When should a tagline be used during crane operations?

A tagline should be used during crane operations primarily when rotation of the load would pose a danger. This situation often arises when the load is at risk of swinging, making it difficult for the operator to maintain control and increasing the potential for accidents or unintended consequences, such as the load striking nearby personnel or equipment. Using a tagline allows a ground crew member to control the load’s orientation while it is being lifted or moved, thus enhancing safety and reducing the chances of accidents associated with load swing.

In scenarios where the load is light, heavy, or where wind is present, while these conditions may necessitate additional precautions, the defining factor for using a tagline remains the safety it provides in managing load orientation and stability. Therefore, the most critical use of a tagline occurs specifically to mitigate the risk associated with the load's potential rotation.