Shackles and shackle pins should all be

• A. Visually Inspected Annually For Evidence Of Cracks And Deformation
• B. Inspected Daily
• C. Tested Every 6 Months
• D. Replaced Yearly Regardless

Answer: (A)

Shackles and shackle pins are critical rigging components, so the routine check focuses on catching cracks or deformation before they lead to failure. A visual inspection performed annually by a competent person is the baseline method to look for cracks, bending, elongation, damaged threads, corrosion, or any looseness or misalignment. If anything abnormal is found, the hardware must be removed from service and replaced. Daily checks or more invasive testing isn’t the standard baseline practice, and replacing every year regardless of condition ignores possible continued serviceability.