The BS EN 818 series is a set of European safety standards that define the design, manufacture, testing and safe use of short link lifting chains and chain slings used in material handling, construction, engineering and industrial lifting operations. These standards ensure lifting chains and assemblies meet strict requirements for strength, durability and traceability, helping reduce the risk of failure during lifting activities.
The series applies to electrically welded round steel short link chains and associated sling assemblies used for lifting loads. It covers critical safety aspects such as material specifications, heat treatment, proof testing, marking, and working load limits (WLL). By following BS EN 818, manufacturers and lifting professionals can ensure that chains and slings are capable of performing safely under demanding conditions.
The BS EN 818 standard is divided into several parts, each focusing on a specific component or application within lifting systems:
- Part 1 – General conditions of acceptance for lifting chains
- Part 2 – Medium tolerance chain for chain slings (Grade 8)
- Part 3 – Medium tolerance chain for chain slings (Grade 4)
- Part 4 – Chain slings (Grade 8) including single, multi-leg and endless assemblies
- Part 5 – Chain slings (Grade 4)
- Part 6 – Instructions for use, maintenance and information provided by the manufacturer
- Part 7 – Fine tolerance hoist chains (Grade T) for hoisting equipment
Within these standards, lifting chains must meet strict requirements for mechanical properties, dimensional tolerances, proof loading, breaking force, and identification marking. The standards also define how chain slings should be rated and tested, ensuring that assemblies such as single-leg, two-leg, three-leg and four-leg slings are capable of lifting loads safely when used within their specified limits. ()
Complying with BS EN 818 helps organisations demonstrate adherence to recognised lifting safety practices across the UK and Europe. It also supports compliance with wider machinery safety regulations and industry guidelines for lifting equipment, helping operators select and maintain chains and slings suitable for their lifting applications.
👉 For the official and complete set of requirements, you can view the full standard via the British Standards Institution