What is a primary risk for ground personnel during lifts?

The primary risk for ground personnel during lifts is being under a load that may fall. This risk arises because ground personnel often operate in proximity to equipment and materials that are being lifted. If these loads become unstable or are accidentally dropped, individuals on the ground are at significant risk of injury or fatality. This situation emphasizes the necessity of proper safety protocols, including the establishment of exclusion zones and the use of spotting and signaling to ensure ground personnel remain at a safe distance from loads in motion.

In contrast, while loss of communication with operators is a concern, it is not exclusive to ground personnel and does not represent a physical risk like being under a load. Falls from height, although a major concern in working environments, primarily affect those who are elevated, not those on the ground. Finally, working in adverse weather conditions certainly poses hazards, but being under a falling load directly implicates ground personnel in a more immediate and severe manner during lifting operations. Understanding these risks is crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the operation.