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2-3 | Basic Inspection Criteria

<p>The goal of a sling inspection is to evaluate remaining strength in a sling which has been used previously to determine if it is suitable for continued use. When inspecting web slings, daily visual inspections are intended to detect serious damage or deterioration which would weaken the strength and integrity of the sling.</p>

person Mike Close
event August 18, 2026

The goal of a sling inspection is to evaluate remaining strength in a sling which has been used previously to determine if it is suitable for continued use. When inspecting web slings, daily visual inspections are intended to detect serious damage or deterioration which would weaken the strength and integrity of the sling.

While a web sling has a higher resistance to mildew, rot, some chemicals, and abrasion—they can still be damaged to the point where they need to be removed from service. This inspection is usually performed by the person using the sling in a day-to-day job.

Eight examples of sling damage types including chemical, heat, cuts, worn stitches, abrasion, knots, UV, and fittings

ASME B30.9 standards specify that a synthetic web sling shall be removed from service immediately if any of the following conditions are present:

White number 1 centered on a bright red square background

Missing illegible sling identification

White number 2 centered on a bright red square background

Acid or caustic burns

White number 3 centered on a bright red square background

Melting or charring of any part of the sling

White number 4 centered on a bright red square background

Holes, tears, cuts, or snags

White number 5 centered on a bright red square background

Broken or worn stitching in load-bearing splices

White number 6 centered on a bright red square background

Excessive wear or abrasion

Large white number 7 centered on a bright red square background

Knots in any part of the sling

Large white number 8 centered on a bright red square background

Discoloration and brittle or stiff areas on any part of the sling, which may indicate chemical or UV damage

Large white number 9 centered on a bright red square background

Fittings that are pitted, corroded, cracked, bent, twisted, gouged, or broken

For hooks, removal criteria as stated in ASME B30.10

Large white number 11 centered on a bright red square background

For rigging hardware, removal criteria as stated in ASME B30.26

Large white number 12 centered on a bright red square background

Other conditions, including visible damage, that cause doubt to the continued use of the sling

Lesson tags: web sling inspection criteria
Back to: Lifting Sling Inspection Course > 2 | Synthetic Web Sling Inspection
Disclaimer:

Any advice, graphics, images, and/or information contained herein are presented for general educational and information purposes and to increase overall safety awareness. It is not intended to be legal, medical, or other expert advice or services, and should not be used in place of consultation with appropriate industry professionals. The information herein should not be considered exhaustive and the user should seek the advice of appropriate professionals.

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