Rigging Equipment for Material Handling in Construction
Overview of Topic
The OSHA rules for construction rigging equipment (1926.251) are essential for ensuring safe material handling on job sites. These rules apply to slings used with cranes, derricks, hoists, and other equipment. They cover slings made from various materials, including alloy steel chain, wire rope, metal mesh, natural or synthetic fiber rope, and synthetic web (nylon, polyester, or polypropylene). The regulations detail inspection before use, general use, and specific requirements for each type of sling.
Inspection Before Use Requirements
A competent person must visually inspect all slings, fastenings, and attachments for damage or defects:
- Prior to use on each shift.
- As necessary during operations to ensure continued integrity, especially if subjected to heavy stresses.
Damaged or defective slings must be immediately removed from service.
Use Requirements
- Load Limits: Rigging equipment must never be loaded in excess of its recommended safe working load. Refer to the safe working load charts in the construction regulations (1926.251, Tables H-1 through H-20) for each type of sling.
- Storage: Slings, when not in use, should be removed from the immediate work area to prevent trip or swinging hazards and to protect them from dirt, oil, grease, and being walked on or run over.
- Custom Equipment: Lifting equipment such as grabs, hooks, and clamps must be marked to indicate their safe working loads and must be proof-tested to 125% of their rated load before use.
General Industry Rules Applicable to Construction
OSHA has determined that the following general industry rules (1910.184) also apply to construction applications:
- Slings must not be shortened with knots, bolts, or other makeshift devices.
- Kinked sling legs must not be used.
- Loads in a basket hitch must be balanced to prevent slippage.
- Slings must be padded or protected from load sharp edges.
- Hands or fingers must not be placed between the sling and its load while the sling is being tightened around the load.
Other Safety Rules
- Suspended loads must be kept clear of all obstructions.
- Crane operators should avoid sudden starts and stops when moving suspended loads.
- Employees must remain clear of loads about to be lifted and suspended. Tag lines should be used when appropriate.
- All shock loading is prohibited.
Specific Sling Applications
Refer to the applicable regulations for each sling type:
- Alloy Steel Chains: 29 CFR 1926.251(b)
- Wire Rope: 29 CFR 1926.251(c)
- Natural Rope and Synthetic Fiber: 29 CFR 1926.251(d)
- Synthetic Webbing (nylon, polyester, polypropylene): 29 CFR 1926.251(e)
- Shackles and Hooks: 29 CFR 1926.251(f)
Employee Training
While there are no specific training requirements for slings, the general OSHA rule for training construction employees at 29 CFR 1926.21(b)(2) applies.
Training Tips
- Use OSHA regulations at 29 CFR 1926.251 to prepare checklists for each type of sling and attachments your company uses.
- Review these checklists with your employees to ensure understanding and compliance.
Where to Go for More Information
Stay safe and ensure all rigging equipment is used and inspected properly!