Chain Slings Manual

CHAIN SLING
USER’S MANUAL
www.peerlesschain.com
foreword
For many years we have worked closely with all industries
to assist them in proper selection, use and maintenance of
chain slings. Thousands of companies have accepted our
recommendations, and as a result have enjoyed excellent
safety records in materials lifting operations.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration

(OSHA) makes it the legal responsibility of chain sling users
to comply with the requirements of 1910.184. Disregard
of OSHA regulations by chain sling users can result in the
levying of heavy fines, amounting to thousands of dollars.
*Download this standard from www.OSHA.gov or you can
view this standard on our website at
www.peerlesschain.com.
As a chain manufacturer, Peerless Industrial Group

produces and delivers the finest products available for
lifting and rigging. But, quality products, good design and
careful inspection procedures do not eliminate the user’s
responsibility and the hazards of lifting and improper
rigging. With OSHA serving as a guide, we believe the
reduction of lifting hazards can be achieved by combining
the use of quality products with knowledge, intelligence,
proven practices, care, and common sense.
Our warnings are intended to identify those risks which

are the most common. We are not responsible for the end
user’s assembly in which our chain may be used. Failure
of the product can occur due to misapplication, abuse,
intentional alteration or improper maintenance. Product
failure can result in property damage, personal injury or
death.
! WARNING
2 Failure to read, understand and follow the instructions in this booklet
could result in serious physical injury and property damage.
It is essential that personnel be thoroughly trained in the
proper operation of lifting equipment and the handling
of loads. Extreme care is necessary to offset the hazards
of overloading by improper hitching, obstruction free
passage of the load, and using equipment or materials
for purposes other than those for which they have been
designed.
Thus, the objective of this Chain Sling User’s Manual is
to impart a knowledge of chain sling properties and the
proper use, care and maintenance of chain slings. It is
also intended to assist the chain user to evaluate loads
and to adopt lifting practices that will conform to safety
requirements.
The material presented in this manual represents
interpretation of the law as it presently applies to chain
sling selection and use. Future developments will be
reported in advertising and trade literature to further assist
chain sling users in meeting OSHA requirements for lifting
and hoisting.
Table of Contents Page
Chapter 1. Principal Chain Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 2: Basic Safety Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Chapter 3. Evaluating the Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Chapter 4. Selecting the Proper Sling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Chapter 5. Rigging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Chapter 6. Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 27
Chapter 7. Inspection Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Chapter 8. Ways to Avoid Chain Failure . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Chapter 9. 25 Things to Consider When Creating a Lift Plan . . 34
Glossary of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Industry Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Custom Lifting Device and Distribution Centers . 60
www.peerlesschain.com 3
Chapter 1
Principal Chain Requirements
Essential compliance with OSHA requirements can
be accomplished by adopting the following 24
recommendations, 20 of which are classified as “Do’s”
and 4 as “Don’ts”.
Do
1. Have permanently affixed durable and legible

identification tags on alloy steel chain slings stating name
of manufacturer, size, grade, rated capacity at a given
angle, reach and serial number.
2. Use alloy steel chain slings for lifting loads equal to or

less than the rated capacities prescribed in Table 1, Page 5.
3. Use slings not included in Table 1 only in accordance

with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4. Reduce the rated capacity of the alloy steel chain sling

to the rated capacity of the weakest component(s) when
the component(s) have a lower rated capacity than the
alloy steel chain. This includes hooks, rings, oblong links,
pear shaped links, welded or mechanical coupling links,
or other attachments.
! WARNING
Working Load Limits - Grade 80 & 100 Alloy Chain
Single Leg Sling Double Leg Sling Triple and Quad Leg Sling
Table 1
60° 45° 30°

60° 45° 30°
90°
SIZE
7/32” (6mm) 2,100 3,600 3,000 2,100 5,500 4,400 3,200
9/32” (7mm) 3.500 6,100 4,900 3,500 9,100 7,400 5,200
3/8” (10mm) 7,100 12,300 10,000 7,100 18,400 15,100 10,600
1/2” (13mm) 12,000 20,800 17,000 12,000 31,200 25,500 18,000
www.peerlesschain.com
5/8” (16mm) 18,100 31,300 25,600 18,100 47,000 38,400 27,100
3/4” 28,300 49,000 40,000 28,300 73,500 60,000 42,400
7/8” 34,200 59,200 48,400 34,200 88,900 72,500 51,300
1” 47,700 82,600 67,400 47,700 123,900 101,200 71,500
Grade 80
1 1/4” 72,300 125,200 102,200 72,300 187,800 153,400 108,400
1 1/2” * 100,000 173,200 141,400 100,000 259,800 212,100 150,000
1 3/4” * 131,250 227,300 185,600 131,250 341,000 278,400 196,900
2” * 175,000 303,100 247,500 175,000 454,600 371,200 262,500
7/32” (6mm) 3,200 5,500 4,500 3,200 8,300 6,800 4,800
9/32” 4,300 7,400 6,100 4,300 11,200 9,100 6,400
5/16” 5,700 9,900 8,100 5,700 14,800 12,100 8,500
3/8” 8,800 15,200 12,400 8,800 22,900 18,700 13,200
1/2” 15,000 26,000 21,200 15,000 39,000 31,800 22,500
5/8” 22,600 39,100 32,000 22,600 58,700 47,900 33,900
3/4” 35,300 61,100 49,900 35,300 91,700 74,900 53,000
Grade 100
7/8” 42,700 74,000 60,400 42,700 110,900 90,600 64,000
1” 59,700 103,400 84,400 59,700 155,100 126,600 89,550
1 1/4” 90,400 156,600 127,800 90,400 234,900 191,700 135,600
*Large diameter chain manufactured at our Jeanette facility. *These limits must not be exceeded. Manufacturers do not accept any liability for damages which may result
from chain used in excess of working load limits. When using hooks in a shortening (grab) or choker application, the Working Load Limit (WLL) of the sling must be reduced
5
by 20%. The V10 Grade Eye & Clevis Shortening Grab Hooks found in our catalog require no reduction in WLL.
Always consider risk assessment, lift plan and load control.

