🔍 Key Concepts

• Safety hook latch purpose on cargo gear and lifting appliances • Difference between retaining a load under strain vs. preventing accidental disengagement when slack • Whether a latch has any effect on the structural strength of the hook itself

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself in what situation a sling ring is most likely to jump or fall out of a hook: when it is heavily loaded, or when the load suddenly goes slack or bounces? • Consider how hooks are actually designed and rated: is the safe working load based on the hook metal and shape, or on the latch? • Think about which option describes the primary safety function of the latch, rather than adding extra strength to the hook.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify whether a hook’s working load limit is determined by the latch or by the body of the hook • Check which condition the latch is specifically meant to guard against: continuous strain or sudden loss/changes of strain • Confirm if a safety latch is considered a load‑bearing component or just a retaining/guard device.