LFT/Equipment/TBT-LFT-008

Lifting Accessories Pre-Use Checks

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Lifting Accessories Pre-Use Checks

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-LFT-008  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
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What?

  • Lifting accessories include slings, shackles, eyebolts, spreader beams, and chains for attaching loads.
  • Defective accessories are a leading cause of dropped loads and fatal crushing injuries.
  • Every accessory must be visually inspected before each use by the person using it.
  • LOLER 1998 requires thorough examination of all lifting accessories at least every 6 months.
  • Each accessory must have a unique ID number linked to its examination record.
  • Damaged, worn, or unmarked accessories must be removed from service immediately.
  • The safe working load must be clearly marked and must never be exceeded.
  • Webbing slings are vulnerable to cuts, UV degradation, and chemical damage.
  • Chain slings must be checked for stretch, deformation, cracks, and wear at links.
  • Wire rope slings must be inspected for broken wires, corrosion, kinking, and bird-caging.

Why?

Prevent dropped loadsFailed accessories cause loads to fall, killing people below.
Legal requirementLOLER requires pre-use checks and 6-monthly examinations of all accessories.
Early defect detectionRegular checks identify damage before it leads to failure under load.
AccountabilityOnly identified and examined accessories can be traced after an incident.
Do Don't
  • Visually inspect every lifting accessory before each use.
  • Check that the SWL marking is legible and appropriate for the lift.
  • Confirm the accessory has a unique ID and is within its examination date.
  • Inspect webbing slings for cuts, fraying, stitching damage, and UV degradation.
  • Check chain slings for stretch, twisted links, cracks, and wear marks.
  • Examine wire rope slings for broken wires, corrosion, and kinking.
  • Remove any defective accessory from service immediately and quarantine it.
  • Store accessories off the ground, dry, and away from chemicals.
  • Report any accessory without an ID tag or examination record.
  • Use the correct type and capacity of accessory for each lift.
  • DON'T use a lifting accessory that has no identification or SWL marking.
  • DON'T exceed the safe working load marked on any accessory.
  • DON'T use webbing slings that are cut, frayed, or chemically contaminated.
  • DON'T use chain slings with stretched, cracked, or deformed links.
  • DON'T tie knots in slings to shorten them or create lifting points.
  • DON'T use wire rope slings with visible broken wires or corrosion.
  • DON'T use an accessory past its thorough examination due date.
  • DON'T drag slings along the ground or leave them lying in mud.
  • DON'T repair damaged lifting accessories — they must be replaced.
  • DON'T assume an accessory is safe because it looks in good condition.

See also: Lifting Operations Awareness (LOLER) | Chain Slings and Shackles Inspection
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