Slings
General Information
TRAINING
All users of slings must receive training in the following areas:
- Selection of appropriate sling types and configurations
- Inspection procedures and identification of removal criteria
- Personnel safety precautions during handling and use
- Environmental effects on sling performance (e.g., temperature, chemical exposure)
- Proper rigging practices to ensure safe and effective load handling
DESIGN FACTORS
Synthetic Web slings, Polyester Roundslings and Wire Rope slings must have a minimum design factor of 5.
Alloy steel chain slings must have a minimum design factor of 4.
RATED LOADS
The term rated load is also known as, Workling Load Limit (WLL), Safe Working Load (SWL) and Capacity.
(a) The manufacturer is responsible for determining the rated load of the sling.
(b) At a minimum, this rated load must take into account the following factors:
(1) Strength of individual components
(2) Total number of legs
(3) Design factor
(4) Type of hitch used
(5) Angle of loading
(6) Fabrication efficiency (Only for web slings, polyester roundsling and wire rope slings)
(7) Connecting hardware size and shape (Only for web slings, polyester roundsling and wire rope slings)
(c) For quadruple-leg or double-basket slings, the rated load must not exceed that of a triple-leg sling.
SLING IDENTIFICATION
Identification Requirements
Each sling must be marked to show:
(a) Manufacturer’s name or trademark, or if repaired, the entity doing the repairs
(b) Rated load for at least one hitch type and the angle it is based on
(c) Number of legs in the sling assembly
(d) Diameter or size (only for chain)
(e) Manufacturer’s code or stock number (only for Web and Polyester Roundslings)
(f) Core material (only for polyester roundslings)
(g) Cover material, if different from the core material (only for Polyester Roundslings)
EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENT
Temperature.
Chain slings must not be used at temperatures above 204°C (400°F) or below -40°C (-40°F) without consulting the sling manufacturer.
Wire Rope Slings with IWRC must not be used at temperatures above 204°C (400°F) or below -40°C (-40°F) without consulting the sling manufacturer.
Wire Rope Slings with Fiber core must not be exposed to temperatures in excess of 82°C (180°F) without consulting the sling manufacturer.
Web and Polyester Roundslings must not be used in contact with an object or at temperatures in excess of 90°C (194°F) or below -40°C (-40°F).
Chemically Active Environment
Chemically active environments can degrade the strength of all slings. This includes exposure to chemicals in the form of solid, liquid, gas, vapor, or fumes. Before using slings in such conditions, consult the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.
Inspections & Removal Criteria
All inspections must be carried out by an authorized individual. If any deficiencies are found, they must be assessed by a qualified individual to determine whether they pose a hazard. If a hazard is confirmed, appropriate corrective actions must be identified and implemented.
Initial inspection
Before use, all new, altered, modified, or repaired slings must be inspected by a designated person to verify compliance with applicable standards.
Initial inspections do not require written records. For alloy steel chain slings, written records are required and must reference the individual sling identification.
Frequent Inspection
(a) Each shift before a sling is used, a visual inspection for damage must be conducted. Slings used in severe or special service should be inspected before every use.
(b) Slings must be removed from service if any condition exists that may pose a hazard or raise concerns about its safety.
(c) Frequent inspections do not require written records.
Periodic Inspections
(a) A thorough inspection of the sling for damage must be periodically carried out by an authorized person.
For chain slings each link and component should be examined one by one, with particular attention paid to exposing and inspecting all surfaces, including the inner surfaces of links. For wire rope slings inspect all splices, end attachments and fittings.
The sling must be evaluated for any conditions noted under “Removal Criteria”, and a determination made as to whether or not they constitute a hazard.
(b) Frequency of Periodic Inspections: These inspections must occur at intervals no greater than one year. The frequency of these inspections should be based on
(1) How often the sling is used
(2) The severity of the operating conditions
(3) The nature of the load-handling activity
(4) Insights based on the observed service life of similar slings in comparable environments
(c) Suggested Inspection Intervals:
(1) Normal service – yearly
(2) Severe service – monthly to quarterly
(3) Special service – as recommended by a qualified person
(d) Documentation confirming completion of the most recent periodic inspection must be maintained.
(e) For chain slings a written record of the most recent periodic inspection must be kept which includes the condition of the sling.
