Which condition would require removal from service for compression hardware?

• A. All of the above
• B. Missing identification
• C. Bent or cracked components
• D. Excessive pitting

Answer: (A)

In rigging safety, anything that compromises the strength, identification, or traceability of compression hardware means it must be taken out of service. Missing identification prevents knowing the exact load rating, certification, or inspection history, making it unsafe to use because you can’t verify what you’re loading. Bent or cracked components are clear signs of structural damage that can concentrate stress and fail under load. Excessive pitting indicates advanced corrosion, which weakens the metal and reduces its load-carrying capacity. Each of these issues poses a real safety risk, so the standard rule is to remove the hardware from service if any of them are present. All of these conditions require removal.