Wire Rope or Cable Sling
Corrosion and Wear
Inspect slings for corrosion, especially if they have been exposed to water, chemicals, or wet storage conditions. Rust or chemical damage can weaken the sling and make it unsafe to use. Look for visible signs like discoloration, pitting, or flaking of the sling surface.
How Wire Rope is Made
Structural Damage
Look for any flattening or crushing of the sling, especially on wire rope slings. These signs could indicate that the internal core of the wire rope has been damaged. Internal damage is not always visible from the outside but can seriously reduce the sling's strength. Any sling with suspected internal damage must be removed from service immediately.
Heat Protection
When slings are used near welding operations, they must be protected from sparks, spatter, and heat. Heat can damage the sling material, especially synthetic slings or wire ropes with plastic coatings. Never install slings on hot iron or surfaces that could burn or melt the material. Use heat-resistant covers or guards when lifting near welding or cutting areas.
Inspection Records
Some companies use a color code system to help identify when a sling was last inspected. A tag or paint mark may show the inspection year, which helps workers and inspectors verify that the sling is still within its approved service time. Larger slings may be used for many years, so regular inspections must be documented. These records should include the sling’s condition, inspection date, and inspector’s name.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
7-3. When large slings are used over many years, what should the inspector look for?
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