1910.184(i)(9)(iv): Remove Synthetic Web Slings with Broken or Worn Stitches
Broken or worn stitches are one of the conditions listed in the sling rules for removing synthetic web slings from service. If you see broken or worn stitches, the sling must come out of service.
Key takeaways
- 1910.184(i)(9)(iv) is part of OSHA's general industry standards (29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart N).
- OSHA cited it 8 times in the last 3 years, in 8 inspections, with $8,251 in current penalties.
- Related part: 1910.184(i) Synthetic web slings (91 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1910.184(i)(9)(iv) is one requirement inside 1910.184 Slings, an OSHA general industry standard (Part 1910, Subpart N). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(iv) Broken or worn stitches; or 8 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1910.184.
Where and how often it was cited
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1910.184(i)(9)(iv), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1910.184(i)(9)(iv).
Related parts of this rule
- 1910.184(i) Synthetic web slings 91 citations
- 1910.184(i)(9) Removal from service 63 citations
- 1910.184(i)(9)(iii) 43 citations
- 1910.184(i)(1) Sling identification 28 citations
- 1910.184(i)(8) Repairs
Get your crew competent
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use a synthetic web sling with broken stitches?
No. Broken or worn stitches are a listed condition for removing the sling from service.
What about stitches that are only worn, not broken?
Worn stitches are also listed, so the sling should be removed from service.
When should I look for bad stitches?
Look every time you inspect the sling, and do not use it if the stitching is broken or worn.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.184 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-21
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.