What can indicate that a sling is no longer safe to use?

Visible wear and tear on a sling is a critical indicator that it may no longer be safe for use. This can include fraying, cuts, abrasions, or any deformation that compromises the structural integrity of the sling. Recognizing these signs is essential as they can significantly affect the sling's ability to safely carry loads, increasing the risk of failure and potential accidents during lifting operations. Regular inspection for visible wear and tear is a fundamental practice in rigging safety protocols to ensure that all equipment can perform as intended without posing hazards to workers and the surrounding environment.

The other options do not provide a reliable basis for assessing the safety of a sling. For example, simply being used at the same site for years does not inherently indicate any safety issues as long as the sling is properly maintained and regularly inspected. Similarly, color fading may not affect the structural integrity of a sling and could simply be a cosmetic issue. Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the lifespan of rigging equipment, but it does not by itself suggest whether a sling is safe to use without the presence of visible signs of damage.