What is the appropriate action to take with the controls when shutting down the machine?

When shutting down a hoisting machine, it is critical to cycle the controls to relieve pressure before turning them off completely. This action ensures that any residual pressure in the hydraulic system is released, which can prevent unexpected movements or malfunctions that may occur if the machine is turned off while still pressurized. Properly relieving pressure can help maintain the equipment in good working order and enhance safety for the operator and anyone nearby.

By cycling the controls, you are allowing the hydraulic fluids to return to their neutral state, thereby reducing the risk of hydraulic lock and making it safer for anyone who may later interact with the machinery. Ensuring all pressure is relieved helps to prepare the machine for safe operation in future use as well.

The other choices, while they may seem convenient or straightforward, do not prioritize safety or operational integrity in the same way. Simply turning the controls off without relieving pressure can lead to dangerous situations, and leaving them in the last position used fails to account for needed safety protocols when different operators might handle the equipment afterward. Lastly, while securing the controls with a lock is an important safety measure for preventing unauthorized use, it does not address the immediate need to relieve pressure prior to shutdown.