Wire Rope Sling Inspections
Wire rope is often used in slings because it is strong, durable, resistant to abrasion, and it conforms to the shape of the loads when being used. It is also good for lifting hot materials.
According to OSHA “Wire rope slings are made from different grades of wire rope, but the most common grades in use are Extra Improved Plow Steel (EIPS) and Extra Extra Improved Plow Steel (EEIPS). These wire ropes are manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM guidelines. If other grades of wire rope are used, use them in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and guidance.”
As with any device used regularly to lift heavy loads, daily inspections will help keep your people safe.
OSHA lists the following inspection guidelines
“Designate a qualified person to inspect slings and all fastenings and attachments each day before use for damage or defects."
The qualified person also performs additional periodic inspections where service conditions warrant, as determined on the basis of:
- Frequency of sling use
- Severity of service conditions
- Nature of the lifts being made
- Experience gained during the service life of slings used in similar circumstances
Make periodic inspections of wire rope slings at intervals no greater than 12 months. A good guide to follow includes:
- Yearly for normal service use
- Monthly to quarterly for severe service use
- As recommended by a qualified person for special and infrequent service use.
Although OSHA's sling standard does not require you to make and maintain records of inspections, the ASME standard contains provisions on inspection records.
Make a thorough inspection of slings and attachments. Items to look for include:
- Broken wires
- Severe localized abrasion or scraping,
- Kinking, crushing, bird caging, or any other damage to the rope structure
- Evidence of heat damage
- Crushed, deformed, or worn end attachments
- Severe corrosion of the rope, end attachments or fittings
- Missing or illegible sling identifications
- Other conditions that cause doubt as to continual safe use of the sling
Where any such defect or deterioration is present, remove the sling or attachment from service immediately.
Never use worn out or damaged slings or attachments. Always discard them or have them repaired.
If a sling is repaired, it must be proof tested before use. It should be proof tested by the manufacturer or a qualified inspector. OSHA recommends the following criteria for repairs:
- Do not repair wire rope used in the sling
- Restrict all repairs to end attachments and fittings
- Mark repaired slings to identify who made the repairs
Modifications or alterations to end attachments or fittings are considered a repair and are subject to the same proof testing requirements.
Hoosier Crane provides inspections for all your equipment. If you are interested in an inspection or just have questions, please feel free to contact us.