without compromising on muscle,” Baranowski said.
Other products available from Kito Crosby include the manufacturer’ s GrabiQ chain sling system, developed by Gunnebo Industries. It allows operators to lift asymmetrical loads using a single adjustable sling, rather than juggling long and short ones. It also supports low headroom lifts and adapts easily to loads like bars, tubes and pipes.
The Midgrab Chain Shortener( MIG) is also available for adding flexibility. By letting operators shorten chain legs at the hook, closer to the load, it keeps adjustments simple and prevents disengagement during use.
WHY SELF-LOCKING HOOKS MATTER
Training Is Key
While the right equipment is crucial, Felix Nyberg is quick to point out that knowledge matters just as much. Essential to the job at-hand is the training behind the equipment.
“ Online selection tools can also help guide customers toward the right rigging solutions, but training ensures they’ re used correctly,” Nyberg said.“ That’ s where jobsite safety and efficiency really begin.
“ Proper rigging not only minimizes risk,” Nyberg added.“ It enhances crew productivity and can lead to significant cost savings. In the end, it’ s often the smallest decisions that have the biggest safety impact.”
First introduced by Gunnebo Industries in the 1960s, self-locking hooks were developed in response to a common and dangerous problem: crews relying on open hooks or spring-latch hooks that would wear out or fail on the job. A failed latch doesn’ t just violate OSHA and ASME B30.9 standards— it puts workers at serious risk.
Self-locking hooks eliminate manual connections and reduce pinch-point exposure. Once loaded, they automatically close and stay locked until the load is fully released. This simple innovation adds a crucial layer of safety, making every lift more secure.
June 2025 • www. thepartsconnection. org • 11