The hoist brake check should include lifting the load to what height?

When performing a hoist brake check, lifting the load several feet off the ground is essential for ensuring that the braking system is functioning properly under realistic conditions. This height allows the operator to verify the effectiveness of the brakes when a significant weight is suspended. It simulates actual working conditions where any failure of the brake system could lead to serious accidents or injury.

Lifting the load only a few inches off the ground may not provide enough insight into the brake's performance since the load could be more stable and less likely to shift at that minimal height. Similarly, lifting the load to at least half the expected lift height could exceed what is necessary for a brake check and may introduce unnecessary risk. Conversely, the option of lifting until the load is stable does not provide a specific criterion for testing the brakes and may lead to inconsistent practices regarding safety checks. Thus, lifting several feet off the ground is both a practical and safe strategy for assessing the functionality of the hoist brakes effectively.