Rigging Refresher
Rigging is the selection, inspection, configuration, and attachment of slings, hardware, and related components, so a load can be safely lifted and controlled by a crane or hoist. Rigging is a critical activity in the safe operation of a crane. Lifting activities are significantly affected if there are issues with the rigging. If a sling breaks or a load slips during a lift, the results can include property damage, injuries and tragic fatalities.
Communication
Communication is an essential part of a rigger’s work. Riggers need to know the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHSR) standard hand signals for controlling crane operations. Crane operators and riggers must confirm with each other that they are competent to perform rigging and signalling. Riggers should also check with the operator to confirm the crane’s lift capacity.
Use the Right Sling
The right sling must be selected for the load. Choose a sling based on the load’s size, its shape, and even its materials.
Use the Right Hitch
When deciding which hitch type to use (vertical, basket or choker), remember that the same factors for sling selection such as load size, shape and materials must be considered for hitches.
Carry Out Inspections
Check that lifting equipment and loads have sufficient structural integrity for lifting and handling.
The worker using a sling must visually inspect the sling every time it is used. The inspection should identify and remove from use any sling that has:
- Broken wires, abrasion or scraping, birdcaging, or cracked or deformed ropes.
- Fabrics that show excessive wear, including discoloration, melting or charring, holes, tears, snags, knots, broken stitching, or where the internal red yarn is visible.
- Chains with excessive wear such as cracks, elongation, bends or twists, and heat damage.
The hook’s safety latch should also be inspected to ensure that it is not broken or bent. Never use a stretched or twisted hook.
Secure the Load
When rigging a load, you must:
- Follow safety instructions from the manufacturer or engineers.
- Ensure the weight of the load never exceeds the rated capacity of any equipment involved in the lift.
- Pay close attention to the sling angles for each sling you have rigged. Avoid sling angles smaller than 45 degrees because they put too much stress on the sling.
- Ensure loads lift level.
- Ensure that the lifting force is evenly and fully applied across the load’s centre of gravity.
- Use the centre of the hook to carry a load. Never lift a load on the tip of the hook.
- Distribute the slings on the hook to prevent crowding.
References
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation Part 15: Rigging
BC Crane Safety: Rigging Knowledge Base Page
