When rigging a valve, where should the sling be placed?

The sling should be placed around the body of the valve when rigging. This is because the body is designed to bear the weight of the valve and provides a stable point for lifting. Proper rigging at the body ensures an evenly distributed load, reducing the risk of imbalance or damage during the lift.

When considering the actuator, stem, and handle, these components are typically not suitable lifting points. The actuator may not be structurally designed to support the entire weight of the valve during rigging, potentially leading to malfunction or damage. The stem could be vulnerable to bending or snapping if lifted improperly, as it is not designed for such loads. The handle, while it can be a point of manipulation for operation, does not provide adequate support for lifting and can easily break or come loose. Therefore, rigging at the body of the valve ensures safety and integrity throughout the lifting process.