Rings & Links These items, like all other hoisting and rigging fittings, must be forged alloy steel to provide the highest degree of safety. Tackle Regulations, Part IV, Cargo Gear, 21(8): All chains......and all rings, hooks, shackles, swivels and pulley blocks shall be inspected by a competent person immediately before each occasion on which they are used in hoisting or lowering, unless they have been inspected within the preceding three months. A Few Tips: - Ensure each ring and link can be matched to a certificate. - Clean all components completely before inspection. - Measure the items to ensure they have not stretched. - Look for lateral distortion (twisting). - Look for bending of the pin in the link. If bending is not obvious, roll the pin on a flat surface. - Hang the item from a piece of twine and tap it with a hammer. It should ring - if not it may be cracked. - Inspect the pin, and the link for wear and impact damage which will show as peening of the wear surfaces. Replace one or both if necessary. - Measure the cross-section of the pin in at least three places, and the opening of the throat, to record wear. - This is also an ideal opportunity to take photos of, or sketch, anything unusual. This may be of use in the future. - Make notes of what you found, where you found it and what, if anything, you did about it. - Renew any tags or stamps that identify the ring or link. - Lubricate as necessary and re-install. - Ensure the cotter pin or other securing mechanism is in good condition. Refer to the Construction Safety Association of Ontario "Rigging Manual", Chapter 4, Rigging Hardware - Rings, Links, Swivels.