. Adjusting the hoist speed might not resolve the inherent balance problem and could lead to more complications, especially if the load is already unstable. Therefore, safely lowering the load is the most prudent and effective first step in managing this situation.