When below-the-hook lifting equipment is bought, the specification usually asks for a standard, and which standard depends on the country where the equipment will be used. This guide summarizes what the standards asked for in Europe and North America cover, how the two approaches differ, and what information to give when you request a quotation.
Standards and legislation for Europe
EN 13155 is the European standard that sets safety requirements for non-fixed load lifting attachments used with cranes and hoists.
The edition seen in specifications is EN 13155:2020+A1:2025, with a 2026 corrigendum (AC:2026).
Whether an attachment falls within EN 13155, and which clause applies, is decided by engineering assessment of the specific design.
EN ISO 12100 sets out the method for risk assessment and risk reduction in machine design.
In the EU, the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC applies until 20 January 2027; from that date the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 applies generally.
Whether CE marking applies to a model depends on its classification and on the date it is placed on the market.
Standards for the United States and Canada
In the United States and Canada, specifications for below-the-hook lifting devices usually call for ASME B30.20 and ASME BTH-1.
ASME B30.20 covers the marking, inspection, testing, maintenance and operation of below-the-hook lifting devices.
ASME BTH-1 gives structural, mechanical and electrical design criteria for below-the-hook lifting devices; it does not replace ASME B30.20.
How the two approaches differ
In Europe the weight is on design and risk assessment before the product is placed on the market; the manufacturer designs, marks and delivers the equipment with its instructions on that basis. In North America the design criteria are collected in a separate document, while marking and the inspection, testing and maintenance carried out in service are defined in detail on their own. The same equipment may therefore be delivered with different labels, instructions and inspection documents for the two markets.
HENDL products
HENDL products are designed and manufactured in conformity with the standards that apply to each product and with EU machinery legislation; they are placed on the EU market with CE marking and an EU declaration of conformity.
HENDL products delivered to the United States and Canada are designed on the basis of ASME B30.20 and ASME BTH-1.
What to state when you request a quotation
- The country and plant where the equipment will be used
- The standard and edition required by the specification
- The documents you need: declaration of conformity, test report, language of the instructions
- The type, weight and dimensions of the load
For selection by product family, see the C-Hook and Adjustable Lifting Beam pages, and the guides How to Choose a Coil Lifting Tong and Lifting Beam or Spreader Beam?. You can send the details through the quotation form.