SAFETY FACTOR
A factor of safety is the load carrying capacity of a system beyond what the system actually supports. Bridges, buildings, safety equipment and fall protection all start with a factor of safety.
Simply put, the safety factor is how much stronger a system is than required. In the planning phase of all structures and safety equipment, engineers determine required overload from any object to remain safe in the event of an emergency.
Just take polyester sling for example:
Min. Breaking Strength = Working Load Limit x Safety Factor
In different situation, different countries, the safety factor will be different:
1) For Lifting Sling
In Europe, normally the safety factor is 7:1.
While in the United States, it is 5: 1.
2) For Cargo Control
In Europe, the safety factor is 2:1.
While in the United States, it is 3:1.
