Which of the following is a potential consequence of using incorrect rigging hardware?

• A. The load becomes lighter.
• B. The crane cannot rotate.
• C. Hardware can fail under load or cause load slip and equipment damage.
• D. It self-corrects automatically.

Answer: (C)

Using rigging hardware that isn’t matched to the load or the crane creates a safety hazard because it undermines the strength and compatibility of the lifting system. When the hardware is incorrect, it can fail under load—whether by breaking, deforming, or pulling apart—releasing the load unexpectedly. It can also allow the load to slip relative to the rigging, leading to uncontrolled movement and potential damage to the rigging, fittings, or crane itself. These outcomes capture the real risk of using wrong hardware: a loss of control and possible equipment damage.

The load doesn’t become lighter just by using the wrong hardware, and the crane’s ability to rotate isn’t determined by the rigging hardware in that way. There’s also no automatic self-correction if the hardware is incorrect.