Different Types of Lifting Hooks

Lifting hooks are essential pieces of equipment, designed to safely lift, move and secure heavy loads. There is a wide variety of lifting hooks on the market, each suited to different lifting situations and environments. In this blog, we will explore the various types of lifting hooks and their uses so that you can choose the right one for your task.

Grab Hook

Grab hooks are designed with a special narrow throat that ‘grabs’ chains between the links for quick non-slip handling. These hooks are ideal for situations where the load must be secured tightly such as when lifting heavy equipment or towing vehicles and machinery.

Grab hooks allow to user to easily link and unlink individual chain links, which is ideal if you need to quickly adjust the length of chain or rope in a tensioned system.

Eye Hook

Eye hooks have a round ‘eye’ at the top, allowing them to be easily connected to slings or other lifting devices. The eye ensures that there is a secure attachment point, making this style of hook ideal for heavy lifting tasks that require a secure, easily connectable hook.

It is worth noting that an eye hook is a permanent solution as chains or fittings have to be welded to form a permanent connection with the eye.

Slip Hook

Slip hooks, also sometimes known as sling hooks, are a style of closed hook with a latch that needs to be manually opened to release a load. These hooks tend to feature a clevis fastener rather than an eye and have a wider throat than grab hooks.

Slip hooks are ideal for lifting operations that require secure pin connections and frequent attachment/detachment of hooks.

Swivel Hook

Swivel lifting hooks are equipped with a swivel feature that allows the hook to rotate 360 degrees. This feature helps to prevent the load from shifting or twisting during lifting, making swivel hooks ideal for applications where movement or rotation is required, or where controlled load placement is needed.

If you’re still unsure or would like some advice on which lifting hook is best for your task, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at SafetyLiftinGear and a member of our team will be happy to help!

Get in Touch