When assessing a load, how does an unknown or improperly assessed centre of gravity of the load impact the operator's ability to use the load chart effectively?

Question: When assessing a load, how does an unknown or improperly assessed centre of gravity of the load impact the operator's ability to use the load chart effectively?

Answer options:

• It makes the telehandler inherently more stable due to load distribution.
• It negates the need for a load chart, as the machine's sensors will compensate. ✅ It introduces unpredictable load moments, making the load chart's capacity ratings unreliable and increasing tip-over risk.
• It only affects vertical lifts, not horizontal reaches.

Correct answer: It introduces unpredictable load moments, making the load chart's capacity ratings unreliable and increasing tip-over risk.

Explanation: The load chart capacities are based on a specific load centre distance. If the actual centre of gravity of the load is unknown or shifts unexpectedly, it can create load moments that exceed the chart's assumptions, making the charted capacities unreliable and significantly increasing the risk of instability and tip-over. Proper load assessment, including CG, is paramount as per CSA B354.7.