Damaged synthetic slings. Learn how to identify and prevent hidden damage.
Damaged synthetic slings. Learn about lifting slings, their uses, types, safety tips, and how to choose the right one for your project in this easy-to-read guide. Alloy chain slings will have permanent identification affixed to the sling indicating the size, grade, rated capacity, and reach of the sling. Synthetics Chain slings, wire rope slings, web slings, roundslings, synthetic rope, and metal mesh slings can all be used to safely and efficiently lift and position a load. Oct 7, 2024 · Synthetic web slings can come in virtually any length. Wear pads give extra protection to the sling where the most wear occurs. 9 Standards Understanding ASME standards will help to ensure the safety of the users, help extend the service life of the slings, and help reduce loss of production due to equipment downtime. An article from the July issue of Crane Hot Line, “Knowledge and Vigilance Required,” provides real world examples of incorrect rigging practices. Apr 29, 2025 · Here are some things you need to know when picking up a sling protector for your next project. Jul 14, 2025 · A lot of damage to synthetic slings can be prevented if you use edge protection, store them in a cool environment away from sunlight, and understand what chemicals nylon or polyester can and can’t be used with. Additional inspections shall be performed during sling use, where service conditions warrant. Broken or worn stitching in load-bearing splices. Follow all regulations for inspection and removal of worn-out or damaged slings. 9 Standard Web slings are a type of synthetic lifting sling that are typically made from either nylon or polyester webbing material. During the period of use, frequent checks should be made for defects or damage, including damage concealed by soiling, which might affect Synthetic web slings which are repaired shall not be used unless repaired by a sling manufacturer or an equivalent entity. They are also used to protect finished or painted loads from marring. Lift-All ®, the world’s largest manufacturer of slings for the material handling industry presents safety in lifting. Explore our synthetic lifting slings, including nylon, polyester, and high performance roundslings. Feb 10, 2021 · Various types of sling protection are available, including engineered sleeves, engineered pads, metal mesh pads, and magnetic corner protectors. Melting or charring of any part of the sling. Dec 30, 2024 · Synthetic slings give clear visual signs when worn or damaged, unlike metal slings that may fail suddenly. Jun 28, 2024 · Learn how to properly inspect and maintain your synthetic lifting slings with our comprehensive guide. Aug 26, 2021 · Industrial lifting slings are at the heart of most overhead lifting operations. Do not use worn or damaged slings or attachments. Damage can also pertain to conditions such as acid or alkaline burns, melting, charring, or weld splattering. In this article, our goal is to help you understand what is required for your web slings to meet ASME B30. Jul 16, 2025 · Without proper sling protection—especially when it comes to synthetic slings—slings can be damaged / cut so severely that it results in a dropped load. Apr 27, 2025 · Webbing slings are valuable lifting tools used in various industries for safe and efficient material handling. Generally if repair activity exceeds 50% of replacement cost, the repair activity is not recommended. To address these concerns, here are some essential tips to identify major issues that may render rigging equipment unsafe or damaged: Synthetic Slings Synthetic slings, typically constructed from durable materials like polyester webbing or nylon, possess impressive strength and resilience. Synthetic web slings are used in many different industries for lifting, hoisting, and moving heavy loads. • Inspect before each use. 4 “Sling Cut Protection”: “Synthetic slings in contact with edges, corners, or protrusions shall be protected from cutting or damage with sufficient cut protection. Learn everything you should know before rigging with synthetic slings. For example, Brennan uses endless and synthetic slings (straps or tie downs) to hoist and secure all kinds of materials: from Oct 10, 2024 · ISSUES: Improper use of slings can lead to many dangers, including injury, death, and damage to the sling itself: Damage to sling: Slings can be damaged by cuts, holes, or abrasions. Edges and abrasive surfaces in contact with the sling must be “padded” with materials of sufficient strength and/or thickness to prevent damage and catastrophic sling failure. Each day before being used, the sling and all fastenings and attachments shall be inspected for damage or defects by a competent person designated by the employer. For inspection frequency requirements, see the General Information section in this