Sling Care, Inspection, Storage & Protection
Proper sling inspection criteria, storage practices, edge protection, UV/chemical damage, and tag requirements.
- Identify sling inspection criteria and conditions requiring removal from service
- Explain the purpose and requirements of sling identification tags
- Describe proper edge protection methods including softeners and corner protectors
- List correct storage practices and environmental damage factors for slings
Lesson 1
Sling Inspection Criteria & Removal Standards
Pre-Use Inspection Requirements
Every sling must be visually inspected before each use by a qualified person. This is not optional - OSHA and ASME B30.9-2025 require it. The goal is to catch damage before a sling fails under load.
A pre-use inspection is a visual check performed by the person using the sling. A more thorough periodic inspection is performed at regular intervals by a designated competent person and must be documented.
Pre-Use Inspection (Every Lift)
Visual check by user
No documentation required
Focuses on obvious damage
Periodic Inspection (Scheduled)
Thorough check by competent person
Must be documented
Covers all removal criteria
Wire Rope Sling Removal Criteria
Wire rope slings must be removed from service when any of these conditions exist:
- Broken wires - 6 randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay, or 3 broken wires in one strand in one rope lay
- Severe abrasion or scrubbing wear reducing diameter
- Kinking, crushing, or birdcaging of the rope body
- Heat damage - discoloration or evidence of exposure to temperatures above 400 degrees F
- End fitting damage - cracked, deformed, or excessively worn fittings
- Corrosion affecting structural integrity
Exam Alert - Removal From Service
The exam frequently tests removal criteria. Remember: cuts, broken wires, severe abrasion, heat damage, and missing tags all require immediate removal. When in doubt, remove the sling from service.
Chain Sling Removal Criteria
Alloy steel chain slings require removal when:
- Stretch - any individual link stretched more than 5% from original length
- Wear - links worn more than 10% of original diameter
- Nicks, gouges, or cracks in any link
- Bent or twisted links that cannot be freely articulated
Inspect every sling before every use. Wire rope slings with 6 broken wires in one lay, heat damage above 400 degrees F, kinking, or missing identification must be immediately removed from service.