Crane Rigging Basic Safety

Introduction

How to Use this Presentation DISCLAIMER

This training material presents very

This presentation contains base material for use in an instructor-led training
setting. You may modify this presentation to satisfy the specific training
needs of your organization.
important, pertinent information. It should
not be assumed, however, that this program
satisfies every legal requirement of every
state. Some states require the training be
developed and delivered by an individual with
specific training and experience.

This training is AWARENESS LEVEL and does

On some slides, the display text is supplemented with additional material in
the slide notes.
This content is licensed for modification and use in a classroom setting. You
may not redistribute this material in any form.
not authorize any person to perform work or
validate their level of competency; it must be
supplemented with operation and process-
specific assessments and training, as well as
management oversight, to assure that all
training is understood and followed.

Your organization must do an evaluation of all

exposures and applicable codes and
regulations. In addition, establish proper
controls, training, and protective measures to
effectively control exposures and assure
compliance.

This program is neither a determination that

the conditions and practices of your
organization are safe, nor a warranty that
reliance upon this program will prevent
accidents and losses or satisfy local, state, or
federal regulations.
 Introduction

Introduction
Safety from the Ground Up
The safety of a rigging project depends on the proper
preparation of the necessary components at each stage of
the lift, from the sling, attachments, and lifting device, to
the riggers, crane operators, and other personnel involved.

Course topics:
• General rigging equipment and safety

• Various sling types

• Steel erection rigging operations

 Introduction

Course Overview
1. General Rigging Safety

2. Alloy Steel Chain Slings

3. Wire Rope Slings

4. Metal Mesh Slings

5. Natural and Synthetic Fiber Rope

6. Synthetic Web Slings

7. Steel Erection Rigging

8. Hand Signals
1
General Rigging Safety

What you need to know:

1. General safety practices

2. Inspection requirements

3. Proper identification of equipment limits

4. Proper storage of equipment

5. Hitches and slings

1 General Rigging Safety

Sling Types

Alloy steel chain Wire rope Metal mesh Fiber rope Synthetic web
1 General Rigging Safety

Vertical Hitches
Under normal conditions, a sling in a
vertical (90°) hitch will be able to lift its
maximum rated capacity.
1 General Rigging Safety

Choker Hitches
Choker hitches will tighten on a load when lifted, but will not provide full
360˚ contact with the load unless the line is wrapped around the load
twice (creating a double choker hitch).
Additionally, the capacity of a sling in a choker hitch is 75 – 80% of the
sling’s maximum rated capacity.
Safe use:
• Do not use a choker hitch to lift loose bundles.
• Do not use slings made with wire rope clips in a choker hitch.
• Do not use wire rope slings with ferrules in choker hitches.
• If using a hitch where the angle of choke is less than 120˚, make
sure to adjust the sling’s capacity accordingly. (This will be covered
in greater detail later in the course.)
1 General Rigging Safety

Basket Hitches
Basket hitches allow loads to be easily controlled. They minimize a load’s
tendency to twist.

Basket hitches can either be connected to a single hook or in a “U”

configuration with each leg connected vertically to a spreader bar.

The vertical “U” configuration allows the sling to carry the full rated
capacity on each leg, as long as the D/d ratio is at least 25/1.

Safe use:
Do not use basket hitches on hard-to-balance loads.
1 General Rigging Safety

Bridle Hitches
Bridle hitches connect 2 – 4 sling legs to a load via lifting
attachments (e.g., lugs).

Safe practices:
• Make sure the load is balanced by placing the hook point over its
center of gravity and adjusting the leg lengths to keep the load
level.

• Prior to connecting to your load, determine the working load

limit for multi-legged slings.

• If using a 4-legged sling, calculate the working load limit as you

would if only using 3 legs. This allows the load’s weight to be
evenly distributed while also leaving a leg free for stability.
1 General Rigging Safety

Safe Operating Practices

Practices for hoisting:
• Securely attach slings to their loads.

• Pad or protect slings from loads’ sharp edges.

• Keep clear of suspended loads and loads about to be lifted.

• Keep your hands or fingers clear of the space between a sling and
the load when the sling is being tightened.

Housekeeping:
When rigging equipment is not in use, remove it from the immediate
work area to assure that it does not present a hazard.
1 General Rigging Safety

Sling Safety Restrictions

Never:
• Load slings in excess of their rated capacities.

• Use damaged or defective slings.

• Use slings that are shortened with knots, bolts, or

other makeshift devices or slings with kinked legs.

• Rest a load on a sling. (However, if a load does rest

on a sling, do not pull the sling out from under the
load.)

• Ride on the sling or the load, unless the load is

specifically designed and tested for carrying
personnel.

• Shock load, which is allowing the load to free fall,

changing the load’s center of gravity during hoisting,
or both.
1 General Rigging Safety

Inspections
Prior to use on each shift, a competent person must thoroughly
inspect rigging equipment for damage or defects.

