Which of the following is a best practice for inspecting rigging gear?

Removing gear from service if it is worn or damaged is a critical best practice for ensuring safety in rigging operations. This approach is vital because rigging gear is subjected to extreme stress and potential hazards during use. If any gear is found to be compromised, continuing to use it can lead to catastrophic failures, posing risks to both personnel and equipment.

Regular and thorough inspections help identify issues such as fraying, cracking, or any deformities that may not be visible at first glance. By proactively removing worn or damaged gear from service, you ensure that only safe, reliable equipment is utilized in lifting operations, thereby maintaining a high standard of safety and compliance with industry regulations.

In contrast, solely checking for visual damage ignores potential internal defects or fatigue that may not be visible. Using gear until it breaks is inherently risky, as it fails to assess the ongoing integrity of the equipment. Inspecting gear annually is also insufficient if you're not evaluating the gear’s condition regularly or before each use, as issues can develop at any time.