Under what circumstances should choking a sling be used?

Choking a sling involves wrapping the sling around the load and using the load's weight to create friction, which holds the sling in place and provides additional security during lifting. This method should be used when other configurations are not possible, such as when the load does not have appropriate pick points or when the shape of the load does not allow for a more secure attachment. Choking can be advantageous because it allows the sling to conform to the shape of the load, providing a snug fit that can enhance stability during lifting.

Using choking as a default method without assessing the load conditions can lead to unsafe lifting practices, particularly if alternative configurations could provide better load security or balance. Therefore, while it is a useful technique, it should be employed judiciously and only when other, more stable options are unavailable.

The other options suggest using choking in scenarios that might not be the most appropriate, like always defaulting to it, relying on it when slings are weak, or using it solely for light loads, which could overlook the need for proper rigging methods specific to the load's nature and weight.