Under OSHA 29 CFR 1926.251, employers must ensure that all rigging equipment, including slings, fastenings, and attachments, undergoes a rigorous inspection by a designated competent person before each shift and as necessary during its use to ensure operational safety. Any defective gear exhibiting excessive wear, gouges, deformed hardware, or heat damage must be immediately removed from service and appropriately tagged or destroyed to prevent accidental reuse.
Beyond these daily visual checks, OSHA specifically mandates that alloy steel chain slings require a documented, thorough inspection on a regular basis, at least once every 12 months, though heavy usage often dictates monthly intervals. These formal records must be meticulously maintained and available for review.
Adhering to these strict ASME and OSHA protocols is critical for preventing catastrophic failures during heavy lifting operations and protecting personnel on the job site. For a comprehensive guide on maintaining site compliance, download our Rigging Inspection Checklist.