Sling Rigging Methods and Lifting Capacity
The Problem
When lifting loads with slings, improper rigging methods can reduce lifting capacity, destabilize the load, and create serious hazards. An unstable or overloaded sling can result in dropped loads, damaged equipment, or worker injuries. Today, we’ll cover three common rigging methods—Vertical Hitch, Choker Hitch, and Basket Hitch—and how each impacts lifting capacity and load control.
Identify the Hazards
Overloaded Slings: Using the wrong rigging method reduces the sling’s capacity and increases the risk of equipment failure.
Unstable Loads: Improper rigging can cause loads to tilt, shift, or fall unexpectedly.
Lack of Awareness: Workers may not fully understand how different rigging methods affect sling capacity, leading to unsafe lifting practices.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Vertical (Straight) Hitch
- What is it?
- A single leg of the sling supports the load.
- The hook is attached to one end, and the load is secured at the other.
- Lifting Capacity:
- Provides the full, rated capacity of the sling.
- Provides the full, rated capacity of the sling.
- Hazard – Lack of Stability:
- The load may swing or teeter.
- This hitch does not provide lateral stability.
- Prevention Tip:
- Use tag lines to help control the load.
- Consider additional rigging methods for improved stability.
2. Choker Hitch
- What is it?
- The sling is looped around the load.
- A “choke” is formed with the lifting hook attached to the eye.
- Lifting Capacity:
- Approximately 35% less than the capacity of a vertical hitch.
- Approximately 35% less than the capacity of a vertical hitch.
- Benefits and Stability:
- Helps secure and stabilize the load.
- Useful for lifting irregular shapes.
- Hazard – Reduced Capacity:
- Higher risk of sling overload due to reduced strength.
- Higher risk of sling overload due to reduced strength.
- Prevention Tip:
- Always consult the sling manufacturer’s capacity chart.
- Ensure the load is balanced to prevent tipping.
3. Basket Hitch
- What is it?
- The sling passes under the load.
- Both ends are attached to the lifting hook or master link.
- Lifting Capacity:
- Offers double the lifting capacity of a vertical hitch.
- Approximately 2.5 times the capacity of a choker hitch.
- Benefits and Stability:
- Provides excellent stability when the load is evenly distributed.
- Ideal for symmetrical loads.
- Hazard – Uneven Weight Distribution:
- Load may tip to one side if unbalanced.
- Increases the risk of unsafe lifting.
- Prevention Tip:
- Ensure the load is properly balanced before lifting.
- Inspect both sling legs and attachment points for wear or damage.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
Recently, on a Canadian job site, workers attempted to lift a large load using a choker hitch without accounting for the reduced lifting capacity. As a result, the sling was overloaded. Midway through the lift, the sling failed and the load was dropped. Fortunately, no one was injured. However, this incident clearly highlights the importance of understanding rigging methods and knowing how each configuration affects the sling’s safe working load. Proper planning and training are essential to prevent serious incidents.
Employee Responsibilities
Safe Rigging Reminders
- Inspect all slings and rigging equipment before each use.
- Use the correct rigging method for the load, based on the manufacturer’s capacity chart.
- Ensure the load is balanced and stable before lifting.
- Report any damaged or worn slings immediately to your supervisor.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide proper training on sling rigging and lifting safety.
- Ensure slings and rigging equipment are inspected regularly and meet rated capacity requirements.
- Maintain a safe lifting plan that includes competent persons for complex or high-risk lifts.
Discussion & Questions
- “What’s the most common rigging method you’ve used on-site, and what challenges have you faced?”
- “How do you check that your sling and load setup is safe before lifting?”
Encourage workers to share their experiences or raise questions about specific rigging scenarios. Open dialogue helps reinforce safe practices and builds team awareness.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting all slings and understanding how each rigging method affects lifting capacity. Before lifting any load today, double-check the rigging method, ensure the load is properly balanced, and confirm the sling is being used within its rated capacity.
Wrap-Up
Rigging loads safely is everyone’s responsibility. By selecting the correct rigging method and following safe work practices, we can prevent accidents, protect our equipment, and ensure that everyone goes home safely at the end of the day.
Thank you for your attention and commitment to safety!
Standards Overview
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) requires that lifting and rigging equipment be used within its rated capacity and be properly inspected to ensure it is in good condition and suitable for the task. Slings must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and relevant best practice guidelines (e.g., CSA Standard Z248 for lifting gear). Only trained and competent personnel should determine the appropriate rigging methods.
Disclaimer
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