Chains, steel cables, wire ropes and hooks must not be used directly on polyethylene pipe or fittings.

Slings
Wide band slings distribute the lifting load over a large area and prevent point loading or pipe gouging. They can be used as chokers or with spreader bars. Chokers prevent the pipe or fitting from slipping during lifting. Spreader bars are recommended for lifting long lengths of fused pipe.

Nylon Rope
Thick nylon rope can also be used to lift pipe. It provides support similar to slings. Nylon rope can be used as chokers or with spreader bars.

Tongs
Specially designed pipe tongs can be used to lift pipe. They provide lifting support as the pipe weight increases. Do not exceed the design capacity.

Ramps
Ramps can sometimes be used to lower smaller diameter pipe. Ramps require the operator to stand to the side and slowly release the pipe down the ramp. Care must be exercised to avoid losing control during the lowering procedure.

Lifting Requirements
The lifting capacity of a sling or rope is determined by several factors including the type of sling or rope, the kind of hitch used, and how fittings are fastened to them. Typically, accessories should be rated at a minimum of 1.5 times the weight of the heaviest load to be lifted. The angle between each leg of the sling or rope should not exceed 45 degrees. Avoid kinking or twisting any part of the lifting accessory.