|
|
 |
What should you know about using synthetic web slings?
What should you check when selecting slings?
What should you avoid when using slings?
What kinds of damage make a synthetic web-sling unusable?
What should you know about using synthetic web slings? - Synthetic web slings are easily cut and have poor abrasion resistance when compared with chain and wire rope slings.
- Nylon slings are damaged by acids, but resist caustics.
- Polyester slings are damaged by caustics but resist acids.
- Sunlight, moisture, and temperatures above 90°C (194°F) damage both nylon and polyester slings.
- Use slings made of the right material for the job.
- Check the manufacturers' slings for their code number and the rated capacity. Reference charts showing slings and hitch rated capacities are available from manufacturers.
- Inspect slings before using them.
- Keep an inspection record for each sling.
What should you check when selecting slings? - Refer to the manufacturer's reference chart for the capacity rating.
- Check a sling before using it.
- Determine the weight of the load.
- Prevent loading more than the rated capacity by considering sling angle.
- Protect webbing from sharp corners, protrusions, or abrasive surfaces.
- Ensure that the sling choking action is on the webbing, not the hardware.
- Have slings repaired by a sling manufacturer only.
What should you avoid when using slings? - Do not drag slings across floors or other abrasive surfaces.
- Do not drop slings with metal fittings.
- Do not set loads down on top of slings.
- Do not pull slings from under loads when the load is resting on the sling.
- Do not weld anything hung from a sling.
- Do not lengthen or shorten slings by tying knots.
- Do not place stitch patterns (laps) on hooks, around sharp corners, or at choker bearing points.
What kinds of damage make a synthetic web-sling unusable? - Increased stiffness of sling material.
- Acid or caustic burns.
- Melted, burned or weld spatter damage.
- Holes, tears, cuts, snags.
- Broke or worn stitching.
- Excessive abrasive wear.
- Knots in any part of the sling.
- Crushed webbing or embedded particles.
- Bleached sling colour.
 |
Document last updated on April 14, 1998
Copyright ©1997-2008 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety
|
|
OSH Answers Lists
