What should slings be inspected for before use?

Slings play a critical role in rigging and lifting operations, and their integrity is essential to ensure both safety and effective performance. Before use, inspecting slings for fraying, cuts, or excessive wear is imperative because these conditions can compromise the strength and reliability of the sling.

Fraying can indicate damage to the fibers in the sling, making it more susceptible to failure under load. Cuts can significantly reduce the load-bearing capacity, and excessive wear may lead to a weakened structure that could fail during lifting. Regular inspections help to identify these issues and prevent potential accidents, safeguarding both personnel and equipment.

In contrast, while factors such as color fading, manufacturer's tags, and length specifications are also important to consider, they do not directly impact the immediate structural integrity and safety of the sling in the same way that physical damage does. Thus, focusing on fraying, cuts, and wear ensures that the sling can perform its function safely and effectively.