NCCER Rigging Practice Exam

When slings are twisted during a lifting operation, it can significantly compromise their structural integrity and performance. Twisting can cause uneven distribution of the load across the sling, leading to areas of higher stress that exceed the sling's rated capacity. This uneven loading can increase the risk of the sling tearing or breaking under tension, which could result in a catastrophic failure during the lift.

Proper rigging practices dictate that slings should be laid out straight without twists to ensure that the load is distributed evenly and safely throughout the material of the sling. Twists not only interfere with this distribution but may also create friction points that can wear down the sling faster or potentially create a scenario where the sling disengages from the load or lifting equipment, leading to accidents.

In summary, twisted slings create a dangerous situation that can easily result in sling failure, making safety and proper rigging techniques essential for any lifting operation.