What is a crucial safety measure before crossing engines?

Having safety personnel in place is essential before crossing engines because they are responsible for maintaining situational awareness and ensuring the safety of all personnel in the area. Their presence helps to mitigate risks associated with the high-pressure environment around operating engines, as they can monitor for hazards, assist in communication, and provide immediate response to any incidents that may occur. The safety personnel can also guide individuals as they navigate near active areas, thus significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Other considerations, such as ensuring pilots are ready or confirming preflight checks, play roles in the overall safety of flight operations; however, they do not specifically address the immediate safety concerns associated with engine crossings. Likewise, while requesting clearance from the tower is standard protocol, it does not directly safeguard personnel on the ground interacting near the engines. Therefore, the presence of safety personnel is a critical measure that directly helps maintain a safe working environment before crossing engines.