Systems for safety grip control of telescoping sheet lifters are provided. The systems incorporate at least one load interlock element and at least two alignment interlock elements joined to a carrying angle of the telescoping sheet lifter. The load interlock element detecting the presence of a load on the sheet lifter. The alignment interlock elements detecting the alignment of the load on the sheet lifter. The systems define three different load conditions: empty lifter, properly aligned sheets, and misaligned sheets. Corresponding or associated methods are also provided.