Abstract: An apparatus and method for lifting a truss. The apparatus includes a generally U-shaped hook having spaced apart opposite ends, an elongated shaft having a handle end and an opposite hook end connected to one end of said hook, and a rod substantially co-extensive with said shaft and longitudinally slidable therealong between a first position wherein the rod is substantially clear of the space between the opposite ends of the hook so that a truss beam may be received therein and a second position wherein the rod extends substantially across the space whereby withdrawal of the beam between the opposite ends of the hook is prevented. Because the rod is substantially co-extensive with the shaft, it may be manipulated adjacent the handle end of the shaft for movement of its opposite ends between the first and second positions. The elongated slot may have lateral extensions for receiving the projection to releaseably secure the rod in its first and second positions, respectively.