Crane Rigging Guide

Crane rigging is the strategic process of lifting heavy objects and relocating them to new areas, according to Cranes Today Magazine. To perform effective and safe rigging activities, crane riggers must do more than simply operate heavy machinery.

Surveying

• Crane rigging requires precision and accuracy when it comes to identifying ideal spots for dropping off heavy loads. Riggers must survey the construction zone they have to work with so that they can determine a destination for the drop-off. Additionally, the zone must also be surveyed for the rigger to determine a safe route for transporting the loads, such as routes that do not pass over workers below.

Operation

• Crane rigging is performed by individuals who are certified or competent to do so. Untrained and unskilled workers should not attempt to operate the machinery, because this poses a severe safety hazard in the construction zone.

Inspection

• According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, cranes must be inspected before they are operated. Employers must designate a competent person to perform safety inspections. Safety inspections are meant to ensure that the crane is in safe operating order so that malfunctions do not occur during rigging.