A rigger is a skilled tradesperson who prepares and manages the movement of heavy loads, ensuring they are lifted, moved, and placed safely using rigging gear
Primary Responsibilities:
Load Assessment: Analyzing the weight, size, and balance of the load.
Equipment Setup: Choosing and assembling slings, chains, shackles, hoists, and pulleys.
Safety Compliance: Ensuring all rigging operations meet safety regulations and standards
Signaling and Communication: Often works closely with crane operators, using hand signals or radios to guide movements.
Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspecting rigging equipment for wear or damage.
Types of Rigging Work:
Type
Description
Construction Rigging
Lifting structural steel, concrete panels, or large machinery.
Maritime Rigging
Loading/unloading ships or managing sails (traditional usage).
Entertainment Rigging
Hanging lights, speakers, and stage sets in theaters and concert venues.
Industrial Rigging
Moving large equipment inside factories or refineries.
Skills and Qualifications:
Mechanical understanding
Spatial awareness
Mathematical ability (load calculations)
Certifications like NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) or equivalent, depending on the country