Any damage that makes information on a sling identification tag unreadable is reason to immediately do what?

• A. Change the sling angle
• B. Estimate ratings
• C. Substitute information
• D. Remove the sling from service

Answer: (D)

A readable sling identification tag is essential because it tells you the sling’s rated capacity, material, size, and other use limits. If that information is unreadable, you can’t confirm that the sling is safe for the load or that it’s being used within its published specifications. Because of this uncertainty, the sling must be removed from service immediately until a legible tag is present and the sling can be properly inspected.

Trying to adjust the sling angle won’t recover the information you’re missing, and estimating ratings or substituting information would be unsafe and misleading. The correct action prioritizes safety: take the sling out of service and address the tag or replace the sling before it’s put back into use.