How to Inspect Lifting Slings | Safety Checklist Singapore

Introduction

Regular inspection of lifting slings is essential to ensure safe lifting operations and prevent accidents. In Singapore, improper use or failure of lifting equipment can lead to serious injuries, downtime, and non-compliance with safety regulations.

This guide provides a simple lifting sling inspection checklist to help workers, supervisors, and safety officers identify defects before use.

Why Lifting Sling Inspection is Important

Routine inspection helps to:

• Prevent equipment failure during lifting

• Ensure compliance with workplace safety standards

• Extend the lifespan of lifting slings

• Protect workers and equipment

👉 Whether you are using webbing slings, chain slings, or wire rope slings, inspection should always be done before every lift.

Daily Lifting Sling Inspection Checklist

Before using any lifting sling, carry out a quick visual inspection.

1. Cuts, Tears or Fraying

Check for:

• Cuts along the edges

• Torn fibers

• Frayed webbing

❌ These reduce the sling’s strength and can lead to sudden failure.

2. Broken Stitching

Inspect stitched areas carefully:

• Loose threads

• Broken seams

• Damaged reinforcement loops

👉 Damaged stitching means the sling can no longer carry its rated load safely.

3. Deformation or Distortion

Look for:

• Twisted or stretched slings

• Bent fittings or hooks

• Uneven shape

❌ Deformation indicates the sling has been overloaded or damaged.

4. Heat or Burn Damage

Check for:

• Melted fibers

• Discolouration

• Hard or brittle texture

👉 Heat damage significantly weakens synthetic slings.

5. Chemical Damage

Look for:

• Stains or discolouration

• Weak or powdery fibers

• Signs of corrosion (for chain slings)

❌ Chemical exposure can silently weaken the material.

When Should You Reject a Lifting Sling?

Immediately remove a sling from service if you notice:

❌ Visible Damage

Any cuts, tears, or structural defects

❌ Missing or Illegible Label

If the Working Load Limit (WLL) or identification tag is missing, the sling must not be used

❌ Severe Chemical or Heat Damage

Any sign of weakening due to exposure

👉 Never attempt to repair damaged slings unless approved by the manufacturer.

Best Practices for Safe Sling Inspection

✔ Always inspect before each use✔ Store slings properly away from chemicals and heat✔ Use edge protection for sharp loads✔ Keep inspection records for compliance✔ Train workers on proper inspection procedures

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Skipping inspection due to time pressure❌ Continuing to use slightly damaged slings❌ Ignoring missing labels❌ Using the wrong sling for the job

👉 These mistakes are among the leading causes of lifting accidents.

Conclusion

Regular inspection of lifting slings is a simple but critical step in ensuring safe and compliant lifting operations. By following this checklist, you can prevent accidents, extend equipment lifespan, and maintain workplace safety.

📞 Need Certified Lifting Slings in Singapore?

At FRT, we supply certified webbing slings, chain slings, and rigging equipment that meet safety standards.