Which of the following are common hazards during sling-load hook-up?

• A. Improper weather conditions.
• B. Damaged rigging and loose or unsecured loads.
• C. Overhead electrical lines.
• D. Noise from helicopters.

Answer: (B)

During sling-load hook-up, the most immediate danger comes from the condition of the rigging and the load itself. Damaged rigging—frayed or worn slings, bent hooks, cracked rings—and loads that are not properly secured can fail or shift as soon as they’re attached and lifted. A rigging failure or an unsecured load can cause the load to detach, swing unpredictably, or drop, putting ground crew and the aircraft at serious risk. That’s why pre-hook-up checks focus on inspecting all rigging hardware and ensuring the load is properly secured and balanced.

Other hazards like improper weather conditions or overhead electrical lines are real concerns in sling-load operations, but they pertain to broader flight safety and environmental factors rather than the immediate hook-up failure mode. Noise from helicopters is expected and manageable with hearing protection, and not a core hook-up hazard in the same direct way as compromised rigging and unsecured loads.