Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which of the following is the standard material used in chain slings for moving and lifting materials in industry?

1. Steel chain

2. Alloy steel chain

3. Plastic chain

4. Aluminum chain

The correct answer is: Alloy steel chain

Alloy steel chain is the standard material used in chain slings for moving and lifting materials in industry due to its superior strength and durability. This type of chain is specifically designed to withstand heavy loads and withstand extreme conditions, making it ideal for industrial applications where safety and reliability are paramount. The properties of alloy steel allow it to be heat-treated, enhancing its strength and resistance to wear, which is crucial in environments where slings are subjected to repeated use and heavy loads. The use of alloy steel chains ensures that they maintain their integrity over time, reducing the risk of failure during lifting operations. In contrast, while steel chains are commonly used, they typically do not provide the same combination of lightweight properties and high strength as alloy steel chains. Plastic chains offer no real strength for lifting heavy loads and are generally used for barriers or non-load-bearing purposes. Aluminum chains, although lightweight, do not possess the same strength characteristics as alloy steel, making them unsuitable for heavy lifting tasks within industrial settings. Thus, alloy steel chain emerges as the most suitable and preferred option for safety and effective load handling.