In a system having multiple coupling elements configured for single-handed coupling and single-handed de-coupling, each coupling element includes a body portion defining an opening and having a base configured to be free-standing. The body portion has an outer limb defining a hook member and at least one slot formed therein, the respective slot of a second initially free-standing coupling element being accessible to the respective hook member of a first suspended coupling element or vice versa. The coupling elements being configured so that mutual points of contact between the first and second coupling elements are maintained during both lifting and lowering the second coupling element thereby facilitating a one-handed intercoupling or decoupling operation with respect to a free standing coupling element disposed upright on a horizontal support surface.