What is an adequate Design Factor?
A. This depends on the severity of service, the anticipated life expectancy of the device, dynamic loading conditions and the chance of exposure to an overload situation. While the ASME B30.20 Standard recommends 3:1 for devices made from structural steel components, other standards for slings, hook and other hardware recommend values as high as 5:1. In Ontario, Canada, a 5:1 design factor is specified in OHSA regulations pertaining to the construction industry. For consistency and superior, long-term reliability, Bison uses a 5:1 design factor in all designs unless specific circumstances dictate otherwise. A design factor lower than 3:1 will not be used.