• During use, as needed and where service conditions allow,

slings and rigging equipment are subject to additional
inspection.

• Defective rigging equipment, slings, or fastenings must be

removed from service immediately.
1 General Rigging Safety

Rating and Identification

Identification markings are required on all rigging equipment.
Identification marking requirements:
• Permanently affixed

• Legible

• Approved by the manufacturer

• Marked with the safe working load.

*
Do not use equipment without identification
markings.

! Never load equipment in excess of the safe

working load.
1 General Rigging Safety

Sling Attachments and Custom Equipment

Capacity requirements: Custom equipment:
Sling attachments should have a rated capacity greater Any special custom equipment (e.g., grabs, hooks, etc.)
than or equal to that of the chain in use. must also be marked with its safe working load, as well as
proof-tested prior to use at 125% of the rated load.
If you must use attachments with a lower capacity than
the sling, do not use the sling beyond the rated capacity of
the weakest attachment.

Common sling attachments include:

• Clips • Master links
• Eyebolts • Shackles
•

•
Fittings

Hooks
•

•
Sockets

Triangles
* Do not use clips to fabricate wire rope slings.
1 General Rigging Safety

Hooks
• Sling legs must only contact the Inspections and removal from
hook within 45˚of the centerline. service:
– Do not connect loads using the Immediately remove from service any
hook’s tip.
hooks that display:
• When connecting hooks to a load in • Cracks
a bridle hitch, the hook tips must be
pointing out or up. • Deformation

• Nicks

• Gouges

• Missing latch facility

• Wear of 5% at the narrowest

point or 10% of the profile or
depth
* Watch for wear at these points.
1 General Rigging Safety

Center of Gravity (horizontal)

Loads can be either symmetrical or asymmetrical. Either way, connect
the load above their horizontal center of gravity.

Symmetrical Load Asymmetrical Load

The center of gravity is The center of gravity is not

along the centerline. along the centerline.
1 General Rigging Safety

Center of Gravity (horizontal)

Loads not rigged at the
horizontal center of gravity
Balanced Unbalanced
may tip or fall off the sling. Asymmetrical Load Asymmetrical Load
In addition to the risks of
falling objects and damage to
the load, slipping or falling
loads can cause shock stress
on the rigging and hoisting
equipment, weakening it for
future use.
1 General Rigging Safety

Center of Gravity (vertical)

In addition to the horizontal
center of gravity, consider
the load’s vertical center of
gravity.

Connect loads at or above

the vertical center of gravity.
Loads connected below their
horizontal center of gravity
may be at risk of toppling.

Load is stable. Load is unstable.

1 General Rigging Safety

Environmental Conditions
Be aware of environmental conditions that may affect the capacity of the
sling or other components.
• Weather:
– Wind
– Precipitation
– Temperature
Visibility

* If any of these conditions are

–
present, follow the manufacturer
• Worksite features: recommendations.
– Power lines or other overhead obstructions
– Uneven or unstable surfaces

• Reactive substances:
– Chemicals which may damage slings, other rigging components,
or personnel
1 General Rigging Safety
Sling-to-Load Angles
The sling-to-load angle
is the angle between a
sling’s legs and the load’s
horizontal plane.
The lower the sling leg The sling angle is not a concern for vertical hitches
angle, the greater the because they are not affected by angle loss factors.
tension on the sling.
However, for basket, bridle, and choker hitches,
This tension increases the
knowing this angle is critical to planning a lift. You
sling’s actual load.
must calculate how much the angle reduces the
load capacity.
Never use angles that are less than 30˚without
approval from a qualified person.
1 General Rigging Safety

Sling Angle Loss Factor

The sling angle loss factor allows you to calculate how Sling Angle Loss Factors
much the angle reduces the overall load capacity.
Angle from
Horizontal Loss Factor
• To obtain the loss factor, refer to a sling angle loss (degrees)
factor table. (See the adjacent example.)
90 1.000
• To use the loss factor: Multiply the loss factor by 85 .9962
the load capacity to obtain the reduced load
80 .9848
capacity. (A low angle equals a lower loss factor,
creating a lower reduced load capacity.) 75 .9659
70 .9397
65 .9063
60 .8660
55 .8192

* If the reduced load capacity is less than the

load weight, the hitch is not strong enough
to perform the lift.
50
45
40
.7660
.7071
.6428
35 .5736
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Reduced Load Method Actual Load Method

The reduced load method uses the The actual load method uses inverse
sling-to-load angle to determine the proportions to determine the actual load
reduced load limit. for each sling leg.
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Reduced Load Method

Use the reduced work load method
to confirm the adequate sling strength
to carry this load in a bridle hitch.
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

4,200 lbs

Step 1: Establish the weight of the load.

1. Load: 4,200 lbs
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

4,200 lbs

Step 2: Find the vertical load capacity of the sling.

