Choosing the Right Hitch

Welcome back, let’s Build Smart & Build Safe! How you attach a sling to a load is just as important as the strength of the sling itself. A sling's rated capacity changes the moment you move away from a straight, vertical pull. Many assume a 5-ton sling can always lift 5 tons, but depending on the hitch you choose, you could be cutting that capacity in half or doubling the stress on the hardware.

The Three Standard Hitches

The way a sling is "hitched" determines its Work Load Limit (WLL). You must check the capacity tag for the specific hitch you are using.

• Vertical Hitch: The sling hangs straight down. This is the "baseline" capacity. It is used for balanced loads with a single lifting point or when using a spreader bar.

• Choker Hitch: The sling is wrapped around the load and threaded back through itself. This is excellent for securing bundles of pipe or rebar, but it comes at a cost. The "choke" creates a sharp bend that stresses the fibers. A choker hitch reduces the sling's rated capacity by 25%.

• Basket Hitch: The sling goes under the load and both eyes are attached to the hook. Because the weight is distributed across two legs of the sling, a basket hitch can double the capacity—but only if the legs are kept vertical.

When Hitches Go Wrong

Choosing the wrong hitch for the material can lead to "load slip" or catastrophic rigging failure.

1. The "Choke" Point: Never force a choker down to "tighten" it before a lift. This creates an acute angle that can cut the sling. Let the weight of the load set the choke naturally as it is lifted.

2. Bundle Security: A single choker hitch on a bundle of loose material is a hazard. If the load shifts, the middle pieces can slide out. Use a "double-wrap" choker or two slings to maintain control.

3. Balance: A basket hitch provides no "grip." If the load is top-heavy or the center of gravity shifts, the load can slide right out of the basket.

Implementation: Match the Hitch to the Load

Before you signal the operator to "take the slack":

1. Read the Tag: Look at the three different numbers on the sling tag. Ensure the number next to the picture of your hitch (Vertical, Choker, or Basket) is higher than the weight of the load.

2. Protect the "Corners": If you are using a basket or choker hitch around steel beams or concrete, use "softeners" (padding) to prevent the sharp edges from cutting into the sling.

3. Check for "Slip": For long bundles, ensure you have two points of contact. A single hitch is rarely enough to keep a load level.

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-The Safety Man