What distinguishes free lifting from rigged lifting?

• A. Rigged lifting uses no rigging.
• B. Free lifting uses no rigging; rigged lifting uses slings and attachments to secure the load.
• C. Free lifting uses slings; rigged lifting uses no attachments.
• D. Both lifting methods require rigging.

Answer: (B)

Free lifting relies on lifting the load without any rigging between the load and the crane. The hook or the load’s built-in lifting point carries the load directly, so no extra slings or attachments are used. Rigged lifting, on the other hand, uses rigging gear—slings, chains, shackles, spreader bars, and other attachments—to connect the load to the crane. This is chosen when the load has no suitable lifting point, or when you need to balance, control, or distribute the load safely. The distinction matters because rigging provides ways to secure and stabilize the load and protect it from damage, while free lifting depends on the load’s own lifting point and the hook alone.