What is the gradability of a unit?

Gradability of a unit refers specifically to its ability to safely traverse inclines or declines, which is critical for ensuring safety and operational efficiency when operating equipment such as boom lifts or scissor lifts. When a unit is described in terms of its gradability, it indicates the steepest slope (expressed in degrees or percentage of incline) on which the unit can maintain stability and performance without risking tipping or loss of control.

Understanding the gradability is essential for operators as it helps them assess the suitability of a machine for the terrain on which it will be used, thereby preventing accidents and increasing productivity. The other options relate to operational aspects but do not accurately define gradability. For example, maximum speed pertains to how fast the unit can travel, which is not related to its capability on varied terrains. The number of loads it can carry and the weight limit it can handle are more about the unit's lifting capacity, rather than its performance on slopes.