What must referees consistently apply throughout a competition?

Referees must consistently apply the rules and regulations throughout a competition to ensure fair play, safety, and adherence to the standards set by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). This consistency helps maintain the integrity of the sport and provides a level playing field for all competitors. By uniformly enforcing these established rules, referees can make accurate and unbiased decisions regarding lifts, attempts, and competitors' conduct during the event. This adherence to the rules also builds the credibility of the competition and fosters trust among athletes and spectators.

The other options, while important elements of the competition, do not hold the same weight in terms of maintaining consistent enforcement and judgment by referees. Lifter preferences are subjective and can vary widely, making them unsuitable for consistent application. Weight changes are typically determined by the competitors during the competition and are not a matter of referee discretion. Warm-up times, while important for an athlete’s preparation, do not have the same regulatory framework as the rules and regulations, which are essential for the competition's overall governance.