Chapter 1
CLEAN
INSPECT
INSPECT LINK REGULARLY
BY LINK
STORE PROPERLY
5. Have a competent person, as designated by the
employer, inspect the sling and all components for
damage or defects each day prior to use.
6. Have a competent person perform and document a

thorough visual inspection of each chain sling at least
once every 12 months. The inspection schedule should
be based on frequency of sling use, severity of service
conditions, and nature of lifts being made.
7. Maintain a record of all documented inspections for

each individual sling.
8. Remove damaged and defective alloy steel chain

slings from service immediately.
! WARNING
Chapter 1
9. Implement, complete, and maintain a record of the
most recent month in which each alloy steel chain
sling was thoroughly inspected and have such records
available for examination.
10. Ensure that each new, repaired or reconditioned

alloy steel chain sling has been proof tested, including
all welded components in the sling assembly, in
accordance with ASTM A391, A973, A906, ASME B30.9
and OSHA 1910.184.
11. Reduce the Working

Load Limit (WLL)
of a sling 20% when
using non-cradle
or non-shortening
grab hooks in a
shortening or choker
application.
Chapter 1
12. Retain the Certificates of Proof Test for each sling

and have them available for examination.
13. Ensure that alloy steel chain slings repaired or

reconditioned by welding or heat treating, are repaired,
reconditioned and proof tested by a sling manufacturer or
equivalent entity.
14. Remove alloy steel chain slings from service if the chain
size at any point in a link is less than that stated in Table 2
(Table of Wear), Page 11.
15. Reduce the rated capacities permitted in Table

1, in accordance with the recommendations of the
manufacturer, of alloy steel chain slings when exposed to
temperatures of 400 degrees F or greater, (see Table 3, Page
11).
16. Remove alloy steel chain slings from service

permanently if they are heated above 1000° F, in
accordance with OSHA 1910.184.
! WARNING
Chapter 1
17. Remove from service all alloy steel chain slings with
cracked and/or deformation or degradation of components
and master links.
Eye Bent or Twisted

5% Maximum
Throat Spread Hook Tip
Bent or
Twisted
0° Maximum Bend or Twist

18. Remove alloy steel chain slings from service if hooks
are cracked, have been opened more than 5% of the
normal throat opening measured at the narrowest point or
twisted more than 0 degrees from the plane of the unbent
hook.
19. Untwist to assure that all legs of the sling are aligned
in the same plane. This will allow for a straight bearing to
bearing interlink surface contact for maximum safety and
efficiency. (100% bearing surface contact from link to link).
20. Obtain a copy of the Occupational Safety & Health

Administration Standard (OSHA 1910.184) for slings from
www.OSHA.gov. You can also view this information at
www.peerlesschain.com.
Chapter 1
The Don’ts
1. Don’t use Proof Coil, BBB, High Test, Transport (P7) or any
other low carbon chain for lifting or hoisting.*
2. Don’t use mechanical coupling links or low carbon
repair links to repair broken lengths of chain on an alloy
chain sling.
3. Don’t use makeshift links or fasteners formed from bolts
or rods or other such attachments.
4. Don’t lift over people and don’t ride the load.
Environmental Conditions
In addition to the preceding recommendations, Peerless
does not recommend the use of alloy steel chain or chain
slings for use in acid or pickling solutions. The high tensile
strength of the heat treated alloy material in alloy steel
chains is susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement and acidic
degradation.
Consider oversized normalized Proof Coil Peerless Chain

slings or acid resisting Monel or stainless steel chains and
sling components for this service.*
The above restriction also applies to galvanizing

operations. The high temperature of the galvanizing
bath may permanently reduce the tensile strength of the
alloy steel chain material and the galvanizing operation
is usually preceded by an acidic cleaning or pickling
operation.
! WARNING *Consult manufacturers recommendation.

Tables 2 & 3
Table of Wear:
If chain is worn to less than the minimum allowable
thickness (T), remove the chain from service.
Minimum Allowable Chain Link Thickness at Any Point
Nominal Chain Size Minimum Thickness
Inches mm Inches mm
7/32 5.5 0.189 4.8
9/32 7 0.239 6.07
5/16 8 0.273 6.93
3/8 10 0.342 8.69
1/2 13 0.443 11.26
5/8 16 0.546 13.87
3/4 20 0.687 17.45
7/8 22 0.75 19.05
1 26 0.887 22.53
1-1/4 32 1.091 27.71

Refer to ASME B30.9
Effect of Elevated Temperature
Maximum Reduction of WLL Reduction of WLL after
Temp. of Chain while at temp. exposure to temp.
Grade 80 Grade 100 Grade 80 Grade 100
Below 400° F None None None None
400° F 10% 15% None None
500° F 15% 25% None 5%
600° F 20% 30% 5% 15%
700° F 30% 40% 10% 20%
800° F 40% 50% 15% 25%
900° F 50% 60% 20% 30%
1000° F 60% 70% 25% 35%
Over 1000° F *(Below) *(Below *(Below) *(Below)

