Recognizing Nylon Sling Damage

Learn to identify common damage types and when to remove slings from service.

Critical Safety Notice

Before using web slings, inspect the slings for any of the following damages. If the inner red safety core yarns become visible on ANY sling, remove them from service immediately.

Common Damage Types

Abrasion Damage

Can result from friction between the sling and an abrasive surface or from pulling the sling from under the load.

Cut Damage

A cut is a clean break in the webbing resulting from contact with a sharp load edge. If inner red safety core yarns are visible, remove sling from service.

Acid Damage

Acid or caustic vapors destroy the integrity of the nylon filaments. If slings show any sign of acid damage, promptly discard them.

Tensile Break

Can result from sling overload. A frayed appearance at the failure point indicates this type of break. Never handle a load with an under capacity sling.

Heat Damage

A sling exposed to heat above 194° Fahrenheit (90° Celsius) has lost its efficiency and should be removed from service.

Snags & Punctures

Sharp objects can snag or puncture sling webbing. Due to the inability to determine the amount of sling loss on this type of damage, remove the sling from service.

Proper Use Of Nylon Slings

Do's

Use maximum sling to load angle
Use the longest sling possible
Insure proper balance of loads
Lift loads smoothly and evenly
Select proper size and style sling
Use softener protection on sharp corners
Stand clear of loads

Don'ts

Exceed manufacturer's rated capacity
Use slings above 194°F / 90°C
Pull slings out from under a load
Tie knots in slings or tie them together
Use for towing or pulling
Use on sharp edges without proper protection
Hesitate to ask if you're not sure

General Care Options

Slings are designed to give service. We suggest that slings be stored on a rack designed specifically for this purpose. Regardless of the storage method used, slings should not be allowed to hang so that they drag on the ground. In addition your slings will last longer when they are not stored in an area that has acid fumes or is in direct sunlight. These conditions may adversely affect the life of your sling.

Storage Best Practices

Use Proper Racks

Store slings on racks designed specifically for this purpose.

Avoid Sunlight

Do not store in direct sunlight or UV exposure areas.

No Acid Fumes

Keep away from areas with acid or caustic vapors.