904 Oil and Gas Well Inspection

Hose Safety Restraints

Whip Checks

Whip checks are steel cable restraints that help prevent hose whip if a pressurized hose disconnects. They are often used on air-powered tools and smaller hoses under moderate pressure. Include the following items when inspecting whip checks:

• Safe use: Verify the cable is tight with minimal slack. Loose cables reduce effectiveness during a hose failure.
• Condition: Check for broken strands, fraying, or corrosion.Replace any whip check showing visible damage or wear.
• Hose Size: Only use on hoses less than 3 inches in diameter.
• Pressure Rating: Only use whip checks for pressures below 200 psi. (See video)
• Prohibited use: Make sure the whip check is not being used to support weight. It must not hang hoses or act as a lifting device.

Always follow OSHA requirements and manufacturer inspection criteria.

Restraint Slings and Whip Socks

Webbing slings (also called whip socks, red iron slings, or pipe restraint slings) wrap around temporary flow lines or high-pressure pipes to limit movement during failure.

Inspect slings before each use and remove them from service if any of the following conditions are found:

• Broken wires – For wire rope slings, check for broken, cut, or protruding wires.
• Excessive wear or abrasion – Look for worn areas that reduce sling strength.
• Corrosion or rust – Inspect metal components for rust, pitting, or chemical damage.
• Cuts, tears, or burns – For synthetic slings, check for melted fibers, cuts, or fraying.
• Stretching or deformation – Slings that are stretched, kinked, or distorted must be removed.
• Damaged fittings or hardware – Inspect hooks, shackles, eyes, and connectors for cracks or wear.
• Missing or unreadable identification tags – Capacity and type must be clearly marked.
• Improper anchoring – Ensure the sling is attached to a rated structural anchor point.
• Improper installation – Slings must not be tied in knots or wrapped around hose couplings.
• Exposure to a hose failure – Any sling involved in a hose whip or blowout should be replaced.

Slings must never be used beyond their rated capacity or as a substitute for engineered hose restraints unless approved by the manufacturer or employer procedures. Always follow OSHA requirements and manufacturer inspection criteria.

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