Rigging is to be done with a wire sling over a steel beam, when is a softener required?

• A. At all times
• B. Never
• C. When the beam is steel
• D. Only for loads over 10 tons

Answer: (A)

Protecting the sling from edge damage is the key idea. When a wire rope sling runs over an edge, the contact can abrade or nick the rope, weakening it or leading to failure. A softener (sling protector) provides a cushioned surface that distributes the load and reduces wear at the contact point. Because any edge contact can cause damage, using a softener is the safest, most reliable practice for a sling over a beam, regardless of the load or the beam’s material. That’s why the best answer is to use a softener at all times. The other options don’t reflect the real risk of edge contact and damage.