Which of the following is a mitigation for common sling-load hazards?

• A. Proper rigging and weight checks.
• B. Increased rotor speed reduces hazards.
• C. Relying solely on visual inspection.
• D. No ground guides.

Answer: (A)

Mitigating common sling-load hazards focuses on ensuring the load is rigged correctly and its weight is known and within limits. Proper rigging means using the right hardware, attaching to correct lifting points, securing all lines, and choosing appropriate sling lengths to prevent movement, line contact with rotor or airframe, or sudden shifts during lift. Verifying weight before lift helps keep the aircraft within its load limits and maintains a stable center of gravity, reducing pendulum motion and dynamic forces during pickup, flight, and set-down. These practices directly address the main risks of sling loads: rigging failures, load shifts, and unexpected dynamic loads.

Relying solely on visual inspection can miss hidden wear or incorrect rigging that only shows under load. Increasing rotor speed is not a mitigation for sling-load hazards and can create additional risks. No ground guides remove an important safety control during ground handling and signaling, increasing the chance of collisions or damage.