When lifting a load of unknown weight, what type of test should you perform?

The book capacity test is important when lifting a load of unknown weight because it involves checking the rated capacities of equipment and ensuring that it can handle potential loads safely. This test typically refers to the manufacturer’s specifications regarding the maximum weight that the equipment, like a crane or hoist, can lift without risk of failure or collapse.

When you're unsure of a load’s weight, referring to the documented capacities allows you to approach lifting with caution and ensure that you remain within safe handling limits. Following this, you could also consider assessing the load directly or performing a dynamic or static test, but these should only be done after confirming that the equipment and conditions are suitable for the potential weight based on the book capacity.

Static tests assess the load under stationary conditions, while dynamic tests relate to movement, such as lifting the load. Neither provides as immediate a reference for capacity as the book capacity test does. A weight assessment test would measure the load itself, but without prior knowledge of how much can be safely lifted, it may pose unnecessary risk. Thus, knowing the equipment's rated capacity first is crucial.