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General / Miscellaneous Questions


Q: Will SSG proof-test my slings on site, as part of my annual sling inspection?
A: Safety Services Group equipment used to proof-test slings is not portable. Any slings that need to be proof-tested must be done at one of our five factory locations: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and Basra.
Q: Are safety latches required on all of my sling hooks?
A: Latches are required as per local and international regulations.
Q: Will SSG test and certify homemade lifting devices?
A: SSG can pull test your device and provide a certificate showing what we did, but certification for the device must come from the manufacturer of that device.
Q: Will SSG “pull test” a product that is not SSG’s?
A: Yes
Q: Are all slings proof tested? Will a certificate be provided?
A: Each SSG wire rope, chain, webbing sling are individually proof tested and comes standard with a Certificate of Proof Test. All other slings can be proof tested and certified upon request for a fee.
Q: What is the difference between a certificate of conformance and a proof test certificate?
A: SSG actually has two levels of certification for all other slings. A Certificate of Conformance is offered at no charge and lists the serial numbers of the slings being shipped. It also certifies that these slings have been manufactured in accordance with all applicable standards. The listed slings are not proof tested. A Certificate of Proof Test is issued, for a fee, when the customer needs to have their slings proof tested and certified.
Q: What is the least expensive sling I can use?
A: That depends on your situation. You need to know what you’re lifting, how you’re lifting it, how often you are going to use the sling and your lifting environment. Our Customer Service department can help you choose the best option for your application.
Q: What specifications or standards do you comply with?
A: SSG manufactures and supplies its products that comply with all applicable standards such as BS, EN, ILO, API, ASME, DNV, IS and local standards.
Q: Is SSG ISO certified?
A: We are ISO 9001 and OHSAS 18000 certified company. We do have a thorough quality program in place for all our products.
Q: How do I get individual serial numbers on my slings, and why do some of my slings have the same serial numbers?
A: SSG serializes slings to enable us to trace each slings materials, as well as date and location of manufacture. Upon request, we can place requested serial numbers or sequential serial numbers on individual slings.
Q: What is the shortest I can get this sling?
A: Minimum lengths shown throughout the SSG are based on standard capacities and constructions. Shorter lengths can often be achieved by altering the standard construction and/or reducing the capacity ratings. Contact our Customer Service Department to discuss your needs for a shorter sling.
Q: How does angle of lift affect the lifting capacity of my slings?
A: The effect of lifting at an angle is one of the most important rigging concepts. For a detailed explanation on this topic, please contact the Technical Team of SSG.
Q: What are the international requirements for tagging?
A:
  • Alloy steel chain slings shall have permanently affixed durable identification stating size, grade, rated capacity and reach.
  • Metal mesh slings shall have permanently affixed durable marking stating rated capacity for vertical basket and choker hitches.
  • Synthetic web slings shall be marked or coded to show the rated capacities for each type of hitch and type of synthetic web material.
  • Employers must use only wire-rope slings that have permanently affixed and legible identification markings as prescribed by the manufacturer, and that indicate the recommended safe working load for the type(s) of hitch(es) used, the angle upon which it is based, and the number of legs if more than one.
  • Standards requires that its' round slings have permanent, legible tags showing the sling material(s) and the rated capacities for applicable types of hitches.
  • Q: Why can’t I use a good sling if it doesn’t have a tag?
    A: Absence of a tag makes it difficult to know the rated capacity of a sling and, therefore, difficult to properly rig a lift. It is a standard requirement for chain, mesh and web slings to be tagged.
    Q: Can ratchets be used for lifting?
    A: Ratchets are not designed for that purpose and generally should not be used for lifting. However, ratchets incorporated as part of a lifting system designed by a reputable sling manufacturer for a specific lifting situation may be allowed.
    Q: How can you tell if a sling has been sheared, or overloaded?
    A: Synthetic slings that have been cut or sheared will exhibit a straight line of broken fibers in a portion of, or completely across, the area of the break. An overloaded sling will not. Standards do require that “Slings shall be padded or protected from the sharp edges of their loads.”
    Q: What is a Design Factor? What is it for lifting? For towing or tie downs?
    A: Design Factor is the ratio between the minimum Break Strength of the assembly when new and the Rated Capacities or Working Load Limits. The industry standard design factor for web slings is 7:1, chain slings 4:1, wire rope slings is 5:1. Tow straps and tie downs have a 3:1 design factor. Never use slings or tie downs in excess of their rated capacities/working load limits.
    Q: What is the longest sling you can make?
    A: At SSG slings can be made as per the desired length of the clients. For other types of slings, please contact our Customer Service Department.
    Q: What slings can be repaired?
    A: Chain and mesh slings can be repaired. Outer cover damage on round slings can be repaired. Web slings and wire rope slings cannot be repaired. However, their undamaged hardware can be reused.
    Q: Can you attach my hardware to your slings?
    A: If your hardware is undamaged and made from a reputable source, it can be reused. Homemade hardware cannot be used.
    Q: Is it OK to connect slings together without hardware?
    A: No. This would severely reduce the strength of the slings.
    Q: Why do slings need to be inspected?
    A: Aside from being required by international and local standards, damaged slings are dangerous to both people and property.