Dos and Don’ts for Lifting Sling Safety
The first step to lifting sling safety is choosing the proper sling material. But the biggest impact on safety and performance comes down to how you utilize—or abuse—your sling. Here are just a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind when using your lifting sling.
All slings are rated for their most load capacity. OSHA and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) require that slings be tagged with the rated capacity of the sling under completely different configurations. The lifting capacity is set in part by the material the sling is made of and the diameter of the sling, and in part by the way it is connected to the load. In particular, the angle at which the sling is used will significantly impact its general lifting capacity. Most lifting capacity is greatest when the sling angle is ninety°. The sharper the angle of the sling to the load, the more lifting capacity is reduced. A sling calculator will help you identify the appropriate sling length and lifting capacity on your load and hitch style.
DO Use Proper Protection for Slings
Loads with sharp edges and corners can cut or abrade slings, especially slings made of artificial materials. On the similar time, slings can cause damage to loads that are easily scratched or crushed. Sling protectors—which could include sleeves, pads or shields—are used to protect each the sling and the load. Using appropriate protective products will improve sling longevity and prevent damage to the load.
DO Inspect Slings Regularly
Slings must be visually inspected earlier than and after every use to make sure that they have not been damaged. OSHA requires periodic formal inspections for all slings, which have to be carried out yearly for slings under normal service and more frequently for slings used in more rugged conditions. Lift-All offers proof-testing of slings bought by Pantero and can provide required inspection documentation for OSHA.
DON’T Use a Sling That is Damaged
Cuts, abrasions and fatigue damage significantly reduce the load capacity of the sling and enhance the chances that a sling will fail during the lift. Slings that show signs of wear or damage have to be taken out of circulation immediately. One exception is the colored roundsling, which has a protective tubular jacket over the load-bearing core. Minor damage to the jacket will not impact the load capacity of the sling; as long as the core fibers are intact, the sling can continue to be used.
DON’T Use Slings within the Incorrect Atmosphere
Temperature, chemical publicity and different environmental factors will all impact sling performance and longevity. Make certain the sling materials that you choose is appropriate for the setting in which it will be used. Artificial materials should not be used in high-temperature environments (more than 195°F). If you’re working with acids, alkalines, natural solvents, bleaches or oils, check the producer’s specs to ensure that the sling materials is appropriate with these exposures. Moisture and sun publicity matter, too; synthetic supplies are inclined to degradation with prolonged UV publicity, while wire rope and chain slings could corrode in damp conditions.
DON’T Abuse Your Sling
Sling failure usually outcomes from misuse or abuse, akin to dragging the sling on the ground, tying knots within the sling, using slings at an excessive angle, failing to protect slings from sharp edges, or permitting sling legs to grow to be kinked. Chemical publicity can also damage slings. Take proper care of your sling, so it can take care of you!
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