Slings and Rigging - Safety Talk Handout

Lifting construction equipment is hazardous work. To prepare, consider a lift's three main
parts:

 Lifting device
 Hitch, and
 Load weight

The device can be a crawler or truck crane, pedestal-mounted or overhead crane. When was it
inspected? Will it lift high enough? What is its horizontal reach?

You can get the load weight from documents or information on the load, or weigh it or
calculate using proven engineering principles.

The weight must be within the rated capacity of rigging, including slings, hooks and shackles.

Once you know the weight and how far it must move, choose a hitching method -- the
connection to the lifting hook and how the sling grips the load.

Choose an appropriate sling for the load, with proper end attachments. It also needs proper
attachment hardware such as clevises, hooks or rings. Slings should be marked with the
manufacturer, maintenance date or removal-from-service date, and stock number. Mainly,
note the load rating and types of hitches to be used.

Always inspect the sling before use. Run your hands along the fabric and feel for tears, holes,
snags and fraying. If the sling has been exposed to sharp edges, stitches may be broken and/or
worn. Most slings have a red warning string in the material; this becomes visible if the sling is
heavily worn. Inspect the fittings.

Throw out defective slings. Preferably, cut them up.

Here are more reminders:

 Rig up, not down. Attach sling to load first, then attach it to the hook.
 Check everything before a lift. Strain the rigging slightly and see if blocking, sling and
load protection and safety devices are in place. The load must be balanced and free of
restraints.
 Ensure no one is near suspended loads or loads about to be lifted. Everyone must be
alert for possible snagging.
 Let the lifting device and rigging do the job. Don't use brute strength to prevent
swinging or movement.
 Use a tagline or tether to control movement. Keep hands and toes out from under the
load when it is suspended.
 Lift slowly, applying power steadily. Avoid "shock" loading.
After the lift, check the sling for damage. If it's in good condition, store the sling in a safe place.
If damaged, tag it and notify the supervisor. Know your lift -- never guess.