The Safety of the Sling: Maintaining the Key Hoist Accessory

The hoist, at one point, was more of a device utilized within the construction industry. However, with advances brought about my modern engineering, the use of theses marvels of current technology, such as a simple hand chain hoist, can now be found in homes all across America. Look in the garage of the average weekend mechanic and you’ll find a well-used hoist. But there are a few things that haven’t changed with the inclusion of the hoist for home use. Whether you’re using an electric device or a hand operated lever hoist, a sling can be an essential accessory.

The sling remains one of the main accessories used to move loads. From the industry of shipping lines to home use, the sling provides the most ease of use to contain a load. And yet, proper care and maintenance of the sling will help it last.

The most common type of sling is made from chains, ranging from heavy steel to lightweight alloys. And while both of these mediums can perform quite well, special care needs to be given when using alloy chains. While the alloy chains are much more lightweight, they can be fragile when subjected to sudden shifts in weight or shocks. Another thing to look for with alloy is stretching of chain links. However, this in no way removes any of the recommendation of alloy chains as a medium. For certain tasks, they can be quite helpful, especially to lighten a bearing load.

Take the extra care and inspection necessary. Bodily injury and lives may very well depend upon it. 

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