Wire Rope Slings Key to Safe Rigging Practices

Lifting operations carry inherent risks, where even minor oversights can lead to accidents endangering personnel and equipment. As the backbone of such operations, riggers bear critical responsibilities—not only must they master operational skills but also possess deep understanding of tools, equipment, and worksite conditions. This guide outlines essential practices to enhance safety and productivity.

Industry regulations unequivocally designate riggers as fully accountable for lifting safety. Riggers must:

• Thoroughly inspect all tools and equipment before use
• Verify load capacities and technical limitations
• Never proceed with uncertainties—consult manuals or specialists when in doubt

Confirm:

• Equipment capacity exceeds load weight with safety margin
• Maximum lift height accommodates payload dimensions
• Horizontal range covers required movement area

Consider:

• Load characteristics (shape, weight distribution)
• Equipment constraints
• Environmental factors

Essential checks:

• Precisely calculate weight
• Implement protective measures (pads/sleeves) for both load and slings

Examine for:

• Proper sheave alignment
• Hook-throat deformation (reject if opening increases >5% or 6mm)
• Cracks, particularly in bowl sections

• Vertical: For balanced loads with accessible lift points
• Choked: When lift points are obstructed
• Basket: For stability enhancement or lack of lift points

• Spreaders: Reduce side-loading on slings
• Eye-bolts: Ensure axial loading only
• Long loads: Dual rigging points for balance

For rectangular objects, CG lies below diagonal intersection. For irregular shapes, visualize bounding rectangle to approximate CG.

Use dedicated lifting points above CG—never attempt rotation with choked slings.

• Kinks: Permanent deformation requiring sling retirement
• Birdcaging: Reversible if wires remain adjustable
• Crushed eyes: Acceptable unless wire movement is restricted

Store slings on dedicated racks away from:

• Moisture
• Extreme temperatures (>400°F or <-40°F for steel-core slings)
• Corrosive substances

1. Measure total weight and required movement dimensions
2. Determine connection method (direct/choked/basket)
3. Select appropriate sling type and hardware
4. Conform to OSHA/ASME inspection standards
5. Connect to load before attaching to hook
6. Apply test load to verify stability
7. Maintain safe distance during lift
8. Avoid sudden movements
9. Inspect and store slings post-operation

For steel-core slings:

• 200-400°F: Reduce capacity by 10%
• 400-600°F: Reduce by 25%
• 600-800°F: Reduce by 35%
• Avoid use above 800°F