Chain Hoist Classes (D8 / D8+ / C1)
The classifications that decide whether an electric chain hoist may hold a load over people. In the German/DACH framework: D8 (DGUV/BGV D8) has a 4:1 safety factor and a single brake — rated to LIFT loads, not to park them suspended over an audience. D8+ raises the safety factor to 8:1 and adds a second, independent brake, so the load may stay over people where local rules allow. C1 (BGV-C1, IGVW SQ P2) is the full over-people standard: dual brakes plus an overload/slip clutch. Other countries have their own regimes — the badge alone is not permission.
Only a hoist rated to suspend loads over people — C1, or D8+ where local rules accept it — may sit a load over an audience. A plain D8 must move loads only when the space beneath is clear, or be independently secondary-suspended. Always check the local regulation, not just the class label on the hoist.