What does it mean when a crane jib is "stowed"?

When a crane jib is described as being "stowed," it signifies that the jib is securely attached to the crane boom in a position where it is not in use, yet still safely connected to the crane. This setup prevents any potential hazards that could arise from a loose or improperly secured jib while allowing for quick deployment when needed again.

The stowing process is essential for ensuring the crane's operational safety and maintaining the integrity of the equipment when it is not actively lifting loads. It helps to avoid any inadvertent movement or accidental disengagement that could occur if the jib were left in a position that is not secured.

Other choices present different scenarios: one suggests the jib is not attached at all, which would pose a significant safety risk; another implies that the jib is entirely off-site, which does not align with the definition of being "stowed" as it implies temporary storage rather than a secure attachment; and the last option indicates the jib is raised, which is contrary to being stowed, as a stowed jib is typically positioned down or in a non-operational mode.