Which statement correctly describes the SWL values for slings in general lifting versus hoisting personnel?

Which statement correctly describes the SWL values for slings in general lifting versus hoisting personnel?

• A. General lifting uses 5 to 1 and hoisting personnel uses 10 to 1
• B. General lifting uses 10 to 1 and hoisting personnel uses 5 to 1
• C. General lifting uses 5 to 1 and hoisting personnel uses 5 to 1
• D. General lifting uses 3 to 1 and hoisting personnel uses 10 to 1

Answer: (A)

General lifting uses a 5:1 safety factor, while hoisting personnel requires a 10:1 factor. The safety factor compares the sling’s breaking strength to the safe working load, providing margin for dynamic loads, angle losses, wear, and potential misuse. When people are involved, the risk and potential consequences are much higher, so a larger margin is essential to prevent overloading and failure during lifts. That’s why hoisting personnel is specified with a higher factor than general lifting. The other options propose factors that don’t align with the higher level of protection needed for lifting people or mix up the typical standards.

General lifting uses a 5:1 safety factor, while hoisting personnel requires a 10:1 factor. The safety factor compares the sling’s breaking strength to the safe working load, providing margin for dynamic loads, angle losses, wear, and potential misuse. When people are involved, the risk and potential consequences are much higher, so a larger margin is essential to prevent overloading and failure during lifts. That’s why hoisting personnel is specified with a higher factor than general lifting. The other options propose factors that don’t align with the higher level of protection needed for lifting people or mix up the typical standards.