What is the primary risk of not stopping a lift when a load appears unstable?

The primary risk associated with not halting a lift when a load appears unstable is the potential for accidents and injuries. When a load is unstable, it can shift unexpectedly, leading to the possibility of the load falling or slipping. This can pose serious dangers not only to the rigger but also to personnel in the vicinity and can result in severe injuries or even fatalities. Additionally, an unstable load can also create panic or confusion among workers, compounding the risk of accidents.

While increased tension in the rigging, damage to lifting equipment, and loss of time may all occur due to handling an unstable load, these factors are secondary compared to the paramount concern of ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the lifting operation. Therefore, the decision to stop a lift when instability is observed is primarily about protecting human life and preventing accidents.