What is one safety practice to follow when hoisting loads with helicopters?

When hoisting loads with helicopters, one critical safety practice involves how you interact with the cables. Grasping only the sides of the cables is correct because it helps maintain a firm grip while minimizing the risk of injury. This technique allows a rigger or operator to control the load better and provides a more stable hold when maneuvering the cables.

By only holding the sides, the risk of pinching or slipping is reduced, which can happen if both the middle and sides are grasped. Additionally, it helps to maintain a safe distance from any moving parts of the equipment, like the hook or winch. Ensuring that hands are kept clear from the center of the cables also helps reduce the likelihood of injury from unexpected movements or tension release.

Focusing on proper handling techniques ensures that safety is prioritized during the rigging processes, engaging best practices that are vital for the protection of all personnel involved in aerial load operations.