catalog. . If you must rig on the pin, Synthetic Armor Pads protect slings from abrasion damage that can be caused by contact with rough surfaces such as concrete beams and structures. Synthetic slings are probably the cheapest of all industrial lifting devices. Before each use, the roundsling/webbing sling should be inspected for defects and ensure the identification and specification are correct. Learn about the advantages and types of synthetic slings, as well as safety guidelines for their use. Surfaces in contact with the sling do not have to be very abrasive or have “razor” sharp edges in order to create the conditions for sling failure. Similarly, proper sling inspection is integral to ensure the job is done safely and properly. • Stay clear of the load at all times. Synthetic web slings are ideal where sling damage to a load is not acceptable. In this blog post, we will delve into Slings can be damaged, abraded or cut as tension and compression between the sling, the connection points and the load develops. Lift-All operating procedures require that you always inspect slings before each use. Choose the right sling for safe lifting and the key elements that influence their use. ,909-469-2251,manufacturer and safety training provider to the industrial lifting sling and rigging industries for over 30 years. Ensure safety and extend the lifespan of your slings with tips on inspection, cleaning, storage, and when to discard. If you suspect chemical damage, it is strongly advised not to use the sling until a professional has inspected it. Each synthetic material has its own unique properties. Store your synthetic slings in cool, dark, and dry environments. The pin area of a shackle can damage synthetic slings. This habit ensures safety during use. Preventing Damage to Slings and Loads Slings come in a variety of materials, including synthetic, wire rope, wire mesh, or alloy chain. Some general safe operating practices for slings of all types are: Slings, which are damaged or defective, shall not be used. Improper use or care of a Synthetic Round Slings: Synthetic round slings offer a number of advantages for rigging purposes. For a list of common damages and general do's and don'ts, visit US Netting now! Jun 9, 2023 · Chemical Damage Some chemicals can damage synthetic web slings. Web sling inspection should take place before use to ensure red safety core yarns are not showing. The synthetic sling is truly ‘the sacrificial lamb’; it actually commits ‘sling suicide’, and allows itself to be consumed to facilitate its numerous, inherent advantages. Available in many styles, such as eye & eye and endless. Synthetic slings are damaged by prolonged exposure to UV light. 9 Standards The most basic, yet essential, part of using a synthetic roundsling is inspecting it prior to each use. An unidentified or defective sling should never be used but should be referred to a competent person for examination. For web slings follow DOE-STD-1090-2020 section 10. Lift smoothly. Balance loads to avoid slippage or tipping. Immediate hazards to a web sling include chemical damage, heat damage, mechanical damage, as well as UV damage. Slings made from any material are subject to damage from two distinct modes: In this article, we examine the advantages and disadvantages of round slings vs web slings, and examine their respective benefits when used to lift and position a load. Synthetic slings should be checked for fraying, cuts, or discoloration that could indicate fiber degradation. Mar 15, 2025 · If any links show signs of damage, the sling should be removed from service. It goes without saying that a broken sling that results in a dropped load is a very dangerous situation and could result in dismemberment or loss of life. LiftGuard sling protectors have a working load Lift-It Mfg. Discover innovative wear pads and sleeves for max load protection. However, it’s also common for manufacturers to offer customized sling lengths, so you can get a web sling designed to your application’s exact specifications. Most damage to a round sling can be found simply by looking. INSPECTION CRITERIA FOR WEB SLINGS The following photos illustrate some of the common damage that occurs to web slings, indicating that the sling should be taken out of service. sling damage may occur. Used with lifting equipment such as forklifts or overhead cranes, they enable you to hoist, move, and position heavy loads safely and efficiently. Our inspection teams are skilled in identifying damaged rigging equipment and provide written records of our inspections to comply with the ASME B30. But, choosing the right type of lifting sling is dependent on a complete understanding of the application, the environment it’s being used in, and Aug 7, 2025 · Ensure safety and longevity of your lifting operations with this complete web sling inspection guide. This guide