September Safety Topic: Rigging

Rigging is one of the most critical tasks on any job site, and it comes with serious risks if not done properly. Every lift, no matter how small, requires attention to detail, the right equipment, and clear communication. By understanding and practicing safe rigging procedures, we not only protect ourselves but also our coworkers, equipment, and the success of the operation. Today, we’ll review key rigging safety rules that help prevent accidents and keep everyone working safely.

5 Rules for Safe Rigging

1. Let Qualified Workers Do the Job

All the workers at the job site should be certified on rigging safety. The workers undertaking the rigging task should be trained to comply with all the rigging procedures and equipment handling. Professional riggers can foresee an imminent rigging problem before it happens. If conditions are unsafe, this group of experts will immediately stop the cranes or other material-handling equipment to ensure the load in question is secure for lifting.

2. Make Sure the Equipment and Environment Is Safe

Before any lifting task is performed, a qualified person should conduct a thorough inspection of the crane and other handling equipment to make sure that they are safe. Never dismiss any technical issue as minor, as it may cause serious accidents. Ensure that you use machinery that has been certified to be in top-notch working condition. Furthermore, make sure that weather conditions are also favorable for your rigging project.

3. Make Sure That the Load Is Balanced

An unbalanced load can cause a crane to tip over, so riggers and spotters should practice some common rigging safety checks to make sure the load is balanced before lifting.

• Check that the upper suspension forms a straight line with the load hook before lifting.

• Check that neither the chain nor the crane’s body is in contact with the load.

• Mark the crane’s center of gravity

• Ensure that the load has enough swinging space.

4. Always Have a Qualified Spotter on Site

Spotters, or signal-persons, serve as a critical second set of eyes when riggers don’t have a clear view of the load, as they have a higher vantage point than that of the machine operator. It is imperative to hire only qualified, professional spotters who are trained on both hand and voice signals for job site crane operation.

5. Store Your Equipment Safely

Once your rigging job is over, keep your equipment in a place where it cannot be destroyed by environmental or other conditions. Ensure that you proactively inspect your equipment to make it safe for the next task.

At Boss Energy Solutions, safety is more than just a policy—it’s our culture. Rigging may seem routine, but it only takes one shortcut or oversight to cause serious harm. By staying alert, following proper procedures, and holding each other accountable, we can ensure that every lift is completed safely and efficiently. Remember, every safe choice you make protects not only yourself, but also your team, equipment, and the success of the job. Let’s commit to putting safety first, every time.