Lifting slings
A sling (also known as a lifting sling) is a length of webbing, chain or rope used to attach a load to a separate lifting device such as a crane or hoist. They support the safe lifting and manoeuvring of large, heavy or awkward shaped objects. The slings can be used in multiple ways to increase the capacity of the sling and support the load more effectively. Lifting slings come in various styles, materials and load limits depending on application and environment.
All lifting equipment has a Working load limit and Safe working load limit:
Working load – Is the tested limit of a piece of lifting equipment. It is the maximum amount it can lift, anymore and it breaks.
Safe working load – Is the limit stipulated by the manufacturer. It is the load that you must adhere to in order to ensure the safety and longevity of lifting equipment.