Safe Sling Operations: Proper Lifting Practices
The Problem
Slings are essential for safe lifting operations, but they can become a major risk when misused. Selecting the wrong type of sling, skipping inspections, or handling them incorrectly can result in dropped loads, injuries, or fatalities. Today, we’ll go over how to select, inspect, and use slings correctly to prevent incidents and ensure safe lifting on-site.
Identify the Hazards
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Sling Selection
- Load Weight and Size: Confirm the sling’s rated capacity suits the task.
- Sling Type:
- Single-leg slings: For single-point lifts.
- Multi-leg slings: Distribute weight across multiple points.
- Adjustable slings: For loads of varying sizes.
- Sling Material: Match sling type to environment and load (e.g., high heat, sharp edges).
Pre-Lift Assessment
- Measure or estimate the load’s weight and size.
- Assess site conditions: wind, ground slope, and obstacles.
- Plan the lift route and discuss it with the lifting team.
Critical Sling Inspection Points
- Inspect slings before every use for:
- Cuts, frays, or wear (webbing slings).
- Broken wires or rust (wire rope slings).
- Missing or unreadable ID tags showing rating and specs.
- Twists, knots, or signs of melting/burning.
- Action: Remove any sling with visible damage from service and report it to your supervisor.
Safe Lifting Procedures
- Positioning:
- Balance the load evenly.
- Avoid sharp bends, twists, or tangles.
- Ensure all attachment points are secure.
- Test Lift: Raise the load slightly off the ground to check balance and stability.
- Lifting the Load:
- Lift slowly and under control.
- Use tag lines to guide the load and keep clear of suspended loads.
- Stay alert for sudden shifts or instability.
- Lowering and Storage:
- Lower slowly and avoid crushing slings.
- Store slings properly to prevent wear and damage.
Essential Safety Rules
- Never:
- Exceed the sling’s rated working load limit (WLL).
- Use slings that are frayed, cut, burnt, or chemically damaged.
- Tie knots in slings.
- Pull slings trapped under a load.
- Rush the lift—always take your time.
- Always:
- Check the sling’s WLL and condition before use.
- Use edge protection when lifting sharp-edged loads.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
- Ask a supervisor if you are unsure about any lift.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
At a construction site last year, a synthetic sling with worn stitching was used to lift a 900 kg load. Halfway through the lift, the stitching gave way, causing the load to fall and narrowly miss two workers. This incident could have been prevented with a proper inspection before the lift.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect slings before every lift.
- Tag and report damaged slings immediately.
- Use correct rigging techniques and lifting procedures.
- Check the load weight and the sling’s working load limit (WLL) before starting.
Employer Responsibilities
- Supply properly rated and maintained slings and lifting gear.
- Train workers on sling selection, inspection, and safe lifting practices.
- Remove defective slings from use and replace them promptly.
- Conduct ongoing training and competency checks.
Discussion & Questions
- What signs of damage should we look for during sling inspections?
- How do you check that a sling is rated correctly for the load?
- When is it necessary to use tag lines during a lift?
- How do we protect slings when lifting sharp-edged loads?
Encourage workers to share examples and suggestions.
Commitment/Action Plan
From today, let’s commit to inspecting every sling before use, checking working load limits (WLLs), and lifting safely. If you have any doubts about a sling’s condition, don’t use it. Report it and get it replaced.
Wrap-Up
Safe lifting is about more than just moving a load—it’s about preventing accidents and protecting lives. Proper sling selection, inspection, and handling help ensure everyone goes home safely. Thanks for taking safety seriously.
Standards Overview
Canadian occupational health and safety regulations require lifting gear and slings to be used, inspected, and maintained according to applicable provincial and federal legislation and standards, such as CSA standards for slings and rigging.
- Slings must be inspected before each use.
- Damaged or defective slings must be removed from service.
- Lifts must not exceed the sling’s working load limit (WLL).
- Only trained and qualified personnel may perform or supervise lifting operations.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
All Rights Reserved Site App Pro 2025