Recognition of Associated Hazards
Most rigging incidents are predictable
Hazard recognition is tested heavily because nearly every rigging failure had a visible warning.
Energy sources. Overhead and buried power lines are the leading cause of fatalities. Keep the crane, load, and rigging outside the minimum approach distance for the voltage in use, and if the voltage is unknown, assume the highest. Treat every line as energized until the utility confirms otherwise.
Load hazards. An unverified weight, an unbalanced load, or an unknown center of gravity can cause tipping, swinging, or dropping. Shock loading from a sudden stop multiplies force on the sling far beyond the static weight. Two-blocking damages rope and can drop the load.
Sling hazards. Sharp edges cut webbing and wire rope - use softeners or edge protectors. Heat, chemicals, and sunlight degrade synthetics. An over-tight choke angle reduces capacity.
People hazards. Never stand or pass under a suspended load, and keep hands out of pinch points between sling and load. Use tag lines so no one has to touch the load to control it. Barricade the swing radius and the drop zone.
Environment. Wind, ice, rain, lightning, and poor visibility all change the lift plan and may stop the lift.
Traps
A question may frame a lift as "quick" or the load as "light" near power lines or over people. Neither speed nor weight changes the rule.
Rule of thumb
If you cannot state the voltage, the load weight, and the center of gravity, the lift is not ready to begin.