According to ASME B30.9, who should maintain the identification tags on wire rope slings?

• A. The supplier
• B. The user
• C. The manufacturer
• D. The inspector

Answer: (B)

Identification tags on wire rope slings carry essential information such as the rated load, sling type, length, and the date of last inspection. Keeping these tags legible and attached is the responsibility of the user—the person controlling the sling in a work situation—so that everyone using the equipment can verify its capacity and service status before each lift. If the tag becomes damaged, illegible, or is missing, the sling should not be used until the tag is replaced and the information is verified. The tag is provided by the manufacturer or supplier, but ongoing maintenance and verification rests with the user, not the manufacturer or inspector; inspectors focus on safe condition during audits but do not routinely maintain tag information.