The Slings Standard (29 CFR 1910.184) specifies several paperwork requirements, depending on the type of sling (paragraph (e) of the Standard covers alloy steel chain slings; paragraph (f) covers wire rope slings; paragraph (g) covers metal mesh slings; paragraph (h) covers natural and synthetic fiber-rope slings; and paragraph (i) covers synthetic web slings).
The purpose of each of these requirements is to prevent workers from using defective or deteriorated slings, thereby reducing their risk of death or serious injury caused by sling failure during material handling. The information on the identification tags, markings, and coding’s assists the employer in determining whether the sling can be used for lifting. The sling inspections enable early detection of faulty slings. The inspection and repair records provide employers with the date of the last inspection and the type of repairs made. This information provides assurance about the condition of the slings. These records also provide the most efficient means for an OSHA compliance officer to determine that an employer is complying with the Standard. Proof-testing certificates give employers, workers, and OSHA compliance officers assurance that the slings are safe to use.