According to OSHA, what type of chain should be used by an overhead crane?

The correct choice is alloy chain, as specified by OSHA and industry standards, because it offers superior strength and durability compared to other types of chains. Alloy chains are made from high-strength steel components that often undergo heat treatment processes to enhance their performance under load, making them suitable for lifting heavy weights in various environments.

Using alloy chains reduces the risk of deformation or failure under heavy loads, providing a margin of safety for both the operator and the load being lifted. In contrast, other materials, such as plastic, do not possess the necessary strength and resistance to wear required for lifting applications, and materials like copper, while good for certain electrical applications, do not offer the strength characteristics needed in overhead lifting scenarios. Steel may seem like a viable option, but without the specific treatments and characteristics of alloy chains, it may not perform as efficiently or safely in an overhead crane application.