1. KNOTS, TWIST & KINKS.

After you have read the sling tag, and have determined it has a rating
equal to greater than the weight of the lift, check each branch of the
sling to make sure the chain has absolutely no twists, knots or kinks.
If you do not remove the twists, konts or kinks before lifting, the
stress caused may result in the faliure of the chain now or at a later
use. Remember, the definition of Working Load Limit? it's "the maximum
load that shall be applied in direct tension to a new and undamaged
length of chain". That means straight line pull. No Twist, Knots or Kinks!
Also, the chain may have been abused by a previous user so always check
it for nicks or damage before lifting. Safety only takes minutes, an injury can
last a lifetime.

2. ABRUPT MOVEMENT

Added stress will be put on the ling chain if sudden jerking
occurs while raising or lowering the load. Raising or lowering
a load with a jerk can exceed the Workiing Load Limit of the
sling. Take it slow and easy.

3. BALANCE

Unbalanced loads should always be avoided. Also, make
sure you center the master link on the lifting hook.
Do not force the sling hook on to the lifting point of the
load. Tip loading of hooks will reduce the capacity of
the sling and can damage the hook.
Do not shorten a sling leg with a knot, bolt or other
makeshift device in order to get the load in balance.
Balance is particularity important when using a basket
hitch where slippage of the load may occur.

4. SHARP EDGES

If the chain must be wrapped around the load, pad the chain to
prevent damage to the links, especially around sharp corners.
When lowering loads, set down gently to avoid crushing the chain.

5. HIGH TEMPERATURES

Alloy chain is heat treated in order to obtain the high strength
and wear factors needed for the sling. Overheating a chain
sling destroys the integrity of the heat treatament.
If sling chains are exposed to extreme temperatures the
Working Load chains Limitis reduced.

6. INSPECTIONS

Regular sling inspections and good record keeping are key
to making a professional lift. All slings should be shipped
with a test certificate indicating that the sling has been
proof tested at twice the Working Load LImit of the chain.
Slings that have been in service for more than tree years,
and that have been used on a regular basis, should be sent
in for recertification. Records for each individual sling
should indentify the individual serial number prior to being
put in service.