Why should pins never be fitted or removed while the rigger is inside or below the structure of the lattice boom?

The reason pins should never be fitted or removed while the rigger is inside or below the structure of the lattice boom is primarily due to safety concerns. The risk of serious injury or death arises from the potential for the boom to collapse unexpectedly. When a rigger is inside or beneath the structure, they may be positioned directly under a component that could fail. If the boom loses stability or if a pin is not properly secured, it can lead to a catastrophic failure, putting the rigger in extreme danger. Safety protocols are designed to protect workers from hazardous situations, and avoiding these actions when in a vulnerable position minimizes the risk of accidents.

While other options might highlight concerns related to equipment integrity, company policies, or operational efficiency, the paramount issue in this context is the safety of personnel working in and around the rigging structure. This underscores the critical nature of adhering to best practices in rigging to ensure a safe working environment.