Removal Criteria
(see ASME B30.9 for full details)
A sling must be removed from service if conditions such as the following are present,
(a) Missing, or unreadable sling identification
(b) Signs of heat damage
(c) For hooks, removal criteria as stated in hook section
(d) For hardware, removal criteria as stated in hardware section
(e) Any other visible damage, or condition that causes doubt as to the continued use of the sling
Additional for Alloy Steel Chain Slings
(a) Chain links or components (except hooks)-that are cracked, bent or broken must not be repaired; they must be replaced.
(b) Do not use a mechanical coupling link for repairs within the body of an alloy chain sling unless it is a direct replacement for a link originally approved by the manufacturer or a qualified individual.
Additional for Wire Rope Slings
(a) The wire must not be repaired.
(b) Repairs are limited to end attachments only
Additional for Web Slings
(a) Repairs to load-bearing splices are not permitted.
(b) Temorary repairs to sling or fittings are not permitted
Additional for Polyester Roundslings
(a) Repairs to load-bearing yarns are not permitted.
(b) Temorary repairs to sling or fittings are not permitted
Rigging Practices
Sling Selection
(a) Slings that appear to be damaged must not be used unless inspected and deemed safe to use by a qualified person.
(b) Slings must be selected based on their suitability for the specific load type, hitch configuration, and environmental conditions,.
(c) The sling’s rated load must not be exceeded. For muli-leg slings, no leg must be loaded above the single-leg rating.
(d) When a choker hitch is not identified on the sling tag, the choker hitch rating must be calculated as 80% of the sling’s straight-line rating, except for wire rope slings which must be calculated at 75%. (see ASME B30.9 for specific details)
(e) The rated load for angles of choke that are less than 120 degrees must be determined by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.
(f) When using multiple-leg slings to lift nonsymmetrical loads, a qualified person must do an analysis to ensure that no single leg is overloaded.
(g) Multiple-leg slings must be selected according to the rated load corresponding to the specific sling angles shown on the identification tag. If used at angles not specified, the rated load must be verified by the manufacturer or a qualified person.
(h) Do not use slings at horizontal sling angles less than 30 degrees.
(i) When a sling leg is configured as a basket hitch—where the lower connector (hook) attaches to the master link—the basket hitch must be rated no higher than its single-leg capacity, unless the master link is engineered to safely support this arrangement
(j) Fittings must be of the correct shape and size to properly seat in the hook, shackle or other lifting device.
(k) Chain sling only – The rated load of a basket hitch must be decreased when D/d ratios smaller than 6/1 are used. Consult the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.
(L) Wire Rope sling only – The rated load of a basket hitch must be decreased when D/d ratios smaller than 25/1 are used. Consult the sling manufacturer or a qualified person
Cautions to Personnel
(a) Keep all parts of the body clear of areas between the sling and the load, as well as between the sling and the crane or hoist hook.
(b) Personnel must avoid positioning themselves in line with or adjacent to sling legs that are under tension.
(c) Never stand beneath or walk under a suspended load.
(d) Riding on the sling is strictly prohibited.
Effects of Environment
Slings must be stored in a location that protects them from mechanical damage, corrosion, moisture, extreme temperatures, and kinking.
Rigging Practices
(a) Only shorten or adjusted slings by methods approved by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.
(b) Never shorten or lengthen a sling by knotting or twisting.
(c) The slings must be hitched in a manner that provides control of the load.
(d) When slings are in contact with edges, corners, or protrusions they should be protected with a material of sufficient strength, construction and thickness to prevent damage to the sling.
(e) Avoid shock loading.
(f) Do not allow loads to rest on the sling.
(g) Do not pull a sling out from under a load that is resting on the sling.
(h) Avoid twisting and kinking slings.
(i) Be alert for possible snagging while lifting, whether a load is attached or not.
(j) When using multiple basket or choker hitches, rig the load to prevent the slings from slipping or sliding along the load.
(k) When a basket hitch is used the legs of the sling should support or contain the load from the sides, above the centre of gravity, so the load remains under control.
(l) Do not drag slings on the floor or over an abrasive surface.
(m) For choker hitches, the choke point should only be on the sling body, never on a fitting.
(n) For choker hitches, an angle of choke less than 120 degrees should not be used without derating the sling.
