1917.13—Slinging.

(a) Drafts shall be safely slung before being hoisted. Loose dunnage or debris hanging or protruding from loads shall be removed.
(b) Bales of cotton, wool, cork, wood pulp, gunny bags or similar articles shall be hoisted only by straps strong enough to support the weight of the bale. At least two hooks, each in a separate strap, shall be used.
(c) Unitized loads bound by bands or straps may be hoisted by the banding or strapping only if the banding or strapping is suitable for hoisting and is strong enough to support the weight of the load.
(d) Additional means of hoisting shall be employed to ensure safe lifting of unitized loads having damaged banding or strapping.
(e) Case hooks shall be used only with cases designed to be hoisted by these hooks.
(f) Loads requiring continuous manual guidance during handling shall be guided by guide ropes (tag lines) that are long enough to control the load.
(g) Intermodal containers shall be handled in accordance with § 1917.71(f).
(h) The employer shall require employees to stay clear of the area beneath overhead drafts or descending lifting gear.
(i) Employees shall not be permitted to ride the hook or the load.

Code of Federal Regulations

[48 FR 30909, July 5, 1983, as amended at 62 FR 40197, July 25, 1997]