1. (1) All chain used as a tiedown device shall be free of cracks, breaks and separations.

2. (2) Chain shall be constructed of welded steel links, at least 5/16 inch diameter and rated grade 7 or higher, with a minimum working load limit of 4,700 pounds. Grade 4 chain may be used if the diameter of each link of the chain is at least 3/8 inch diameter, with a minimum working load limit of 5,400 pounds. The department may, in its discretion, approve other grades of chain.

   Note: Grade 7 chain is commonly known as “transport grade.” Grade 4 chain is commonly known as “high test grade.”

3. (3) Chain shall be marked with a grade code embossed at least once every 20 links. Grade codes are shown in Table 1.
   

   TABLE 1: CHAIN GRADE MARKINGS USED BY
   U.S. CHAIN MANUFACTURERS

   - See PDF for table

   Note: Chain manufactured by Acco, Boltmaster-Taylor, Hodell, and Teledyne McKay is marked with a grade stamp on each link. The other chain manufacturers above mark their chain with a grade stamp, as indicated, every 10 to 20 links or 2 to 3 linear feet. This table is compiled from information published by the National Association of Chain Manufacturers. The department will update and revise this table periodically. New or additional marking information may be submitted by chain manufacturers to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Division of State Patrol, Motor Carrier and Inspection Services Section, P.O. Box 7912, Madison, Wisconsin 53707.

4. (4) No person may use grade 3, proof coil, or ungraded chain as a tiedown for logs.
5. (5) No person may use chain if any link is elongated due to stress.
6. (6) No person may use chain that has been repaired, unless the working load limit of the repaired chain is at least as great as the working load limit of the original chain.

History

History: Cr. Register, October, 1991, No. 430, eff. 11-1-91.