What action should a referee take if a lifter is not following the rules during an attempt?

In the context of powerlifting competitions, the role of a referee is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sport and ensuring that all lifts are performed according to established rules. If a lifter is not following the rules during their attempt, the appropriate action for the referee is to stop the lift and assess the situation.

Stopping the lift allows the referee to evaluate whether the lifter's actions constitute a rule violation that could compromise fairness, safety, or the proper judging of the performance. It also provides the lifter a chance to reset and adhere to the rules before attempting the lift again, thus upholding the standards of the competition.

When a situation arises where rules are not followed, it’s essential for the referee to take immediate action rather than allowing the attempt to proceed unchecked. This not only helps maintain the standards of the sport but also assures all competitors that the competition is fair and consistent with the established guidelines.

Other responses, such as notifying competitors around them, permitting the attempt as long as there is no risk of falling, or dismissing the incident as minor, fail to address the need for immediate and appropriate intervention that ensures compliance with the competition rules.