* OSHA 1910.184 requires all slings exposed to temperatures over 1000°F to be removed from service.
Chapter 2
Basic Safety Guidelines
A. LIFT PLAN:
1. Trained/Qualified/Competent Person (Rigger)?
2. Static or Dynamic Lift?
3. Path or Route of the Lift?
4. Approved Rigging Inspected & Tagged?
5. Head Room, Environment, Communication
(Signals)?
B. RISK ASSESSMENT:
1. Escape Plan.
2. Fall Radius.
3. Don’t place yourself between LOAD &
IMMOVEABLE OBJECT!
4. Don’t lift or move load over co-workers.
5. Anticipate possible problems – EVERY LIFT IS A
RISK!
C. LOAD CONTROL:
1. COG, Center of Gravity (Must Determine).
2. Determine the WEIGHT of the load.
3. Select the proper Rigging, Hitch, WLL and Angle.
4. ALWAYS Rig the load correctly & according to
OSHA, ASME & Mfg. REC.
5. Always lift the load level, stable, use tag line if
necessary.
EVERY LIFT IS A RISK!
! WARNING
Chapter 3
Evaluating the Load
Before any lift shall be made, the chain sling user must
know as much about the load as possible to minimize
potential dangers to personnel, product and property.
The obvious starting point — know the weight of

the load. Don’t guess. In most cases, the company’s
engineering department will furnish a blueprint of the
product or object to be lifted. The blueprint will generally
give the weight of the load. Weigh Bills are also a good
reference source to provide the weight of a given load.
Another way to estimate the weight of a load prior to lifting

is to base load calculations on the weight of a cubic foot of
the material.
For example, a cubic foot of steel weighs 500 lbs.

approximately. Assume the load being lifted consists of a
9ft x 12ft. steel plate, 1 inch thick.
Thus, the chain sling user calculates as follows:
9 ft. x 12 ft. x 1/12 ft. = 9cu.ft.
9 cu. ft. x 500 lbs./cu. ft. = 4500 lbs.

(weight of the load)
Reach and Angle of Lift

Once the weight of the load is known, the user must then
determine the type of sling, the reach and angle of lift for
the chain sling he selects. The size of the chain can then be
determined from Table 1, Page 5.
Chapter 3
Evaluating the Load
The reach of the sling and the angle of the lift are related
to the distance between the points of attachment to the
load.
A sling with a longer reach and a larger angle of lift will

permit a greater sling capacity.
Fig. 1 — The load on each chain leg is increased as the lift

angle decreases.
! WARNING
Chapter 3
Evaluating the Load
A simple method for calculating the rated capacity of a
given sling connected to a load is to estimate the distance B
(Fig. 2) and then multiply the working limit of the sling at 90
degrees (value of a single chain x number of legs in sling)
— from Table 1 — by the ratio of distance B to the reach R.
(Check the sling identification tag for reach).
W.L.L. (at 90°) x number of legs x B = rated capacity of sling
R
For example: W.L.L. = 3,250 lbs.
No. of legs = 2, B = 8.5 ft. R = 10ft.
3,250 lbs. x 2 x 8.5/10 = 5,525 lbs. rated capacity
Fig. 2
When dimension B is shortened due to a low ceiling and

the angles of lift decrease to smaller angles, remember that
the load on each leg of the chain will be greatly increased.
And, the working load limits of chain slings at these smaller
angles of lift will be reduced. Check the working load limit
chart on page 5 of this booklet to make sure that the rated
working load limit of the chain sling in use at these angles
equals or exceeds the weight of the load.
DO NOT go below 30° angle of the lift.
Chapter 4
Selecting the Proper Sling
The four most common chain slings are:
1. Single — as the name implies, there is only one chain
leg to this type of sling. It consists of a master link, a
length of alloy chain, and a hook (there are three types
of hooks — sling hooks, grab hooks, and foundry hooks
— any of which can be selected depending on the
application).
SOS SOG SOF
The total weight of the load is carried by the single

chain sling. The angle of lift is 90 degrees, and the
weight of the load can equal the full working load limit
of the chain.
This is a choke hitch. This is a vertical hitch.
! WARNING
Chapter 4
2. Double — consisting of two chain legs both connected

to a master link at one end and each leg attached
to a hook at the other end, the double chain sling is
generally used for more applications than any other
type.
When using a choker hitch in conjunction with a

non-cradle grab hook. The capacity must be reduced
by 20%. The Angle of Choke must also be at a minimum
of 120° or additional reduction must be applied.
Chapter 4
3. Triple – the three legged chain sling is often used to
improve stability of the load when lifting (load control).
This is a choke hitch.
! WARNING
Chapter 4
4. Quadruple – a four-legged chain sling has the same
rating as a triple since the load is seldom evenly
distributed on a quadruple sling. The fourth leg is
frequently needed to stabilize a load during the lifting
operation.
This is a vertical hitch.
Chapter 4
Special Purpose Chain Slings
There are four other variations in hitching that are

frequently used:
1. Basket hitch — as the name implies,

chain is looped basket style around
the load. Load must be well
balanced to prevent tilting.
2. Double basket-hitch — works

well especially for lifting
plates or rods. But, the load
must be properly centered
because the sling leg
angles have to be
carefully controlled to
guard against any
sudden horizontal
movement. The legs
must be kept far
enough apart to
provide proper
balance for the load
but close enough together to provide sufficient friction
to keep them from being pulled in toward the center.
(Consider the D/d ratio for all basket applications.)
! WARNING
Chapter 4
3. Choker hitch –
extremely popular
because of the
clamping effect of
the chain. Its
choking action
improves the
reliability of
securement (20%
WLL reduction may
be required).
4. Double choker hitch –

made for two-point
suspension and well
suited for handling
rods, bars, pipe, etc.
Chapter 4
There are many other chain
slings and assemblies to choose
from for specialized lifting
applications. Specials can
include adjustable singles,
doubles, triples and quadruples;
single and endless single basket
slings; and chain shorteners — all
designed to meet speciﬁc lifting
applications.
Spreader Beams — A standard spreader beam consists

of a structural beam suspended by a two-legged sling.
Alloy lifting chains are suspended from the ends of the
beam and attached to the load. In this way, there are no
compressive forces tending to deform the load.
For more information on spreader beams, please refer to the Peerless

