Why is it crucial to assess the crane's stability before lifting a load?

Assessing the crane's stability before lifting a load is essential for maintaining control over the load during operation. A stable base ensures that the crane can safely lift and maneuver the load without tipping or swaying, which can result from changes in weight distribution or environmental factors such as wind. When a crane is properly assessed for stability, operators can confidently execute lifts, knowing that they have minimized the risk of accidents that could lead to loss of control.

While ensuring that equipment is new, preventing damage, and complying with regulations are indeed important aspects of crane operation, they do not directly address the immediate concern of maintaining control during a lift. Stability plays a direct role in the safety and effectiveness of lifting operations, which is why it is specifically highlighted as a critical factor when preparing to lift a load.