Basic Rigging Principles

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! Yesterday, we discussed crane types and critical lifts. Today, we're focusing on the other half of the equation: rigging.

The rigging is the connection between the crane and the load. If the rigging fails, it doesn't matter how capable the crane or how skilled the operator is—the load will fall.

Know Your Components: Slings and Shackles

Before you attach anything to a crane, you must inspect your rigging hardware.

• Slings: These can be made of wire rope, synthetic webbing, or chain. Before every use, inspect slings for:

  • Cuts, tears, or broken fibers on synthetic slings.

  • Kinks, broken wires, or rust on wire rope slings.

  • Stretched or twisted links on chain slings.

• Shackles: These U-shaped connectors with a pin are common for connecting slings to a load. Before every use, inspect shackles for:

  • Bends, cracks, or excessive wear on the bow or pin.

  • Missing or damaged pins or clips.

Three Non-Negotiable Rules of Rigging

1. Know the Load: You cannot rig a load safely if you don't know its weight. The weight must never exceed the capacity of the slings and hardware.

2. Know the Capacity: All rigging hardware has a rated capacity (the maximum weight it can safely hold). Never use hardware that is not clearly marked with its capacity.

3. Protect Your Rigging: When using a sling around a sharp corner or edge, you must use padding or a corner protector to prevent damage to the sling. A damaged sling is a weak sling.

Your diligence in inspecting and using rigging components correctly is what ensures the load reaches its destination safely.

Tomorrow, we'll discuss the critical roles of the rigging team and the importance of clear communication.

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-The Safety Man