Materials Handling (including Gear and Equipment for Rigging) >> Shackles and Hooks

Figure 1: Shackles and hooks used with wire-rope slings to attach vessel section to crane hook
Figure 1: Shackles and hooks used with wire-rope slings to attach vessel section to crane hook.

Shackles and hooks are rigging components used to attach loads and slings to lifting devices. These items along with ropes, chains, and slings make up the "rigging gear."

Note: Confined space entry is one of the leading hazards associated with barge cleaning. Review the Shipbreaking: Confined or Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres chapter for information on how to protect workers from this hazard.

Figure 2: Shackles used to attach wire-rope slings to chain slings and to secure smaller horizontal stabilizing sling

Potential Hazard

Failure of shackles or hooks while loads are being lifted or moved, may cause serious injuries.

Figure 3: Load properly applied to throat of hook, but hook has defective safety gate

Requirements and Example Solutions