6-6 | Best Practices for Maintaining Metal Mesh Slings
Maintaining a metal mesh sling during and in between uses is the best way to help extend the life of it and help to ensure that it stays in service. Inspections are easier to perform—and probably more thorough—when slings are easily accessible and organized, kept off of the ground, and stored in a cool and dry environment.
Hang your slings or keep them in a designated locker or rigging box where they are off of the ground and will not be subjected to mechanical damage, corrosive action, moisture, or kinking.
Temperature
When slings are used at temperatures above 550°F / 228°C or below –20°F / –29°C, the sling manufacturer should be consulted.
If the sling contains any coatings that change the temperature range of the sling, the manufacturer shall provide a revised temperature range.
Chemically Active Environments
The strength of metal mesh slings may be degraded by chemically active environments. This includes exposure to chemicals in the form of solids, liquids, gases, vapors, or fumes. The sling manufacturer or a Qualified Person should be consulted before slings are used in chemically active environments.
Edge and Cut Protection
Slings in contact with edges, corners, or protrusions, should be protected with a material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage. Edge protection and cut protection should be used on all edges and corners—even the ones that aren’t load-bearing surfaces.
Keep Your Slings Clean
Continual exposure to dust, dirt, and moisture can degrade the materials and cause corrosion—shortening the life expectancy of the product. Wipe grease or oil off of your slings and try to keep them clean of dirt, chemicals, or other particulates which can break down the material over time.
Avoid Misuse and Abuse
Use rigging best practices when lifting a load with metal mesh slings. Avoid the following before, during, and after an overhead lift to prevent damage to the sling:
- Avoid shock loads
- Loads should not be rested on the sling
- Slings should not be pulled from under a load if a load is resting on a sling
- Be aware of possible snagging during load-handling activities
- Slings should not be dragged on the floor or over an abrasive surface
- Slings should not be constricted, bunched, or pinched by the load, hook, or any fittings
- Avoid twisting and kinking of the sling