Before every use, a competent person must inspect rigging equipment for four things per OSHA 29 CFR 1926.251:
Identification and load ratings — every sling, shackle, and piece of hardware must have a legible identification tag showing its rated capacity. If the tag is missing or unreadable, the equipment cannot be used.
Physical damage — check for cuts, gouges, crushing, kinking, bird-caging in wire rope, burns or melting in synthetic slings, and deformation in hooks or shackles. Any visible damage means immediate removal from service.
Wear and corrosion — look for wire rope diameter reduction exceeding 5%, chain stretch beyond manufacturer limits, rust or chemical deterioration, and abrasion patterns that reduce cross-sectional area.
Proper assembly — verify that all components are correctly connected, pins are fully seated, safety latches are functional, and the rigging configuration matches the planned hitch type.
Equipment failing any of these checks must be removed from service immediately.