Is a knot in a synthetic sling allowed as long as it does not cause permanent damage to the sling?

A knot in a synthetic sling is generally discouraged and not permitted because it can compromise the integrity of the sling. Even if a knot does not cause visible permanent damage, it can still significantly reduce the sling's load capacity and create points of concentrated stress. This is particularly critical because synthetic slings are designed to distribute loads evenly to maintain their strength and reliability. Additionally, knots can introduce unsafe handling practices and make the sling difficult to inspect for wear and damage. Therefore, the standards and best practices outlined in safety regulations specify that synthetic slings should be used as intended, without any alterations such as knots, to ensure safety and performance.