When hoisting a load, what is crucial to check before starting?

Before hoisting a load with a crane, it is essential to check the load's weight and dimensions. This is crucial because knowing the weight ensures that the crane is not overloaded, which could compromise safety and lead to equipment failure or accidents. The dimensions are equally important, as they provide essential information on how the load's shape and size will impact its stability during hoisting and transport. Incorrect assumptions about these factors could lead to dangerous situations, including tipping or swinging of the load, thus preventing serious accidents.

While operational hours, weather conditions, and crew availability might also be important factors in the overall operation and safety of mobile cranes, they do not directly impact the immediate and specific safety of the load being hoisted, making the assessment of the load's weight and dimensions the priority before beginning the lift.