Who is allowed to work directly below a suspended load according to safety protocols?

The correct answer is that employees engaged in initial load connections are allowed to work directly below a suspended load. This is because these workers are typically trained and authorized to handle the rigging and connections necessary for safely attaching or detaching loads to cranes or similar equipment. Their role requires a detailed understanding of load handling and the associated risks, and they are equipped with the necessary safety protocols for working near or below suspended loads.

In contrast, having all workers on site under a suspended load poses significant safety risks, as not everyone is trained to recognize the hazards and act appropriately in case of a load failure. Similarly, limiting the area to only engineers and supervisors would not align with the operational needs for managing the load effectively. Employees performing routine checks might not have the specialized training required to handle moving or suspended loads safely, making direct work underneath such loads hazardous for them. Overall, the protocol is designed to ensure that only those specifically trained to work in such conditions are permitted in that high-risk area.