How should rigging hardware be inspected before use?

Rigging hardware must be inspected for wear, deformation, cracks, and corrosion to ensure that it is safe for use. This thorough inspection is critical because any signs of deterioration or damage can compromise the integrity and reliability of the equipment during lifting operations. Wear can indicate that the hardware is no longer able to support its intended loads safely. Deformation may weaken the structure of the hardware, and cracks can lead to sudden failure when under strain. Corrosion can significantly reduce the strength of metal components, making them unsafe for lifting operations.

While other factors such as color coding, brand name, length, weight limits, flexibility, and tensile strength are important considerations in rigging practices, they do not directly relate to the immediate condition of the hardware before its use. Thus, focusing on structural integrity through the inspection of wear, deformation, cracks, and corrosion is paramount in ensuring safety while rigging.