Cranes are a revolutionary implement in the construction and heavy industries. They are capable of lifting and moving massive loads between two vertically separated points. However, the operation of this great utility comes with several hazards, such as the load falling or making impact with existing structures and people. It is, therefore, crucial to have trained personnel on-site to make sure such risks are mitigated.
Among these core personnel are riggers. A qualified rigger has the professional responsibility of hooking up loads to the crane safely. This entails making sure the load is balanced and ensuring the load weight is within the crane’s operational limits. Let us take a deeper look into the rigger’s responsibilities and how to become a nationally recognized certified rigger.
What Is a Certified Rigger 1?
Rigger 1’s who are licensed through the NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) are nationally recognized as Certified Riggers by OSHA and by industry standards. All individuals with the Rigger 1 Certification should be able to:
- Inspect the rigging prior to crane use
- Identify potential hazards in the work zone
- Attach rigging with fundamental knowledge of hitch and basic knot configurations
Having a certified rigger on the work site will go a long way in improving risk mitigation (since they have received training on hazard identification) and improve work efficiency by improving workflow. Check out Total Equipment Training’s additional resources for more about Level 1 Rigger Training.
Certification Process of Rigger 1
To attain Rigger 1 Certification through the NCCCO, an individual must meet the following CCO Rigger requirements:
- Be 18 years old
- Comply with NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy and Code of Ethics
- Pass both practical and written examinations
This should however be pursued after going through training from a reputable, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) compliant, and certified training organization. Total Equipment Training has NCCCO Certified Riggers and Examiners on staff. Contact TET today to speak with our knowledgeable and experience staff.
What Is Rigger 1 Written Certification Test?
This is an examination to test the applicant’s (theory) knowledge in rigging. It is comprised of 60 questions, answerable in a 60-minute duration. Topics covered include:
- The Scope of the Rigging Activity
- Technical Knowledge
- Inspection
- Execution of Rigging Activity
Click here to take your FREE NCCCO Rigger Level 1 Practice Test
What Is Rigger 1 Practical Certification Test?
This is also an examination, with a focus on practically applying the skills learned during training. The candidate completes a set of tasks under the supervision and instruction of the examiner. Like the written examination, it has four main segments that progressively increase in difficulty:
- Pre-use Rigging Inspection
- Rigging Hitches
- Rigging Connections
- Basic Knots
Professionals in the industry, regardless of their background, should consider adding Rigger 1 Certification to their skillset. This Certification is not site-specific and is portable for most rigging jobs. Total Equipment Training provides all the additional NCCCO Rigger Level 1 resources you should need to pass your Rigger 1 Practical and written certification tests.
Rigger 1 Re-Certification Test?
Just like most NCCCO Certifications, the Rigger 1 Certification expires after 5 years. This makes it necessary to have a ce-certification done. Re-certification enables the rigger to evaluate their knowledge of trends and developments in crane operation, as well as offers a platform to learn of any new regulations or policies that have been put in place. Candidates must have completed all the recertification requirements one year (12 months) before their certification expires. They must comply with NCCCO’s Substance Abuse Policy, Code of Ethics, and pass the written recertification examination.
TET provides the Level 1 Rigger resources you’ll need to book onsite heavy equipment training, buy OSHA training materials or NCCCO manuals.
What Is a Qualified Rigger?
OSHA defines a qualified rigger as a person who possesses a recognized degree/certificate/professional standing, or has extensive knowledge/training/experience, and can successfully demonstrate the ability to solve problems related to rigging loads.
It is not an OSHA requirement to have the rigger certified, but they must be deemed capable of the responsibility after an assessment by a qualified evaluator. This would be evidenced by having a written/practical evaluation on file showing the employee is competent to handle the work he/she is tasked to perform.
TET provides numerous articles to help you be the best qualified rigger operator. Learn the difference between lifting and rigging.
Where Can I Find NCCCO Rigger 1 Study Guides?
Total Equipment Training provides the full spectrum of heavy equipment resources to adequately prepare candidates to capably tackle the challenges in the field.
Total Equipment Training provides downloadable manuals, study guides and practice tests to prepare you for NCCCO exams. We also offer onsite training, exam prep and testing.
