Aerial Silks and Slings Information Page

Introduction 

 
This document provides essential safety information for the use, inspection, maintenance, and storage for aerial apparatus consisting of polypropylene net, dyneema, polyester sewn loop slings, stainless steel thimble eyes (Aerial Nets), and nylon fabric, polyester fabric (silks, slings/hammocks), and metal components. 

Proper use, regular inspections, and appropriate storage are essential for ensuring the safety and longevity of this equipment. Always consult the manufacturer if you have concerns about the equipment’s condition or usage. 

 

Lifespan

The maximum lifespan (regardless of use) of your equipment depends on its material composition.

  • Synthetics (not including silks/Hammocks) - 7 years*
  • Silks/Hammocks - 5 Years*
  • Cotton - 5 years*
  • Metals - Indefinite

Retiring your equipment before these times should be based on regular inspections of your kit, according to the paperwork provided, by a competent person.

We provide logbooks with each piece of kit to aid with inspection and usage logs.

*from date of purchase.

 

Loading 

  • The Working Load Limit (WLL) is calculated from a 7:1 Factor of Safety (FOS) based on damage, not destruction. 

  • Never exceed the manufacturer's WLL. 

 

Inspection 


Regular inspections are critical to ensure the safety of equipment. Follow these guidelines for all components. 

Before First Use  

  • Use photos to record the original condition of the apparatus and inspect the full length for any imperfections. 

Before Each Use  

  • Keep a log of all usage and inspections and any incidents or accidents involving the equipment. 

Inspect for any signs of damage or deterioration, such as: 

  • Frayed, worn, or broken fibres. Pay close attention to high stress areas, attachment points, check the knot at attachments, or fibres in contact with edges of hardware. 

  • Deformation of stainless steel eye rigging points. 

  • Contamination (dirt, oil, chemicals). 

  • Loosening or slipping of stitching or attachments. 

  • Holes, tears, or significant stretching. 

  • Cracks, deformation, wear, or corrosion. 

  • Loose or damaged attachment points.  

  • Discolouration or thinning. Note: Colour fading is likely to occur when with UV exposure. Some colours of nylon fabric silks (eg: turquoise) may fade in indoor light conditions. Normal fading will not affect the integrity of the fabric. If in doubt contact the manufacturer. 

  • Inspect immediately after any suspected dynamic loading event (e.g., a fall).  

  • Ensure all equipment components are correctly positioned relative to each other. 

  • Consider the storage environment when evaluating the equipment’s condition. 

 

Full Inspection (Every 6 Months) 

A competent person must conduct a thorough examination every 6 months. Maintain detailed records, including the date, inspector’s name, and any defects found (documented photographically and compared to original records).  

Follow these steps: 

  • Inspect for signs of wear, thinning or damage, documenting any cuts, abrasions, or tears. 

  • Check fibres for irregular lumps or kinks. 

  • Untie any attachments (silks/hammocks/slings only) to closely check for wear or damage, inspecting both fabric and rigging. 

  • Closely check attachments/whipping/edging of nets but do not untie or disassemble. 

  • Look for cracks, distortion, corrosion, discoloration from heat exposure (over 100°C), burrs, dents, or deformities. 

  • Pay special attention to attachment points: 

  • Photograph connection points and compare to previous inspections. 

  • If changes are noted, discontinue use and consult the manufacturer. 

  • Monitor steel component wear: 

  • 5% material loss – increase inspection frequency. 

  • 5-10% material loss – discontinue use and replace parts. 

  • Contact the manufacturer if you have concerns about the equipment’s condition. 

Shape 

Cleaning 

Washing instructions 

Silks/hammocks: 

Remove hardware before washing. 

  • Only wash one silk at a time. 

  • Hand wash with cold water and a mild detergent.  

  • Machine wash on a cold, delicate wash. 

  • Never use solvents or industrial cleaners on silks 

Nets: 

  • The netting is made from polypropylene, which does not absorb water and resists alkalis and acids. 

  • Handwash/spot clean with mild detergent and warm water. 

Drying Instructions  

  • Never tumble dry, even on the lowest setting. Tumble drying will damage the fibres, making them weaker and, therefore, no longer safe to use.  

  • Avoid drying outside or in direct sunlight.  

  • Dry inside, away from sunlight.  

  • If your training space is well-ventilated, you can hang the fabric from a point and let it dry there. You can direct a fan at the bottom to speed up drying.  

  • Ensure the fabric is completely dry before using it again. 

 

Storage 

  • When not in use, store in a dry place away from moisture and sunlight.