Wire Rope Sling Inspection and Maintenance
The Problem
Wire rope slings are essential for lifting and moving heavy loads on site, but they can also become serious points of failure if not properly inspected and maintained. A damaged or faulty sling can snap, leading to dropped loads, equipment damage, serious injuries, or even fatalities. Today, we’ll discuss the key hazards associated with wire rope slings and review how to inspect them to help prevent incidents.
Identify the Hazards
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Wire Rope Sling Inspection Checklist
- Visual Inspection for Damage
Look for cuts, kinks, crushing, knots, or bird-caging. Any visible deformities or misshapen areas are red flags.
- Rust and Corrosion
Inspect for surface rust or pitting. Corroded slings may need to be removed from service immediately.
- Fittings and End Terminations
Ensure all fittings are tight, properly secured, and not bent, cracked, or damaged.
- Frayed or Broken Strands
Run a clean cloth along the rope—snags may indicate fraying. If you find broken strands, report them to a Competent Person immediately.
- Elongation or Stretching
Watch for any abnormal stretching or deformation, which may indicate the sling has been overloaded.
- Exposed Inner Core
A visible or protruding core is a clear sign the sling must be removed from service.
- Heat or Flame Damage
Look for discolouration, melted wires, or other signs of thermal exposure that may compromise safety.
- Check the Identification Tag
Ensure the sling has a legible tag showing the working load limit, serial number, and manufacturer details.
Slings must never be used without a readable tag.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use, maintenance, and inspection intervals.
- Remove Damaged Slings from Service
If a sling is unsafe:
- Tag it clearly or isolate it to prevent accidental use
- Notify your supervisor for assessment or replacement
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a recent job, a crew used a wire rope sling that had a visible kink. They assumed it wasn’t serious and proceeded with the lift. When the load was hoisted, the sling failed, and the load dropped. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident caused equipment damage and costly delays. This could have been entirely avoided through proper pre-use inspection and removal of damaged lifting gear.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect wire rope slings before each use to identify any signs of damage or wear
- Tag and report any damaged or questionable slings to your supervisor immediately
- Never use a sling if you’re unsure about its condition—when in doubt, take it out of service
Employer Responsibilities
Discussion & Questions
- “What are some signs of damage you’ve come across during a sling inspection?”
- “Have you ever found a sling in poor condition before use? What did you do?”
Encourage team members to share examples or tips they’ve learned from past jobs
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting all wire rope slings thoroughly before every use. If in doubt, stop and check—it’s better to delay the lift than to risk someone’s life or safety.
Wrap-Up
Wire rope sling failures are preventable. Taking the time to inspect and maintain slings is a small step that makes a big difference in site safety. Thank you for taking this seriously and helping to keep our workplace safe.
Standards Overview
Lifting equipment, including wire rope slings, must:
- Be inspected regularly before use to ensure it is in safe working condition
- Be maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable CSA standards
- Be removed from service immediately if found to be defective or damaged
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.
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