When a wire rope sling appears to be damaged, who makes the decision regarding its serviceability?

The decision regarding the serviceability of a wire rope sling when it appears to be damaged is made by a competent person. A competent person is defined as someone who has the knowledge, experience, and training to identify hazards and make informed judgments about the condition and safe usage of rigging equipment. This individual has a deep understanding of industry standards and manufacturer guidelines concerning rigging and slings, enabling them to evaluate the extent of any damage and decide if the sling can still be safely used or if it needs to be replaced.

Other personnel, such as crane operators or members of the rigging crew, may have valuable insights or knowledge about the equipment, but they do not possess the designated authority or specific expertise required to make definitive safety calls. Safety officers may oversee workplace safety protocols but are not always present during rigging operations to evaluate equipment on the spot. Therefore, the role of the competent person is critical in ensuring that all safety measures are adhered to when it comes to evaluating the serviceability of rigging equipment.