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6
SLING COMPATIBILITY &
SAFETY STATEMENT
Published in 2012, the document titled ‘Getting to grips with hoisting people’ produced by the
Health & Safety Executive (HSE) highlights the problems associated with hoisting people and
sets out guidance to deal with these:
*Sling sizes and coding varies between manufacturers. There is a risk of using an
inappropriately sized sling if you make assumptions without checking the suitability of a
specific sling for the individual. For example, two large slings from different manufacturers
may be different sizes - the body of the sling may be a different length or the number of loop
attachments may differ, resulting in a different lifting position. Additionally, sling designs can
alter over time, so a new sling from a manufacturer may differ in size or attachment strap
length from on previously purchased. Some slings come with a range of different length loops
for attachment to the hoist. These can be used to increase the comfort of the individual or put
them in a more reclined or upright position. However, you should take great care to choose
the correct loops for the individual so that they are not at risk of slipping from the sling, and to
use the same loop configuration on both sides to reduce the risk of the person falling from the
sling sideways.
Equipment safety checks for slings prior to each use, need to ensure that:
●
The sling is the correct size and type for the client and is fit for purpose;
●
The sling and hoist are compatible;
●
All labels are legible and show the SWL and unique identifier and size;
●
There are no signs of fraying, tears or deterioration;
●
All stitching is present and intact;
●
The velcro (if applicable) is clean and free of fibres/fluff etc;
●
The buckle (is applicable) has no signs of damage etc;
●
The loops/clips have no obvious signs of damage/fraying etc; and
●
It has been cleaned.”
(Extract taken from Getting to grips with hoisting people)
For a copy of this HSE document please go to www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/hsis3.pdf
** ‘Contains public sector information published by the Health and Safety Executive and
licensed under the Open Government Licence’. A copy of this licence can be found at
http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/2/.