Which of the following is essential for safe rigging practices?

Understanding load limits and weights is fundamental to safe rigging practices because it ensures that the rigging system can support the load without risk of failure. Each piece of equipment, whether it's a crane, hoist, or rigging hardware, has a specified load limit that must not be exceeded to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of personnel as well as the integrity of the equipment. Properly assessing the weight of the load and factoring in dynamic forces that may occur during lifting operations are critical for effective planning and execution of rigging tasks. This knowledge allows the rigger to select appropriate rigging gear and techniques tailored to the specific load requirements, thus minimizing the risk of incidents that could lead to injuries or damages.