covers types, selection, safety, and maintenance to ensure safe and efficient lifting. TOP TIP: It is possible to prolong the life of a synthetic sling. Jul 26, 2023 · Lifting Slings Synthetic Web Slings: 6 Things You Should Know Before Buying We often find that when customers want to order a new web sling, they aren’t aware of all the different configurations that exist and may not know how to order a direct replacement. Discard or repair them. Visual Wear and Tear Fraying, cuts, or tears: Any visible damage on synthetic webbing or round slings is a red flag. A specific procedure for sling inspection is the best safeguard against injury, death and property damage. Jul 11, 2025 · Lifting Slings How to Inspect Wire Rope Slings According to ASME B30. Synthetic roundslings can be damaged, abraded or cut as tension and compression between the sling, the connection points and the load develops. LiftGuard is designed for use with all sling types, but specifically synthetic slings. Never use worn-out or damaged slings. These can occur if the sling is snagged on something sharp, rubbed against a sharp edge, or dragged along a rough surface. Edges that come in contact with the sling should be padded with material of sufficient strength to prevent damage to the sling. Web Sling Inspection and Removal Criteria Inspection of Slings A specific procedure for the inspection of synthetic slings is your best safeguard against sling damage and abuse. Placing synthetic slings on the pin should be avoided. Holes, tears, cuts or snags. Damaged slings shall not be used. For example, one sling manufacturer has shown that a 3/8” cut (much smaller than the cut shown in Table 2) caused a sling to break under load at almost half its non Trusted since 1986, Slingmax® offers Twin-Path® Synthetic roundslings with Check-Fast®, Covermax® and Rifled Cover® for safe, reliable heavy lifting and rigging Jun 27, 2025 · Lifting Slings Polyester and Nylon Synthetic Web Slings: Features and Characteristics When choosing a material for sling use, we recommend considering a material’s resistance to specific chemicals, temperature resistance and stretch. Cutting of synthetic slings during use is the number one cause of sling Avoid Prolonged UV Exposure. Nylon Web Slings (ASME B30. Slings Must Be Regularly and Properly Inspected Even seemingly “minor” damage to a web sling can significantly reduce its capacity to hold or lift objects and increases the chance that the sling will fail during use. The types of slings covered are those made from alloy steel chain, wire rope, metal mesh, natural or synthetic fiber rope (conventional three strand construction), and synthetic web (nylon, polyester, and polypropylene). These are removal criteria established by ASME B30. Feb 20, 2025 · Synthetic Slings: Clean synthetic slings (like nylon or polyester) with warm water and mild soap to remove dirt. Abrasion or burn marks: Heat, friction, and chemical exposure can all degrade materials faster than you 2. Apr 14, 2023 · Learn how to identify and fix common damage to lifting slings, plus a checklist for sling inspection, retirement guidelines, and corrective measures for synthetic ropes. Protect sling from being cut or damaged by corners, protrusions, or from contact with edges that are not well rounded, using material of sufficient strength, thickness and construction to prevent damage. If you wish to repair or replace damaged slings, we will provide replacement costs. Shackles may have a sharp edge where the pin goes through the shackle ear. It is also important that all inspections must be done by trained and qualified personnel. Check the sling for any signs of chemical damage, such as discoloration or degradation. 9: Acid or caustic burns. Jul 15, 2025 · Synthetic web slings are also more susceptible to environmental damage, including extreme temperatures, chemical exposure, and UV degradation. Acid or caustic burns. Remove from service if any of the following is visible: Capacity tag is missing or illegible Sling shows signs of melting, charring or chemical damage End fittings are excessively pitted, corroded, distorted, cracked or broken Cuts on the face or edge of webbing Holes, tears, snags or crushed web Signs of Hidden Damage in Lifting Slings: Uncover risks of corrosion and UV exposure. In other words, sling inspection is a must before each use. Training and preventative measures are infinitely more important than learning how to react when things go wrong. The synthetic material has stretch and flexibility to help the slings mould to the shape of the load, gripping securely, while cushioning and absorbing shock more than a wire rope or chain. Whenever possible, lift from directly over the load's center of gravity. Nov 26, 2018 · Along with damaged synthetic slings, stretched or bent links can also cause a rigging system to fail. Lifting slings are