The invention relates to a safety hook for mounting on the extremity of a spreader bar (1) of a patient lift. The safety hook comprises a base member (5) that is connected to or integral with the spreader bar (1). A load-bearing hook member (2) is pivotally suspended from the base member (5) to allow the hook member (2) to move in the plane of the hook member (2) between an open position and a closed position in which the free end of the hook member (2) engages the base member (5) at an engagement point (15). The hook member (2) is shaped such that it is urged to the closed position when a downward load is applied to it, and that it is urged to the open position when an upward load is applied to it. Retaining means keep the hook member (2) in both the open position and in the closed position unless a substantial force is applied to the hook member. <；IMAGE>；
