OSHA guidance on selection and use of slings for handling materials

A new document has been issued to supplement and bring up to speed a 30-year-old industry standard.

By Staff September 28, 2007

With its recently released document, ” Guidance on Safe Sling Use ,” the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will help employers select and use appropriate slings for handling and moving materials.
“OSHA’s current general industry standard is more than 30 years old,” said Edwin G. Foulke, Jr., assistant secretary of labor for OSHA . “This guidance document will aid users in the safe selection and use of slings, including synthetic round slings, which are not covered in OSHA’s standard, as well as the newer grades of materials being used in alloy steel chain and wire rope slings.”
Improper selection or use of slings can result in sling failure or load slippage, which in turn can lead to injuries or death. OSHA accident data for the years 1994 through 1996 show that there were four fatalities in general industry involving the misuse or failure of slings.