A specialized tool for tightening or loosening hose couplings is the wrench.

The specialized tool for tightening or loosening hose couplings is indeed the spanner. This tool is specifically designed to fit the lugs or fittings found on fire hose couplings, allowing firefighters to secure or detach hoses efficiently and safely. The use of a spanner is crucial during firefighting operations, as it enables quick connections and disconnections of hoses under pressure.

Other tools, while important for different functions, do not serve this specific purpose. A ling is generally not recognized as a tool in this context, and while straps are used for securing or managing hoses, they do not facilitate tightening or loosening the couplings themselves. Similarly, the term "hose" simply refers to the firefighting equipment used to transport water and does not denote a tool for operating couplings. The spanner's role in ensuring efficient hose management during emergencies highlights its importance as a firefighting tool, aligning with the practical requirements outlined in the NFPA 1001 standard.