Where must the load's center of gravity be positioned to prevent slipping during lifting?

• A. Directly under the hook.
• B. Directly above the hook.
• C. Off to the side of the hook.
• D. Directly in front of the hook.

Answer: (D)

When lifting, stability comes from keeping the load’s weight aligned with the lifting point so gravity doesn’t push the load to slide or tilt. Placing the load’s center of gravity directly in front of the hook puts the weight’s line of action in line with the hook’s lifting direction in the plane of motion, so there’s no sideways pull on the sling. That prevents the load from twisting or slipping as it’s raised.

If the center of gravity isn’t in that position—being off to the side, or not aligned with the hook’s plane—the weight creates a moment about the hook, which can cause the load to tilt, swing, or slip along the rigging.