Red Seal Mobile Crane Operator Practice Exam

When a crane begins to tip, the most critical action an operator should take is to immediately lower the load. This is crucial because lowering the load reduces the weight that is contributing to the crane’s instability. By bringing the load closer to the ground, the center of gravity is also lowered, which helps restore balance and control to the crane. This immediate response can prevent a complete tip-over, which would pose serious risks to the operator, ground personnel, and surrounding property.

The other options are typically not advisable actions in such a situation. For instance, increasing the boom angle would potentially raise the center of gravity even higher, exacerbating the tipping condition. Turning off the crane may not effectively address the stability issue and could lead to further complications if the equipment is not safely secured. Calling for emergency support might be necessary after stabilizing the crane, but it does not address the urgent need to manage the immediate risk of tipping. Thus, lowering the load stands out as the most effective and primary action to take.