Why must hoisting be stopped once the load is completely off the ground?

• A. To determine sling angle stress
• B. To reset equipment
• C. To check for obstacles
• D. To adjust load balance

Answer: (A)

Stopping the hoist as soon as the load is completely off the ground is about determining sling angle stress. The force in each sling depends on the angle the sling makes with the vertical, not just the load’s weight. When the load first clears the ground, you can clearly observe the actual sling angles and confirm the tensions are within the slings’ rated capacities. If you keep lifting without that check, the angles can change as the load swings or shifts, potentially increasing tension and risking overload or failure. Pausing at that moment lets you verify and adjust the rigging configuration if needed, ensuring a safer, more controlled lift for the remaining ascent.