1. Load: 4,200 lbs
2. Vertical load capacity (single leg): 2,800 lbs
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

4,200 lbs

Step 3: Account for the capacity of both legs. (Multiply

the vertical load capacity by 2.)
1. Load: 4,200 lbs
2. Vertical load capacity (single leg): 2,800 lbs
3. Vertical load capacity (two legs): 5,600 lbs (2,800 x 2)
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

4,200 lbs

Step 4: Determine the angle of your sling legs.

1. Load: 4,200 lbs
2. Vertical load capacity (single leg): 2,800 lbs
3. Vertical load capacity (two legs): 5,600 lbs (2,800 x 2)
4. Sling angle (both legs): 60˚
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Sling Angle Loss Factors

Angle from
Loss
Horizontal
Factor
(degrees)
90 1.000
85 .9962
80 .9848
75 .9659
4,200 lbs 70 .9397
65 .9063
Step 5: Determine your loss factor.
60 .8660
1. Load: 4,200 lbs 55 .8192
2. Vertical load capacity (single leg): 2,800 lbs 50 .7660
45 .7071
3. Vertical load capacity (two legs): 5,600 lbs (2,800 x 2)
40 .6428
4. Sling angle (both legs): 60˚
35 .5736
5. Loss factor: .866
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Step 6: Determine the reduced load capacity of your hitch.
1. Load: 4,200 lbs
2. Vertical load capacity (single leg): 2,800 lbs
3. Vertical load capacity (two legs): 5,600 lbs (2,800 x 2)
4. Sling angle (both legs): 60˚

4,200 lbs 5. Loss factor: .866

Populate the fields below with the corresponding figures above to calculate
the full load capacity of your hitch.

x =
Full 2-Leg Vertical Reduced Load
Load Capacity (lbs) 60˚ Sling Angle Capacity (lbs)
Loss Factor
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Step 7: Confirm that your hitch can carry your load.
1. Load: 4,200 lbs
2. Vertical load capacity (single leg): 2,800 lbs
3. Vertical load capacity (two legs): 5,600 lbs (2,800 x 2)
4. Sling angle (both legs): 60˚

4,200 lbs 5. Loss factor: .866

6. Reduced load capacity: 4,849.6 lbs

Based on the figures above, is your reduced hitch load capacity

adequate to lift this load?

Yes No
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Actual Load Method

We will now use the actual load
method to calculate a two-leg bridle
hitch load that allows for a tight vertical
clearance.
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

5,200 lbs
Step 1: Establish the weight of the load.
1. Load weight: 5,200 lbs
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

3.2 ft

Step 2: Determine the vertical height of your hitch.

1. Load weight: 5,200 lbs

2. Vertical hitch height: 3.2 ft

1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

4 ft

Step 3: Establish the length of your sling legs.

1. Load weight: 5,200 lbs
2. Vertical hitch height: 3.2 ft
3. Sling leg length: 4 ft
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Step 4: Establish the proportional tension factor.
(Divide the sling leg length by the vertical height.)
4 1. Load weight: 5,200 lbs

3.2 2. Vertical hitch height: 3.2 ft

3. Sling leg length: 4 ft

Populate the fields below with the corresponding figures above.

÷ =
Sling Leg Length Vertical Hitch
Height
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Step 5: Determine the vertical load on each of the two legs.
1: Load weight: 5,200 lbs
2. Vertical hitch height: 3.2 ft
3. Sling leg length: 4 ft
4. Tension factor: 1.25
? ?

5,200 ÷ 2 = 2,600
Load Weight (lbs) Number of Vertical Load
Sling Legs for Single Leg
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Step 6: Determine the actual load on each sling leg.
1: Load weight: 5,200 lbs
2. Vertical hitch height: 3.2 ft
3. Sling leg length: 4 ft
4. Tension factor: 1.25
5. Vertical load on each sling leg: 2,600 lbs

Populate the fields below with the corresponding figures above.

x = 3,250
Vertical Load on Tension Factor Actual Load For
Each Sling Leg (lbs) Each Sling Leg
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Step 7: Verify your vertical sling load capacity.
1: Load weight: 5,200 lbs
2. Vertical hitch height: 3.2 ft
3. Sling leg length: 4 ft
4. Tension factor: 1.25
5. Vertical load on each sling leg: 2,600 lbs
6. Actual load on each sling leg: 3,250 lbs
7. Vertical load capacity: 2,800 lbs
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor

Step 8: Verify your vertical sling load capacity.
1: Load weight: 5,200 lbs
2. Vertical hitch height: 3.2 ft
3. Sling leg length: 4 ft
4. Tension factor: 1.25
5. Vertical load on each sling leg: 2,600 lbs
6. Actual load on each sling leg: 3,250 lbs
7. Vertical load capacity: 2,800 lbs

Based on the actual load on each sling leg and the

vertical load capacity, is your actual sling load
capacity adequate to lift this load?

Yes No
1 General Rigging Safety

Sling-to-Load Angle—Choker Hitch

A sling’s capacity in a choker hitch assumes that the angle
of choke is at or above 120˚.

