
Chain Blocks & Manual Chain Hoists
A hand-operated chain block is a manual chain hoist (also commonly known as a block and tackle or hand chain hoist) that lifts by pulling a hand chain. They are portable pieces of lifting equipment that are available in versatile configurations; they are very adaptable to many alternative working scenarios and working environments, including permanent and temporary installations. Available in capacities ranging from 250kg up to 100 tonnes, the chain hoist is adaptable to the greater majority of lifting applications or situations.
We offer hand chain hoists from many of the world's top quality manufacturers, including Yale, Tiger Lifting, Kito, Tractel, Hadef and William Hackett’s, and we are constantly adding new manufacturers to our range of chain blocks, meaning that even more features and options are continually becoming available.
Hand chain blocks can be supplied with top hook suspension or with an integrated trolley, be it push travel or geared chain drive for use on a monorail lifting beam.
We also offer a specialist range of hand chain hoists, such as ATEX-rated for use in potentially explosive areas, that have anti-sparking features to prevent an explosion or ROV Subsea chain hoists that are specially designed for operation by a remote-operated vehicle underwater.
Types of Chain Block

Hook Suspended Chain Blocks

Trolley Mounted Chain Blocks

Corrosion Resistant Hand Chain Blocks

Atex Manual Chain Blocks
All Chain Blocks & Manual Chain Hoists
General information about chain blocks
We supply manual chain blocks (hand-operated hoists) in capacities and configurations to suit most lifting applications and to our customers' specifications.
All of the above-mentioned chain hoists supplied by LiftingSafety are from quality manufacturers. We only sell quality blocks/hoists as our lifting equipment supplier reputation is important to us; we do not intend to risk our good reputation by selling cheap, poor-quality lifting equipment. With the range offered, there are many configurations and options to suit most lifting and hoisting operations. We have made a conscious decision not to sell cheap Far East copies from unknown and unproven manufacturers. Many specialist features, such as stainless steel and spark resistance, are available; contact us if you need any assistance.
There are three main types of hand chain hoist available, which are:
- Hook suspended, which is a hoist with hooks on top and bottom.
- The hoist unit is fitted with a push travel trolley (manual trolley), which enables manual movement up and down a beam.
- A hoist with a geared trolley integrated into the hoisting unit, which, via the pulling of a chain, drives the trolley, allowing it to glide up and down a beam with the utmost ease.
We also offer a range of completely stainless steel hand chain blocks, which are not presently advertised online, though we will be adding them to our website shortly.
Chain Blocks: A Complete Guide to Manual Lifting Solutions
At LiftingSafety.co.uk, we supply a wide range of chain blocks, also known as chain hoists, designed for safe, reliable, and efficient manual lifting. Whether you need a 1 ton chain block for everyday use or a heavy-duty chain block and tackle for industrial applications, we’ve got you covered.
What is a Chain Block?
A chain block (sometimes written as chainblock) is a type of manual hoist used to lift or lower heavy loads using a chain and pulley system. Operated by hand, the mechanism allows a single person to lift loads far heavier than they could manage unaided. This makes a manual chain hoist a cost-effective and portable alternative to powered lifting equipment.
How Chain Blocks Work
A chain block hoist operates through a combination of a lifting chain, chain pulley, gears, and hooks. By pulling the hand chain hoist loop, the gears multiply force, allowing the hoist chain to raise or lower the load. This principle is why the chain blocks are also referred to as a block & tackle hoist, which is also designed to reduce effort.
Alternative Names for Chain Hoists
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Manual Chain Hoist - Perfect for workshops, garages, and construction sites where electricity isn’t available.
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Lifting Hoist - A broader category that includes electric, air and manual versions.
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Chain Block and Tackle
Choosing the Right Chain Block
When selecting your manual lifting gear, consider:
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Capacity - From a small 125 kg up to the more common 1 ton chain block model, to larger capacities for heavier industrial lifting up to 100 tonnes.
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Lifting Height - The distance you need the load raised.
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Environment - Corrosion-resistant models are best for outdoor or marine use.
Popular Uses
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Workshop maintenance
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Construction site lifting
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Warehouse operations
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Vehicle repair and recovery
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Agricultural equipment handling
Safety and Compliance
All chain hoists supplied by LiftingSafety.co.uk meet UK safety regulations and are tested for reliability. Always inspect your manual hoist before use and follow the manufacturer’s load limits.
Why Choose LiftingSafety.co.uk?
We offer:
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A full range of chain block hoists from trusted brands
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Fast delivery across the UK
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Expert advice on manual lifting gear selection
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Competitive prices on 1-ton chain block and higher-capacity models
Ready to lift smarter? Browse our full selection of chain blocks and manual hoists above to find out more.
Looking for an alternative to a manual/pull chain hoist?
At liftingsafety we believe in offering the right tool for the job, with this in mind we would like to also inform you that we also have a wide range of alternative power/drive options, the main options to choose from are electric hoists (electric chain hoists), Air hoists (pneumatic hoists) and lever hoists - (Pullifts), any of which could prove to be a more suitable or efficient hoisting solution for the task at hand. Alternatively, you may wish to view our complete range of chain hoists, which may aid you in making a more informed decision as to which direction you would like to proceed, although if you are unsure or if we can aid you in any way, then please get in touch.