Session 1: Slings and Sling Inspection

Session One Objectives When trainees have completed this session, they should be able to do the following: Identify and describe various types of rigging slings, hardware, and equipment. Identify and describe various types of slings. Describe how to inspect various types of slings. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Section 1.1.2 – Synthetic Slings Synthetic slings offer many advantages, including: Soft, helping to protect the surface of the lifted component. No rust or corrosion. Lightweight and easy to handle. Flexible and somewhat elastic under load. Loads are less likely to twist while in the air. However, even soft synthetic slings can still abrade surfaces or damage paint. Protective pads are needed at contact points for delicate surfaces. Describe the two common types of synthetic slings. Discuss advantages and disadvantages of synthetic slings. Point out the importance of using protective pads. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Section 1.1.2 – Synthetic Slings When red-core warning yarns become exposed, it is an indication that the sling has been overloaded and should not be used. This is just one reason why a sling should be taken out of service. Both standard and twisted sling styles are very common. The type of sling chosen depends on the lift. Explain how synthetic web slings have red-core warning yarns to indicate when they have been overloaded or internally damaged. Describe common designs of synthetic web slings. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Section 1.1.2 – Synthetic Slings The tattle-tail may also have a fiber optic inspection cable built into it, allowing the user to determine if the tattle-tail has separated anywhere along its length. Instead of red-core yarns, tattle-tails are built in during construction to determine if the sling has been overloaded. Twin-Path® slings like this one are very different in construction from common slings. Talk about the construction of Twin-Path® slings. Review various trademarked construction materials and their use. Point out that some synthetic slings have tattle-tail yarns that differ from the red yarns used in other slings. Explain that some slings are available with an embedded fiber optic cable as a way to check their internal condition. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Single- and double-basket slings are two common designs. Section 1.1.3 – Chain Slings Bridle slings can have two, three, or four legs. This version has three. Single- and double-basket slings are two common designs. Describe alloy steel chain slings and point out their use in high heat or rugged conditions. Talk about their durability and heavy weight. Discuss alloy grade markings. Talk about the basic designs of alloy steel chain slings. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Section 1.1.4 – Wire Rope Slings The inner core is designed for slight movement independent of the outer strand wires. Wire rope slings are lighter than chain but can also withstand high temperatures. Like all slings, its condition affects its actual capacity. Discuss the construction of wire rope slings. Explain that the outer wire strands move independently of the core. Describe different types of wire rope cores and talk about their differences. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Section 1.2.1 – Synthetic Sling Inspection Explain why synthetic slings must be inspected visually and by feel. Point out that several different types of minor damage may collectively result in rejection. Review the detailed list of rejection criteria for synthetic slings. Emphasize that if a synthetic sling meets any of the rejection criteria, it must be removed from service immediately. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Section 1.2.2 – Chain Sling Inspection Explain that alloy steel chain slings must be inspected before each use as well. Review the detailed list of rejection criteria for alloy steel chain slings and emphasize that if an alloy steel chain sling meets any of the rejection criteria, it must be removed from service immediately. Point out that if a sling is suspected of being unsafe, it should be shown to a qualified person who can make the decision about its use. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Section 1.2.3 – Wire Rope Inspection Explain that wire rope slings must be inspected before each use. Point out that only a qualified person can decide whether a wire rope sling is safe to use. Review the detailed list of rejection criteria for wire rope slings and emphasize that if any of the rejection criteria are met, it must be removed from service immediately. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Wrap Up – Sling Forensics WHAT’S WRONG WITH THESE SLINGS? If a member of your team can accurately identify the damage shown on each of these slings, have your designated “bell” shout out. If the answer is wrong (accuracy at the discretion of the instructor), the other team gets a chance to name it. Each team can have up to two chances to answer correctly. A correct answer is worth three points; an incorrect answer subtracts one point. ? ? ? ? Break the trainees into two teams. Assign one member of each team to be "the bell,” sounding off when the team wants to answer the question. Ensure that all Trainee Guides have been closed and placed out of sight. Using the prepared slides in the PowerPoint® presentation, display 7 different types of sling damage, one at a time. As each is displayed one at a time, the team sounding off first gets one chance to provide the correct term for the damage. If incorrect, the opposing team has an opportunity to answer. Continue until the correct answer has been provided, stopping after each team has had two chances to answer correctly. Award three points for each correct answer, and subtract one point for each incorrect answer. ? ? Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15

Next Session… RIGGING HARDWARE, HOISTS, AND HITCHES Read Sections 1.3.0 through 1.5.4. Complete the 1.0.0 Section Review. Introduction to Basic Rigging 00106-15