The groundman should stand well to the side when pulling up material to a worker on the pole.

The groundman should stand well to the side when pulling up material to a worker on the pole.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not Applicable

Answer: (A)

When materials are being hoisted up to a worker on a pole, you want to keep the ground crew out of the load’s path. Standing well to the side reduces the risk of being struck if the load swings, twists, or drops. It also keeps you clear of the line of travel and any potential snag points, so you can respond quickly and safely if the signaler on the pole needs the line adjusted. Clear communication with the climber and watching the load as it comes up are key to a safe lift. Choosing to stand to the side isn’t a conditional or situational choice—it’s the safer, standard practice for this maneuver.

When materials are being hoisted up to a worker on a pole, you want to keep the ground crew out of the load’s path. Standing well to the side reduces the risk of being struck if the load swings, twists, or drops. It also keeps you clear of the line of travel and any potential snag points, so you can respond quickly and safely if the signaler on the pole needs the line adjusted. Clear communication with the climber and watching the load as it comes up are key to a safe lift. Choosing to stand to the side isn’t a conditional or situational choice—it’s the safer, standard practice for this maneuver.