Which component is used to change the direction of a load in a rigging system?

In a rigging system, a pulley is specifically designed to change the direction of a load. It consists of a wheel on an axle or shaft that can support movement and provide a surface for a rope or cable to run along. When the rope is pulled in one direction, the pulley allows the load to be lifted vertically, effectively redirecting the force. This mechanism reduces the effort needed to lift heavy loads and increases efficiency in the rigging process.

While an anchor secures the rigging system to a fixed point, a sheave refers to a grooved wheel, which can be part of a pulley system but does not inherently function as a standalone component for redirecting a load. A bracket typically serves as a support for mounting or holding other components in place, but it does not change the direction of a load directly like a pulley does. Therefore, the role of a pulley in redirecting a load is essential and clearly defines why it is the correct answer.