TM-5-5420-279-10
b)
Local abrasion. If the webbing shows signs of local abrasion, as opposed to
general wear, serious loss of strength may occur.
c)
Cuts. Both longitudinal and cross cuts into the surface of the webbing result in
loss of strength.
d)
chemicals, chemical attack to the webbing results in local weakening and
softening of the material. This is indicated by flaking of the surface fibers
which can be plucked or rubbed off.
e)
Heat damage. The surface fibers take on a glazed appearance and in
extreme cases fusion of the fibers occurs.
f)
Damaged stitching. Any damage to the stitching or noticeable loosening of
the threads must be treated seriously.
g)
Loose webbing. The webbing becomes loose and soft to the touch so that
the weft can be moved or split with the fingers.
h)
Missing or illegible marking. The sling should NOT be used if the identifying
markings are missing or illegible.
i)
Soiling. Heavy soiling can obscure damage making detection during
inspection difficult. It can also make identification difficult by obscuring any
marking or color-coding. Grit and dirt will collect on the face of soiled webbing
and can cause rapid wear and abrasion. Clean the sling in an approved
manner but if the soiling is such that cleaning has little or no effect withdraw
from service and refer to a Competent Person.
NOTE
Only use clean water and mild detergent to clean lifting slings.
Use of Webbing Slings
3.8.3.1
Good slinging practices should be followed; the slinging, lifting and lowering operations
should be planned before commencing the lift.
3.8.3.2
Slings should be correctly positioned and attached to the load in a safe manner. Slings
should be placed on the load such that the loading is uniform across their width. They
should never be knotted or twisted.
3.8.3.3
Stitching should never be placed over hooks or other lifting devices: the stitching should
always be placed in the standing part of the sling. Damage to the labels should be
prevented by keeping them away from the load, the hook and the angle of choke.
3.8.3.4
In the case of multi-leg slings, ensure that the loading of the sling assembly is
symmetrical. This means that when a load is lifted the sling legs are symmetrically in plan
and are at the same angle to the vertical.
3.8.3.5
Slings should be protected from sharp edges, friction and abrasion, whether from the load
or the lifting appliance. Where reinforcement and protection against damage from sharp
edges and/or abrasion, such as a sleeve, is supplied as part of the sling, this should be
correctly positioned to protect the sling from sharp edges.
