Rigging inspection programs fail in predictable ways: no designated inspector, no records, and no criteria posted where gear lives. OSHA 1910.184 and the ASME B30 series define what "inspected" actually means — here's the framework in one page.
The Three Inspection Levels
Initial: verify new gear matches the order — markings, tags, certs — before first use. Frequent: visual inspection by the user before each shift or use; no records required, but damaged gear is removed immediately. Periodic: documented inspection by a designated person, at intervals based on service severity — normal service annually at minimum, severe service quarterly or monthly, special service as engineered.
What Gets Inspected, by Standard
| Gear | Standard | Headline criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Slings (all types) | ASME B30.9 | Tags, broken wires, stretch, cuts, hooks |
| Shackles, hoist rings, links | ASME B30.26 | Markings, 10% wear, deformation, pins |
| Hooks | ASME B30.10 | Throat spread >15%, twist >10°, latch function |
| Below-hook devices | ASME B30.20 | Structural, markings, rated load tests |
The Automatic Removals
Across all gear: missing or illegible identification, heat and weld damage, cracks anywhere, unauthorized repairs or modifications (welding on rigging hardware is disqualifying), bent load-bearing components, and any doubt — doubt removes gear pending a designated person's evaluation.
Records That Satisfy an Audit
A working file per asset or gear class: unique ID (tag, stamp, or serial), purchase cert, periodic inspection dates and findings, and disposition of removed gear. Destroyed gear should be cut or rendered unusable — a retired sling in a gang box finds its way back to work.
Building the Habit
Designate and train the inspector, stage inspection stations where rigging is stored, color-code periodic inspection status (tape or tag by quarter), and make removal frictionless: if a rigger has to argue to scrap a sling, the program is broken.
Replace Removed Gear Fast
When inspection pulls gear from service, we restock it — slings, shackles, chain, hooks, and hardware with certs, shipped from Texas. List what came out of service in the quote form at the top of the page — quotes answered during business hours.