Correct Selection and Safe Use Of Textile Lifting Slings
Consideration should be given to the required working load limit, mode factor for different sling configurations. The shape, size and weight of the load, together with the intended method of use, working environment and nature of the load.

The slinging lifting and lowering operation should be planned before commencing the lift.

The selected sling should be both strong enough and of the correct length for the mode of use.

Where two or more slings are used to lift a load, they should be identical, preferably from the same batch.
Minimum eye length for a sling used with a hook should be not less than 3.5 times the max thickness of the hook and in any event the angle formed in the eye of the sling should not exceed 20°.

Slings should be protected against friction, sharp edges or any surface likely to cause damage.
Slings should never be dragged from under loads.

Never knot or twist a sling.

Care should be taken when loads are lifted in basket hitch as the load is not secured or gripped in the same way as a choke hitch.

Spreader bars or beams are recommended when lifting in basket hitch.

All slings should be inspected before use by a competent person.

Use only slings with a reference number traceable to a test certificate.

Do not use choke lift continually without protection to the eye.

Never force the angle in choke lift let it form naturally.

All steel fittings connected to the sling should be smooth and free of sharp edges and of such dimensions as not to tear or overload the eye.

Never attempt to repair slings, if in doubt withdraw from service and consult the supplier or manufacturer.

Avoid snatch or shock loading.

Avoid contact with heat and hot surfaces.

Never trap a sling under a load as crushing can seriously damage a sling.

Inspection and Examination of Webbing Slings in Service
Before first use of the sling ensure that:
the sling corresponds precisely to that on the order.
the manufacturers certificate is to hand.
the id and WLL marked on the sling correspond with the information on the certificate.

Before EachUse
The sling should be inspected for defects.
Ensure that the ID and specification are correct.
A sling that is unidentified or defective should never be used, but should be referred to a competent person for examination.

During the Period of Use
Frequent checks should be made for defects or damage.
Checks should also include any fittings and lifting accessories used in association with the sling.
If any doubt exists as to the fitness for use, or if any of the markings have been lost or become illegible, the sling should be removed from service for examination by a competent person.

Defects or Damage Likely to Affect the Fitness of the Sling for Continued Safe Use
Surface chafe. In normal use some chafing will occur to the surface fibres. This is normal and has little effect. Any substantial chafe,
particularly localized should be viewed critically. Local abrasion as distinct from general wear can cause serious loss of strength.
Webslings, cuts, cross or longitudinal cuts, cuts or chafe damage to selvedges, cuts to stitching or eyes.
Roundslings, cuts, cross or longitudinal cuts in the cover, or any damage to the stitching, raise serious doubts as to the integrity of the core.
Exposed core in the roundsling
Chemical attack. Chemical attack results in local weakening and softening of the material. This is indicated by flaking of the surface which may be plucked or rubbed off.
Heat or friction damage. This is indicated by the fibres taking on a glazed appearance and in extreme cases, fusion of the fibres can occur.
Damaged or deformed fittings.

Examination periods should be determined by a competent person, taking into account the application, environment, frequency of use and similar matters.
In any event slings should be visually examined at least 6 monthly under LOLER in the UK, by a competent person and records of such examinations should be maintained.

Storage
On completion of the lifting operation the sling should be returned to proper storage.
Prior to placing in storage, slings should be inspected for any damage which may have occurred during use.
Where slings have come into contact with acids and or alkalis, dilution with water or neutralization with suitable media is recommended prior to storage.
Slings which have become wet in use or as a result of cleaning should be hung up and allowed to dry naturally.
Slings should be stored in clean, dry and well ventilated conditions, at ambient temperatures.
Should not be stored in direct sunlight or sources of uv radiation.