When a chain sling is hooked back on itself to form a choker, how much is the rating reduced by?

When a chain sling is hooked back on itself to form a choker, the rating is reduced by 1/4. This reduction is important to note because when a sling is configured as a choker, it fundamentally changes the load distribution and the stress applied to the sling.

In a choker configuration, the load is not merely supported by the sling but is also pulling on the choked section. This creates additional friction and stress points that can weaken the overall strength of the sling. As a safety measure, manufacturers and industry standards account for this by recommending a reduction of the rated capacity by 25%—hence the 1/4 rating reduction.

Understanding this reduction is crucial for safety in rigging operations, as it ensures that operators do not exceed the safe working load of the sling in its choker form. Properly accounting for such factors helps prevent accidents and equipment failures in industrial settings.