When not in use, how should the hammer of a pile driver be secured?

The correct approach for securing the hammer of a pile driver when it is not in use is to either secure it in the leads or lower it to the ground. This method ensures that the hammer is stable and minimizes the risk of accidents or unintended movement that could occur if the hammer is left unsecured.

Securing the hammer in the leads protects it from falling and maintains its position in a controlled manner. Lowering it to the ground also ensures that it is out of the way of other operations and personnel on the worksite, reducing the likelihood of injury or damage.

In contrast, other options may not provide the same level of safety. For example, simply tying the hammer to a secure anchor point may not account for factors like the hammer's weight or shifting loads, which could still pose risks. Placing it on a flat surface does not guarantee stability, especially in an active construction environment where equipment and personnel move frequently. Raising the hammer to the maximum height is particularly unsafe, as it creates a higher risk of falling and does not secure the hammer effectively.