Abstract: A universal safety device includes, in one embodiment, a cross bar frame and, in another embodiment, a flat platform. Cables extend through the frame or platform, with gripping brackets at the lower ends of the cables configurated and dimensioned to secure lower gripping surfaces of an item to be lifted or moved, such as the lips or lifting rims, or lower recesses or indentations typically provided of sand-filled inertial barriers or crash cushions. Locking members are provided for maintaining the brackets in engagement with the lower gripping surfaces of the items to be lifted and a girth cable or belt is placed around the item to be lifted which circumscribes the downwardly depending cables to prevent accidental release thereof during lifting or movement.