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Proof coil and high-test chain slings

Summary An OSHA office evaluated a variance request involving proof coil and high-test chain slings. It said the sling rule did not specifically ban nonalloy chain, but chain makers recommended alloy steel for overhead hoisting. Proof coil and high-test chains should be used only within manufacturers’ recommendations.
Document
Federal opinion letter
Agency
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Document number
1983-05-12
Date issued
May 12, 1983
Status
Active
Status last verified October 10, 2026
Topics
Workplace Safety OSHA 1910 Material Handling
Source
View the official document

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About this page: The full text below is the official document from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Ezel adds the plain-English summary and tracks the document's status. The official source linked on this page is authoritative for any reliance.

May 12, 1983

MEMORANDUM FOR: JAMES J. CONCANNON
Director, Office of Variance Determination
THRU: DONALD A. SHAY
Director, Office of Compliance Programming
FROM: JOHN K. BARTO
Chief, Division of Occupational Safety Programming
SUBJECT: Evaluation of Variance Application #1686, which Contains Eastern Airlines Request to Allow the Continued Use of the Proof Coil and High Test Chain Slings Under Certain Procedures

The use of other than alloy steel chain is not prohibited specifically in 29 CFR 1910.184, but only alloy steel chain is recommended by chain manufacturers for overhead hoisting. Proof coil and high test chain is used for purposes where failure of the chain would not endanger human life or result in serious damage to property or equipment. Proof coil and high test chains should only be used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

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