Which safety feature is designed to prevent overloads in cranes?

• A. Emergency stop button
• B. Load indicators or weight sensing devices
• C. Safety rails
• D. Operating lights

Answer: (B)

Real-time load monitoring is the safety feature that helps prevent overloads in cranes. Load indicators or weight sensing devices measure the actual weight on the hook and display it to the operator, often showing both the current load and the remaining safe capacity. This lets the operator stay within the crane's rated capacity, and if the load approaches the limit, the system can trigger an alarm or automatically limit movement to prevent exceeding safe limits. This is different from emergency stop buttons, safety rails, or operating lights—those features address other safety concerns (stopping in an emergency, fall protection, visibility) but don't actively prevent overloads. With proper use, weight sensing provides the necessary feedback to make informed lifting decisions.