Wire rope slings must be regularly inspected for signs of wear that could compromise their safety and performance. Key indicators include broken wires (six or more in one lay or three in one strand), noticeable reduction in rope diameter, and visible wear at contact points like sheaves or drums. Deformations such as kinking, crushing, or birdcaging are serious signs of damage, as are heat marks or discoloration from welding or high-temperature exposure. Corrosion—especially internal—can significantly weaken the rope, while any protrusion of the core suggests internal failure. Additionally, damaged or deformed end fittings, such as cracked thimbles or loose sockets, indicate the sling is no longer safe to use. If any of these conditions are present, the sling must be immediately removed from service and assessed by a qualified inspector.

Every wire rope sling must have a durable and permanently attached tag that clearly identifies its essential specifications. According to ASME B30.9 standards, the tag must display the manufacturer’s name or trademark, the sling diameter, and the rated load (or working load limit) for at least one type of hitch, such as vertical, choker, or basket. If the sling has multiple legs, the number of legs must be noted, and if the capacity depends on sling angle, that angle of use must also be indicated.

Additionally, each sling must have a unique serial number or identification code to enable traceability for inspections, maintenance, and certification. Some tags also include the type of hitch configuration (like eye-eye or endless) and the date of manufacture, which, while not mandatory, is useful for aging and inspection schedules. If the tag is missing or unreadable, the sling must be immediately removed from service.

The removal criteria for wire rope are outlined in ASME B30.9, ISO standards, and manufacturer guidelines. These standards specify when a wire rope should be removed from service due to wear, damage, or safety risks.