Working load limits (WLL) listed are the maximum weights which the slings are designed to sustain in service. Where the conditions are hazardous a reduced WLL must be adopted. When slings are used in choke hitch, reduce the WLL by 20%.

Do not knot or twist the chain, nor trap the sling under a load. Protect the chain against any sharp corners of loads. Avoid shock loading and ensure that the load is evenly balanced, using shortening clutches where necessary. Make sure that the load is suspended from the inner bowl of the sling hook, not from the tip.

Do not use KUPLEX slings in acid solutions, nor in acid-laiden atmosphere. Do not galvanise, plate or coat KUPLEX slings, nor subject them to any process involving heating or pickling.

KUPLEX slings may be used at temperatures up to 200°C and down to minus 40°C without reduction of the safe working load. At temperatures from 200°C to 300°C, the safe working load should be reduced by 10% and from 300°C to 400°C by 25%. Never use KUPLEX slings at temperatures in excess of 400°C. A sling accidentally exposed to such temperatures should be withdrawn from service immediately and returned to the distributor for examination.

If you leave the sling on the crane hook after use, hook the legs back to the master link. Store your slings on a suitably constructed rack.

Make sure that your KUPLEX slings are regularly inspected and properly maintained,p>

Legal Requirements
In the United Kingdom, legislation covering lifting equipment and operations are contained in

• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
  
• The Factories Act 1961.
  
• The Construction (Lifting Operations) Regulations 1961.
  
• The Shipbuilding and Ship Repairing Regulations 1960.
  
• The Docks Regulations 1934.

In general, the legislation provides that lifting equipment must be in "good condition, sound material, adequate strength and free from patent defect". There are provisions regarding the marking of the Safe Working Load on the equipment and prohibition on exceeding that Safe Working Load. The requirements for test and examination prior to putting equipment into use are specified, as are the contents of the certificate of test and examination. Slings must be examined by a competent person at least every six months and a certificate of examination should be provided giving details of any defects found and the remedial action. The sling should be re-tested and re-certified after repair. The user must keep a register of all lifting gear in use including a record of each periodic examination.