• Inspect chain slings every working day. Check for visible faults in links and hooks.

A competent person should inspect chain slings periodically, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. For record keeping purposes it is useful if each chain has a metal tag with an identification number and load limit information. Information about the chain length and other characteristics and a inspection schedule should recorded in a log book.

• Clean sling before inspection.
• Hang the chain up or stretch the chain out on a level floor in a well-lighted area. Remove all twists. Measure the sling length. Discard if a sling has been stretched.
• Make a link-by-link inspection and discard if:

. c. Twisted or bent.

d. Stretched. Links tend to close up and get longer.

• Check master link, load pins and hooks for any of the above faults. Hooks should be removed from service if they have been opened more than 15% of the normal throat opening, measured at the narrowest point, or twisted more than 10° from the plane of the unbent hook.
• Manufacturers' reference charts show sling and hitch capacities. Record manufacturer, type, load limit and inspection dates.

• Find out load weight before lifting.
• Lower working a load limit if there may be severe impact.
• Balance the load to avoid overstress on one sling arm or the load slipping free.
• Pad sharp corners to prevent bending links.

• Replace broken safety latches.
• Reduce the load limit when using chain in temperatures above 425°C (800°F).
• Keep hands and fingers from between load and chain.
• Store chain sling arms on racks in assigned areas.

• Avoid impact loading: do not jerk the load when lifting or lowering the sling. This increases the actual stress on the sling.
• Do not drag chains.
• Do not splice a chain by inserting a bolt between two links.
• Do not shorten a chain with knots or by twisting.
• Do not force a hook over a link.
• Do not use homemade connections. Use only attachments designed for the chain.
• Do not heat treat or weld chain links: the lifting capacity will be reduced drastically.