When lifting a load near the rated capacity, how should the hoist brake be checked?

When lifting a load near the rated capacity, checking the hoist brake by lifting the load just clear of supports and then stopping the movement is essential for ensuring safety and functionality. This method allows the operator to assess the effectiveness of the brake under real conditions that closely resemble an actual load scenario.

By lifting the load a small distance clear of the supports, the operator can determine whether the brake effectively holds the load in place when movement is ceased. If the load holds steady without any downward movement, this indicates that the brake is functioning correctly and can safely support the weight. If the load were to begin descending or not remain stationary, it would signal a malfunction in the braking system that needs to be addressed before proceeding.

This approach is particularly important when working near the rated capacity because any failure in the braking system at this limit could lead to severe safety hazards. Other methods, such as just lifting the load slightly and releasing it, do not adequately test the brake's holding capability under load, nor do visual inspections provide a comprehensive assessment of brake performance during actual lifting operations. Therefore, lifting the load just clear of supports serves as a practical and effective method to ensure the hoist brake is reliable when it matters most.