How Often Does Rigging Gear Need to Be Inspected?
As a general rule there are three types of inspections that occur during the service life of a piece of rigging equipment:
Initial Inspection – Make sure you perform an initial visual inspection when you receive any new rigging products from a supplier. Double check the tags on slings, and any and all markings on hardware, to ensure it’s what you ordered and is properly rated for the lift you’re going to perform.
Frequent Inspection – Best practice is to have your riggers and operators perform a hands-on inspection of all rigging equipment prior to any change in shift or change in lifting application. For severe or special service applications, inspect all rigging gear before each use.
Periodic Inspection – Required, at a minimum, once every 12 months. Never use the term “annual” when referring to a Periodic inspection. The severity of service and operating environment may dictate more frequent Periodic inspections (monthly to quarterly) than once every 12 months, as recommended by a Qualified person.