What is the primary purpose of a sling's reach measurement?

The primary purpose of a sling's reach measurement is to specify the lifting distance. This measurement is crucial in rigging and hoisting practices as it directly influences how far from the lifting point the load will be positioned. Knowing the reach allows operators to plan the placement of the load and ensure that the haul path is clear and that the load will not hit any obstacles during lifting. It also helps in maintaining proper angles when lifting, which affects load stability and reduces the risk of accidents.

While other options relate to important aspects of rigging, they serve different purposes. The weight capacity of a sling is determined by its material, design, and construction, not the reach measurement. Safety factors involve assessing the total weight of the load, the environmental conditions, and the lifting method, which is separate from measuring the sling's reach. Evaluating the chain grade pertains to the quality and strength rating of the chain used in a sling, which is also distinct from reach. Therefore, each of these relates to safety and operational considerations, but only the reach measurement specifically refers to how far the load will be moved during the lift.