What is load swing and how can it be minimized?

• A. Lateral movement of a lifted load; minimize with controlled lifting, smooth starts/stops, and tag lines.
• B. Vertical drop of load; minimize by locking brakes.
• C. Rotation of load; minimize with constant speed.
• D. Electrical interference; minimize by grounding.

Answer: (A)

Load swing is the side-to-side movement of a suspended load as it behaves like a pendulum when the hoist starts, speeds up, slows down, or changes direction. This lateral motion comes from the inertia of the load and can be amplified by wind or improper lifting technique. To minimize it, operate with controlled lifting—start and stop smoothly, and avoid abrupt accelerations or decelerations. Keep the load as close to the vertical line as possible, using tag lines from the ground to guide and steady the load. Plan the lift trajectory, communicate clearly, and adjust for conditions to prevent swinging toward obstacles. The other options describe a vertical drop, rotation, or electrical interference, which aren’t what load swing refers to.