Which immediate action should be taken if a web sling's load-tag information is unreadable?

• A. Return to manufacturer for testing and retagging
• B. Continue using with caution
• C. Derate and continue using
• D. Destroy the sling

Answer: (A)

When the load-tag on a web sling is unreadable, the safe working load and inspection status are unknown, so you cannot rely on the sling for safe lifting. The correct action is to stop using the sling and return it to the manufacturer for testing and retagging. This ensures the sling’s integrity is verified and a new, accurate tag is issued with the proper working load limit and inspection information before it’s put back into service. Using it without legible tag or attempting to guess its capacity (continuing with caution or derating) could lead to overloading and a dangerous failure. Destroying the sling isn’t the standard first step unless there’s clear evidence of damage; otherwise, getting it tested and retagged restores a verifiable rating.