Which of the following actions is critical before lifting a load?

Ensuring all personnel are at a safe distance is critical before lifting a load because it directly affects the safety of everyone on the job site. When a load is lifted, it creates a risk of falling or swaying, which can pose a serious hazard to individuals nearby. By confirming that all personnel are at a safe distance, the operator minimizes the risk of injuries resulting from load shifts or drops.

This important safety precaution emphasizes the need for clear communication and vigilance among crew members. Establishing exclusion zones around the area where lifting operations are conducted is essential to protect workers and bystanders. If personnel are allowed to remain too close during the lifting process, the potential for accidents increases significantly, jeopardizing not only their safety but also that of the entire team.

While conducting a site assessment, checking the load for damages, and aligning the boom with the load center are all important actions in the lifting process, they primarily relate to the operational aspects of lifting rather than immediate safety concerning personnel.