If the angle of choke is less than 120˚, the sling’s capacity

will be further reduced.
1 General Rigging Safety

Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Choker hitches: Sling Angle Loss Factors
The use of choker hitches reduce a sling’s load limit. The
Angle of
angle of choke can reduce the load limit further.
Choke Loss Factor
(degrees)
Once your angle of choke has been determined, multiply
121+ 1.000
the appropriate loss factor to your sling’s capacity to
determine the reduced load limit. (See the adjacent table.) 90 – 120 .870
60 – 89 .740
The total load weight must not exceed the reduced load
limit. 30 – 59 .620
0 – 29 .490
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Confirm the adequate sling strength to

carry this load in a choker hitch.
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Step 1: Establish the weight of the load.

1. Load: 1,650 lbs

1,650 lbs
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Step 2: Establish the choker load capacity of your sling.

1. Load: 1,650 lbs

2. Choker load capacity: 2,200 lbs

1,650 lbs
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Step 3: Determine the choke angle.

1. Load: 1,650 lbs

2. Choker load capacity: 2,200 lbs

3. Choke angle: 80˚

1,650 lbs
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Step 4: Determine your loss factor.

1. Load: 1,650 lbs

2. Choker load capacity: 2,200 lbs

3. Choke angle: 80˚

4. Loss factor: .74

Angle of Choke
Loss Factor
(degrees)
121+ 1.000 1,650 lbs
90 – 120 .870
60 – 89 .740
30 – 59 .620
0 – 29 .490
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Step 6: Determine the reduced load capacity of your hitch.

1. Load: 1,650 lbs

2. Choker load capacity: 2,200 lbs

3. Choke angle: 80˚

4. Loss factor: .74

Populate the fields below with the corresponding figures above to

calculate the reduced load capacity of your choker hitch.

5600 x .866 =
Choker Load 80˚ Choke Angle 1,650 lbs
Load Capacity
Capacity (lbs) Loss Factor
(lbs)
1 General Rigging Safety

Activity: Sling Angle Loss Factor—Choker Hitch

Step 6: Confirm that your hitch can carry the load.

1: Load: 1,650 lbs

2. Choker load capacity: 2,200 lbs

3. Choke angle: 80˚

4. Loss factor: .74

5. Reduced load capacity: 1,628 lbs

Based on the figures above, is your reduced hitch load

capacity adequate to lift this load?
1,650 lbs
Yes No
2
Alloy Steel Chain Slings

What you need to know:

1. How to identify size, grade, and capacity specifications

2. Additional inspection criteria specific to alloy steel

chain

3. Deficiencies that require repair or removal of the sling

from service
2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings

Identification
Alloy steel chain identification markings must indicate the following:

• Size

• Grade

• Rated capacity

• Reach This durable steel tag is

ideal for chain identification.
A built-in RFID tag enables
• Manufacturer or fabricator
the specifications to be read
with a mobile device.
• Date of manufacture or fabrication

! Do not use alloy steel chain slings for loads in excess of their
rated capacities (i.e., working load limits).
2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings

Attachments
Attachments should have a rated capacity at least equal to that of the chain in
use. Otherwise, the sling must not be used beyond the rated capacity of the
weakest attachment.

! Do not use makeshift links, fasteners formed from bolts or rods,

or other such attachments.

* Slings for use in overhead lifting must be at least Grade 8.

2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings
Inspection
Inspect for the
following:
• All items listed in the
general inspection
requirements
• Wear
• Defective welds
• Deformation
• Increase in length
• Evidence of heat
damage (e.g.,
discoloration)
Frequency: Records:
Inspect slings at least once The employer must keep
every 12 months. and maintain a record of
the most recent inspection
The frequency is for each alloy steel chain
determined by the sling, which must be made
following: available for examination if
required.
• How often it is used
• The severity of service
conditions
• The type of lifts being
made
• Knowledge gained
from the service life of
other slings used in
similar conditions
2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings

Safe Operating Temperatures

Service limit:
When a sling is exposed to service temperatures greater than 600˚F,
employers must reduce its maximum working load limit according to the
manufacturer’s recommendations.

Remove from service threshold:

Any alloy steel chain slings that have been heated above 1,000˚F must be
permanently removed from service.
2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings

Repair and Reconditioning

Worn or damaged slings:
Worn or damaged alloy steel chain slings or attachments are not to be used
until repaired. If welding or heat testing is performed, slings must also be
reconditioned and proof-tested by the sling manufacturer or equivalent entity
prior to re-entering service.

Broken chain:
Do not use low carbon steel repair links, construction links, or mechanical
coupling links to repair broken lengths of chain.

This is a rare example of a

broken weld point on a chain
link. Never use a chain with
broken welds.
2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings

Proof-Testing
Testing before use:
Any new, repaired, or reconditioned alloy steel chain slings,
including all welded components in the sling assembly, must
be proof-tested before use by the sling manufacturer or
equivalent entity.

