What mechanism prevents a hoist from lifting a load that is over its rated capacity?

The correct choice is a load limiter, which is designed to prevent a hoist from lifting loads that exceed its rated capacity. Load limiters work by measuring the load being lifted and automatically preventing the hoist from operating if the load exceeds a predetermined weight limit. This safety mechanism is crucial as it helps to prevent potential accidents, equipment damage, and personal injury that could occur if the hoist were to attempt to lift an overload.

The other options serve different purposes within a hoisting system. A slip clutch, for example, helps to protect against sudden overloads by slipping when the load exceeds the clutch’s preset limit, but it does not outright prevent lifting an overload. An overload switch, while it may also disconnect power when an overload condition occurs, is typically not the primary mechanism for preventing lifting. The safety latch is used mainly to secure the load and ensure it remains attached to the hoisting apparatus but does not address the issue of lifting capacity directly. Thus, the load limiter effectively serves its role as a primary safety feature for capacity control.