|
|
 |
When should you inspect chain slings?
How should you check chain slings during the periodical inspection?
How should you use chain slings safely?
What should you avoid using chain slings?
When should you inspect chain slings? - Inspect chain slings every working day. Check for visible faults in links and hooks.
How should you check chain slings during the periodical inspection? A competent person should inspect chain slings periodically, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. For record keeping purposes it is useful if each chain has a metal tag with an identification number and load limit information. Information about the chain length and other characteristics and a inspection schedule should recorded in a log book. - Clean sling before inspection.
- Hang the chain up or stretch the chain out on a level floor in a well-lighted area. Remove all twists. Measure the sling length. Discard if a sling has been stretched.
- Make a link-by-link inspection and discard if:
| a. Wear exceeds 15% of a link diameter. | 
| b. Cut, nicked, cracked, gouged, burned, or corrosion pitted | 
| | . c. Twisted or bent. |  | d. Stretched. Links tend to close up and get longer. | 
| - Check master link, load pins and hooks for any of the above faults. Hooks should be removed from service if they have been opened more than 15% of the normal throat opening, measured at the narrowest point, or twisted more than 10° from the plane of the unbent hook.
- Manufacturers' reference charts show sling and hitch capacities. Record manufacturer, type, load limit and inspection dates.
How should you use chain slings safely? - Find out load weight before lifting.
- Lower working a load limit if there may be severe impact.
- Balance the load to avoid overstress on one sling arm or the load slipping free.
- Pad sharp corners to prevent bending links.
- Replace broken safety latches.
- Reduce the load limit when using chain in temperatures above 425°C (800°F).
- Keep hands and fingers from between load and chain.
- Store chain sling arms on racks in assigned areas.
What should you avoid using chain slings? - Avoid impact loading: do not jerk the load when lifting or lowering the sling. This increases the actual stress on the sling.
- Do not drag chains.
- Do not splice a chain by inserting a bolt between two links.
- Do not shorten a chain with knots or by twisting.
- Do not force a hook over a link.
- Do not use homemade connections. Use only attachments designed for the chain.
- Do not heat treat or weld chain links: the lifting capacity will be reduced drastically.
 |
Document last updated on April 24, 1998
Copyright ©1997-2008 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety
|
|
OSH Answers Lists
