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OSHA Rigging Safety

Rigging is used extensively in the shipyard industry to load, move and secure materials on and off ships. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration uses federal regulation 29 CFR 1915 Subpart G to enforce safety requirements.

  1. Inspections

    • All rigging gear is required to be inspected before each shift. Employers are required to repair or replace defective gear immediately.

    Types of Rigging Gear

    • The type of rigging gear depends on the weight and size of the materiel being moved. Chains, ropes, slings, shackles and hooks are examples of rigging gear.

    Use of Gear

    • Materiel lifted by a hoist must be properly rigged to avoid a falling object hazard. Loads may not be moved over the heads of workers. Rigging gear has to be protected from sharp edges that may cut and weaken slings or ropes.

    Operator Qualifications

    • Crane operators must be physically fit, know the weight limits of the rigging gear used and understand the signaling system with ground personnel.

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