Keep chain and sling examinations tied to the individual item.
Serial numbers, tags and photographs help distinguish similar accessories. CertFlow keeps each item's safe working load, location, findings and report history together.
The difficulty is matching the record to the item
A site can have many visually similar chain slings, web slings and shackles. Record the maker or type when known, leg configuration where relevant, serial or tag, safe working load and a photograph. The engineer can then confirm the item before adding findings.
LOLER 1998 normally requires lifting accessories to be thoroughly examined at least every six months, unless a competent person has drawn up an examination scheme. A due date in software helps plan that work; it is not a substitute for the scheme or the competent person’s judgement.
An accessory examination in practice
- 01
Identify the sling
Search, scan or open the scheduled item and check its tag, serial number, configuration and safe working load.
- 02
Record condition
Enter the observations relevant to that particular item and attach photographs where they help document the finding.
- 03
Handle defects
Record defects and the competent person’s conclusion, including any required action and timescale in the examination report.
- 04
Keep the trail
Retain the result against the item so the next examination starts with its previous findings and report.
Item-level details the team can carry forward
Discard criteria depend on the equipment, applicable standards and competent-person assessment. CertFlow records the decision and evidence; it does not decide whether an item is safe.
- Individual serial or tag
- Chain, web sling or accessory type
- Configuration and safe working load
- Client, site and storage location
- Condition observations and photographs
- Defect and report history
LOLER rules and HSE guidance
Links to primary UK legislation and official regulator guidance. CertFlow is independent and not affiliated with these bodies.