The risk of the lifting equipment failing or falling over while in use

Care should be taken with any accessories (such as a block and tackle) used in the lifting to ensure that they do not become load bearing unless they are intended to be used in this way.

The competent person will select the most appropriate lifting equipment accessories for the lift in question. They should check any chains, slings, lifting strops, shackles and rigging before the lift to ensure that there are no visible signs of wear, abrasion or damage.

Routine examinations are carried out by a competent person on lifting equipment every 6 months (for accessories and equipment used for lifting people) and every 12 months for all other lifting equipment.