Rigging Sling and Hardware Pre-Use Inspection

Pre-use inspection for rigging slings, shackles, hooks, and below-the-hook devices to verify condition, identification, rated capacity, and removal-from-service criteria before lifting operations.

Inspection Details

• Inspection date and time recorded
• Inspector identified and qualified as competent person or authorized user
• Work area and lift task identified
• Rigging gear ID or asset tag recorded
• Inspection performed before use and after any event that could damage the rigging

Slings

• Sling identification tag is present and legible
• Rated capacity matches the intended lift configuration
• Sling shows no visible cuts, tears, broken wires, fraying, or abrasion beyond acceptable limits
• No evidence of heat damage, melting, charring, or chemical attack
• No kinks, knots, crushing, severe twisting, or permanent deformation
• Hooks, fittings, and end connections on the sling are secure and not distorted
• Sling removed from service if any defect, illegible tag, or unsafe condition is found

Shackles, Hooks, and Hardware

• Shackles are free of cracks, excessive wear, bent pins, or distorted bows
• Shackle pins are correct type, fully engaged, and secured as required
• Hooks are not opened beyond manufacturer or OSHA removal criteria and show no cracks or deformation
• Hook safety latch is present, functional, and closes properly
• Master links, rings, swivels, and connectors show no elongation, distortion, or visible damage
• All hardware is correctly sized and compatible with the sling and load attachment points
• No hardware is missing, substituted, or improvised

Below-the-Hook Devices and Accessories

• Below-the-hook device identification and rated capacity are legible
• Device shows no cracks, bends, weld failures, or structural deformation
• Latches, clamps, magnets, vacuum components, or other operating mechanisms function properly
• Wear surfaces, pads, and contact points are serviceable and within acceptable limits
• Any accessory chains, shackles, or attachment points on the device are in serviceable condition

Deficiencies and Closeout

• Any deficiency, non-conformance, or removal-from-service action documented
• Defective rigging clearly tagged or segregated from service
• Supervisor or lift lead notified of any critical item failure
• Inspector signature