Hoist Types, Major Components, Terminology and Load Capacity Limits
A materials hoist is plant used to raise and lower materials on a platform or cage that is not designed to carry people. Candidates must distinguish it from a passenger and materials hoist (which may carry people under stricter conditions) and from a suspended or mast-climbing hoist. Common configurations are the guided or mast-type hoist with a platform running between guide rails, and the cantilever or tilting platform type used for loading at the base.
Know the major components and their function: mast or guide rails; base frame and foundations or ballast; platform or cage with gates; head frame and sheave; suspension ropes and their terminations; the winch or drive unit with brake; the counterweight where fitted; limiters - upper and lower overrun, slack-rope, and gate interlocks; anchors and ties to the structure; and the control station with emergency stop.
Terminology questions test precision: rated capacity versus actual load; safe working load (SWL) versus the manufacturer's rated capacity; static versus dynamic loading; and the meaning of a hold-to-run control. Capacity is set by the manufacturer and must never be exceeded; the load must be distributed and secured so it cannot shift, and the capacity plate must be legible.
Traps: assuming a materials hoist may carry people if nobody is watching; confusing the rated capacity with the mass of the empty platform; and believing a larger capacity means the hoist can be used at any height or in any wind.
Rule of thumb: the capacity plate is the authority - if it is missing or unreadable, the hoist is out of service until it is restored.