When should the use of a chain be discontinued?

The use of a chain should be discontinued when it shows wear greater than specified limits because excessive wear can compromise the chain's structural integrity and load-bearing capacity. Chains are designed to withstand certain limits of wear, and once these limits are exceeded, the likelihood of failure during operation increases significantly. This could result in dangerous situations, including accidents and injuries. Regular inspections and adherence to specified wear limits are crucial for maintaining safety in lifting and rigging operations.

While color fading, rust, and loose links are indicators of potential issues, they do not necessarily mean the chain is immediately unsafe. Color fading often affects visibility and can indicate exposure to harsh elements, but it doesn't inherently reduce strength. Rust might weaken a chain, but superficial rust can sometimes be treated, and the chain might still be usable depending on its extent. Loose links can be problematic but may not indicate that the entire chain is beyond its safe usage limits unless they affect the chain’s overall ability to manage specified loads effectively. Therefore, identifying wear that exceeds specified limits is the most critical factor in determining when to discontinue the use of a chain.