Choosing a Lifting Sling: 3 Tips to Consider
Lifting slings are important equipment in industries like construction. They’re essential for lifting and moving both people and heavy objects. Because of their importance, it’s crucial to ensure you have the right sling for the job. But how do you choose the right lifting sling? Let’s take a look at a few tips to keep in mind during your search.
Be mindful of the temperature: One of the first things you should consider is actually not the sling itself, but the environment it’s going to be used in. Many slings are used in outdoor environments, which can obviously vary depending on the weather. Another concern with outdoor work conditions is things like rain, snow, and sunshine. If you’re working outside, make sure the sling you choose can handle all of these environmental conditions. And even for inside work conditions, temperature can be a concern. Some sling materials may not work well in colder temperatures while others may not be right for hot temperatures. So be mindful of the temperatures you’re working in when choosing slings.
Consider the load limit: When you’re lifting something, it’s important that the sling being used can handle the weight and size of the load. To ensure you find the right sling for your rigging and cable needs. Load limit may not be the same for every piece of equipment you use, so make sure you check the limit for every piece of equipment. Certain slings, like chain slings, are ideal for heavier loads compared to options like nylon slings. If you choose the wrong type of sling, you could risk dropping the items being moved, which can be extremely dangerous.
Compare materials: Since fall protection measures were put in place by OSHA in 1971, many slings and cable and rigging supplies have been designed and manufactured. This means there are a lot of different sling materials to choose from. Polyester, nylon, and chain slings are all common choices for different uses. When comparing materials, ensure you’re focusing on the sling’s ability to withstand certain weight limits to ensure it can meet your expectations.
So when you start looking at sling options through a local rigging supply company, it’s important to keep these factors in mind. Considering environmental conditions, weight limits, and how different materials hold up can help you find the right sling for your needs.