When is it necessary to use taglines during lifting operations?

Using taglines during lifting operations is essential when there is a known risk of swinging. Taglines are ropes that are attached to a load to help control its movement during lifting and lowering processes. When loads are lifted, they can sometimes become unstable or unbalanced, especially in windy conditions or when they are not rigged correctly. If a load is at risk of swinging, using a tagline allows operators to maneuver the load more safely and with greater control, minimizing the potential for accidents or injuries.

Taglines can help keep the load from swaying back and forth or spinning, which can occur due to factors like momentum, wind, or the way the load is rigged. By having a crew member on the ground controlling the tagline, the operator can maneuver the load more accurately to its intended position, enhancing safety and efficiency in the lifting operation. This makes the use of taglines critical in situations where swinging poses a risk.

While large weights and precision in load movement are important considerations, they don't solely dictate the need for taglines; the known risk of swinging is a more direct reason to use them. It's also not accurate to say that taglines are never needed, as they serve an important function in various lifting scenarios.