How do you determine the load's center of gravity (CG)?

• A. Use load charts, rigging calculations, and manufacturer guidance to keep CG within safe limits.
• B. Estimate CG by eye.
• C. CG is not important if the load seems balanced.
• D. CG is determined by the color of cables.

Answer: (A)

Determining the load’s center of gravity hinges on knowing exactly where the weight is concentrated so the lift can be planned safely. The best approach uses objective information: load charts for the crane and rigging system, calculations that account for how the load is rigged (slings, angles, spreaders), and any manufacturer guidance for that specific load. These sources tell you where the CG lies and whether your rigging configuration will keep the CG within the crane’s safe lifting limits and within acceptable sling angles. Estimating by eye is unreliable because even small shifts can move the CG outside safe limits, leading to tipping, binding, or uncontrolled movement. It’s not safe to assume CG doesn’t matter if the load seems balanced, since visual balance does not guarantee correct weight distribution. The idea that CG is determined by the color of cables is incorrect. For multiple elements, you determine the combined CG by considering each element’s weight and position and calculating the overall balance point.