Which action is recommended if a load begins to swing?

When a load begins to swing, stopping all operations is the safest and most recommended action. This pause allows for stabilization of the load and helps prevent further swinging or erratic movements, which can lead to unsafe conditions for personnel and equipment. Swinging loads can result in accidents, as they might strike nearby workers or cause damage to structures and machines.

By stopping all operations, the rigger and operator can reevaluate the situation without the added complications of a moving load. Once everything is stable, necessary adjustments can be made to safely reposition or lower the load, ensuring that the lifting process resumes safely and correctly.

Increasing the speed of the hoist or trying to reposition the load while it is swinging can exacerbate the situation and increase the risk of accidents. Similarly, slowly reducing the load without stabilizing it first may not effectively stop the swinging, potentially leading to further hazards. Thus, halting operations provides a moment to assess the situation and proceed with caution.