How to Choose the Right Lifting Sling: Safety and Efficiency Guide

Selecting the right lifting sling is essential to ensure safety and efficiency in your operations. With so many types of slings available, understanding the unique features, applications, and capacities of each is crucial. This guide will walk you through the factors to consider when choosing a lifting sling, along with recommended products from Bunzl Safety and Lifting to meet your needs

1. Understand the Different Types of Lifting Slings

Each type of lifting sling has its own strengths and is suited to specific applications. Below are the main types and their uses

Synthetic Webbing Slings
- Lightweight, flexible and resistant to abrasion, these slings are ideal for delicate or finished surfaces.
- Recommended Product: Beaver 4-Ply Flat Sling
  - Made from polyester webbing
  - Broad support area to cushion the load against damage and reduce slipping
Wire Rope Slings
- Known for their durability, wire rope slings are perfect for rugged environments and heavy-duty applications.
- Recommended Product: Beaver Steel Wire Rope – 7X19
  - Designed for heavy loads and harsh conditions
  - High corrosion resistance
  - Suitable for fixed “straight line” rigging
Chain Slings
- Chain slings are the most robust option, capable of handling extremely heavy loads. They are commonly used in construction and industrial settings.
- Recommended Product: Beaver G80 or G100 Chain Sling with Clevis Sling Hook or Clevis Selflocking Hooks
  - Heat-treated alloy steel for maximum strength
  - Compliant with AS 2321 and AS 3776 standards
  - Ideal for heavy lifting applications
Round Slings
- These provide excellent flexibility and are suited for lifting irregularly shaped loads.
- Recommended Product: Beaver Mega Round Slings
  - High-capacity polyester fabric
  - Soft design reduces damage to load surfaces
  - Lightweight and easy to handle

2. Consider the Load Requirements

Each sling has a specific Working Load Limit (WLL), which indicates the maximum weight it can safely lift. Before purchasing a sling, determine:

The weight of the load.
The shape and size of the load.
Whether the load will be lifted vertically or at an angle.

3. Evaluate the Environmental Conditions

The environment plays a significant role in determining the best lifting sling:

Hot Environments: Use chain slings as they can withstand high temperatures.
Corrosive Environments: opt for synthetic or coated wire rope slings for better resistance.
Wet Conditions: Polyester webbing slings resist water and maintain strength.

4. Inspect Compatibility with Lifting Equipment

Ensure the sling is compatible with the lifting hooks, shackles, or cranes you plan to use. For example, chain slings are versatile and can be paired with various hooks and fittings.

5. Check for Compliance with Safety Standards

In Australia, slings must comply with relevant safety standards:

AS 1353 for webbing slings.
AS 1666 for wire rope slings.
AS 3776 for chain slings.

6. Invest in Proper Maintenance and Storage

Proper maintenance extends the life of your lifting slings:

Inspect slings regularly for wear, tears, or damage.
Store slings in dry, clean areas away from direct sunlight or chemicals.

Selecting the right lifting sling involves understanding your specific needs, the environment, and the load requirements.

At Bunzl Safety and Lifting, we offer a wide range of lifting slings and accessories to suit any application. Browse our collection today to find the perfect lifting solution and ensure the safety and efficiency of your operations.

How to Choose the Right Lifting Sling: A Complete Guide to Safety