How Often Must Rigging Equipment Be Inspected?
Rigging equipment fails silently. A shackle that looks fine can be one overload away from breaking, which is why inspection is mandatory, not optional. This guide explains how often to inspect rigging gear and what to look for.
Why Inspection Matters
Shackles, slings and hooks wear out through overload, corrosion, fatigue and abuse. A regular inspection catches damage before it becomes a dropped load.
What the Standards Say
OSHA and ASME require rigging to be inspected by a competent person before each shift and at regular intervals. Damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service immediately.
How Often to Inspect
Before each use or shift: a visual check of every component in the rig.
Periodic documented inspection: at least annually, and more often for severe service.
After any incident, overload or impact: inspect before returning to service.
What to Check
Shackles: bending, stretching, cracks, worn or seized pins, corrosion.
Slings: cuts, abrasion, broken fibers, heat damage, missing tags.
Hooks: opening distortion, cracks, latch damage, wear.
Chain: stretched links, cracks, gouges, corrosion.
When to Remove Equipment from Service
Take equipment out of service if it shows cracks, deformation, excessive wear or corrosion, or if the identification and WLL marking is no longer readable.
FAQ
How often does OSHA require rigging inspection?
OSHA requires a visual inspection before each shift and periodic documented inspections by a competent person.
Can I keep using a shackle with a bent pin?
No. A bent or distorted pin is a sign of overload and the shackle must be removed from service.
Rig With Confidence
SolidLink supplies rigging hardware with WLL marked and material certificates available. Browse our shackles or contact us for a quote.