Below-the-Hook & Material Handling Equipment catalog.
! WARNING
Chapter 5
Rigging
It is not possible to cover adequately the subject of safety,
the effect of the center of gravity of a body in relation to
the lifting points or the distribution of forces in the sling
and body, in this small booklet.
It is recommended that everyone involved in the

lifting and transporting of articles should familiarize
themselves with the fundamentals of safety. However,
a few illustrations covering the effect of such forces in
equilibrium are shown in the following figures.
BAD
GOOD
Fig. 3
Fig. 3 — The center of gravity of the body is under the
crane hook; the angles of lift are equal and each chain leg
is carrying the same load.
Chapter 5
Rigging
Consider the following: Risk Assessment, Load Control, Lift
Plan
Fig. 4
BAD
GOOD
Fig. 4A
Fig. 4 & 4A — Using equal legged slings, the center of

gravity is not in line with the point of lift. The load when
lifted will tilt (Fig. 4), until the chain slings (Fig. 4A) having
unequal leg length (B) the center of gravity is under the
point of lift and the load will balance. The rated capacity of
the sling must be based on the smallest horizontal angle.
(C).
! WARNING
Chapter 5
Rigging
Fig. 5 — The center of
gravity of the body is above
the points of attachment.
When lifted, the body
would rotate to bring the
center of gravity to the
lowest point. Whenever
possible, have points of
attachment above the center
of gravity of body. BAD
Fig. 6 — With the two

legged sling, the load will
tilt and possibly slip from
the hooks unless precisely
balanced.
BAD
Fig. 7 — With the three-
legged sling, the third leg
provides stability. However
one leg is carrying half of BETTER
the weight of the load and
the capacity should be
based on two-legged sling
at (C) horizontal lift angle.
GOOD
Fig. 8 — The four-legged
sling provides good stability,
and the load is equally
distributed on each leg.
Chapter 5
Rigging
When a load is lifted by a sling, the legs of the sling will
exert lifting forces W (fig. 9) on the load to raise it. The
legs will also exert forces P (horizontal components of
T, the loads on the chain legs). The P forces can crush or
deform the load if it cannot withstand these forces (Fig.
9A). When fragile loads are involved, a spreader beam is
recommended.
Fig. 9, 9A — The spreader beam is designed to withstand

the P forces.
! WARNING
Chapter 6
Inspection
Inspection records will provide the necessary
documentation to meet OSHA requirements and will help
in the maintenance to keep chain slings in good condition
for material handling.
The responsibility for inspecting slings should be assigned
to experienced competent personnel. They should be
given the authority to remove damaged slings from
service for reconditioning or replacement. Slings removed
from service for reconditioning or replacement should be
returned to an authorized Peerless Repair Service Center
(Contact Peerless for a Repair Service Center in your area.)
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO
REPAIR CHAIN YOURSELF
Chapter 7
Inspection Procedures
Inspect
Regularly
Inspect for:
1. Wear 6. Drag Wear
2. Nicks & Gouges 7. ARC Burns
3. Stretch 8. Weld Splatter
4. Localized Bending 9. Inner Link Wear
5. Deformation/Degradation 10. Severe Corrosion/Pitting
! WARNING
Chapter 7
The inspection should follow a formal written inspection
procedure to ensure complete examination:
1. Clean chain sling prior to inspection. Chain that is

coated with paint, dirt, grease, or oil may hide criteria for
removal such as wear, nicks, gouges or other damage.
2. Check the identification tag for legibility. Ensure that the

serial number, name or logo of the sling manufacturer,
size, grade, working load limit, and reach correspond to
the original Chain Sling Certificate when the sling was
originally manufactured.
3. Measure the reach of the sling from the bearing of the
master link to the bowl of the bottom attachment to
make sure they correspond to the values stamped on
the chain sling identification tag. If one or more legs
are longer, there is a possibility that the sling has been
subjected to overloading or excessive wear.
Chapter 7
4. Make a link-by-link inspection of the chain slings for:
a. Excessive wear. If the wear on any portion of any link
exceeds the allowable wear shown on Table 2, Page 11, -
remove from service.
b. Twisted, bent or cut links.
c. Cracks in the weld area or any portion of the link.
d. Nicks or gouges.
e. Stretched links.
f. Severe corrosion.
g. Any deformation or degradation of components.
5. Inspect the master and coupling links for wear or
damage.
6. If hooks have been opened
more than 5% of the
normal throat openings
(measured at the narrowest
point) or twisted more than
0 degrees from the plane of
unbent hook, sling shall be
removed from service.
7. Attach “Danger — Do Not Use” warning tag (available
from Peerless Industrial Group, part number 26.65) to
each sling removed from service. Record the removal of
the sling on sling inspection report form.
8. Any chain sling removed from service should be
tagged and returned to the central issuing department
with data covering the damage detected during
the inspection. The sling can then be returned to
an authorized Peerless Repair Service Center for the
appropriate repairs and proof testing.
! WARNING
Chapter 8
Ways to Avoid Chain Failure
Chain sling users can help avoid damage and possible
accidents by recognizing the following improper practices
and preventing their occurrence.
DO NOT DO NOT
KNOT TWIST
CHAIN CHAIN
1. Overloading — can lead to rapid wear, elongation and

possible sling failure.
Chapter 8
2. Improper angle of lift — small angles of lift result in
excessive loads being imposed on each leg of the sling.
The results on the sling are the same as for overloading.
3. Faulty hook-up —
a. Point loading of hooks.
Wedging or forcing the hook
point into the loads results in
the hook bending and failure.
Hooks should not face in
toward the load.
b. Slipping of unbalanced loads.
(See Chapter 4 — Rigging).
c. Lifting with twisted or knotted
chains can impose loads in
excess of rated capacity and
spin the load dangerously.
4. Impact loading –
jerking or snatching
loads (shock
loading) when
lifting can impose
loads on the chain
in excess of the
actual weight of the
object being lifted.
These dynamic
forces can break or
damage the sling.
! WARNING
Chapter 8
GOOD
BAD
5. Improper storage of chain slings – chain slings placed

