Which component is typically used to support lever- or chain-type hoists, with care to ensure compatible working load limits among components?

Which component is typically used to support lever- or chain-type hoists, with care to ensure compatible working load limits among components?

• A. Turnbuckles
• B. Beam clamps
• C. Eyebolt
• D. Shackle

Answer: (B)

When lifting from above, a beam clamp is used because it provides a secure, rated mounting point attached directly to the overhead beam. This keeps the hoist’s load path aligned with the beam, distributes the weight properly, and allows safe movement along the beam while the load is supported. Crucially, you must match the working load limit of the clamp to the hoist’s rated capacity (and ensure the beam itself can carry the load) so the weakest component doesn’t govern the safety of the lift. Turnbuckles aren’t meant to support hoists; they’re for tensioning lines. Eyebolts provide a single-point lift point but are not designed for mounting a hoist to a beam in a way that accommodates movement and dynamic loads. Shackles are connectors used to join components or slings, not to provide a proper, beam-mounted suspension point for a hoist.

When lifting from above, a beam clamp is used because it provides a secure, rated mounting point attached directly to the overhead beam. This keeps the hoist’s load path aligned with the beam, distributes the weight properly, and allows safe movement along the beam while the load is supported. Crucially, you must match the working load limit of the clamp to the hoist’s rated capacity (and ensure the beam itself can carry the load) so the weakest component doesn’t govern the safety of the lift.

Turnbuckles aren’t meant to support hoists; they’re for tensioning lines. Eyebolts provide a single-point lift point but are not designed for mounting a hoist to a beam in a way that accommodates movement and dynamic loads. Shackles are connectors used to join components or slings, not to provide a proper, beam-mounted suspension point for a hoist.