Choosing the correct lifting hook

The hook is a crucial element in ensuring safe lifting therefore always give careful consideration to the type of lift, the shape of the load, and then select the hook best suited to the application.

Self Locking Hooks

Also referred to as ‘Safety Locking Hooks’ or ‘Latchlok Hooks’. Self locking hooks are designed to pivot in the middle and lock once the load is applied. It requires pressure on the trigger to release the hook when the load is grounded. The hook pivots fully open to give unrestricted access to the hook bowl. Always ensure the load is supported in the bowl of the hook.

Sling Hooks

May also be referred to as ‘Slip Hooks’. The sling hook was for many years the standard choice for lifting chains. It has been overtaken in popularity to some extent by the self locking hook but still remains very popular today. Always ensure the load is supported in the bowl of the hook and that the safety latch is engaged.

Swivel Self Locking Hooks

Same operation as the conventional self locking hook but incorporates a bow and swivel assembly. Where the swivel action is required only to position a load choose a plain bearing model. When the swivel is required to rotate under load choose only a ball bearing model. Always ensure the load is supported in the bowl of the hook.

Grab Hooks

May also be referred to as a ‘Snig Hook’. The narrow throat of a grab hook allows one link of chain to be seated and effectively grabbed. Grab hooks may be used to choke a load or are commonly used for shortening of chain legs. Always insist on the cradle type grab hook with supporting wings. Where used as a shortening device cradle type grab hooks maintain their full WLL. When cradle type grab hooks are used as bottom hooks for choking purposes, the sling WLL must be derated by 20%.

Swivel Sling Hooks

A version of the sling hook that incorporates a swivel assembly. When the swivel action is required only to position a load, choose a plain bearing model. When the swivel is required to rotate under load choose only a ball bearing model. Always ensure the load is supported in the bowl of the hook and that the safety latch is engaged.

Foundry Hooks

Designed with a wide throat, these hooks are ideal for unusually bulky attachment points. Foundry hooks do not incorporate a safety latch. Under the Approved Code of Practice for Load Lifting Rigging, such hooks may only be used where fitting and removing of a load cannot be physically achieved with a hook incorporating a safety latch. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that a foundry hook is safe for the intended application and meets the requirements of the Code. Always ensure the load is supported in the bowl of the hook.