To ensure rigging safety, several key aspects must be considered. These include using appropriate equipment, conducting thorough inspections, understanding load limits, and implementing safe work practices.

Key Safety Requirements:

• Load Limits: Never subject rigging to a load exceeding 10% of the breaking strength of its weakest part when raising or lowering a worker [1]. In other situations, the load should not exceed 20% of the ultimate breaking strength, unless the rigging is fatigue rated according to CEN Standard EN 1677-1:2000 [1]. If fatigue rated and not used for raising/lowering workers, the maximum load must not exceed 25% of the ultimate breaking strength [1].
• Inspection: Rigging must be inspected thoroughly before each period of continuous use during a work shift to ensure it is functional and safe 1, 4. Wire rope should be inspected at least monthly and before each use [2]. Also, inspect wire rope during each ascent and descent [3].
• Markings and Identification: Ensure the maximum load rating is legibly and conspicuously marked on the rigging [1]. If marking is not practicable, the load rating must be available at the worksite [1]. Rigging equipment must have permanently affixed and legible identification markings indicating the recommended safe working load [4].
• Equipment and Safe Practices: Use only wire rope and attachments specified by the hoisting machine manufacturer 8, 16. Employ thimbles at all wire rope suspension terminations and use J-type clamps or swaged fittings to fasten wire rope, avoiding U-clamps 8, 13. Ensure that sharp edges on loads are guarded to prevent damage to rigging slings or straps [5].
• Fall Protection: Always use fall-arrest equipment when working on adjustable suspended scaffolds 9, 16. Each person on a suspended powered scaffold must be attached to a fall-arrest system at all times [3].

Safe Work Practices:

• Qualified Riggers: Use a qualified rigger to inspect rigging prior to each shift [6] and for assembly/disassembly work [7].
• Tag Lines: Use tag lines to control loads unless a qualified rigger determines they create a hazard [8].
• Training: All personnel involved with rigging activities must receive appropriate rigging training and show proficiency specific to the operations performed [9].
• Load Control: Loads must be properly slung to prevent slippage or shifting [9]. Plan routes for suspended loads to ensure no employee is required to work directly below them, except for those engaged in initial connection or hooking/unhooking [10].

Additional Considerations:

• Environmental Factors: Protect wire rope from fire, undue heat, corrosive atmospheres, chemicals, or electrical currents 8, 13.
• Housekeeping: Keep storage areas free from accumulations of materials that could cause tripping, fire, or explosion hazards [4].
• Equipment Maintenance: Clean and service equipment regularly, following manufacturer's recommendations 6, 8.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can significantly enhance rigging safety and minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.