Just how does one "punch off" a Short Haul load?
That in itself tells it all.....when one strings human beings from the helicopter....you should remove the ability to release the load by any other means than say manually operated bolt cutters or a big sharp knife or axe! The system should incorporate two anchor points and can have an Emergency Release system but it should require TWO independent actions to function. If the Rope or Wire gets snagged the aircraft does need a way to release the device to free the aircraft.
A Rescue Hoist does have a "Cable Cutter" with a back up of a pair of Bolt Cutters....but that is a different kettle of fish which is used in the event of the cable fouling on something.
Bottom line....anything that goes on a Cargo Hook is expendable...and that does not include People!
Every Short Haul should be flown with the 'safe" landing of the people on the line being the only priority....and anything else is secondary.
http://amd.nbc.gov/library/handbooks/shorthaul_hb.pdf