In order to do any hoisting activities or assemble or disassemble crane and rigging equipment, a qualified rigger is required. Additionally, a qualified rigger is needed whenever an employee is within the “fall zone” or there are hooking, unhooking, loading or load connection activities taking place. Although OSHA does not require a rigging certification, in order to be a qualified rigger, an individual needs to be assessed by a “qualified evaluator” and deemed capable. Most contractors and government projects require that a qualified rigger certification be obtained. In either case, rigger training is essential as it prepares an individual for performing rigging duties on the job safely and effectively.
Cranes are inherently dangerous, as heavy equipment and sometimes carrying equally heavy loads that are capable of causing harm. A rigger is responsible for operating this heavy equipment and therefore needs proper rigger training in order to reduce the possibility of accidents and costly mistakes.
What qualifications do I need to be a rigger?
To be a rigger that can work at most construction sites, you must meet the standards of a qualified rigger and determined to be a qualified rigger by an employer. Qualified riggers can
- Have a degree, certificate or professional standing in the rigging
- Have vast knowledge, training or experience in rigging
- Have demonstrated their ability in rigging loads or problem-solving related to riggingz.
Regardless of how one becomes a qualified rigger, a qualified rigger must be able to demonstrate their ability to rig loads on a job although they do not necessarily need to know how to do every type of rigging job. Since there are innumerable types of rigging jobs, it’s important that the rigger knows the specific type of rigging they will be performing. OVer the years, a rigger will accumulate experience working with these many types of rigging jobs. However, most employers can more confidently hire someone who has NCCCO rigging certification which can be obtained more confidently through rigger training.
How do I get certified in rigging?
The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) has a rigger certification. To qualify for the certification you must be 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or GED. To receive the NCCCO rigging certification you must pass both a written and practical exam given by an NCCCO accredited organization. You can either get a Rigger I or Rigger II certification which have slightly different responsibilities but both have the same requirements.
Do rigging certifications expire?
The NCCCO rigging certification is valid for a period of 5 years. To recertify, you must complete and pass the recertification written exam, and comply with the substance abuse and code of ethics policies within the last 12 months of the current certification. If certification lapses, You will need to recertify by completing the certification process including the initial written and practical exams.
How much is a rigging course?
Rigger training course prices vary depending on the rigor of the course and the qualifications that you need your employees to meet. Courses at Total Equipment training range from knowledge verification classes to more intensive advanced rigging training courses. Prices for online rigging training range from $37.95 to $199.95 per person per course.
How to get Rigger Training from Total Equipment Training
Rigging training programs through Total Equipment Training covers both written and hands on preparation. Your employees will be prepared for:
- Requirements of OSHA and ANSI
- Inspection or wire rope types, construction, and damage
- Slings (nylon and steel)
- Center of gravity issues
- Securing loads
- Calculating basic load weights, angles, and lifts
- Mock rigging meeting
- Rigging hardware and accessories
- Safe and unsafe rigging practices/conditions
- Knowing and understanding hand signals
Total Equipment Training also offers NCCCO Rigger Certification in addition to the Rigging Training we offer for OSHA Qualification. Contact Total Equipment Training today to get a quote for a tailor-made rigger training plan to meet your needs..
