What must be installed on an excavator to attach slings for crane use?

For safely attaching slings for crane use, a specially designed lifting lug must be installed on the excavator. This lifting lug is specifically engineered to provide a secure and stable connection point for the slings, ensuring that the load can be lifted safely without risking slippage or failure.

Using appropriately designed lifting lugs is critical because they are tested and rated for the loads they will bear, which significantly enhances safety during lifting operations. This ensures that the weight distribution is correct and that the excavator remains stable while being operated in lifting scenarios.

Other options mentioned, such as a safety harness, additional counterweight, or a winch system, do not serve the specific function needed for securely attaching slings for lifting operations with a crane. A safety harness is meant for personal safety when working at heights, counterweights are used to balance equipment but do not facilitate lifting attachments, and a winch system is not necessary for the simple attachment of slings to the excavator. Hence, the installation of properly designed lifting lugs is essential for safe and effective crane operations involving an excavator.