Overhead Crane Practice Test

When connecting both ends of a sling into a hook, what piece of rigging hardware should be used?

1. A carabiner

2. A clevis

3. A shackle

4. A link

The correct answer is: A shackle

Using a shackle to connect both ends of a sling into a hook is the best practice in rigging. Shackles are designed to connect various pieces of rigging equipment securely, and they can handle the loads typically involved in lifting operations. Their shape allows for a robust connection that can accommodate different types of slings, including chain or wire rope, ensuring that the loads are distributed evenly and reducing the likelihood of slippage. Shackles also provide a means to attach, detach, and adjust rigging components without compromising the integrity of the setup. While other hardware options, such as carabiners, clevises, and links, have their uses, they may not be suitable for heavy lifting applications. Carabiners are generally used in climbing and recreational activities and may not provide the necessary strength for lifting. Clevises could be used in certain applications but typically serve different functions, such as connecting components in mechanical systems, and may not provide the same reliability as a shackle for lifting. Links can be used but are often less secure than shackles. Therefore, a shackle is the preferred and most reliable choice for connecting two ends of a sling into a hook in lifting operations.