Can Grade 70 Chain Be Used for Lifting?

Jun 28th 2025

When it comes to rigging and lifting operations, safety starts with choosing the right equipment — and not all chains are created equal. Grade 70 chain, commonly used for transport and load securement, is not designed or rated for overhead lifting.

If you're wondering whether you can use Grade 70 chain for lifting, the answer is straightforward: No. Here's why.

What Is Grade 70 Chain Designed For?

Grade 70 chain, often called transport chain or trucker’s chain, is made from heat-treated carbon steel and features a recognizable gold chromate finish. This finish not only distinguishes it visually from lifting-grade chains but also provides moderate corrosion resistance — ideal for tie-downs and load securement.

Flatbed load securement
Vehicle recovery and towing
General cargo restraint

While it's rugged and strong, Grade 70 chain does not meet OSHA or ASME requirements for overhead lifting. It is not proof-tested or certified for that application.

Why Grade 70 Chain Should Not Be Used for Lifting

According to ASME B30.9 and OSHA 1910.184, chains used for overhead lifting must be alloy steel and clearly marked with grade and manufacturer identification. Grade 70 chain fails both requirements.

Not alloy steel: Lifting chains are typically made from alloy steel (e.g., Grades 80, 100, 120)
No lifting certification: Grade 70 chains are not tested or tagged for lifting
Reduced ductility: Lower elongation and shock resistance compared to lifting-grade chains

Using Grade 70 chain in a lifting scenario could result in sudden failure, serious injury, or legal liability.

What Chain Grades Are Safe for Lifting?

Chain Grade	Material	Lifting Certified	Typical Use
Grade 70	Carbon Steel	❌ No	Transport, towing
Grade 80	Alloy Steel	✅ Yes	General overhead lifting
Grade 100	Alloy Steel	✅ Yes	Heavy-duty lifting
Grade 120	Alloy Steel	✅ Yes	High-strength lifting

You can explore certified Grade 80, 100, and 120 lifting chains on Lifting.com — all tested to meet or exceed ASME and OSHA standards.

Inspection and Best Practices for Lifting Chains

Check for cracks, gouges, or bent links
Look for signs of stretching or wear
Ensure all manufacturer markings and tags are legible
Remove any damaged or questionable chain from service

Need help inspecting or tagging your lifting gear? Our team at Bishop Lifting is here to help.

Conclusion

While Grade 70 chain is strong and reliable for transport, it has no place in overhead lifting operations. For lifting tasks, always use chain grades designed and rated for that purpose — Grade 80, Grade 100, or Grade 120 — and ensure your rigging gear is inspected, tagged, and certified.

At Bishop Lifting, we offer a full line of certified lifting chains, rigging hardware, slings, hoists, and PPE — ready to ship to your job site.

Visit Lifting.com to browse our full catalog and keep your team safe and compliant.

FAQs

Can Grade 70 chain be used for lifting? No. Grade 70 chain is not certified or designed for lifting. Use Grade 80 or higher.

What is Grade 70 chain made of? Heat-treated carbon steel, typically finished with gold chromate for corrosion resistance.

What chains are approved for lifting? Grade 80, Grade 100, and Grade 120 chains made from alloy steel and certified for lifting per OSHA and ASME standards.

How often should lifting chain be inspected? Before each use and at regular intervals, per ASME B30.9 and your company's inspection schedule.

Need Rigging Help?

Have questions about lifting chain or need help selecting the right gear? Contact our experts at Lifting.com — we’ve been supplying the rigging and lifting industry for over 40 years.