What must slings used to hoist personnel include?

Slinging personnel requires specialized equipment to ensure safety and proper lifting techniques. Including thimbles installed in the eye of the sling is critical because it helps maintain the integrity of the sling's material. Thimbles are typically made of metal and are inserted into the eye of the sling, preventing the sling from crushing, fraying, or deforming at the point where the load is applied. This reinforces the sling's structure and provides a clear, consistent shape for connection, ultimately ensuring that the load is lifted safely.

Using thimbles contributes to the overall reliability and effectiveness of the sling when lifting personnel, as it minimizes the risk of failure due to improper load distribution or excessive wear on the sling fibers.