Rigging Inspection 101: How to Keep Your Rigging Safe and Compliant

Rigging hardware is the critical link between the crane and the load. Wire rope slings, synthetic slings, shackles, hooks, and spreader bars — every piece of rigging must be inspected, maintained, and documented to ensure safe crane operations. Yet rigging inspection remains one of the most commonly cited OSHA deficiencies on construction sites.

At Craneaholics, we believe rigging inspection is not a chore — it is a lifeline. Here is what every crane professional needs to know.

When to Inspect Rigging

Before Each Use (Pre-Shift)

OSHA requires that rigging equipment be inspected before each use. This is a visual inspection looking for obvious damage, wear, or defects that could affect load-bearing capability.

Periodic Inspections

Detailed inspections at regular intervals based on frequency of use, severity of service conditions, and manufacturer recommendations. These inspections should be documented and maintained.

After Incident or Overload

Any rigging that has been subjected to shock loading, overloading, or has been involved in an incident must be immediately removed from service and inspected by a qualified person before returning to use.

What to Look For

Wire Rope Slings

• Broken wires — 10 or more broken wires in one rope lay is a rejection criterion
• Kinking, crushing, or bird-caging
• Evidence of heat damage or electrical arc damage
• Corrosion, pitting, or loss of lubrication
• End fitting damage or displacement
• Reduction in rope diameter indicating core failure

Synthetic Web Slings

• Cuts, tears, holes, or snags in the webbing
• Chemical damage or discoloration from exposure
• UV degradation from prolonged sun exposure
• Melting or charring from heat exposure
• Missing or illegible identification tags

Shackles

• Deformation, elongation, or visible bending
• Worn or damaged threads on the pin
• Missing or incorrect pin (never use a bolt as a shackle pin)
• Corrosion or pitting on load-bearing surfaces
• Illegible capacity markings

Documentation Requirements

OSHA requires that all rigging inspections be documented. Each piece of rigging should have:

• Unique identification number or tag
• Rated capacity clearly marked
• Inspection history with dates and inspector name
• Manufacturer certification or proof of load testing

Removal Criteria

Rigging must be immediately removed from service and destroyed or repaired by a qualified person when it fails inspection criteria. Do not leave condemned rigging accessible — it will inevitably end up back in service if not physically removed or destroyed.

For expert rigging oversight and safety consulting, or to discuss lift planning that includes rigging design, contact Craneaholics.