LFT/Equipment/TBT-LFT-031
Lifting Accessory Pre-Use Checks
Lifting Operations › Equipment › Lifting Accessory Pre-Use Checks
Toolbox Talk
Lifting Accessory Pre-Use Checks
Lifting accessories including slings, shackles, eyebolts, and chains connect the load to the crane or lifting machine. A defective accessory can fail without warning, dropping the load and causing fatal injuries. Pre-use checks by the person attaching the load are the last line of defence against using damaged equipment. This talk covers what to check, what to reject, and how to report defects.
Key Hazards
Dropped loads from failed slings, shackles, or connecting hardware
Overloading accessories beyond their marked safe working load capacity
Using damaged or corroded lifting accessories with hidden defects
Incorrect selection of accessory type or rating for the load
Control Measures
- Inspect every lifting accessory visually before each use for cuts, corrosion, distortion, or wear.
- Check that the safe working load is clearly marked and legible on every accessory.
- Verify that each accessory has a current colour-coded inspection tag or unique identification number.
- Reject and quarantine any accessory showing signs of damage, deformation, or illegible markings.
- Select the correct accessory type and SWL for the load weight and sling angle being used.
- Ensure shackle pins are correctly seated and secured with split pins where required.
- Check webbing slings for cuts, fraying, chemical damage, or heat exposure before each use.
- Store lifting accessories in designated racks off the ground, away from chemicals and moisture.
- Report any defective accessory immediately and record it in the lifting equipment register.
Remember
- Visually inspect every lifting accessory before each use for damage, corrosion, or wear
- Check the safe working load marking is legible and appropriate for the planned lift
- Reject and quarantine any accessory that shows signs of damage or has missing identification
- Select accessories based on load weight and the sling angle that will be used
- Store lifting accessories on racks off the ground and away from chemicals and moisture
- Report all defective accessories immediately and record them in the lifting equipment register
Applicable Legislation: LOLER 1998 · PUWER 1998 · BS EN 1492 (Webbing Slings) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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