The weight of an object being lifted should not exceed what limit of the lifting equipment?

The safe working load (SWL) is the maximum weight that lifting equipment can safely lift without risking structural failure or compromising safety. It is a critical measure that ensures the equipment operates within its designed capabilities, taking into account various factors like the material strength, design specifications, and safety margins.

Using the safe working load as a guideline helps prevent accidents and equipment damage, providing a clear and established threshold that should not be exceeded during lifting operations. It accounts for dynamic forces and other conditions that could affect stability and strength, making it a crucial parameter in safe lifting practices.

The other terms, while related to lifting operations, do not specifically represent the maximum weight limit in a safe context as effectively as the safe working load. The maximum load capacity can refer to a theoretical upper limit, whereas the test load might be what the equipment can handle under controlled conditions but is not meant for regular operation. The operational limit can vary based on specific conditions and may not always offer the same level of safety assurance as the safe working load.