Effective working length (or EWL for short) refers to the usable length of a lifting sling, measured from bearing to bearing.

To put it more simply: EWL is the length between the sling's contact points.

The 3 most common types of ratchet strap are: claw hook ratchet straps, rave hook ratchet straps and endless ratchet straps.

Ratchet straps are great for securing your load before you hit the road, but using the wrong kind of ratchet lashing can have disastrous – even deadly – consequences.