What should be inspected on a chain sling before the technician uses it?

When preparing to use a chain sling, inspecting for elongation and twist is crucial. Elongation refers to any lengthening of the links due to excessive load or fatigue. This can impair the sling's strength and reliability, making it unsafe for lifting operations. If the sling has elongated significantly, it may not be capable of supporting the intended load safely.

Twist in the links can also impact how the load is distributed and can lead to uneven wear or potential failure during operation. A twisted chain sling is more likely to cause unpredictable movements during lifting, posing safety risks to operators and bystanders.

While checking for length and size, bends, and even the manufacturing date are important maintenance practices, they don’t specifically address immediate safety concerns related to the structural integrity and performance of the sling during its use. Hence, focusing on elongation and twist directly correlates with the operational safety of the chain sling.