Before lifting, what two aspects of the load should the operator estimate?

The correct answer highlights the importance of understanding both the weight of the load and its load center before lifting. Estimating the weight is crucial because it determines whether the hoisting equipment is capable of safely handling the load without risk of tipping over or causing structural failure. Each piece of equipment has a maximum load capacity that must not be exceeded to ensure safe operation.

Assessing the load center is equally important, as it refers to the point at which the load's weight is evenly distributed. If the load center is not properly estimated, it could lead to unbalanced loads, increasing the chances of tipping or swaying during the lift. This assessment helps the operator maintain stability and control throughout the lifting process.

Focusing on other options like height and stability or width and length does not account for the most critical safety factors involved in lifting operations. While these factors may be relevant in specific contexts, they do not directly address the fundamental operational safety concerns like weight and load center do. Similarly, looking at material and texture may help in certain situational assessments but does not replace the need for evaluating the weight and load center before initiating a lift.