broadly classified into three categories. Identification content for rope sling tags is identical to web sling tag requirements. OSHA states that the sling and all fastening and attachments shall be inspected for damage or defects by a Slings Wire Rope Slings Chain & Wire Mesh Slings Twin-Path® and Synthetic Lifting Slings SlingMax® Rigging Products Overview Rigging Hardware RUD Lifting & Fall Protection Anchorage Points Shackles & Hooks Thimbles & Corner Protectors Cable Clips Load Positioning Swivels and Lifting Eyes Rigging Turnbuckles Eye Bolts & Hoist Rings Rope Nylon sling inspection is crucial to proper use. 9 standard A guide to inspecting synthetic rope slings, including what to look for and discard criteria. However, like any equipment, webbing slings can be susceptible to damage over time due to regular use, environmental conditions, and improper handling. Wire rope slings should be inspected for broken strands, kinks, or flattened sections that could weaken the structure. Improper sling or attachments for the type of load to be lifted and the environment in which it is being lifted; Worn slings and attachments or those with damage such as cracks, kinks, bends, cuts, gouges, and frayed fibers; and Improper storage of slings and misuses such as resting of loads on the sling or dragging of slings across abrasive SLING AND RIGGING INSPECTION SERVICES Our trained and experienced rigging experts are available to offer inspection services for all of your wire rope, chain, and synthetic slings, as well as your shackles, hoist rings, and hooks. Always Perform a Visual Inspection. Our goal is to help you understand some of the terms used with synthetic sling construction and what information you can provide during Aug 7, 2025 · Certified rigging inspectors play a crucial role in identifying compromised slings, and their expertise determines whether a sling is safe for continued use. Synthetic slings can be made from polyester, nylon, or high-performance materials and are lightweight, easy to rig, and extremely flexible. Certain synthetic materials perform better than others Jul 14, 2025 · If you’re lifting highly finished parts or delicate materials, then a synthetic lifting sling can provide the flexibility, strength, and support you need to support a specialized load. As per ASME B30. Jan 30, 2024 · Read up on the 5 different types of synthetic lifting slings and determine which one is right for your lifting needs. Read on to find out how to inspect your round slings for use. Other conditions, including visible damage, cause doubt as to the continued use of the sling. Environmental factors such as exposure to sunlight, dirt or gritty-type matter and cyclical changes in temperatures Sep 25, 2020 · Damage from chemically active ingredients or environments which can erode the material Stains or grease spots from liquids, which could impact the sling’s grip Knots in the sling Proper care will help to extend the life of synthetic slings. CUTTING Cutting is the most common cause for a sling being taken out of service. Lift the load a few inches and check Apr 12, 2021 · In your visual inspection, look out for tears or cuts, distorted fittings, burns, damaged yarn, chemical damage, and welding damage especially. Aug 26, 2021 · Even slightly damaged slings are highly likely to fail during rigging. Aug 28, 2020 · The more effort you put into understanding synthetic sling safety now, the more injuries, damage, and even fatalities you’ll prevent in the future. Cuts, gouges, areas of extensive fiber breakage along the length and abraded areas on the rope. For inspection frequency requirements, see the General Information section of this catalog and the safety bulletin provided with each sling. Jul 11, 2025 · Lifting Slings Choosing the Best Lifting Sling: Wire Rope vs. Because they’re made from alloy steel, people often believe that chain slings are unbreakable. Slings can fail if they are damaged, misused, or overloaded. Broken stitching: Particularly on load-bearing seams—this compromises strength. Jun 30, 2020 · In industries like marine construction, the penalty for skipping or rushing through “simple” industrial rigging inspections or “ordinary” storage practices can be catastrophic for all of our equipment and tools, but most importantly for the people involved. Oct 7, 2024 · Synthetic sling shackles have a wider bow to increase synthetic web or roundsling efficiency—resulting in 100% of the sling’s working load limit to be achieved. Damaged or defective slings shall be immediately removed from service. The article showcases a series of jobsite photos that offer a Sep 19, 2018 · All of our synthetic web products are designed for long life under punishing conditions, but they will eventually wear out after extended use. Learn how to identify and prevent hidden damage. Synthetic web slings are some of the most common pieces of rigging equipment that you’ll find at any job site because they’re strong enough to support heavy loads, yet are extremely versatile and can be used efectively for a variety of Apr 25, 2024 · Here are some of the dangers of using damaged web slings. defined by OSHA. Jul 26, 2023 · Lifting Slings How to Dispose of Damaged Rigging Gear, Wire Rope, & Slings Because there are no standards or clear instructions developed by industry authorities like OSHA, ANSI, WSTDA, or AWRF, we have outlined what we suggest to be best practices for the disposal of damaged or failed lifting materials. 