Safe slinging and rigging operations can only be carried out if the right equipment is available and used.

Equipment must be:

• Properly constructed and maintained.
• Free from any defects or damage affecting its strength
• Regularly examined
• Securely attached to the load.

Above all, it must not be overloaded.

Observation

• Lifting operations must be undertaken only by trained and competent persons.
• Only lifting gear and appliances which have current test certificates and current inspection reports should be used.
• All items of lifting equipment should be inspected before use. Damaged or defective equipment should be designated as NOT IN USE and should not be re-used until the necessary repairs have been carried out.
• Do not use the lifting equipment for any load exceeding its stated Safe Working Load.(SWL)
• All hooks used for lifting must be fitted with a safety catch, or should be moused, or so shaped as to prevent the sling eye or load coming off the hook.
• The edges and corners of a load should be packed to prevent the sharp edges damaging lifting ropes, chains, slings etc.
• Never lift with the point of any hook.
• Never drag a sling from under a load if it is not free.
• Never cross, twist, kink or knot any sling for any purpose whatsoever.

Conclusion
Safe slinging and rigging operations can only be carried out if the right equipment is available and used.