in areas where loads may be deposited on the sling,
where traffic can run over the sling or in areas where
they are exposed to corrosive action can severely
damage chain slings.
Chapter 9
25 Things to Consider When
Creating a Lift Plan
1. Determine the weight and balance of all loads prior to a
lift to make sure that the lifting equipment can operate
within its capabilities.
2. Select only alloy chain slings and never exceed the
working load limits for the various sizes and types of
chain slings as established by OSHA.
3. Make sure the object being lifted is not lagged, clamped
or bolted to the floor.
4. Make sure the hoist or crane is directly over the load.
5. Never lift loads with one leg of a multi-leg sling until the
unused legs are made secure.
6. Use multi-leg slings as supplied by the manufacturer
rather than combinations of single chains.
7. Use slings of the proper reach. Never shorten a sling by
twisting, knotting or with nuts and bolts. Adjustable
slings are available for applications requiring slings of
varying reaches.
8. Never point-load a hook unless it is especially designed
and rated for such use.
9. Remove all loose pieces of material from the load before
it is moved.
! WARNING
Chapter 9
10. When lifting long loads particularly in confined spaces,
attach a rope or “tag line” to one or both ends of the
load so that rotational movement may be controlled.
11. Never permit anyone to ride the lifting hook or the

load.
12. Make sure that all personnel stand clear while the lift is
being made or while the slings are being drawn from
beneath the load. The hooks may catch under the load
and suddenly fly free (know the fall radius).
13. Do not drag slings along the floor. (Flat Spotting).
14. When wrapping chain around sharp corners, use pads
to prevent damage to the links.
15. Authorize only one person to give signals to the crane

operator.
16. Before making a lift, check to see that chains are not
twisted or knotted and sling is properly attached to
the load.
Chapter 9
17. Before the load is lifted, a place should be prepared
where it is to be put down. The nature of the load will
determine the type of preparation necessary but most
loads should be lowered onto timber battens. The sling
can then be easily withdrawn. The load should never
be landed directly onto the chain.
18. Avoid impact loading caused by sudden jerking when
lifting or lowering — lift the sling gradually until slack
is eliminated.
19. Raise the load to a height that is high enough to clear
all items in the path of travel.
20. Never work under a suspended load unless the load
has been adequately supported from the floor and all
conditions approved by the supervisor in charge of the
operation.
21. Never leave a load suspended in the air when the hoist
or crane is unattended.
22. Never attempt to repair or shorten a sling with bolts,
cold shuts, lap links, etc. Repairs or modifications
should be performed only at an authorized sling
service center.
23. Inspect chain slings thoroughly at specified intervals to
maintain them in good condition.
24. Store slings properly on racks or in assigned areas to
prevent damage to the slings.
25. Train floor people to be on the lookout for any signs
of damaged chain — nicks, gouges, bent or elongated
links. Take a damaged sling out of service immediately.
! WARNING
Glossary
Glossary of Most Common Chain
Terms
Mechanically Coupled Chain Slings:
An engineered system of forged components that enable
the sling user or distributor to assemble standard or special
chain slings as required. All components are fully proof
tested and have the rated capacity or working load limit of
matching alloy steel chain. The chain sling user receives a
Test Certificate with each chain sling component.
Components, when used in Chain
conjunction with Peerless Load
Grade 80 & 100 chain and Carrying
Retaining Pin
assembled by an authorized Pins
Peerless Repair Service
Center meet ASTM and
OSHA proof testing and
certification requirements.
ALLOY STEEL CHAIN: The only chain
recommended for overhead lifting.
ANGLE OF LIFT: Measurement of angle between
horizontal surface of load and lift chain measured in
degrees should never be less than 30 degrees.
Sling Angle Factor: The sling angle factor is a ratio found
between the sides of the lift triangle. To find it, divide the
sling length by the height of the lift triangle. The height
is the distance between the bearing surface of the hook
and an imaginary line running from the bearing surface
of the attachment points.
Glossary
Terms
ELONGATION: When chain is severely overloaded or

subjected to shock load, elongation of individual links
occurs. Peerless welded chain has a minimum elongation
factor of 20%. This gives the user an added visual factor to
protect people and equipment. Measurable elongation
indicates the chain has been severely overloaded and shall
be removed from service.
Eye Type Clevis Type

FOUNDRY HOOK: Designed with a wide, deep throat, it
ﬁts trunnions and handles on moulds or castings generally
used in foundry work.
GRAB HOOK: Designed with a special narrow throat

and used to shorten or hold a length of chain. The throat
engages the chain between the links for quick non-slip
handling.
! WARNING
Glossary
Terms
P30 - GRADE 30: (Proof Coil Chain), A low carbon steel

general utility chain used for a great many everyday
applications. Grade 30 is not to be used for lifting or
hoisting applications.
P40 - GRADE 43: (High Test Chain), This higher carbon

steel chain is significantly stronger than Grade 30, meaning
that a lighter chain can often do similar work. Grade 43 is
not to be used for lifting or hoisting applications.
P7 - GRADE 70: (Transport Tiedown or Binding Chain), A

high-strength light-weight steel chain designed for load
binding applications. Grade 70 is not to be used for lifting
or hoisting applications.
P8 & P10 - GRADE 80 & 100: (High-strength Alloy Chain),

