A lifting sling comes in a specific color—but that color is not just for aesthetics. According to EN 1492-1 (flat webbing slings) and EN 1492-2 (round slings), each color corresponds to a specific Working Load Limit (WLL) , enabling quick and easy capacity identification on the job site .
A round sling does not come with an expiration date stamped on its label—but that does not mean it lasts forever. According to EN 1492-2, the European standard for roundslings, the working load limit (WLL) and safety factor are specified, but the service life depends on actual usage conditions. Some manufacturers specify a maximum lifespan of 10 years from first use under ideal conditions.
Choosing between a polyester flat sling and a nylon flat sling is not a matter of one being "better" than the other—it depends entirely on the application environment. Both materials share the same working load limits and temperature range (-40°C to 100°C) under EN 1492-1 , but differ significantly in elongation, chemical resistance, and moisture response. Nylon stretches 6–10% at rated load and resists alkalis but is destroyed by acids . Polyester stretches only 3–4% and resists acids but is damaged by alkalis . This guide provides a detailed comparison to help engineers and rigging professionals select the right flat sling material for their specific operating conditions.
Knowing when to replace flat slings is essential for rigging safety and regulatory compliance. Industry standards ASME B30.9 and EN 1492-1 define two levels of inspection—frequent (daily or pre-use) and periodic (annual or semi-annual)—each with specific criteria for determining when a sling must be removed from service. This guide explains the difference between frequent and periodic inspections, provides detailed checklists for each, and outlines the retirement criteria that trigger sling replacement. For rigging supervisors, safety managers, and operators, this is a practical reference for maintaining a safe sling inventory.