An excavator is operating on a work site with an uneven, soft ground surface, and the operator needs to make several lifts. The lift chart provides capacities for firm, level ground. What is the most appropriate action an operator should take in this situation?

Question: An excavator is operating on a work site with an uneven, soft ground surface, and the operator needs to make several lifts. The lift chart provides capacities for firm, level ground. What is the most appropriate action an operator should take in this situation?

Answer options:

• Assume the listed capacities are still valid, but lift slower.
• Reduce the actual load lifted by a significant margin compared to the chart capacity.
• Only lift loads when positioned directly over the drive sprockets. ✅ Request the site supervisor to spread gravel or stabilize the ground before lifts.

Correct answer: Request the site supervisor to spread gravel or stabilize the ground before lifts.

Explanation: Lift charts are typically based on the assumption of firm, level ground. Operating on soft or uneven ground significantly reduces the excavator's effective stability and rated capacity. The most responsible action is to stabilize the ground to ensure the integrity of the lift capacity values and safe operation, rather than guessing a reduced capacity or relying on specific machine positioning.