Proper use of textile slings

Using textile slings in challenging environments or hazardous applications requires understanding their chemical resistance and handling procedures. The resistance to chemicals varies depending on the material of the slings.

Here is a summary of how different chemicals affect synthetic fibers:

• Polyester (PES) is resistant to most mineral acids but can be damaged by alkalis.
• Polyamides (PA) are virtually immune to alkalis but are attacked by mineral acids.
• Polypropylene (PP) is minimally affected by acids or alkalis and is suitable for applications requiring high chemical resistance, excluding solvents.
• Dyneema® offers excellent resistance against both acids and alkalis.

 Warning: Solutions of acids or alkalis that are harmless can become concentrated through evaporation and cause damage. Contaminated slings should be removed from service immediately, soaked in cold water, dried naturally, and examined by a competent person. If in doubt, always contact CERTEX for more information.

Slings with Grade 8, 10 and 12 (80, 100, 120) fittings and multi-leg slings with Grade 8, 10 and 12 (80, 100,120) master links should not be used in acidic conditions due to the risk of hydrogen embrittlement. Consult CERTEX if exposure to chemicals is likely.

When using slings with soft eyes together with a hook/fitting, the smallest length should be at least 3.5 times the hook's/fitting's maximum thickness, and the angle formed in the eye should never exceed 20°.

When connecting a sling with a soft eye to a lifting device, the part of the device on which the sling's eye rests should be straight if the sling's bearing width is below 75 mm. In this case, the attachment to the lifting device should have a bend radius of at least 0.75 times the sling's bearing width. Wide slings can be affected by the hook's inner radius, preventing equivalent load distribution across the sling's full width.

Round slings/webbing slings should not be overloaded. Use the correct mode factor. Working load limits for some modes may be indicated on the label. For multi-leg slings, do not exceed the maximum angle to the vertical.

Protect slings from edges, friction, and wear, whether from the load or the lifting appliance. When reinforcements and protection against damage from corners and/or wear are part of the sling, they should be correctly positioned. Additional protection may be necessary.

Method of connection, basket hitch, choke hitch and symmetry

Method of connection

Follow good slinging practices:

• Plan the slinging
• Lifting and lowering operations before starting the lift.

Round slings/webbing slings should be correctly positioned and attached to the load safely. Slings should be placed on the load to adopt a flattened form, ensuring uniform loading across their width. They should never be knotted or twisted.

Stitches should never be positioned above hooks or other lifting appliances; they should always be on the standing part of the sling.

Prevent damage to labels by keeping them away from the load, hook and angle of choke.

Secure the load with the sling(s) to prevent it from toppling or falling out during the lift. Arrange the sling(s) so that the lifting point is directly above the center of gravity, ensuring the load is balanced and stable. Movement of the sling over the lifting point is possible if the load's center of gravity is not below the lifting point.

Safety of lifting, landing the load and storage

Safety of lifting

Ensure the safety of personnel during the lift. Warn people in the danger area that the operation is about to take place and evacuate the immediate area if necessary.

• Keep hands and other body parts away from the sling to prevent injury as the slack is taken up.
• Perform a test lift by taking up the slack until the sling is taut. Raise the load slightly and check that it is secure and assumes the intended position. This is especially important with basket or other loose hitches where friction retains the load.
• If the load tends to tilt, lower it and reposition the attachments. Repeat the trial lift until the load's stability is ensured.
• During the lift, control the load to prevent accidental rotation or collision with other objects.
• Avoid snatch or shock loading, as this increases the forces acting on the sling.
• Do not drag the load or the sling over the ground or rough surfaces.

Landing the load

Lower the load in a controlled manner, just as when lifting. Avoid trapping the sling when lowering the load. Do not let the load rest on the sling if it could cause damage, and do not attempt to pull the sling from beneath the load when it is resting on it.