05 Mar 2026

A GUIDE TO ROUND SLING COLOUR CODES & LOAD CAPACITIES

Round slings are among the most widely used lifting accessories across construction sites, warehouses, engineering facilities, and logistics operations. Their flexibility, strength, and ease of use make them a reliable choice for lifting a wide variety of loads safely.

One of the most recognisable features of polyester round slings is their colour coding system, which helps operators quickly identify the sling's Working Load Limit (WLL). These colours are standardised under European lifting standards, allowing workers to quickly select the correct lifting equipment for the job.

However, while colour coding is extremely useful, it should never be the only factor used to determine lifting capacity. Safe lifting practices always require checking the sling label, inspecting the equipment, and understanding how lifting configurations affect load capacity.

In this guide, we'll explain:

• What round sling colour codes means
• The standard round sling load capacity chart
• How Working Load Limit (WLL) works
• How lifting configuration affect sling capacity
• How to choose the right round sling for your lifting operation

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WHAT ARE ROUND SLINGS?

Round slings are soft lifting slings made from continuous polyester yarn fibres. These internal fibres provide the strength needed to lift heavy loads, while a durable woven outer sleeve protects the loads-bearing yarn.

Unlike chain slings or wire rope slings, endless round slings are flexible and lightweight, making them easier to handle and position around loads.

They are commonly used with:

• Cranes
• Hoists
• Lifting beams
• Forklift attachment
• Industrial rigging systems

Because of their soft construction, round slings are particularly useful when lifting delicate or finished surfaces, as they help reduce the risk of load damage.

Key advantages of round slings include:

• Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
• Flexible handling for awkward loads
• Reduced risk of damaging the load surface
• Easy storage and transportation

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WHY ROUND SLINGS ARE COLOUR CODED

The colour coding system used for polyester round slings allows operators to identify sling capacity quickly and efficiently.

In busy lifting environments where multiple slings are in use, colour coding helps reduce the risk of selecting the wrong equipment.

This system is standardised under EN 1942-2, the European safety standard for textile round slings.

The benefits of colour coding include: 

• Faster identification of lifting capacity
• Reduced risk of operator error
• Improved safety during lifting operations
• Standardisation across lifting equipment

However, colour alone should never be relied upon as the sole indicator of capacity.

Over time, slings may experience:

• Colour fading from UV exposure
• Dirt or chemical contamination
• Wear to the outer sleeve
  

Because of this, operators should always verify the sling label or tag, which contains the official working load limit and manufacturer information.

ROUND SLING COLOUR CODE CHART (EN 1492-2)

Under the EN 1492-2 standard, round slings are manufactured in specific colours to represent their Working Load Limit (WLL).

Below is the commonly used round sling colour chart.

These capacities generally refer to the sling's maximum load in a straight vertical lift configuration. 

Different lifting methods, such as basket hitches or choke hitches, can change the effective load capacity.

UNDERSTANDING WORKING LOAD LIMIT (WLL)

The working load limit is the maximum load a sling can safely lift during normal operation. 

This value is calculated using a safety factor, which accounts for unexpected stresses, dynamic loads, and wear over time.

For polyester round slings, the typically safety factor is 7:1.

This means the sling's maximum breaking strength is seven times higher than its rated working load.

For example:

• Breaking strength = 7 tonnes
• Working Load Limit = 1 tonne

The WLL ensures lifting operations remain within safe limits and helps prevent equipment failure.

Exceeding the WLL can lead to:

• Sling failure
• Dropped loads
• Damage to lifting equipment
• Serious workplace injuries

For this reason, operators must always confirm the load weight and sling capacity before lifting begins.

HOW LIFTING CONFIGURATION AFFECT SLING CAPACITY

One important factor that many people overlook is that lifting configuration can significantly change sling capacity.

Even if a sling has a specific WLL rating, the way it is used can either increase or decrease its effective capacity.

Vertical Lift

A vertical lift uses a single sling directly attached to the load.

This configuration typically uses the standard WLL rating shown on the sling label.

Choke Hitch

A choke hitch wraps the sling around the load and passes one end through the other.

This creates a tightening effect around the load but also reduces lifting capacity due to increased friction and pressure.

Choke Hitch

A choke hitch wraps the sling around the load and passes one end through the other.

This creates a tightening effect around the load but also reduces lifting capacity due to increased friction and pressure.

Sling Angles

When two sling legs are used at angles, the tension in each sling increases as the angle widens.

This is why proper load calculations and rigging practices are essential when planning a lift.

Using the correct sling capacity and configuration ensures the lift remains safe and controlled.

WHY COLOUR ALONE SHOULD NEVER BE TRUSTED

Although colour coding is helpful, it should never replace proper inspection and verification procedures.

There are several reasons why colour alone may not accurately represent sling capacity.

Faded Colours

Exposure to sunlight, chemicals, and heavy use can cause the sling’s colour to fade over time.

This makes visual identification less reliable.

Manufacturing Variations

Although most manufacturers follow EN 1492-2 standards, slight variations can occur.

Always check the manufacturer label for the official WLL rating.

Missing or Damaged Labels

If the sling label is missing or unreadable, the sling should not be used.

The label contains essential information including:

• Working Load Limit
• Manufacturer details
• Safety standards compliance
• Unique identification numbers

Without this information, the sling cannot be safely verified.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SLING

Choosing the correct round sling involves more than simply matching a colour to a load weight.

Several factors should always be considered.

1. Load Weight

Always select a sling with a Working Load Limit higher than the load being lifted.

This ensures the sling operates safely within its capacity.

2. Sling Length

Sling length affects the lifting angle and positioning of the load.

Selecting the correct length helps maintain proper load balance.

3. Load Shape

Irregular loads may require multiple slings or specialised rigging configurations.

4. Environmental Conditions

Polyester slings perform well in many environments but may be affected by:

• High temperatures
• Strong chemicals
• Sharp edges

5. Edge Protection

Sharp corners can damage the sling’s outer sleeve and internal fibres.

Using edge protection helps extend sling lifespan and improve safety.

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CONCLUSION

Round sling colour codes provide a quick and convenient way to identify the Working Load Limit of lifting slings, helping operators select the correct equipment during lifting operations.

However, safe lifting always requires more than simply checking the sling colour. Operators must verify the sling label, inspect the sling condition, understand lifting configurations, and ensure the load weight is within safe limits.

By understanding how colour coding and load capacities work, lifting professionals can make safer equipment choices and reduce the risk of lifting accidents.