The employer must assure that proper testing is performed

and keep a certificate of the proof test, which is to be made
available for examination if required.

A proof-testing machine capable of

applying extreme tensile forces to sling
and attachment materials
2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings

Effect of Wear
Chains are prone to extreme wear during lifts. Minimum Allowable Chain Size
Rated chain size Minimum allowable
Remove chains from service if the chain size at any point (inches) chain size at any point
of the link is less than the size stated in the adjacent table. (inches)
¼
⅜
½
⅝
¾
⅞
1
1 ⅛
1 ¼ 1
1 ⅜ 1
1½ 1
1 ¾ 1
2 Alloy Steel Chain Slings

Removal from Service

Alloy steel chain slings displaying cracks or deformation
in any master links, coupling links, hooks, or any other
components must be immediately removed from
service.

A hook with a stretched

throat opening
3
Wire Rope Slings

What you need to know:

1. How to identify size, grade, and capacity specifications

2. Additional inspection criteria specific to wire rope

3. Deficiencies that require repair or removal of the sling

from service
3 Wire Rope Slings

Identification
Wire rope identification markings must indicate the following:

• Recommended safe working load for the types of hitches used

• The angle that was used to calculate the safe working load, if applicable

• The number of legs

! Do not use wire rope slings for loads in excess of their rated
capacities (i.e., working load limits).
3 Wire Rope Slings

Wire Rope Construction

Prior to use or inspection, verify the sling’s construction,
including the following:

• Core material

• Lay

• Fabrication
6x19

! Never use wire rope slings in ways that are not

specified by the manufacturer’s recommendations.

18x7

8x19
3 Wire Rope Slings

Attachments
Most end attachments must be proof-tested by the manufacturer or
equivalent entity at twice their rated capacity prior to their initial use.

The employer must keep a certificate of the proof test, which is to be made
available for examination if required.

Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations to verify if your end attachments

require proof-testing.

A spelter socket
3 Wire Rope Slings

Attachments: Choker Hitch Shackle

Safe shackle attachment: Hazardous shackle attachment:

The eye-splice loop is secured around the Movement of the sling’s leg may unscrew
shackle bolt. the bolt during the lift.
3 Wire Rope Slings

Minimum Lengths
Wire rope is subject to minimum lengths between splices, sleeves, loops, or end fittings.

Sling type Minimum length

Cable laid slings, 6x19 slings, and
6x37 slings
Braided slings
Cable laid grommets, strand laid
grommets, and endless slings
30 times the component rope diameter between splices, sleeves,
or end fittings
40 times the component rope diameter between loops or end
fittings
Circumferential length of 96 times the sling’s diameter
3 Wire Rope Slings
Inspections: Wire Conditions
In addition to the general inspection requirements, wire rope must be inspected
for the following conditions:
Faulty sling construction:
Wire rope slings used in hoisting,
lowering, or pulling loads must be
constructed from a single continuous
piece without knots or splices, except
for eye splices in the ends of wires
and other endless rope slings.
Knots:
Do not secure wire rope with knots,
except for haul back lines on
scrapers.
Broken wires:
Do not use wire rope slings if the total
number of visible broken wires in any
length of 8 diameters exceeds 10% of
the total number of wires or if the
rope shows any other signs of
excessive wear, corrosion, or defect.
Do not inspect a sling by passing bare
hands over the wire rope body.
Broken wires, if present, may
puncture the hands.
Broken wire rope is
hazardous to handle
because of sharp
loose wires.
3 Wire Rope Slings

Inspections: Splices and Swages

Proper splices:
Cover or blunt any protruding ends of strands in splices on
slings and bridles.

Eye splices in any wire rope must have at least three full
tucks. Please note that this requirement does not prohibit
the use of other approved splices or connections which are
proven to be as efficient.

Swages:
Check that any swaged fittings are
secure and that no wires are broken
at the fitting.
3 Wire Rope Slings

Inspections: Eye Formation

Eye formation: Number and Spacing of
Do not use wire rope clips or knots to form eyes in rope U-Bolt Wire Rope Clips
bridles, slings, or bull wires. Improved Number of Clips Minimum
Plow Steel spacing
Rope Drop Other (inches)
U-bolts: Diameter Forged Material
(inches)
When U-bolt wire rope clips are used to form eyes, refer to
the adjacent table to determine the number and spacing of
clips. ½ 3 4 3
⅝ 3 4 3¾
¾ 4 5 4½
⅞ 4 5 5¼