Has a high strength-to-weight ratio. Grade 80 & 100 is used
predominantly for lifting and hoisting applications and
also where optimum wear and strength is required. It is the
only chain recommended for lifting and hoisting.
Glossary
Terms
IMPACT: The sudden application of a load, multiplying the
stress on the chain very rapidly.
Single Master Link Quad Master Link Kuplink
MASTER LINK: The large oval or pear shaped link at the

top of the sling that slips over the crane hook. The master
link carries the chain legs.*
COUPLING LINK:
A flexible mechanical
coupling device,
generally used to
attach chain sling
legs to master link
and eye type hooks
to chains.
PLATE HOOKS: Plate Hooks are intended for use in
handling plates, flats, and structurals. Designed for the
most popular chain sizes they are proof tested to the same
values as the corresponding chain — therefore, the same
working load limit applies. Fabricated from alloy steel,
plate hooks can be used with various chain assemblies.
They can also be furnished on Welded/Registered Chain
Slings.
*Check for proper fit and/or seating on all crane hooks
! WARNING
Glossary
Terms
PROOF TEST: The load in pounds which chain has
withstood in the condition and at the time it left the
factory. The test is conducted by applying the load in direct
tension to a straight length of chain with a uniform rate of
speed on a standard chain testing machine.
REACH:
The distance
between the
upper and lower
bearing (load)
points of a
sling leg.
CERTIFIED
CHAIN SLINGS: Welded or Mechanical Assembly. A
signed Test Certificate is required to be issued by the Sling
Manufacturer for every alloy chain sling delivered to the
end user. The Mechanical Chain Sling Test Certificate attests
that all components used to assemble the sling have all
been previously proof tested to 200% of WLL by the Sling
Manufacturer. Welded Chain Sling Test Certificates verifies
that the sling has been fully proof tested as an assembly to
200% of WLL following the heat treating process. There is a
permanently affixed metal identification tag with a stamped
individual serial number corresponding to the identification
tag number on the Test Certificate. The tag is also stamped
with the slings rated working load limit, size of chain, reach,
number of legs or branches, grade, and Sling Manufacturers
name or logo. This information must also be supplied on the
Test Certificate.
Glossary
Terms
SELF LOCKING HOOK: A hook design which closes when

under tension and cannot be released until load is put
down. Not to be used in choking or side load application.
RETAINER LATCH: A spring loaded latch which prevents

the hook from slipping off the load before the sling is
tensioned. Only designed to keep chain from disengaging
in slack condition.
SIZE: Chain size or trade size is the diameter of the stock

from which the chain link is made.
! WARNING
Glossary
Terms
SLING HOOK: The most common sling attachment used

to connect the sling to the load. It has a full wide throat
with a provision for a retainer latch.
MAGNET CHAIN (MAG CHAIN):

Commonly referred to as “mag
chain”, magnet chain is used in
steel industries, scrap yards and
other various applications.
Glossary
Terms
How to Measure Chain:

Dimensions shown are nominal and all weights
are approximate.
Pitch
(Inside
Length)
(Inside
Width)
Diameter
(Wire Dia.)
Twisted Link
Straight Link
Length
Wire Dia.
(Trade
Size)
Width
! WARNING
Glossary
Terms
Slings & D/d Ratio – Alloy Chain Slings

D/d ratio is the diameter of curvature around which a sling
is bent affecting its capacity. The upper case ‘D’ refers
to the diameter of the object to which the sling hitch is
applied, and the lower case ‘d’ represents the diameter
of the chain link of the sling.
Alloy Chain D/d Ratio Efficiency

D/d Ratio % of Rated
Capacity
Less Not
than 2 Recommended
2 60
3 70
4 80
5 90
6& 100 d
Greater
D/d De-rating Recommendations

of Basket Hitch according to the
NACM & ASME B30.9
Glossary
Terms
SPREADER BEAM: A structural steel beam generally

suspended by a two legged sling. Used to eliminate
compressive forces which could deform the load.
TAG LINE: A rope attached to one or both ends of a load
to control rotational movements.
WORKING LOAD LIMIT: The maximum load in pounds

that a user should ever apply to chain is called its Working
Load Limit, or Rated Capacity. W.L.L applies to new chain
and assumes that the load is applied in direct tension to
a straight, untwisted length of chain without impact.
Metric Conversion
Metric - English English - Metric
1 kg. = 2.204 lb. mass 1 lb. mass = 0.45 kg
1 mm = 0.03937 in. 1 in. = 25.4 mm
1 M = 39.37 in. 1 ft = 0.30 M
1 Newton = 0.224 lb. force 1 lb. force = 4.46 Newtons
! WARNING
Industry Standards
Peerless Industrial Group, Inc.
Peerless Alloy Chain
Industry Standards
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
developed standards that apply specifically for the use,
maintenance, inspection and application of alloy chain,
components and alloy chain slings.
ASME B30.9 2018 Slings
ASME B30.10 2019 Hooks
ASME B30.26 2015-R Rigging Hardware
ASME P30.1 2019 Planning for Load Handling Activity
OSHA 1910.84
Manufacturers Recommendations
THIS INFORMATION CONSISTS OF GENERAL GUIDELINES ONLY.

REFER TO CURRENT OSHA, ANSI & ASME STANDARDS FOR COMPLETE
SPECIFICATIONS.
Industry Standards
Peerless Custom Lifting and
Below-the-Hook Information
Industry Standards
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
developed standards that apply specifically to the devices
Peerless Industrial Group designs and manufacturers.
These standards serve as a guide to government
authorities, manufacturers, purchasers and operators
of below-the-hook lifting devices.
ASME B30.20 2018
• Provides detailed information on the classifications,

marking, construction, installation, inspection, testing,
maintenance and operation of below-the-hook lifting
devices.
ASME B30.20-BTH-1 2020
• Provides detailed information on the design criteria

of below-the-hook lifting devices.
! WARNING
Industry Standards
Markings, Identification and
General Construction
The rated load of the lifting device is visibly marked on the
main structure of the device, as well as on a tag attached
to the lifter. If the below-the-hook lifting device consists of
individually detachable lifters, then each of the individual
lifters shall be marked and tagged with their individual
rated loads.
All Peerless Industrial Group below-the-hook lifting

devices are tagged with the following information:
• Manufacturer’s name and address

• Serial number
• Lifter weight, if over 100 lbs. (45 kg)
• Cold current (amps) (when applicable)
• Rated voltage (when applicable)
• Rated load
• Manufacture date
• ASME BTH-1 Design category
• ASME BTH-1 Service class

SPECIFICATIONS.
Industry Standards
Markings, Identification and General Construction
(Continued): All Peerless structural and mechanical lifting
devices are designed and manufactured by qualified
personnel. Peerless designs are in accordance with ASME
BTH-1 and take into consideration the stresses that result
from the application of the rated load along with the
weight of the actual lifter and are designed to ASME BTH-1
Design Category B. Service Class is determined by taking
into consideration the fatigue life criteria based on the
expected number of load cycles.
Design Category
Design category B shall be utilized when the size,
scale, and variation of loads applied to the lifter are not
always predictable or clearly defined, and where the
environmental and loading conditions vary or could be
severe.
Service Class
Service Class is determined by the specified fatigue life of
the lifter.
• Service Class 0 is 0 to 20,000 load cycles.

