rigging

Safe rigging practices are crucial to prevent accidents during hoisting activities. These practices involve proper rigging techniques, regular inspections, and adherence to safety guidelines. A qualified rigger is essential for hooking, unhooking, guiding loads, or making initial connections within the fall zone. [2]

Before rigging and moving loads, a hazard assessment should be performed, checking for overhead power lines and obstructions. Always use appropriate PPE, such as steel-toe boots, hard hats, hi-vis apparel, work gloves, and safety glasses. Keep hands and feet clear of pinch points. [2]

Key rigging inspection procedures include:

• Inspecting all rigging equipment before each use and ensuring the load rating is adequate.
• Checking for missing or illegible identification.
• Looking for signs of heat damage, excessive pitting, or corrosion.
• Examining load-bearing components for bending, twisting, distortion, stretching, cracks, or breaks.
• Checking for excessive nicks, gouges, thread damage, or unauthorized modifications.
• Ensuring shackles have complete pin engagement and swivels rotate freely.

[1] [2] Additional inspection points:

• For compression hardware: check for unauthorized replacement components, the correct number of wire rope clips, proper tightening, and signs of damage or slippage.
• For swivels: look for loose or missing fasteners.
• For blocks: check for loose fasteners, sheave misalignment, and excessive wear.

[1] Defective rigging equipment must be immediately removed from service and never modified by welding or drilling. Ensure all components are rated for the loads being lifted and follow the manufacturer's instructions for all equipment. [2] [3]

When rigging loads:

• Rig and secure materials to balance the load and prevent shifting.
• Use a tagline to control hazardous movement.
• Keep the area clear of personnel and use barricades and a spotter.
• Always have an escape route planned.
• Never walk under a suspended load.

[2] Cranes used in steel erection require pre-shift visual inspections by a competent person, including checks for maladjustments, excessive wear, safety device functionality, leaks, and hook condition. A qualified rigger must inspect the rigging before each shift. Routes for suspended loads should be pre-planned to avoid employees working directly below them, except during initial connections or when hooking/unhooking. [5] [8]

When working under suspended loads, materials must be rigged to prevent unintentional displacement, using hooks with self-closing safety latches, and all loads must be rigged by a qualified rigger. [9]

Multiple lifts require specific procedures, including using a multiple lift rigging assembly, limiting the lift to a maximum of five members (beams and similar structural members only), and ensuring all employees are trained in these procedures. The components must be designed and assembled with a 5:1 safety factor, and the total load must not exceed the hoisting equipment's rated capacity or the rigging capacity. [8]

For multiple lift rigging:

• Attach members at their center of gravity, maintaining a reasonably level position.
• Rig from top down.
• Space members at least 7 feet apart.
• Set members from the bottom up.
• Use controlled load lowering when the load is over connectors.

[8] Before lifting personnel with a platform, proof load test the platform and rigging at each new location to 125% of the platform's rated capacity. After the test, a qualified person must inspect the platform and rigging, and any deficiencies must be corrected before lifting personnel. [7]

Always ensure that workers not involved in loading or unloading stay clear of loading areas and that loads are secured following safe industry practices. Competent personnel should inspect incoming freight for potential hazards during unloading. [4]

Remember, rigging may seem easy, but it requires proper training and precautions to prevent serious injuries. Always prioritize safety and follow established guidelines. [6]