Under what condition is side loading of a crane permitted?

Side loading of a crane is generally considered unsafe because it can lead to instability or structural failure. However, it may be permitted in specific situations, particularly involving a freely suspended load. When the load is suspended and swinging freely, it can often shift and rotate based on the dynamics of the lifting process, causing it to create forces that can be accommodated by the crane's design, provided the load does not exceed the crane's rated capacity.

In this case, allowing some degree of lateral movement or side loading is acceptable because the crane and its components are engineered to withstand certain forces and dynamics that come with handling such loads. It is crucial that operators are trained to manage the movement of freely suspended loads cautiously to maintain safety.

The other conditions listed, such as a balanced load, clear visibility, or the crane being on level ground, focus on operational safety and stability but do not inherently justify side loading. Balanced loads, while important for overall safety, do not negate the risks associated with side loading. Clear visibility and being on level ground enhance operational safety but do not specifically relate to the mechanics of how side loading is handled.