What should you check when inspecting chain slings before use?

What should you check when inspecting chain slings before use?

• A. Only chain color.
• B. Twist, elongation, deformation, cracked or bent links, heat damage, necking, gouges, and wear; hooks intact and pins secure; verify no excessive wear on chain connectors.
• C. Only deformation.
• D. Only wear on links.

Answer: (D)

Inspecting chain slings before use is about spotting any signs that could weaken the sling under load. You should look closely at the chain itself for twist, elongation, deformation, cracks or bent links, heat damage, necking, gouges, and general wear. Don’t forget to check the hooks—make sure they are intact and the pins are secure—and verify there’s no excessive wear on the chain connectors. These checks ensure you catch both surface wear and hidden defects that could fail during lifting. Wear on links is important, but serious issues can exist in other forms of damage or in the fittings, so a thorough inspection that covers all these aspects is essential. If any defect is found, remove the sling from service.

Inspecting chain slings before use is about spotting any signs that could weaken the sling under load. You should look closely at the chain itself for twist, elongation, deformation, cracks or bent links, heat damage, necking, gouges, and general wear. Don’t forget to check the hooks—make sure they are intact and the pins are secure—and verify there’s no excessive wear on the chain connectors. These checks ensure you catch both surface wear and hidden defects that could fail during lifting. Wear on links is important, but serious issues can exist in other forms of damage or in the fittings, so a thorough inspection that covers all these aspects is essential. If any defect is found, remove the sling from service.