How should fiber rope slings be protected during lifting?

• A. Avoid sharp edges, protect from heat, prevent knotting, and inspect for wear before use.
• B. Knot the rope to prevent slipping.
• C. Use near heat if needed.
• D. Do not inspect wear.

Answer: (A)

Fiber rope slings are sensitive to damage that can quietly reduce their strength, so protecting them during lifts is essential. The best practice combines four protections: keep the rope away from sharp edges to prevent abrasion and cuts, cover or pad any contact points with edge protectors or soft material, and avoid dragging or rubbing over rough surfaces; keep it clear of heat because heat can weaken or melt synthetic fibers and reduce their load-carrying ability; never knot the rope because knots create stress concentrations and decrease the effective strength, making the sling unreliable under load; and perform a thorough wear check before use so any fraying, broken strands, glazing, or other damage is caught early and the sling is retired if needed. These precautions together ensure the rope maintains its rated strength and behaves predictably during lifting.

Choosing approaches that involve knots, using near heat, or skipping wear inspections would undermine the rope’s integrity and safety, which is why they’re not appropriate.