*
When used for eye splices, apply the U-bolt clip
so that the “U” section is contacting the dead 1 5 6 6
end of the rope. 1⅛ 6 6 6¾
1¼ 6 7 7½
1⅜ 7 7 8¼
1½ 7 8 9
3 Wire Rope Slings
Safe Operating Temperatures
Fiber Core
All fiber core wire rope slings
that have been exposed to
temperatures above 200˚F
must be permanently removed
from service.
If operating outside this
! temperature range, follow
the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
Non-Fiber Core
Non-fiber core wire rope slings
may be used in temperatures
ranging from -60˚F to 400˚F
without decreasing the working
load limit.
If operating outside this
! temperature range, follow
the manufacturer’s
recommendations.
3 Wire Rope Slings
Removal from Service
Damage to wire rope:
Wire rope slings displaying any of the following characteristics must be
immediately removed from service:
• 10 randomly distributed
broken wires in one rope
lay
• 5 broken wires in one
strand of one rope lay
• Wear or scraping of ⅓ of
the original diameter of
outside individual wires
Damage to hooks:
Hooks displaying any cracks or
deformation must be immediately
removed from service.
• Kinking, crushing, bird caging,
or any other damage-causing
distortion of the wire rope’s
structure
• Proof of heat damage
• Ropes or end attachments
showing corrosion, cracks,
deformation, or wear
4
Metal Mesh Slings

What you need to know:

1. How to identify size, grade, and capacity specifications

2. Requirements for testing new and repaired metal

mesh slings

3. Deficiencies that require repair or removal of the sling

from service
4 Metal Mesh Slings

Identification
Metal mesh identification markings must indicate the sling’s
rated capacity for vertical basket hitch and choker hitch
loadings.

! Do not use metal mesh slings for loads in excess

of their rated capacities (i.e., working load
limits).

! Do not apply coatings to metal mesh slings that

diminish its rated capacity.
4 Metal Mesh Slings

Attachments
Handles or other attachments must have a rated capacity at least equal to that
of the metal mesh sling and must not exhibit any deformation after proof-
testing.
Make sure that:
• Handles are attached to the sling in a way that does not reduce the sling’s
rated capacity.

• The load is evenly distributed across the width of the fabric.

• Sharp edges do not damage the fabric.

• All attachments are rated for the temperature in your lifting environment.
4 Metal Mesh Slings

Repair and Reconditioning

Manufacturer Repairs Manufacturer Proof-Testing

Do not use repaired metal mesh slings unless the
repairs were performed by the sling’s manufacturer or
an equivalent entity.
Any repairs must be indicated either by permanently
marking or tagging the sling or keeping a written record
detailing the date and nature of the repairs and the
person or organization that performed the repairs.
Any records are to be made available for examination if
required.
Do not use any new or repaired metal mesh slings,
including handles or other attachments, until they have
been proof-tested by the manufacturer or equivalent entity
to at least 1 ½ times their rated capacity.
Proof-testing must be performed on elastomer
impregnated slings prior to coating.
4 Metal Mesh Slings

Safe Operating Temperatures

Non-elastomer impregnated Polyvinyl chloride or neoprene

metal mesh or metal mesh that
is not impregnated:
Allowable temperature range:
-20˚F to 550˚F
impregnated metal mesh:
Allowable temperature range:
0˚F to 200˚F

!
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations if operating
outside these temperature ranges, or using metal mesh
slings impregnated with other materials.
4 Metal Mesh Slings

Removal from Service

Metal mesh slings are to be immediately removed from service if any
of the following are discovered:

• A broken weld or broken brazed joint along the sling edge

• Reduction in the wire’s diameter of 25% due to abrasion or of 15%

due to corrosion

• Lack of flexibility caused by distortion of the fabric

• Distortion of the female handle so that the slot’s depth is increased by

more than 10%

• Distortion of either handle so that the width of the eye is decreased by

more than 10%

• A 15% reduction of the original cross sectional area of metal at any

point around the handle’s eye

• Distortion of either handle out of its plane

5
Natural and Synthetic Fiber Rope

What you need to know:

1. How to identify size, grade, and capacity specifications

2. Proper splicing requirements

3. Deficiencies that require repair or removal of the sling from

service
5 Natural and Synthetic Fiber Rope

Identification and Attachments

Identification:
Fiber rope identification markings must indicate the following:

• The stated capacity for the types of hitches used and the angle upon which
it is based

• The type of fiber material

• The number of legs (if more than one)

! Do not use fiber rope slings for loads in excess of their rated
capacities (i.e., working load limits).

! Do not use fiber rope slings if the end attachments in contact with
the rope have sharp edges or projections.
5 Natural and Synthetic Fiber Rope

Splicing
Use spliced fiber rope Tucks:
slings only if they meet Rope Type Eye Splices Short Splices
the following minimum (minimum full tucks) (minimum full tucks)
requirements, along with Manila Rope 3 6 (3 per side of the center line)
any additional
Synthetic Fiber Rope 4 8 (4 per side of the center line)
manufacturer
recommendations: Tail ends:
Do not trim strand tail ends flush with the surface of the rope immediately adjacent to
the full tucks. This requirement applies to all types of fiber rope and both eye and
short splices.

