What is the standard protocol when gear is damaged and not fit for lifting?

• A. Remove From Service, Tag Out, Replace Or Repair Before Reuse
• B. Ignore And Continue
• C. Use For Lighter Loads
• D. Remove From Service, Tag Out, Replace Or Repair Before Reuse And Document The Action

Answer: (D)

The main idea is to stop using any gear that’s damaged, isolate it so no one can grab it, and ensure it is either repaired or replaced before it can be returned to service, with a clear record of what was done. This keeps the gear from being accidentally reintroduced into service and provides accountability.

Removing from service and tagging out prevents accidental use, and arranging replacement or repair handles the corrective action. Documenting the action creates a traceable safety record—it notes what was observed, what was done (repair or replacement), who did it, and when. This record is essential for future inspections, maintenance scheduling, and audits, and it helps ensure the gear is fully verified before reuse.

Just ignoring the damage or trying to use the gear for lighter loads would still leave a damaged item in the system and potentially unsafe, so those options do not meet the standard protocol.