9. The most commonly used synthetic round slings are made of nylon- or polyester-type yarns. If the sling is rigged on this area, it could become severely damaged. Environments affect the strength in which of synthetic synthetic slings slings in continuously varying degrees, exposed ranging to sources from slight of ultraviolet to total light degradation. However, internal damage can be present as well. Inspect for internal damage by feeling along the slings A sling made from synthetic materials can suffer abrasive damage or even melting at room temperature due to friction caused by movement over a surface while loaded. Synthetic Armor can be made to fit any length or width sling. Inspecting your synthetic roundsling will confirm that the equipment is in proper working condition, and that the correct synthetic roundsling is being used for the specific job requirements. Wire Rope Slings Chain Slings Synthetic Slings Depending on their structure, material, and load limit Aug 29, 2013 · Coppertone Can’t Keep Synthetic Slings Safe The idea of lathering up your synthetic slings with SPF 30 does sound a bit ridiculous, but UV degradation is a serious threat to the safety of anyone using synthetic slings while building a field erected tank, moving materials, or working on any construction job site. It is important that you employ a three stage, level of inspection to ensure that slings are inspected with the appropriate frequency. This section applies to slings used in conjunction with other material handling equipment for the movement of material by hoisting, in employments covered by this part. Inc. (OSHA Wording) Oct 17, 2004 · Technical Bulletin 23: Abrasion and Cut Protection for Synthetic Slings Slings are fabricated from a variety of materials, most commonly steel wire rope, chain, and synthetic fibers. Feb 1, 2001 · The sling user enjoys the numerous ergonomic benefits of the synthetic lifting product, while the load, no matter how delicate, is protected from damage. Any damaged or defective sling must be immediately removed from service. Slings shall not be shortened with knots Always inspect slings before use. • Sling can fail if damaged, misused or overloaded. Remove all slings, including Flexi-Grip® roundslings, from service if you see damage such as the following, and return to service only when approved by a designated person. We recommend that you employ a three stage level of inspection as outlined in ASME B30. Spotting these signs early allows you to act before a failure occurs, reducing the risk of accidents. Each repaired sling shall be proof tested by the manufacturer or equivalent entity to twice the rated capacity prior to its return to service. Synthetic web slings are a good choice where highly finished parts or delicate equipment must be protected from damage. Please refer to our page on wear pads Is it time to replace your industrial lifting slings? Identity signs of wear and damage on our Kennedy Wire Rope & Sling blog and view our rigging slings now! Sep 19, 2021 · Whether riggers are using synthetic, wire rope, or chain slings, it’s important to protect the sling itself from damage by using the correct equipment and safe rigging practices. So, it is crucial that synthetic web slings be inspected regularly to ensure that they remain in good condition and safe to use. Apr 18, 2023 · Synthetic slings are lightweight, flexible, and gentle on loads, making them ideal for lifting heavy objects in tight spaces. Wire Rope Slings Chain Slings Synthetic Slings Depending on their structure, material, and load limit While synthetic slings are crafted to be incredibly strong, a small cut can compromise the entire integrity of the sling and eliminate its ability to effectively bear weight. Make it a habit to check each sling for visual damage, such as abrasions and cuts before every use. