When using swivel hoist rings for angular pulls, what must be done to the rated load?

When using swivel hoist rings for angular pulls, the rated load must be reduced. This is due to the fact that when a load is lifted at an angle rather than vertically, the effective load that the hoist ring must support increases beyond the actual weight of the load. This is a result of the vector components of the load force acting along different directions depending on the angle of the pull.

As the angle of the pull increases from vertical, the forces exerted on the hoist ring change, which can lead to a situation where the ring is subjected to greater stresses than it would be in a straight vertical lift. To ensure safety and to prevent failure of the hoist ring, it is vital to refer to the manufacturer's load capacity charts, which typically specify a reduction in the rated load according to the angle of pull.

This adjustment is critical in practical lifting scenarios to avoid overloading the equipment, which could lead to accidents or mechanical failures. Therefore, reducing the rated load when utilizing swivel hoist rings for angular pulls aligns with best practices for lifting and rigging safety.