Rope Diameter Minimum Tail Length beyond the last full tuck

Under 1” diameter 6 rope diameters

1” diameter and larger 6 inches

In cases where a projecting tail interferes with the sling’s use, taper the tail and splice it
into the body of the rope using at least two additional tucks, leaving a tail length of
approximately 6 rope diameters beyond the last full tuck.
5 Natural and Synthetic Fiber Rope

Splicing
Minimum clear length:
The required minimum clear length of rope between eye splices is equal to 10
times the rope’s diameter.

Knots:
Do not use knots in place of splices.

Specialized clamps:
Only use clamps specifically designed for fiber ropes and splicing.
Fiber rope eye splice
Proper splice sizing:
For all eye splices, make sure that the eye is appropriately sized so that it
provides an included angle of 60° or less at the splice when the eye is placed
over the load or support.
5 Natural and Synthetic Fiber Rope

Safe Operating Temperatures and Repairs

Safe Operating Temperatures Repairs

Fiber rope slings may be used in temperatures Only fiber rope slings made from new
ranging from -20˚F to 180˚F without decreasing rope may be used.
working load limits.

If operating outside this temperature range or if

dealing with wet frozen slings, follow the
manufacturer’s recommendations. ! Never use repaired or
reconditioned fiber rope slings
under any circumstances.
5 Natural and Synthetic Fiber Rope

Removal from Service

Natural and synthetic fiber rope slings are to be immediately removed
from service if any of the following criteria are met:
• Abnormal wear

• Powdered fiber between strands

• Broken or cut fibers

• Variations in the size or roundness of strands

• Discoloration or rotting

• Distortion of hardware in the sling

6
Synthetic Web Slings

What you need to know:

1. How to identify size, grade, and capacity specifications

2. Necessary precautions to be taken in specific

environmental conditions

3. Deficiencies that require repair or removal of the sling

from service
6 Synthetic Web Slings

Identification
Synthetic web identification markings must indicate the following
information:
• Name or trademark of manufacturer

• Rated capacities for each type of hitch

• Type of synthetic web material

! Do not use synthetic web slings for loads in excess of their rated
capacities (i.e., working load limits).
6 Synthetic Web Slings

Sling Construction
Synthetic web slings must be of uniform thickness and width. Selvage Synthetic web sling
edges must not be split from the webbing’s width. with uniform
thickness

Fittings must have a minimum breaking strength equal to the sling’s and must
be free of any sharp edges that could damage the sling.
6 Synthetic Web Slings

Attachments
End fittings and eyes may only be attached or formed via stitching.

When attaching fittings or forming eyes, the thread must be applied in an even
pattern and contain a sufficient number of stitches to reach the full breaking
strength of the sling.

Synthetic web sling

strap with attached
fitting
6 Synthetic Web Slings

Environmental Conditions
Certain synthetic web slings may not be used if specific environmental
conditions are present.

• Nylon web slings are not to be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists, or
liquids of acids or phenols are present.

• Polyester and polypropylene web slings, or any sling with aluminum

fittings, are not to be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists, or liquids
of caustics are present.
6 Synthetic Web Slings

Safe Operating Temperatures

Polyester and Nylon Polypropylene

Never use synthetic web slings Never use web slings at

at temperatures above 180˚F. temperatures above 200˚F.
6 Synthetic Web Slings

Repairs
Do not use repaired synthetic web slings if any part of the sling (including
webbing and fittings) has been repaired in a temporary manner.
Only use repaired synthetic web slings if the repairs were performed by the
sling manufacturer or equivalent entity.
In addition, all repaired slings must be proof-tested by the manufacturer or
equivalent entity to twice its rated capacity before returning to service. The
employer must keep a certificate of the proof test, which is to be made
available for examination if required.
6 Synthetic Web Slings

Removal from Service

Synthetic web slings shall be immediately removed from service if any of the
following are discovered:

• Acid or caustic burns

• Melting or charring of any part of the sling surface

• Snags, punctures, tears, or cuts

• Broken or worn stitches

• Distortion of fittings
7
Steel Erection Rigging

What you need to know:

1. Pre-shift inspection requirements for cranes and rigging

2. Basic safety requirements during crane operations

3. Additional safe practices in specific scenarios

7 Steel Erection Rigging

Pre-Shift Visual Inspection of Cranes

Prior to each shift, a competent person must inspect any cranes used in steel erection activities for deficiencies during
operation. The following components must be included in the inspection:

Control mechanisms: Pressurized lines:

Check all control mechanisms for Check air, hydraulic, and other
maladjustments, and check the control pressurized lines for deterioration or
and drive mechanism for excessive wear leakage, particularly those with flex in
of components and contamination by normal operation.
lubricants, water, or other foreign matter. Ground conditions:
Safety devices: Check ground conditions around the
Check safety devices, including boom hoisting equipment for proper support,
angle indicators, boom stops, boom kick including ground settling under and
out devices, anti two-block devices, and around outriggers, ground water
load movement indicators where required. accumulation, or similar conditions.
Tires: Electrical apparatuses:
Check for proper inflation and condition. Check for malfunctioning, signs of
excessive deterioration, dirt, or moisture.
Hydraulic systems:
Check for proper fluid levels.
7 Steel Erection Rigging

