1.3.16 Safe (Specific application) Working Load (SWL)
The safe working load or specific application load (SWL) is the maximum load (mass) as assessed by a Competent Person which an item of lifting equipment may raise, lower or suspend under the particular service conditions. The SWL is marked on the equipment and appears in statutory records.
The SWL will normally be the same value as the working load limit, maximum safe working load or rated capacity where the term is used in a particular section of the code; but it may be less (see section 1.3.20 Working Load Limit (WLL) and the note there to).
In some geographical regions the word ‘safe’ is not used in the description but the requirement is the same, so instead of safe the phrase ‘specific application’ is used instead and the acronym SWL will be used throughout this code.