18.6 INFORMATION WHICH SHOULD BE EXCHANGED BETWEEN THE USER AND THE DESIGNER OR SUPPLIER
As fibre rope slings are frequently used for multi-purpose lifting applications, precise details of the load to be lifted and mode of use are not always available. In these circumstances, only a general specification can be given but should, as far as possible, include the following information:
Type of sling required, e.g. single leg, endless.
Type of eye, e.g. soft eyes, or if fittings are required, details of the fittings, e.g. hook.
Gross weight and dimensions of the load to be lifted together with details of any permanently built-in lifting points or the maximum load to be lifted.
Effective working length of the sling.
The mode of use, e.g. whether the sling is to be used in choke hitch, basket hitch, etc.
The environmental conditions, particularly if the temperature is outside the range of - 40°C to 80°C or if there is any exposure to specific chemicals, liquids or gases.
The conditions of loading including:
Whether the sling is likely to be subject to shock load.
Whether the load is to be transported over areas involving high risk, e.g. work areas. (This should not be done if it can be avoided.)
Whether the load itself is hazardous.
Material from which the sling is to be manufactured.
If any protective sleeves are required, the length and number of sleeves to be fitted.
Any special instructions including any special marking requirements.
In the absence of any specific information, the supplier will assume that the circumstances of use are suitable for the sling to be used at its maximum SWL and the sling(s) will be marked and certified on that basis.