What is the recommended safety practice before using rigging equipment?

The recommended safety practice before using rigging equipment is to check the condition and ratings of the equipment. This step is crucial to ensuring safe operation, as it verifies that the equipment is in good working order and capable of handling the intended load. Each piece of rigging equipment comes with specific ratings, including working load limits and other operational specifications, which are critical for preventing accidents and equipment failure.

By inspecting the equipment, you are able to identify any worn, damaged, or corroded parts that could compromise the safety of the load being lifted or moved. Additionally, confirming that the equipment meets or exceeds the load requirements for the job helps ensure the safety of personnel and the integrity of the load itself, making this practice fundamental in rigging safety protocols.