(o) Do not allow slings to be constricted, bunched, or pinched by the load, the hook, or any fitting.
(p) The load must be applied to the hook so that it is centred in the base (seat or saddlel) of the hook to prevent point loading on the hook, unless the hook is specifically designed for point loading.
(q) Web Slings only – An object in the placed in the eye of a sling should not be wider than one-third the of the eye length.
For additional requirements see ASME B30.9
Misconceptions
Choose a topic to learn more:
Misconception (1) - Training
Alberta OHS ACT (2023)
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
Training
Workers using Alloy Steel Chain slings must be trained in the proper selection, inspection and usage. This includes being aware of potential impacts to their work environment or fellow workers.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9 – 2025 Chapter 9-1 Alloy Steel Chain Slings for more detailed information.
Misconception (2) - Sling Selection & Rigging Practices
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
SLING SELECTION:
- Condition of Slings
Damaged slings must not be used unless inspected and approved per Section 9-1.9. - Selection Criteria
Choose slings suitable for the load type, hitch, and environment as per Sections 9-1.5 and 9-1.8. - Load Limits
Do not exceed the sling’s rated load. For multi-leg slings, no leg should exceed its single-leg rating. - Choke Hitch Ratings
If not specified, assume choke hitch rating = 80% of straight-line rating unless otherwise provided by manufacturer or qualified person. For choke angles <120°, ratings must come from manufacturer or qualified person. - Basket Hitch Ratings
Reduce rated load when D/d ratio <6 (refer to Table 9-1.10.1-1 or consult manufacturer/qualified person). - Multi-Leg Sling Use
For nonsymmetrical loads, a qualified person must analyze to prevent overloading. Select based on rated load for specific angles; other angles require manufacturer or qualified person guidance. - Angle Restrictions
Do not use slings at angles <30° unless approved by manufacturer or qualified person. - Special Configurations
When a sling leg forms a basket hitch with the hook attached to the master link, limit rating to single-leg rating unless master link is rated for that setup. - Component Fit
Components must be the correct shape and size to seat properly in hooks or lifting devices.
For more detailed requirements, refer to the ASME Standadard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-1 Alloy Steel Chain Slings
RIGGING PRACTICES:
- Adjustment Methods
Slings may only be shortened or adjusted using manufacturer-approved methods or by a qualified person. Never shorten or lengthen slings by knotting or twisting. - Load Control & Protection
Hitch slings to maintain load control. Protect slings from sharp edges, corners, or protrusions with adequate padding. - Handling Precautions
Avoid shock loading. Do not rest loads on slings or pull slings from under loads. Prevent twisting, kinking, dragging on floors, or over abrasive surfaces. - Safety During Operations
Stay alert for snagging during load handling. When using multiple hitches, rig to prevent slipping or sliding. - Basket & Choker Hitch Rules
Basket hitch legs must support the load from the sides and above the center of gravity. Choke point must be on the sling body, not on fittings. - Avoid Constriction
Slings must not be constricted, bunched, or pinched by load, hook, or fittings. - Hook Loading
Load should be centered in the base (bowl) of the hook to avoid point loading unless the hook is designed for it.
For more detailed requirements, refer to the ASME Standadard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-1 Alloy Steel Chain Slings
Misconception (1) - Training
Alberta OHS ACT (2023)
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
Training
Workers using wire rope slings must be trained in the appropriate selection, inspection and usage. Including potential impacts to the work environment and other workers.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-2 Wire Rope Slings for more detailed information.
Misconception (2) - Sling Selection & Rigging Practices
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
SLING SELECTION:
- Condition & Inspection
Do not use slings that appear damaged unless inspected and approved per Section 9-2.9. - Proper Selection
Choose slings suitable for the load type, hitch, and environment. Never exceed the sling’s rated load; for multi-leg slings, each leg must stay within its single-leg rating. - Choker Hitch Ratings
If not marked, assume:
Single-leg & bridle slings: 75% of straight-line rating.
Cable-laid slings: 70%.
