Marine Order 32 (Cargo handling equipment) 2016

An article of loose gear used in loading or unloading must have:

for a block, chain or chain sling, ring, hook, shackle, swivel, clamp, pallet bar, connecting plate, multi-leg sling, synthetic webbing flat sling, round sling, can hook or similar article or an overhauling weight that is subject to stress - the safe working load marked on it; and

for a sling that is purpose-designed for a particular load - the safe working load for the sling in its designed operating alignment marked; and

if the article is a cargo tray, crate, tub, grab, scrap bin or other similar receptacle, or an intermediate bulk container - the safe working load for which the article has been tested marked on it; and

if the article is a lifting beam, lifting frame or vacuum or magnetic lifting device - the safe working load for which the article has been tested and the tare mass of the complete article marked on it.

for a 2-legged sling, the SWL when the included angle between the legs is 90°; and

for a 3-legged sling, the SWL when the included angle between any 2 legs is 90°; and

for a 4-legged sling, the SWL when the included angle between any 2 diagonally opposite legs is 90°.

However, the safe working load does not have to be marked for natural fibre ropes and rope slings.