<p>A control device comprises a hydraulic circuit having a main line (3) that delivers an operating fluid to a single-acting hydraulic actuator (2) that drives a lifting apparatus in which a load-bearing support is connected to the actuator by at least one motion-transmitting member; on the main line a flow control valve, a pressure compensating element (11) and at least one check valve (12) operate to support the motion-transmitting member; the check valve is opened by a pressure signal in the main line; the load-bearing support will advantageously descend at a relatively high speed when unloaded, ensuring reduced pressure loss on the fluid-discharge circuit.</p>
