A crane operator is positioned approximately 30 metres from the landing zone during a critical lift. The lead rigger, equipped with a two-way radio, is at the landing zone. A secondary rigger is positioned halfway between the crane and the landing zone, also with a two-way radio. As the load is being lowered, the lead rigger's radio battery dies. What is the most appropriate action for the crane operator to take based on established communication protocols for critical lifts?

Question: A crane operator is positioned approximately 30 metres from the landing zone during a critical lift. The lead rigger, equipped with a two-way radio, is at the landing zone. A secondary rigger is positioned halfway between the crane and the landing zone, also with a two-way radio. As the load is being lowered, the lead rigger's radio battery dies. What is the most appropriate action for the crane operator to take based on established communication protocols for critical lifts?

Answer options:

• Continue lowering the load slowly, receiving instructions from the secondary rigger if available. ✅ Immediately stop all crane operations and hold the load in its current position.
• Signal to the secondary rigger to replace the lead rigger and continue the lift.
• Initiate a 'dog everything' signal sequence and await further instruction.

Correct answer: Immediately stop all crane operations and hold the load in its current position.

Explanation: In a critical lift, continuous and clear communication is paramount. If primary communication is lost, the operator must immediately stop all operations and hold the load. Relying solely on a secondary rigger without explicit designation or continuing to lower could be highly dangerous. 'Dog everything' is a specific signal, but the immediate action is to stop movement.