For grommet/endless slings, consult manufacturer or qualified person. - Angles & Load Distribution
For choke angles <120°, use ASME Table 9-2.10.1-1 or consult manufacturer. For multi-leg slings with nonsymmetrical loads, a qualified person must analyze to avoid overload. Select multi-leg slings based on rated load at specified angles; other angles require manufacturer guidance. - D/d Ratio & Angle Limits
If D/d ratio is below 15:1 (hand-tucked splice) or 25:1 (mechanical splice/swaged), reduce rated load per manufacturer or Wire Rope Sling Users Manual. Do not use slings at angles <30° unless approved by manufacturer or qualified person. - Special Configurations & Fittings
Basket hitch using master link: limited to single-leg rating unless master link is rated for that setup. Fittings must fit properly in hooks, shackles, or other connectors. For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9 – 2025 Chapter 9-2 Wire Rope Slings.
RIGGING PRACTICES:
- Adjustment & Shortening
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. Do not use knots, twists, or wire rope clips for adjustment. - Load Control & Protection
Hitch slings to maintain load control. Protect slings from sharp edges or protrusions with adequate padding. Avoid shock loading. - Handling & Movement
Do not rest loads on slings or pull slings from under loads. Avoid twisting, kinking, dragging on floors, or over abrasive surfaces. Stay alert for snagging during operations. - Hitch Configurations
Multiple basket/choker hitches: rig to prevent slipping. Single basket hitch: legs must support load from sides above center of gravity. Choker hitch: choke point only on sling body, not on splice/fitting. - Avoid Constriction
Slings should not be pinched, bunched, or constricted by load or fittings. - Hook & Eye Guidelines
Load should be centered in hook bowl (unless hook is designed for point loading). Object in sling eye: width ≤ ½ eye length and ≥ sling diameter. - Rotation Control
Prevent rotation when using hand-tucked slings.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-2 Wire Rope Slings for more detailed information.
Misconception (3) - Rigging Practices
RIGGING PRACTICES:
- Adjustment & Shortening
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. Do not use knots, twists, or wire rope clips for adjustment. - Load Control & Protection
Hitch slings to maintain load control. Protect slings from sharp edges or protrusions with adequate padding. Avoid shock loading. - Handling & Movement
Do not rest loads on slings or pull slings from under loads. Avoid twisting, kinking, dragging on floors, or over abrasive surfaces. Stay alert for snagging during operations. - Hitch Configurations
Multiple basket/choker hitches: rig to prevent slipping. Single basket hitch: legs must support load from sides above center of gravity. Choker hitch: choke point only on sling body, not on splice/fitting. - Avoid Constriction
Slings should not be pinched, bunched, or constricted by load or fittings. - Hook & Eye Guidelines
Load should be centered in hook bowl (unless hook is designed for point loading). Object in sling eye: width ≤ ½ eye length and ≥ sling diameter. - Rotation Control
Prevent rotation when using hand-tucked slings.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-2 Wire Rope Slings for more detailed information.
Misconception (1) - Training
Alberta OHS ACT (2023)
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
Training
Workers using synthetic rope slings must be trained in the proper selection, inspection and usage. Including potential impacts on the work environment or other workers.
For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9 – 2025 Chapter 9-4 Synthetic Rope Slings.
Misconception (2) - Sling Selection & Rigging Practices
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
SLING SELECTION:
- Condition Check:
Do not use slings that appear damaged unless inspected and approved. - Proper Selection:
Choose slings suitable for the load, hitch type, and environment. - Load Limits:
Never exceed the sling’s rated load. For multi-leg slings, no leg should exceed its single-leg rating. - Choker Hitch:
If not specified, assume choker hitch rating = 75% of straight-line rating. For choke angles <120°, use ASME Table 9-4.10.1-1 or consult manufacturer/qualified person. - D/d Ratio:
If ratio <8:1, reduce rated load and consult manufacturer/qualified person. - Multi-Leg Slings:
For nonsymmetrical loads, a qualified person must analyze to prevent overload. Select based on rated load for specific angles; other angles require manufacturer guidance. - Angle Restrictions:
Do not use slings at angles <30° unless approved by manufacturer/qualified person. - Fittings:
Must fit properly in hooks, shackles, or other devices. - Basket Hitch:
If a sling leg is used as a basket hitch with a master link, limit rating to a single-leg unless master link is rated for that setup. - Personnel Platforms:
Synthetic rope slings must never support suspended personnel platforms.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-4 Synthetic Rope Slings for more detailed information.
