a device can be applied to a lifting and / or transporting unit for the controlled support of loads by generating a vacuum in one or more suction pads . the device includes a vacuum gauge measuring the vacuum level in at least one of the suction pads and safely controlling movement of the device . a safety system prevents erroneous dropping of the suspended load . the suction pads for gripping the load can be mounted on a holding frame which can be changed and / or lengthened for accommodating various types of loads .