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like The function of a synthetic sling is to lift, lower, or carry loads _____ wire ropes of chain slings, The _______ of the synthetic sling material, along with the flat design protects loads during the lifting operation, ______ are knitted or woven edges used to prevent the webbing from unraveling or escaping and more. Scope. Nov 6, 2018 · Synthetic round slings are an integral part of heavy-lifting and rigging. Even seemingly “minor” damage to a web sling can significantly reduce its capacity to hold or lift objects and increases the chance that the sling will fail during use. Many manufacturers have standardized product offerings, including incremental increases in length ranging anywhere from 2’ to 20’. Chain. Use Edge Guards. Explore Slingmax® Cut Protection solutions designed to extend sling life and enhance safety. • Do not exceed rated capacity. Synthetic web slings can be damaged, abraded or cut as tension and compression between the sling, the connection points and the load develops. Nov 26, 2024 · Learn how to prevent web sling wear and tear with tips on proper storage, inspection, and protection techniques to maximize lifespan and ensure safe lifting. Jul 15, 2020 · Synthetic slings have become a go-to for many riggers due to their flexibility, lightweight, & ease of handling. What should you know about using synthetic web slings? Synthetic web slings are a good choice where highly finished parts or delicate equipment must be protected from damage. All synthetic slings are subject to cutting when lifting items with edges. First, it is important to only use synthetic slings that are tested for specific load limits. what determines which type you use? —wire rope, chain, and synthetic—and what determines their use. vs. 9 standards. Jun 3, 2025 · Here’s what every crane company should look for during sling and strap inspections: 1. Join Southeast Rigging and learn more about the replacement web slings and other protective gear. 9) A synthetic web sling shall be removed from service if conditions such as the following are present: Missing or illegible sling identification. Synthetic rope slings shall be removed from service if conditions such as the following are present: Missing or illegible sling identification. The key is knowing when to replace them, and that’s why it’s very important to inspect your slings on a regular Jul 26, 2023 · Lifting Slings How to Inspect a Synthetic Roundsling to ASME B30. In addition to this, regular inspection from experts is also recommended, which we will cover later in this post. They have the following properties in common: Strength, Convenience, Load protection, and Economy. Surfaces in contact with the sling do not have to be very Feb 15, 2021 · Synthetic Web Slings Inspections It is important to take environmental factors, such as types of acids and temperatures, into consideration when inspecting web slings. ROUNDSLING INSPECTION CRITERIA The following photos illustrate some of the damage that occurs and indicates the sling must be taken out of service. * Do not exceed a sling's Working Load Limit. Inspection Criteria for Synthetic Web Slings Refer to illustrations of damaged webbing. Ensure safety, extend sling life, maintain peak performance. Sep 17, 2021 · The lack of sling protection means you will be throwing out damaged slings constantly. When determining sling length, measure from Learn proper use, inspection, and care guidelines for Twin-Path® synthetic slings from Slingmax®. DICA’s LiftGuard Magnetic Sling Protectors help mitigate both high bearing stress and damage from sharp edges. Jul 28, 2024 · Introduction There are three different types of slings. Exposure of sling to edges with a radius that is too small can cause sling failure and loss of the load. Excessive abrasive May 12, 2025 · Learn everything about lifting slings, rigging straps, and crane lifting operations. Always protect synthetic slings from being cut or damaged by corners, edges, and protrusions using protection suficient for each application. Avoid abrasive brushes or high-pressure washers, as these can damage fibres. This video covers inspection criteria and procedures for inspecting all slings. Mar 24, 2017 · Inspection And Use Of Slings Equipment Hazards Each day before being used, all slings, fastenings and attachments must be inspected for damage or defects. Synthetic slings can be damaged, abraded or cut as tension and compression between the sling, the connection points and the load develops. • Users shall protect sling from being cut by load edges, corners, protrusions and abrasive surfaces. Check each sling for visible damages such as holes, cuts, abrasions, corrosion, and web color fading. Learn key usage conditions, pre/post checks, and expert tips from a trusted synthetic web slings manufacturer. Never bounce or jerk a load. The sling's material type, such as synthetic webbing or wire rope, influences its susceptibility to different kinds of damage and, therefore, the criteria for its removal from service. In this article, we examine the advantages and disadvantages of wire rope slings vs chain slings, and discuss their respective benefits when performing lifts. tzw bqqbl0 jmy dar8n 9i lsu 4cotdkpk hiouwcf o7tcec 2ffpv