What are slings - characteristics

A sling is called a device in a crane or overhead crane. It is used for activities such as: 

• suspension, 
• support, 
• load bearing. 

There are different types of slings, the most common being: 

• slings in the form of chain, 
• slings made of steel cables, 
• gripping slings, 
• hooking slings, 
• synthetic slings. 

Sling inspection process 

In order to maintain the safety of the work being carried out, it is the user's responsibility to carry out regular daily checks. An additional advantage of carrying out this type of inspection is that it extends the life of the machine, as it is then easy to rule out possible faults. This, in turn, saves money that would have had to be spent on repairs. During a routine inspection, faults such as: 

• rusted components, 
• mechanism ruptures, 
• distortion of individual elements. 

There are several basic types of controls in place, and these are: 

• the first check to be carried out before using the equipment, 
• a check carried out before each use, 
• periodic inspections carried out once a certain period of time. 

Adhering to the above inspections will help us to keep our workplace safe and use our slings in trouble-free condition for a long time. However, not everyone is authorised to carry out such inspections, as special knowledge and qualifications are required. Such competence can be acquired by attending a specialised course on slings. Very often, such an inspection is carried out by a person who works as a hook-handler in a particular team. Technical inspections must be carried out by authorised persons at least once every 12 months. Conducting such inspections is a major responsibility, as it is in the hands of the inspector to ensure safety at the site of construction rights. 

Properly executed control 

To review sleds correctly, it is important to focus on aspects such as: 

• verification of the technical condition of the equipment, 
• subjecting the equipment to all durability tests, 
• assessing the device in terms of appearance, 
• replacing defective components and confirming this with a declaration to this effect, 
• writing up all the results of the inspections in a special document on suspensions. 

Once we have completed the process of inspecting the equipment, it must be duly legalised. This process consists of issuing the appropriate statements confirming that it is in proper working order and ready for use by workers. In order to properly assess the technical condition of the sling, it is important to focus on detecting inconveniences such as: 

• discolouration, 
• cracks in the components, 
• damage, 
• part deformation. 

After this visual inspection, the machine is subjected to load tests. If these run without any complaints, a positive rating can be given, which qualifies the sling for use in the works. 

Why is this so important? 

In places such as construction sites, safety is paramount. This in turn brings with it the need to maintain inspections and record all equipment that is fit for use. Failure to observe any paperwork can lead to tragedy, where the health or lives of workers are put at risk. If you are planning to develop into carrying out work on slings, consider appropriate training to prepare you to operate, inspect and register this equipment.