RIGGING PRACTICES
- Adjustment:
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. Do not knot or twist slings to change length. - Load Control:
Hitch slings to maintain control of the load. Avoid twisting, kinking, and shock loading. - Protection:
Use protective material on edges, corners, or abrasive surfaces to prevent damage. - Handling:
Do not rest loads on slings or drag slings on floors/abrasive surfaces. Do not pull slings from under a load while it’s resting on them. - Multiple Hitches:
Rig loads to prevent slings from slipping or sliding when using multiple basket or choker hitches. - Basket Hitch:
Legs should support the load from the sides, above the center of gravity, for stability. - Choker Hitch:
Choke point must be on sling body, not on splices or fittings. - Avoid Constriction:
Slings should not be bunched, pinched, or constricted by load, hook, or fittings. - Hook Loading:
Load should be centered in the hook bowl unless hook is designed for point loading. - Eye Size:
Object in sling eye should be ≤ one-third of eye length. - Rotation Prevention:
When using hand-tucked splices, prevent sling or load from rotating. - Alertness:
Personnel must watch for snagging during all load-handling activities.
For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-4 Synthetic Rope Slings.
Misconception (3) - Rigging Practices
RIGGING PRACTICES
- Adjustment:
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. Do not knot or twist slings to change length. - Load Control:
Hitch slings to maintain control of the load. Avoid twisting, kinking, and shock loading. - Protection:
Use protective material on edges, corners, or abrasive surfaces to prevent damage. - Handling:
Do not rest loads on slings or drag slings on floors/abrasive surfaces. Do not pull slings from under a load while it’s resting on them. - Multiple Hitches:
Rig loads to prevent slings from slipping or sliding when using multiple basket or choker hitches. - Basket Hitch:
Legs should support the load from the sides, above the center of gravity, for stability. - Choker Hitch:
Choke point must be on sling body, not on splices or fittings. - Avoid Constriction:
Slings should not be bunched, pinched, or constricted by load, hook, or fittings. - Hook Loading:
Load should be centered in the hook bowl unless hook is designed for point loading. - Eye Size:
Object in sling eye should be ≤ one-third of eye length. - Rotation Prevention:
When using hand-tucked splices, prevent sling or load from rotating. - Alertness:
Personnel must watch for snagging during all load-handling activities.
For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-4 Synthetic Rope Slings.
Misconception (4) - Environmental Guidelines for Synthetic Rope Slings
ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES FOR SYNTHETIC ROPE SLINGS
- Storage:
Keep slings in areas free from mechanical, chemical, UV damage, and extreme temperatures. Do not store nylon ropes where they can absorb rust. - Saltwater Exposure:
Rinse slings thoroughly with fresh water after saltwater exposure to prevent damage from salt crystals. - Chemical Exposure:
If slings or fittings are exposed to acidic or alkaline fumes, vapors, sprays, mists, or liquids, consult the manufacturer or a qualified person.
For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-4 Synthetic Rope Slings.
Misconception (1) - Training
Alberta OHS ACT (2023)
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
TRAINING
Workers using synthetic webbing slings must be trained in the proper selection, inspection and usage. Including understanding potential impacts to the work environment and other workers.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-5 Synthetic Webbing Slings for more detailed information.
Misconception (2) - Sling Selection
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
SLING SELECTION:
- Condition Check:
Do not use slings that appear damaged unless inspected and approved. - Proper Selection:
Choose slings suitable for load type, hitch, and environment. - Load Limits:
Never exceed the sling’s rated load. For multi-leg slings, no leg should exceed its single-leg rating. - Choker Hitch:
If rating is not specified, assume choker hitch = 80% of straight-line rating. For choke angles <120°, use ASME Table 9-5.10.1-1 or consult manufacturer/qualified person. - Multi-Leg Slings:
For nonsymmetrical loads, a qualified person must analyze to prevent overload. Select based on rated load for specific angles; other angles require manufacturer guidance. - Angle Restrictions:
Do not use slings at angles <30° unless approved by manufacturer or qualified person. - Basket Hitch:
If a sling leg is used as a basket hitch with a master link, limit rating to single leg unless master link is rated for that setup. - Fittings:
Must fit properly in hooks, shackles, or other load-handling devices. - Personnel Platforms:
Synthetic webbing slings must never support suspended personnel platforms.
For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-5 Synthetic Webbing Slings.
