Webbing slings are widely used across construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing plants, logistics hubs, and heavy industries because of their flexibility, strength, and lightweight design. But while these slings are extremely efficient, improper usage can lead to load damage, equipment failure, and serious accidents. That’s why following the right webbing sling safety guidelines is essential for ensuring safe material handling and preventing workplace hazards.
In this blog, we’ll explore the top safety practices every rigger, operator, and lifting professional must follow when using webbing slings during lifts.
1. Always Inspect the Webbing Sling Before Every Lift
A thorough inspection is the first and most crucial step in following proper webbing sling safety guidelines. Before initiating any lifting operation, check for:
- Cuts, tears, or frayed edges
- Broken or worn stitching
- Discoloration or chemical burns
- Abrasions or sharp edge marks
- Mold, mildew, or hardening
- Damaged labels or unreadable markings
If any of these signs are present, the sling should be immediately removed from service. Even minor defects can compromise load safety during lifting operations.
2. Verify Load Capacity and Sling Ratings
Every webbing sling comes with a working load limit (WLL) that indicates how much weight it can safely handle. One of the most critical webbing sling safety guidelines is to never exceed this limit.
Also consider additional factors such as:
- Sling angle
- Hitch type (vertical, choker, basket)
- Load shape and center of gravity
- Environmental conditions
Always select a sling that matches the load requirements. When in doubt, choose a sling with a higher WLL for additional safety.
3. Protect Slings from Sharp Edges
Webbing slings are strong, but they are still vulnerable to cutting when used against sharp or rough surfaces. To follow proper webbing sling safety guidelines, always use protective sleeves, corner protectors, or edge guards when lifting loads with metal edges, concrete corners, or abrasive materials.
This reduces friction and prevents cuts, ensuring the sling’s durability and load security.
4. Maintain the Correct Sling Angle
The sling angle plays a crucial role in distributing the load. Lower angles increase tension on the sling, which can cause failure even if the load is within the WLL. The safest angle is 45° or higher, while anything below 30° should be avoided.
Following correct load-angle practices is a major part of effective webbing sling safety guidelines and ensures stability during lifts.
5. Use the Right Lifting Method
Webbing slings can be used in different lifting configurations based on the load type:
- Vertical lift – for simple, straight lifts
- Choker hitch – for securing bundles
- Basket hitch – for distributing load weight evenly
Choose the appropriate method and ensure the load is well-balanced. Incorrect hitching is one of the most common causes of lifting accidents.
6. Avoid Twisting, Knotting, or Overloading the Sling
Webbing slings should always lie flat and straight. Twisted or knotted slings reduce strength significantly and can break under pressure. As part of standard webbing sling safety guidelines, ensure that:
- The sling is not knotted
- There are no twists in the belt
- Load is evenly distributed
- Hooks are properly seated
Improper load placement can create uneven tension and lead to sling failure.
7. Do Not Drag Slings on the Ground
Dragging a sling exposes it to friction, dirt, oil, and sharp objects. To maintain safety and extend sling life:
- Store slings properly
- Lift and place them gently
- Keep them away from corrosive chemicals and wet environments
Proper handling practices are essential to comply with webbing sling safety guidelines.
8. Ensure Trained Personnel Handle Lifting Operations
Only qualified and trained personnel should operate lifting equipment. A key aspect of webbing sling safety guidelines is ensuring that anyone involved in lifting operations understands:
- Weight estimation
- Sling angle calculation
- Hitch selection
- Inspection methods
- Emergency protocols
Skilled operators reduce the risks of errors and increase workplace safety.
9. Store Webbing Slings Correctly
After use, slings should be:
- Stored in a clean, dry place
- Kept away from direct sunlight
- Protected from chemicals, moisture, and extreme temperatures
- Hung properly on racks
Correct storage helps maintain sling integrity and ensures they remain safe for future lifting tasks.
10. Replace Damaged or Old Slings Immediately
Even the strongest sling has a lifespan. If a webbing sling shows visible damage, is past its recommended service life, or no longer passes inspection, it must be replaced without delay. Using old or weakened equipment is one of the biggest violations of webbing sling safety guidelines.
Conclusion
Effective lifting requires the right equipment and the right practices. By following these webbing sling safety guidelines, businesses can ensure safer operations, prevent costly accidents, and extend the life of their lifting equipment. Whether you’re in construction, logistics, manufacturing, or warehousing, adhering to these safety standards is essential for reliable and secure material handling.
If you’re looking for durable, certified, and high-performance webbing slings, partnering JP Fibres, a trusted manufacturer ensures both safety and quality for every lift.