Why is it important to secure the load before lifting?

Securing the load before lifting is crucial primarily because it prevents shifting or falling during the lift. When a load is not properly secured, it can become unstable once lifted, leading to potential hazards such as it swinging, rolling, or even dropping. This can compromise the safety of personnel working nearby, damage the load itself, and cause accidents or injuries. Properly securing the load ensures that it remains in a controlled position throughout the lifting process, allowing for safe operation and minimizing the risk of incidents.

While ease of grip, protection of rigging equipment, and efficiency in lifting times are important considerations in rigging, they do not outweigh the essential safety aspect of securing the load to prevent it from moving unexpectedly during the lift. Proper load security is a fundamental best practice in rigging, directly tied to maintaining safety and operational integrity on job sites.