Misconception (3) - Water Effect on Synthetic Webbing Slings
Synthetic Webbing Slings are not affected by water
Water absorption can decrease the strength of Nylon Synthetic Webbing Slings by as much as 10-15% (its strength returns when the sling dries completely)
Misconception (4) - Rigging Practices
RIGGING PRACTICES
- Adjustment:
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. Do not knot or twist slings to change length. - Load Control:
Hitch slings to maintain control of the load. Avoid twisting, kinking, and shock loading. - Protection:
Use protective material on edges, corners, or abrasive surfaces to prevent damage. - Handling:
Do not rest loads on slings or drag slings on floors/abrasive surfaces. Do not pull slings from under a load while it’s resting on them. - Multiple Hitches:
Rig loads to prevent slings from slipping or sliding when using multiple basket or choker hitches. - Basket Hitch:
Legs should support the load from the sides, above the center of gravity, for stability. - Choker Hitch:
Choke point must be on sling body, not on splices or fittings. - Avoid Constriction:
Slings should not be bunched, pinched, or constricted by load, hook, or fittings. - Hook Loading:
Load should be centered in the hook bowl unless hook is designed for point loading. - Eye Size:
Object in sling eye should be ≤ one-third of eye length.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-5 Synthetic Webbing Slings for more detailed information.
Misconception (5) - Washing Synthetic Webbing Slings
Synthetic Webbing Slings can be cleaned by washing.
Do not wash slings, as loss of strength is possible due to mechanical or chemical damage.
Misconception (1) - Training
Alberta OHS ACT (2023)
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
TRAINING
Workers using polyester roundslings must be trained in the proper selection, inspection and usage. Including potential impacts on the work environment or other workers.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-6 Polyester Roundslings for more detailed information.
Misconception (2) - Sling Selection & Rigging Practices
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
SLING SELECTION:
- Condition Check:
Do not use slings that appear damaged unless inspected and approved. - Proper Selection:
Choose slings suitable for load type, hitch, and environment. - Load Limits:
Never exceed the sling’s rated load. For multi-leg slings, no leg should exceed its single-leg rating. - Choker Hitch:
If rating is not specified, assume choker hitch = 80% of straight-line rating. For choke angles <120°, use ASME Table 9-6.10.1-1 or consult manufacturer/qualified person. - Multi-Leg Slings:
For nonsymmetrical loads, a qualified person must analyze to prevent overload. Select based on rated load for specific angles; other angles require manufacturer guidance. - Angle Restrictions:
Do not use slings at angles <30° unless approved by manufacturer or qualified person. - Basket Hitch:
If sling is used with master link, limit rating to single-leg unless master link is rated for that setup. - Fittings:
Must fit properly in hooks, shackles, or other devices. Rated load may need reduction based on fitting size/shape. Hardware must comply with WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.7 or manufacturer guidance. - Personnel Platforms:
Polyester roundslings must never support suspended personnel platforms.
For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-6 Polyester Roundslings, and the WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.7.
RIGGING PRACTICES
- Adjustment:
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. Do not knot or twist slings to change length. - Load Control:
Hitch slings to maintain control of the load. Avoid twisting and shock loading. - Protection:
Protect slings from edges, corners, protrusions, abrasive surfaces, or hardware with adequate padding unless edges are rounded per WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.6 or manufacturer guidance. - Handling:
Do not rest loads on slings or drag slings on floors/abrasive surfaces. Do not pull slings from under a load while it’s resting on them. - Multiple Hitches:
Rig loads to prevent slings from slipping or sliding when using multiple basket or choker hitches. - Basket Hitch:
Legs should support the load from the sides, above the center of gravity, for stability. - Choker Hitch:
Choke point must be on sling body, not on cover splices or fittings. - Avoid Constriction:
Slings should not be bunched, pinched, or constricted by load, hook, or fittings. - Hook Loading:
Load should be centered in the hook bowl unless hook is designed for point loading. - Alertness:
Personnel must watch for snagging during all load-handling activities.
For more detailed information refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-6 Polyester Roundslings and the WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.6.
