What is the consequence of not properly securing a turnbuckle with safety wire?

Not properly securing a turnbuckle with safety wire significantly increases the risk of cable failure. A turnbuckle is used to adjust the tension of cables or rods, and its primary function is to ensure that components are held tightly together. When a turnbuckle is not secured correctly, it can loosen over time due to vibrations, load changes, or environmental factors. This loosening can lead to a decrease in tension stability, ultimately resulting in the cable or rod losing its effectiveness and potentially failing under load. Ensuring a turnbuckle is tightly secured with safety wire helps maintain the necessary tension and prevents unintentional loosening, thereby protecting against catastrophic failures in various applications.