What does a Rigger do?
Published 3 min read
A rigger is a person who is responsible for the erection, operation and maintenance of temporary or permanent scaffolding, rigging and similar structures used in construction projects.
Rigger job duties include:
- Attach loads to rigging to provide support or prepare them for moving, using hand and power tools.
- Inspect rigging to ensure that it is properly positioned and secured.
- Signal or verbally direct workers engaged in hoisting and moving loads, in order to ensure safety and coordination of the project.
- Operate or tend winches, derricks, capstans, and other moving and lifting equipment.
- Clean and maintain equipment, using hand tools.
- Attach slings, hooks, cables, and ropes to loads.
- Measure load dimensions and determine the best way to move or lift them, using knowledge of geometry and physics.
- Select gear such as wires, ropes, pulleys, chains, shackles, hooks, and blocks according to load weights and sizes.
- Splice ropes together using special knots or links.
Rigger Job Requirements
A rigger is a construction worker who is responsible for the installation and removal of scaffolding, rigging, and other support systems. Riggers typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education or certification. Riggers must be able to lift heavy objects and work at heights. They also must have experience working with hand and power tools.
Rigger Skills
- Able to work at heights
- Able to work with heavy machinery
- Able to work in confined spaces
- Able to work in a team
- Able to follow instructions
- Able to use own initiative
- Able to problem solve
- Physically fit
- Punctual
- Reliable
- Safety conscious
Related: Top Rigger Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Rigger
Riggers are responsible for the safety of personnel and equipment during the construction, erection, and maintenance of buildings and structures. They must be able to safely and efficiently operate a variety of rigging equipment, including cranes, derricks, and winches. Riggers must have a strong understanding of physics and mechanical principles in order to safely calculate loads and determine the best methods for moving them. In addition, riggers must be able to communicate clearly with other members of the construction team in order to coordinate their efforts.
The best way to become a rigger is to start out as a general laborer on a construction site. This will give you an opportunity to learn about the different types of rigging equipment and how they are used. You should also pay close attention to safety procedures and make sure that you always follow them. Once you have gained some experience, you can then start operating rigging equipment under the supervision of a more experienced rigger. With time and experience, you will eventually become a master rigger who is able to safely and efficiently handle any type of load.
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