Guide to using round slings
When using a round sling, there are several important precautions you must take to ensure safe and effective lifting. Here is an overview of the most important points to be aware of:
1. Before use:
Check the round sling: Before each use, inspect the round sling for visible damage. This includes checking for cuts, wear, chemical damage, heat damage, and damage from welding sparks. If the protective cover is damaged so that the load-bearing fibers are visible through the cover, the round sling must be discarded.
Ensure that the marking on your round sling is intact and legible. The marking (a blue label) contains important information such as the manufacturer, CE marking, maximum working load (WLL), dimensions, and an identification number. If the marking is missing or illegible, the round sling must no longer be used and must be discarded.
Choose the right round sling: Identify the correct round sling for the task by looking at the color code, which indicates the load capacity. You can also use a load table to ensure that you choose the right round sling for the specific load you need to lift.
2. During use:
Correct rigging: Ensure that the slinging points have sufficient capacity and are approved for the lift. Also center the load to prevent the round sling from shifting during the lift.
Protect against sharp edges: Round slings are sensitive to sharp edges. Always use edge protection to avoid damage to the round sling.
Avoid overloading: Never overload a round sling. Pay attention to the lifting angle, as the angle is important for the load on the round sling. You can see the lifting capacity for round slings in different situations in our load tables. You can find our load tables here on the website or obtain a physical copy from our departments or consultants.
Correct temperature: Only use round slings within the specified temperature range, typically between -40°C and +100°C for polyester. Avoid using frozen round slings, as this can damage the round sling and thus create a higher risk of accidents.
No knots: Never tie knots on a round sling. Instead, use shackles if necessary for the lift.
3. After use:
Inspection after use: Inspect the round sling for any damage that may have occurred during use.
Proper storage: Store round slings in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight and contact with chemicals, heat sources, and corrosive surfaces.
4. Mandatory inspections:
Regular inspections: In addition to daily checks, round slings must undergo a inspection at least once every 12 months by a qualified person according to Danish law. This is a legal requirement.
Documentation: Ensure that documentation of the mandatory inspections is available in the form of a report or certificate. With our EasyCert app, you can easily keep track of your certificates. Simply scan the QR code on the equipment and you can view the certificate immediately.
Discard criteria:
A round sling must be discarded if it has the following damage:
- Visible core
- Cuts or cracks
- Heat damage or damage from welding sparks
- Chemical damage
- Knots
- Illegible or missing markings
By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of accidents and ensure a long service life for your round slings.