Misconception (3) - Sling Selection
SLING SELECTION:
- Condition Check:
Do not use slings that appear damaged unless inspected and approved. - Proper Selection:
Choose slings suitable for load type, hitch, and environment. - Load Limits:
Never exceed the sling’s rated load. For multi-leg slings, no leg should exceed its single-leg rating. - Choker Hitch:
If rating is not specified, assume choker hitch = 80% of straight-line rating. For choke angles <120°, use ASME Table 9-6.10.1-1 or consult manufacturer/qualified person. - Multi-Leg Slings:
For nonsymmetrical loads, a qualified person must analyze to prevent overload. Select based on rated load for specific angles; other angles require manufacturer guidance. - Angle Restrictions:
Do not use slings at angles <30° unless approved by manufacturer or qualified person. - Basket Hitch:
If sling is used with master link, limit rating to single-leg unless master link is rated for that setup. - Fittings:
Must fit properly in hooks, shackles, or other devices. Rated load may need reduction based on fitting size/shape. Hardware must comply with WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.7 or manufacturer guidance. - Personnel Platforms:
Polyester roundslings must never support suspended personnel platforms.
For more detailed information, refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-6 Polyester Roundslings, and the WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.7.
Misconception (4) - Rigging Practices
RIGGING PRACTICES
- Adjustment:
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. Do not knot or twist slings to change length. - Load Control:
Hitch slings to maintain control of the load. Avoid twisting and shock loading. - Protection:
Protect slings from edges, corners, protrusions, abrasive surfaces, or hardware with adequate padding unless edges are rounded per WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.6 or manufacturer guidance. - Handling:
Do not rest loads on slings or drag slings on floors/abrasive surfaces. Do not pull slings from under a load while it’s resting on them. - Multiple Hitches:
Rig loads to prevent slings from slipping or sliding when using multiple basket or choker hitches. - Basket Hitch:
Legs should support the load from the sides, above the center of gravity, for stability. - Choker Hitch:
Choke point must be on sling body, not on cover splices or fittings. - Avoid Constriction:
Slings should not be bunched, pinched, or constricted by load, hook, or fittings. - Hook Loading:
Load should be centered in the hook bowl unless hook is designed for point loading. - Alertness:
Personnel must watch for snagging during all load-handling activities.
For more detailed information refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-6 Polyester Roundslings and the WSTDA-RS-1 Section 4.6.
Misconception (1) - Training
Alberta OHS ACT (2023)
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
TRAINING
Workers using metal mesh slings must be trained in the proper selection, inspection and usage. Including potential impacts on the work environment or other workers.
For more detailed information refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-3 Metal Mesh Slings.
Misconception (2) - Sling Selection & Rigging Practices
Alberta OHS CODE (2024)
SLING SELECTION
- Condition Check:
Do not use slings that appear damaged unless inspected and approved. - Proper Selection:
Choose slings suitable for load type, hitch, and environment. - Load Limits:
Never exceed the sling’s rated load. - Choker Hitch:
If rating is not specified, assume choker hitch = 100% of straight-line rating. For choke angles <120°, consult manufacturer or qualified person. - Angle Restrictions:
Do not use slings at angles <30° unless approved by manufacturer or qualified person. - Fittings:
Must fit properly in hooks, shackles, or other load-handling devices. - Personnel Platforms:
Metal mesh slings must never be used as bridles on suspended personnel platforms.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-3 Metal Mesh Slings for more detailed information.
RIGGING PRACTICES
- Adjustment:
Only shorten/adjust slings using manufacturer-approved methods or a qualified person. - Load Distribution:
Load should be evenly distributed across the sling’s width. - Load Control:
Hitch slings to maintain control of the load. Avoid twisting, kinking, and shock loading. - Protection:
Protect slings from edges, corners, or protrusions with adequate padding. - Handling:
Do not rest loads on slings or drag slings on floors/abrasive surfaces. Do not pull slings from under a load while it’s resting on them. - Basket Hitch:
Balance the load to prevent slippage. Legs should support the load from the sides, above the center of gravity. - Choker Hitch:
Choke point must be on sling body, not on welds, brazes, or fittings. Load should be balanced to prevent edge overload. - Avoid Constriction:
Slings should not be bunched, pinched, or constricted by load, hook, or fittings. - Pairs of Slings:
When used in pairs, attach slings to a spreader beam. - Alertness:
Personnel must watch for snagging during all load-handling activities.
Refer to the ASME Standard B30.9-2025 Chapter 9-3 Metal Mesh Slings for more detailed information.