With reference to the visual inspection of lifting gear before use, state the removal from service criteria for EACH of the following slings when visually inspecting before use:
(a) wire rope;
(b) synthetic fibre.
Note: The slings are within inspection dates, are of the correct SWL and clearly labelled.
(a) Wire Rope Slings – Removal from Service Criteria (5 marks)
When visually inspecting a wire rope sling before use, even if it is within its inspection date, it must be removed from service immediately if any of the following defects are observed:
- Broken wires
- 6 or more broken wires in one lay length, or 3 or more in one strand within one lay.
- Indicates fatigue or overloading.
- Kinking, crushing, or birdcaging
- Distortion of the rope’s lay due to bending, shock loading, or twisting.
- Reduces strength and flexibility.
- Corrosion or rusting
- Pitting or rust scale visible between strands or on surface;
- Loss of lubrication or stiffness indicates internal corrosion.
- Localised reduction in diameter
- Reduction of more than 10% of nominal diameter suggests core failure or internal crushing.
- Damaged or defective fittings
- Distorted, cracked, or worn thimbles, ferrules, or spliced eyes;
- Missing or illegible identification tag;
- Heat damage (discolouration or annealing of fittings).
→ Any of the above = Immediate withdrawal from service until examined by a competent person.
(1 mark per valid criterion = 5 marks)
(b) Synthetic Fibre Slings – Removal from Service Criteria (5 marks)
When visually inspecting a synthetic web or round sling, it must be withdrawn from service immediately if any of the following conditions are found:
- Cuts, tears, or broken stitching
- Any damage to the webbing, stitching, or cover indicates weakened load-bearing capacity.
- Abrasion or fraying
- Severe surface wear, exposed core fibres, or roughened areas caused by chafing on sharp edges.
- Chemical or heat damage
- Melting, hardening, glazing, or discolouration from contact with acids, alkalis, or excessive heat.
- Contamination or stiffness
- Oil, paint, or chemical impregnation that may degrade the fibres or prevent proper inspection.
- Distorted or damaged end fittings
- Bent or corroded rings, shackles, or hooks, or damaged labels where identification or SWL is unclear.
→ Any of the above = Remove from service and refer to a competent person for inspection or disposal.
(1 mark per valid criterion = 5 marks)