• Service Class 1 is 20,001 to 100,000 load cycles.
• Service Class 2 is 100,001 to 500,000 load cycles.
• Service Class 3 is 500,001 to 2,000,000 load cycles.
• Service Class 4 is over 2,000,000 load cycles.
! WARNING
Industry Standards
Service Class Life
Desired Life (Years)
Cycles per Day 1 5 10 20 30

5 0 0 0 1 1
10 0 0 1 1 2
25 0 1 1 2 2
50 0 1 2 2 3
100 1 2 2 3 3
200 1 2 3 3 4
300 2 3 3 4 4
750 2 3 4 4 4
1,000 2 3 4 4 4
All welding shall be in accordance with ANSI/AWS D14.1
and ASME BTH-1
Exposed moving parts such as gears, projecting shafts

and chain drives that constitute a hazard under normal
operating conditions are guarded.
Electrical equipment and wiring shall comply with ANSI/

NFPA 70 and ASME BTH-1.
FOR INFORMATION ON MODIFICATIONS/REPAIRS TO YOUR

LIFTING DEVICE, CONTACT PEERLESS INDUSTRIAL GROUP
TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THE CURRENT ASME
STANDARDS.

SPECIFICATIONS.
Industry Standards
Proof Test
100% OF ALL PEERLESS BELOW-THE-HOOK LIFTING
DEVICES ARE PROOF-TESTED TO 125% CAPACITY AND
CERTIFICATES SUPPLIED AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE.
Requirements and Recommendations
Requirements of the ASME standard are noted by the word
shall.
Recommendations of the ASME standard are noted by the

word should.
Operating Practices
Operation Practices for Lifting Devices: Below-the-hook
lifting devices shall only be operated by the following
qualified personnel:
• Personnel designated to operate the lifter.

• Trainees who are under the direct supervision of
designated personnel.
• Personnel designated to maintenance and/or conduct
testing on the lifter.
• Personnel designated to inspect the lifter.
The below-the-hook lifting device shall not be overloaded

beyond its manufactured rated capacity nor shall it be
utilized to handle any load that it was not designed to
handle.
! WARNING
Industry Standards
Operating Practices for Lifting Devices (Continued):
When rigging is utilized in conjunction with the lifter, the
operator shall ensure that it is not kinked and the multiple
part lines are not twisted around each other.
The operator shall ensure that the load is correctly

distributed for the lifter prior to the lift.
The operator shall ensure that the temperature of the load

does not exceed the maximum allowable limits of the
lifting device.
The operator shall ensure that the lifter is moved into place
over the load in such a way as to minimize swinging.
The operator shall ensure that sudden acceleration or

deceleration of the load is prevented.
The operator shall ensure that the lifter and the load do not
come into contact with any obstruction.
The operator shall ensure that the load is not transported

over people.
The operator shall ensure that the lifter is not utilized for
side pulls or sliding the load unless explicitly authorized by
a qualified person.

SPECIFICATIONS.
Industry Standards
Operating Practices for Lifting Devices (Continued):
The operator shall ensure that suspended loads are not left
unattended.
The operator shall ensure that no person rides the load or

the lifter.
The operation of the lifter shall be observed prior to and

during a shift. Any observed deficiency in the lifter shall be
examined by designated personnel. Any deficiency that
constitutes a hazard shall be removed from service and
tagged “Out of Service”. All hazardous deficiencies shall be
reported to qualified personnel for evaluation.
All loads shall be guided in a manner to avoid endangering

any part of the body as it is lowered or accidently dropped
be replaced.
Miscellaneous Operating Practices: An operator shall not

utilize a below-the-hook lifter that has an “out of service”
tag or has been designated as non-functioning.
Only designated personnel shall be given the authority to

remove “Out of service” tags on lifting devices.
When not in use the below-the-hook device should be

stored in an assigned location.
Lifter markings and tags shall not be removed or damaged.

Lifter markings and tags that are missing or illegible shall
be replaced.
! WARNING
Industry Standards
Inspection
Initial Inspection: Prior to initial use, all new, altered,
modified, or repaired lifting devices shall be inspected by a
qualified person to ensure compliance with the provisions
of the ASME B30.20 standard.
Inspection Invervals: Below-the-hook lifters in regular

service require three general types of inspection
classification procedures; every lift, frequent, and periodic.
The intervals for inspection are determinant upon the
severity of use of the below-the-hook device, the extent
of the exposure to wear and tear, as well as any history of
malfunction experienced by the lifter.
Every Lift Inspection: A visual examination performed by

the operator of the below-the-hook lifter conducted prior
to and during every lift.
Frequent Inspections: Are comprised of visual

inspections performed by either the lifter operator or other
assigned personnel (records are not required by the ASME
standard).
• Normal use – once a month

• Heavy use – once a week to once a monthly
• Severe use – once a day to once a week

