When to Retire a Lifting Slings: Visual Guide to Cuts, Abrasion, and Chemical Burns

Knowing when to retire a lifting sling is one of the most critical skills in rigging safety. A sling that appears serviceable may have hidden damage that compromises its strength, while visible damage types—cuts, abrasion, chemical burns, heat damage, and UV degradation—each have specific retirement criteria defined by ASME B30.9, OSHA, and EN 1492. This visual guide explains how to identify each type of damage, what to look for during inspection, and the specific conditions that require immediate removal from service. For rigging supervisors, safety professionals, and operators, this guide provides a practical reference for making informed retirement decisions.