At LGH, safety isn’t just a priority—it drives every lift we support. Whether you’re rigging up a round sling or moving critical loads with synthetic or wire rope slings, following the fundamentals matters. The lifting sling you choose—and how you use it—can make or break the success and safety of your operation. We’ve compiled a list of lifting sling safety guidelines that can be followed in any industry. These 12 sling commandments serve as a practical checklist to help crews avoid costly mistakes, protect gear, and complete lifts efficiently.
Inspect Before Every Lift
Always inspect your rigging slings before each use. If you spot damage, remove the sling from service immediately.
Never Alter or Modify Slings
Don’t tie knots, add bolts, or use makeshift devices to change the length or configuration of a sling. These shortcuts compromise strength and safety.
Keep Sling Legs Straight
Prevent kinks in the sling legs. Kinking reduces the load-carrying capacity and creates unpredictable tension points.
Stay Within Rated Capacity
Know your lifting sling’s rated working load limit (WLL) and never exceed it. Consider sling angle and hitch type in every calculation.
Balance Basket Hitches Correctly
Balance the load evenly when using a basket hitch. Unbalanced loads can shift mid-lift and create serious hazards.
Secure Every Connection
Attach slings properly to both the load and lifting hook. Unsecured connections cause instability and increase the risk of failure.
Protect Against Sharp Edges
Use edge guards or padding where slings contact sharp corners. This prevents cutting and abrasion on both synthetic and wire rope slings.
Clear the Lift Zone
Remove all obstructions from the lift area. A clean, clear path reduces the risk of snags or mid-lift interference.
Keep Personnel Out of the Danger Zone
Make sure no one stands under or near a suspended load. Maintain clear communication and visual awareness at all times.
Use Tools, Not Hands, to Position Slings
Never place your hands or fingers between the sling and the load while tightening or tensioning. Use rigging tools to guide and position instead.
Avoid Shock Loads
Always lift slowly and evenly. Quick, jerking movements—or shock loading—can overstress the lifting sling and cause catastrophic failure.
Never Drag or Yank Slings
Lift the load fully before removing the sling. Dragging a sling from under a load can cause internal damage that isn’t always visible.
Inspect your lift slings frequently—especially in harsh or high-use conditions. Don’t just inspect them once a year and forget it. Build a habit, keep a log, and ensure every sling in rotation meets standards before heading to the jobsite. By following this list of lifting sling safety guidelines, you can help keep your jobsite safe.
LGH offers expert support and one of the largest inventories of lifting slings in North America. From round slings and synthetic slings to heavy-duty wire rope options, we’ve got you covered. Talk to your local rental rep or visit RentLGH.com/contact to start your next lift with confidence.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
