Who is a Rigger, and 21 Important Duties of a Rigger

A rigger is a person who carries out rigging activity. I know you will be wondering what is “Rigging”

What is Rigging?

Rigging is an action of designing and installing the equipment, in the preparation to move objects; it is a system of ropes or chains. In a layman term, rigging involves the total process of preparation and setting up a load for lifting.

A rigger is responsible for setting up all the pulleys and cable systems that are used to move large and heavy objects. They must communicate with crane operators to guide them in moving objects and depositing them in the correct location.

General Duties of a Rigger

1. Ensure that both the rigger and Crane Operator is familiar with the signaling signs to be used.
2. Signal or verbally direct workers engaged in hoisting and moving loads to ensure safety of workers and materials.
3. Always use clear and distinct signals (either by hand or radio) to control lifting operations.
4. Test mechanical systems to ensure proper functioning.
5. Ensure that NO load is to be lifted where the weight is not stated or unknown.
6. Be familiar with the lifting capabilities of the crane.
7. Attach loads to rigging to provide support or prepare them for moving, using hand and power tools.
8. Determine types of equipment, tools, or materials needed for jobs.
9. Control movement of heavy equipment through narrow openings or confined spaces, using chainfalls, gin poles, gallows frames, and other equipment.
10. Tilt, dip, and turn suspended loads to maneuver over, under, or around obstacles, using multi-point suspension techniques.
11. Fabricate, set up, and repair rigging, supporting structures, hoists, and pulling gear, using hand and power tools.
12. Attach pulleys and blocks to fixed overhead structures such as beams, ceilings, and gin pole booms, using bolts and clamps.
13. Use Hand Signals in accordance with the recommendations of British Standard BS7121.
14. Stop the lifting operation if anything out of the ordinary occurs and check that it is safe to continue the operation.
15. Solely direct the lifting and loading activities and operations.
16. Warn other personnel in the area of the movement of the load.
17. Be aware of any obstructions within the crane radius and working area.
18. Dismantle and store rigging equipment after use.
19. Install ground rigging for yarding lines, attaching chokers to logs and to the lines.
20. Monitor and maintain all rigging equipment to ensure safety
21. Report all safety concerns/issues to management immediately.

Qualities Of A Good Rigger

• A good rigger must be up to date, and willing to comply with all necessary safety standards
• Familiar with all necessary safety equipment
• Able to assess each load and select proper equipment for the job
• Good working knowledge of all rigging equipment
• Able to inspect rigging equipment to ensure it is in good working order.
• Good math skills for calculating load requirements
• Physically capable of working in demanding conditions
• Excellent vision and hearing
• Not afraid of heights or climbing ladders, scaffolding, etc.
• Good communication skills
• Must understand rigging signals
• Reliable and hardworking, with a team-player attitude

Qualifications of a Rigger

Do you want to become a rigger? If yes, here are some qualification. These qualification is not applicable in all countries, so you need to check the requirement in your country to determine what you need to become a rigger.

Here are some requirements as stated by Better Team:

• High school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years working as a rigger.
• Minimum Level 1 NCCCO certification.
• Familiarity with OSHA safety standards.
• In-depth knowledge of rigging equipment and heavy machinery.
• Excellent hearing and vision.
• Ability to work at heights and in noisy environments.
• High-level mathematical skills.
• Physical fitness and ability to lift heavy equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors in harsh weather conditions.

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