Rigging and Lifting Gear Inspections - SLA Cranes - Mining | Offshore | Remote

The Importance of Rigging Inspections

Rigging gear is exposed to heavy loads, extreme weather, and constant handling. Over time, even the strongest slings, shackles, and lifting points can wear or fail. Australian Standards such as AS4991 and AS3775 mandate regular inspection and certification to ensure this equipment is fit for purpose.

Without a structured inspection program, businesses risk:

• Equipment failure leading to dropped loads.

• Compliance breaches with regulators and site operators.

• Injury or fatalities to workers.

• Expensive downtime from unplanned stoppages.

Frequently Asked Questions – Rigging & Lifting Gear Inspections

How often should rigging and lifting gear be inspected?

• Pre-use checks should be carried out by a competent person before every lift.

• The frequency of other checks will be dependant upon the equipment and the usage and the applicable standard.

• Round Slings (AS4997) and Webbing Slings (AS1353) require quarterly inspections.

• Chain Slings (AS2775) are carried out monthly to 12 months, depending on the environment and usage.

• Visual Coloured Tagging is a great way to assist staff to indicate that the equipment has also been inspected by a certified inspector like our staff for compliance and faults.

What’s Included in a Rigging Inspection

At SLA Cranes, our rigging inspections cover all critical lifting gear:

• Slings – wire rope, chain, and synthetic.

• Shackles, hooks, and eyebolts.

• Spreader bars and lifting frames (AS4991 compliance).

• Chain blocks and lever hoists.

• Height safety anchor points (AS1891.4).

• Custom lifting devices integrated into cranes (AS1418).

Our inspection process includes:

• Visual inspection for cracks, corrosion, and deformation.

• Load testing where required.

• Colour coding and tagging for site compliance.

• CVI - certificate of visual inspection when required.

• Issuing a register for your records.

Competitors vs SLA Cranes – The Difference

Companies like Nobles and Bullivants offer inspection services, but what makes SLA Cranes different is our full-service capability:

• We inspect not only rigging gear, but also overhead cranes, hoists, and anchor points in one service program.

• Our technicians are DNV and API qualified, with experience on mining and offshore sites.

• We provide site-wide inspection management, reducing the hassle of dealing with multiple contractors.

This means less downtime, better compliance, and more value for your business.

Case Study: Rigging Inspections on a Remote Site

On a recent project in Western Australia, SLA Cranes was engaged to inspect the full range of lifting gear across a large mining operation. Our inspections identified:

• Worn chain slings with stretched links.

• Ripped soft slings with exposed fibres.

• A lifting clutch rated that required immediate load testing.

By addressing these issues, the client avoided a potential dropped load incident and achieved full compliance for their upcoming audit.

Why Choose SLA Cranes for Rigging Inspections

• National coverage – WA, Tasmania, Singapore & New Zealand.

• ISO 9001 certified – documented quality management.

• Mining and oil & gas specialists – not just generic lifting inspectors.

• One-stop solution – cranes, hoists, rigging, and lifting gear all inspected under one provider.

Book Your Rigging Inspection

Protect your people and your project with certified rigging inspections. SLA Cranes delivers comprehensive lifting equipment inspections that keep your business compliant and safe.

📞 Call us on 1300 141 109 or email service@safelifting.com.au to book your inspection today..