Rigger: Roles, Responsibilities, Certifications and Safety Guidelines

Rigger

A rigger is a trained professional. They are responsible for lifting, moving, and securing heavy loads. This is done using cranes, hoists, pulleys, and other rigging equipment. Riggers ensure that loads are safely lifted and positioned according to safety regulations and industry standards.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Rigger

1. Load Inspection & Weight Calculation – Assess the load weight and center of gravity to determine the best rigging method. Make sure the load is properly secured and inform the crane operator of the weight of the load.
2. Selecting Rigging Equipment – Choose slings, shackles, chains and hooks suitable for the load and environment.
3. Ensuring Safety Compliance – Follow OSHA, IS and other safety standards to prevent accidents.
4. Attaching & Securing Loads – Properly fasten loads to cranes or hoists using correct rigging techniques.
5. Communication with Crane Operators – Use hand signals, radios or other communication methods to coordinate lifting operations.
6. Inspecting Rigging Gear – Check rigging equipment for wear, defects, or damage before and after use. Make sure the lifting gears such as slings and shackles are well-maintained and in good working condition.
7. Guiding Loads – Control and stabilize loads during lifting and placement to prevent swinging or tipping.
8. Working in High-Risk Areas – Operate in construction sites, shipyards, factories, and other heavy-lifting environments.
9. Emergency Response & Problem-Solving – React quickly to equipment failures or unexpected issues to maintain safety.
10. Maintaining Worksite Safety – Ensure clear work areas, proper barricading, and adherence to lifting plans.
11. Report defective lifting gear – Immediately report any defective or faulty lifting gear to the lifting supervisor.
12. Ensure loose loads are secured – Place any loose items in a proper receptacle or container. This will prevent the load from falling during the lifting operation.

Rigger Certification

Riggers need proper training and certification to make sure safe and efficient lifting operations. Below are certifications and training requirements for riggers in different countries.

International Certifications

✅ OSHA (USA) – OSHA 29 CFR 1926.251 mandates rigging safety standards.

✅ NCCCO Rigger Certification (USA) – Offered by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO).

Levels:

• Rigger Level I – Basic rigging and load handling.
• Rigger Level II – Advanced rigging techniques and lift planning.

✅ CITB (UK) – CPCS Rigger Certification – Required for construction sites in the UK.

✅ LEEA (UK & International) – Lifting Equipment Engineers Association certification for rigging professionals.

✅ ASME B30.9 & B30.26 (USA & International) – Safety standards for slings and rigging hardware.

Indian Certifications & Standards

✅ IS 13367: Part 1 & 2 – Indian Standards for rigging and lifting equipment.

✅ DGMS (Directorate General of Mines Safety) – Required for riggers in mining and heavy industries.

✅ NSDC Rigger Training (Skill India Program) – Provides certified training for rigging professionals.

Canadian Rigger Training & Certification

✅ OSSA (Oil Sands Safety Association) Rigging & Hoisting – Mandatory for oil & gas industries.

✅ CSTS & BCCSA Rigger Training – Required for construction safety compliance.

Australian Rigger Certification

✅ High-Risk Work Licence (HRWL)

• – Rigging (RA, RB, RI)
  • Required under Australian WHS regulations.

✅ Nationally Recognized Training (RIIHAN305E, CPCCLRG3001A) – Certifications for riggers in construction and mining.

Training Requirements for Riggers

1. Basic knowledge of load handling & safety procedures
   • They should understand load physics, what is center of gravity and weight distribution.
   • They should know multiple types of lifting equipment and their uses.
   • Identifying common rigging hazards ( Pinch point, load swings and falling objects.)
   • They should be familiar with safety regulation of their country where they will work.
     
2. ️ understanding of a load charts & weight calculations
   • They should be read and interpret crane load charts to determine safe lifting capacities.
   • They Should know calculation of load weight, sling angles and lifting forces.
   • They should include environmental factors like wind speed, ground conditions which can affect lifting stability.
     
3. ✔️ Proper use of slings, shackles, hooks and hoists
   • They must know multiple types of slings like wire rope, synthetic and chain and their uses.
   • They must know the correct way to attach shackles and hooks to ensure secure load lifting
   • Know the different hitching methods like vertical, choker and basket hitch.
   • Understanding hoist operation, limitation and safe working loads (SWL).
4. ️ communication skills for coordinating with crane operators
   • They know standard hand signal for crane operations.
   • How to communicate with radio for clear instructions.
   • They should understand emergency stop signals and procedures.
5. They some what understand hands-on practical training & equipment Inspection
   • Conduct pre-use inspections of slings, hooks and rigging hardware.
   • Identify wear, damage and rejection criteria for rigging gear.
   • Practice them safe rigging techniques in real world scenarios.
   • Learning Proper Storage and Maintenance of rigging equipment.
     
6. Emergency Response & Accident Prevention Techniques
   • They should recognizing potential rigging failures and taking right action.
   • They should know how to responding to dropped loads, equipment malfunctions and personnel injuries.
   • How to implement rescue plans for suspended workers or trapped personnel.
   • Understanding first aid procedures in case of rigging related accidents.

Rigger Safety Guidelines

1. Pre-Operational Checks – Inspect rigging gear like slings, shackles, hooks for wear, damage or defects.
2. Proper Load Assessment – Determine weight, center of gravity and load stability before lifting.
3. Use Certified Equipment – Only use rigging tools that meet safety standards (OSHA, IS, ANSI).
4. Secure & Balance the Load – make sure proper hitching methods (vertical, choker or basket).
5. Maintain a Clear Work Area – Keep unauthorized personnel away from the lifting zone.
6. Follow Safe Lifting Procedures – Avoid sudden movements, jerks or side loading of the crane.
7. Use Proper Communication – Coordinate with crane operators using standard hand signals or radios.
8. Never Stand Under a Suspended Load – Always stay clear to prevent injury from falling objects.
9. Monitor Environmental Conditions – Be aware of wind, rain and other factors that may affect lifting.
10. Emergency Preparedness – Know emergency stop signals and procedures for equipment failure or accidents.