Sling safety considerations
Slings play an important part in safe lifting. Crane operators should understand basic rigging principals, be able to identify safe rigging practices and how to check the sling for defects before using.
Konecranes Slings and Accessories Inspection checks non-maintainable load lifting attachments and accessories and utilizes radio frequency identification (RFID) tags to record load lifting attachment inspection data. Having inspection data in one convenient location helps you keep track of inventory, plan for replacements and quickly access inspection history for audits.
The following excerpt is taken directly from OSHA 1910.184 Slings.*
Safe operating practices
1910.184(c)
Whenever any sling is used, the following practices shall be observed:
(1) Slings that are damaged or defective shall not be used.
(2) Slings shall not be shortened with knots or bolts or other makeshift devices.
(3) Sling legs shall not be kinked.
(4) Slings shall not be loaded in excess of their rated capacities.
(5) Slings used in a basket hitch shall have the loads balanced to prevent slippage.
(6) Slings shall be securely attached to their loads.
(7) Slings shall be padded or protected from the sharp edges of their loads.
(8) Suspended loads shall be kept clear of all obstructions.
(9) All employees shall be kept clear of loads about to be lifted and of suspended loads.
(10) Hands or fingers shall not be placed between the sling and its load while the sling is being tightened around the load.
(11) Shock loading is prohibited.
(12) A sling shall not be pulled from under a load when the load is resting on the sling.
(13) Employers must not load a sling in excess of its recommended safe working load as prescribed by the sling manufacturer on the identification markings permanently affixed to the sling.
(14) Employers must not use slings without affixed and legible identification markings.
Seasoned and novice operators alike can benefit from training on rigging. We offer classes through our Konecranes Training Institute.
Konecranes Training Institute
*The foregoing OSHA regulations are not intended to be a comprehensive overview of all applicable regulations pertaining to the designated topic. State laws may mandate different safety and maintenance standards. Accordingly, please consult applicable state laws as well as original equipment manufacturer specifications for further guidance. The statements and descriptions contained herein constitute the opinion/recommendation of the seller and are not intended to create any express warranties.