Pre-Shift Visual Inspection of Hoist and Rigging

Equipment
Prior to each shift, a competent person must inspect any crane hoists and rigging equipment for deficiencies during
operation. The following components must be included in the inspection:

Hoisting equipment: Rigging inspection:

Inspect hoisting equipment, prior to Additionally, prior to each shift the
use as well as after each move and rigging must be inspected by a qualified
setup to assure that the load is level. rigger (meaning a rigger who is also a
qualified person).
If any deficiencies are identified, the
inspector must immediately determine
whether the deficiencies constitute a
hazard. If so, the hoisting equipment
is to be removed from service until all
deficiencies have been corrected.
7 Steel Erection Rigging

Operation
Operator control:
Licensed operators are responsible for all operations under their direct control.
If concerns regarding safety arise, operators are authorized to stop and refuse
to handle loads until safety has been assured.
Never remove
Hoist riding: the safety
Use of the headache ball, hook, or load to transport personnel is strictly latch.
prohibited unless the employer demonstrates that the erection, use, and
dismantling of conventional means of reaching the work area (e.g., personnel
hoists, ladders, scaffolds, aerial lifts, etc.) would be more hazardous or
impossible due to the project’s structural design or worksite conditions. Safety latches:
Safety latches on hooks are not to be
deactivated or made inoperable unless
a qualified rigger has determined that
the hoisting and placing of purlins and
single joists can be performed more
safely by doing so or that equivalent
protection is provided in a site-specific
erection plan.
7 Steel Erection Rigging

Working Under Loads

Pre-plan your routes.
Organize routes for suspended loads to assure that no employees are required to
work directly below a suspended load, except for employees who are necessary for
the initial connection, hooking, or unhooking of the load.
When working under suspended loads is necessary, the following conditions must
be met:
• Proper rigging: All rigging materials, assemblies, and loads being hoisted
must be properly rigged by a qualified rigger to prevent unintentional
displacement.
• Safety latch hooks: Use only hooks with self-closing safety latches or their
equivalents to prevent components from slipping out of the hook.
7 Steel Erection Rigging

Multiple Lift Rigging

Multiple lifts are only allowed if the following conditions are met:

• A multiple lift rigging assembly is used.

• A maximum of five members are hoisted per lift.

• Only beams and similar structures are lifted.

• All employees engaged in the lift have received proper training.

• Cranes and hoisting equipment are used in compliance with the

manufacturer’s specifications and limitations.

• Controlled load lowering is used whenever the load is over the connectors.
7 Steel Erection Rigging

Multiple Lift Rigging: Calculating 5-to-1 Safety Factor

5-to-1 safety factor: Formula:
All components of the
multiple lift rigging assembly
Minimum breaking strength
must be specifically designed
Permissible Working Load =
and assembled with a
Safety factor
maximum capacity for the
total assembly and for each
individual attachment point.

The capacity will be based on

the manufacturer’s
specifications with a 5-to-1 Example:
safety design factor for all 20,000 lbs
components, and must be (Minimum breaking strength)
certified by a manufacturer or 4,000 lbs
=
qualified rigger. (Permissible Working Load)
5
(Safety factor)
7 Steel Erection Rigging

Multiple Lift Rigging: Sling Assembly

Make sure that:

• The total load does not exceed the rated capacities of either the hoisting
equipment or the rigging, as specified in the appropriate load and rigging
rating charts.

• All members on the multiple lift assembly are set from the bottom up.

• All members that are rigged in the multiple lift assembly are:
‒ Attached at their center of gravity.
‒ Staying reasonably level.
‒ Rigged from the top down.
‒ Rigged at least seven feet (2.1 m) apart.
8
Hand Signals

What you need to know:

1. How to recognize and perform standard hand signals
for crane direction
8 Hand Signals
Hoist and Lower
Hoist
Move your hand in a circular
motion with your forearm
vertical and your forefinger
pointing up.
Lower
Move your hand in a
circular motion with your
forearm extended
downward and your
forefinger pointing down.
8 Hand Signals

Stop and Emergency Stop

Stop Emergency Stop

Extend your arm outward with the Extend both arms outward
palm facing down, and rapidly with your palms facing
move your hand back and forth. down, and rapidly move
your hands back and forth.
8 Hand Signals
Trolley Travel and Tower Travel
Trolley Travel
Raise your hand with the palm
facing up, the fingers closed,
and the thumb pointing in the
direction of travel.
Tower Travel
Extend your arm forward with
the hand open and slightly
raised, and make a pushing
motion in the direction of travel.
8 Hand Signals

Swing and Move Slowly

Swing Move Slowly
Extend your arm outward and Place a motionless hand behind
point with a finger in direction your signal hand.
of the boom’s swing.
8 Hand Signals

Dog Everything
Dog (Hold) Everything

Clasp hands in front of your body.