What Makes A Rigger ‘Qualified’?

How do you know if a rigger is qualified to perform a certain task? Just because a rigger has been to training school, does that make him qualified? What if a rigger has 20 years experience on the work site – can he then perform any type of rigging job?

According to OSHA, a rigger is qualified to perform a job if he

• possess(es) a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or (has) extensive knowledge, training, and experience, and
• successfully demonstrate(s) the ability to solve problems related to rigging loads.

A rigger must be able to properly rig the load for a particular job. He or she need not be qualified to do every type of rigging job. Each load that requires rigging has unique properties that can range from the simple to the complex. However, previous experiences does not automatically qualify the rigger to rig unstable, unusually heavy, or eccentric loads that may require a tandem lift, multiple lifts, or use of custom rigging equipment. In essence, employers must make sure that the person can do the rigging work needed for the exact types of loads and lifts for a particular job with the equipment and rigging that will be used for that job.

In other words, it is up to the employer to ensure that riggers on the work site are qualified to handle a particular task. Many times, rigger training can qualify a person for specific rigger jobs, but in many cases, skills can only be learned by apprenticeship.

The ATS rigger training will give your riggers basic knowledge from which to build their careers. You can take it from there.