What is the consequence of not accounting for rope stretch when shortening?

Not accounting for rope stretch when shortening can indeed lead to unsafe operation after installation. Rope stretch can occur due to the load placed on the rope, causing it to elongate under tension. If this stretch is not considered during the shortening process, it can result in insufficient tension in the system or unexpected movements in machinery, leading to mechanical failure or accidents.

When ropes are shortened without factoring in their potential stretch under load, it may cause a situation where the ropes are overly tight or loose, which can compromise the integrity and functioning of the suspension system. This miscalculation can create hazardous working conditions, putting operators and nearby personnel at risk. Thus, ensuring proper tension and accounting for rope stretch are critical for safe operation, which validates the answer related to unsafe operation.