General Contractor Practice Exam

Picking up a truss by the top chord is the proper method because this area is specifically designed to bear loads and provide structural stability during lifting. The top chord is a critical component of the truss that supports the roof or structural element it’s designed to carry. When lifting a truss, it’s essential to maintain its integrity and ensure it is balanced, which is more effectively achieved by lifting from the top chord.

The other methods of picking up a truss can lead to potential issues. Lifting by the base plate can be unstable, especially if the truss is not fully supported on a flat surface. Picking it up by the sides may not provide enough support to maintain a proper balance, risking bending or twisting during the lift. Lifting from the bottom chord may also lead to structural stress or damage since the bottom chord is primarily designed to handle tension rather than serve as a lifting point. Overall, lifting from the top chord promotes safety and preserves the truss's structural design.