What is the recommended number of slings to be gathered on a single point hook?

How often have you witnessed riggers on a job site disregard the possibility of tip loading, back loading, or side loading the hook by placing more than two slings into one single point hook?

If you're like many individuals, your response would be "far too many times!"

Let's go over some key points about single point hook applications that may be useful to communicate to others if you come across this practice in the field.

In-line loading is the intended use for hoist hooks. It's important to avoid tip loading, back loading, or side loading a hook by keeping the slings in the bowl of the hook.

The maximum angle allowed between two sling legs of a hook is 90 degrees, and the sling legs should be kept within 45 degrees from the center line of the hook, as shown in graphic A below.

Crosby forged hooks have angle indicators to help you approximate your sling angles. See graphic B below.

Information per ASME B30.10-1.11.1(e) : A collector ring, such as a link or shackle, should be used when more than two legs are placed in a hook or for angles greater than 45 degrees with respect to the hook center line.

According to the information provided in graphic C below, Crosby shackles, links, and rings have a maximum included angle of 120 degrees, with 60 degrees on either side. These collector rings are also suitable for ensuring correct alignment of slings in specific scenarios.

A shackle used to collect multiple sling legs must be a screw pin or bolt type shackle with bolt, nut, and cotter pin like shown above.