SPECIFICATIONS.
Industry Standards
Frequent Inspections (Continued):
• Special or infrequent use – outlined as specified by a

qualified individual prior to and following each use.
• Any lifter that has been idle for a period of one month
to a year shall undergo a frequent inspection prior to use.
The following items listed below shall be included within

the regular inspection schedule and shall be thoroughly
inspected and an assessment formed as to the extent of
the issue and the level of subsequent hazard resulting
from it.
• Structural deformation
• Cracks in welds or structural members
• Excessive wear
• Loose or missing parts, tags, safety guards, fasteners,
stops, and/or housings.
• Out of adjustment conditions that interfere with the
normal operation and functionality of all mechanisms
including automatic hold and release components.
• Contact Peerless Industrial Group for replacements of
missing identification tags and nameplates.
Periodic Inspections: Are comprised of visual inspections

performed by assigned personnel who record the current
condition of the below-the-hook lifter in order to provide
the basis for a continuing program of recorded evaluation.
Dated reports for periodic inspections shall be maintained.
! WARNING
Industry Standards
Periodic Inspections (Continued):
• Normal use – annual inspection typically performed
on-site.
• Heavy use – disassembly by a qualified individual should
be performed semi-annually in order to facilitate a
detailed inspection.
• Severe use - disassembly by a qualified individual should
be performed quarterly in order to facilitate a detailed
inspection.
• Special or infrequent use – outlined as specified by a
qualified individual prior to and following each use.
• Any lifter that has been idle for a period of one year or
more shall undergo a periodic inspection prior to use.
Below-the-hook lifting devices shall undergo a thorough
inspection based upon the previously defined intervals of
every lift, frequent, and periodic. Any and all issues such as
the following (as listed below) shall be investigated and a
conclusion made as to if the extent of the issue and to if it
is severe enough in its nature to represent a hazard. Dated
inspection reports of the following critical items shall be
made.
• All requirements outlined within the frequent inspection
process.
• Missing or loose nuts, bolts, or fasteners.
• Fractured gears, pulleys, sheaves, sprockets, bearings,
chain and belts.
SPECIFICATIONS.
Industry Standards
Periodic Inspections (Continued):
• Excessive wear of linkages, gears, pulleys, sprockets,

sheaves, chain, belts, bearings, hardware, and other
mechanical parts.
• Excessive wear at the bail or other load bearing points.
All repairs or modifications shall be documented on dated

inspection reports.
Maintenance
Preventive Maintenance: A preventive maintenance
program shall be established and be based on
recommendations made by Peerless Industrial Group. It
can be determined to be appropriate as designated by
a qualified person to add to the maintenance program
following a review of the use of the below-the-hook lifter.
Any hazards disclosed during an inspection shall be

corrected before the lifting device is put back into service.
Any repairs and/or adjustments shall be done only under
the direction of or by a qualified person.
Replacement parts shall be equivalent to the Peerless

Industrial Group’s specifications.
For more information or to purchase a copy of the

standard, visit ASME website, www.ASME.org.
! WARNING
Industry Standards
Notes:
Corporate Custom Lifting Device Distribution Centers:
Headquarters: Manufacturing: Clackamas, OR
Winona, MN Mount Pleasant, PA Reno, NV
South Holland, IL Elizabethtown, PA
Dallas, TX
Necedah, WI
1416 East Sanborn Street Phone: (800) 873-1916

PO Box 5349 Fax: (800) 356-1149
Winona, Minnesota Internet: www.peerlesschain.com
55987-0349 Email: custserv@peerlesschain.com
Specifications are subject to change without notice.

© 2021 Peerless Industrial Group 10.20 8/21

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CHAIN SLING

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration

As a chain manufacturer, Peerless Industrial Group

Our warnings are intended to identify those risks which

1. Have permanently affixed durable and legible

2. Use alloy steel chain slings for lifting loads equal to or

3. Use slings not included in Table 1 only in accordance

4. Reduce the rated capacity of the alloy steel chain sling

60° 45° 30°

Always consider risk assessment, lift plan and load control.

6. Have a competent person perform and document a

7. Maintain a record of all documented inspections for

8. Remove damaged and defective alloy steel chain

10. Ensure that each new, repaired or reconditioned

11. Reduce the Working

12. Retain the Certificates of Proof Test for each sling

13. Ensure that alloy steel chain slings repaired or

15. Reduce the rated capacities permitted in Table

16. Remove alloy steel chain slings from service

Eye Bent or Twisted

0° Maximum Bend or Twist

20. Obtain a copy of the Occupational Safety & Health

Consider oversized normalized Proof Coil Peerless Chain

The above restriction also applies to galvanizing

! WARNING *Consult manufacturers recommendation.

10 Failure to read, understand and follow the instructions in this booklet

7/32 5.5 0.189 4.8

9/32 7 0.239 6.07

5/16 8 0.273 6.93

3/8 10 0.342 8.69

1/2 13 0.443 11.26

5/8 16 0.546 13.87

3/4 20 0.687 17.45

7/8 22 0.75 19.05

1-1/4 32 1.091 27.71

Below 400° F None None None None

400° F 10% 15% None None

500° F 15% 25% None 5%

600° F 20% 30% 5% 15%

700° F 30% 40% 10% 20%

800° F 40% 50% 15% 25%

900° F 50% 60% 20% 30%

1000° F 60% 70% 25% 35%

Over 1000° F *(Below) *(Below *(Below) *(Below)

EVERY LIFT IS A RISK!

The obvious starting point — know the weight of

Another way to estimate the weight of a load prior to lifting

For example, a cubic foot of steel weighs 500 lbs.

Thus, the chain sling user calculates as follows:

9 ft. x 12 ft. x 1/12 ft. = 9cu.ft.

9 cu. ft. x 500 lbs./cu. ft. = 4500 lbs.

Reach and Angle of Lift

A sling with a longer reach and a larger angle of lift will

Fig. 1 — The load on each chain leg is increased as the lift

3,250 lbs. x 2 x 8.5/10 = 5,525 lbs. rated capacity

When dimension B is shortened due to a low ceiling and

SOS SOG SOF

The total weight of the load is carried by the single

Over 1000° F (Below) (Below (Below) (Below)