RIGGING SAFE OPERATING

PROCEDURES

All personnel involved with the use of rigging gear should be thoroughly instructed and trained to comply with the following practices:

1. Wire rope slings must not be used with loads that exceed the rated capacities outlined in enclosure (2) of the COMSECOND/COMTHIRDNCBINST 11200.11. Slings not included in the enclosure must be used only according to the manufacturer's recommendation.

2. Determine the weight of a load before attempting any lift.

3. Select a sling with sufficient capacity rating.

4. Examine all hardware, equipment, tackle, and slings before using them and destroy all defective components.

5. Use the proper hitch.

6. Guide loads with a tag line when practical.

7. When using multiple-leg slings, select the longest sling practical to reduce the stress on the individual sling legs.

8. Attach the sling securely to the load.

9. Pad or protect any sharp comers or edges the sling can come in contact with to prevent chaffing.

10. Keep slings free of kinks, loops, or twists.

11. Keep hands and fingers from between the sling and the load.

12. Start the lift slowly to avoid shock loading slings.

13. Keep slings well lubricated to prevent corrosion.

14. Do not pull slings from under a load when the load is resting on the slings; block the load up to remove slings.