Rigging in construction refers to moving, lifting, securing, or placing heavy loads using specialized mechanical equipment such as cranes, hoists, slings, chains, and pulleys. This activity is essential for handling large building materials, structural elements, and heavy machinery that cannot be moved manually, ensuring efficiency and safety on construction sites.
Key Activities Involved
- Setting up and operating lifting equipment (cranes, hoists, winches, etc.)
- Securing loads with slings, chains, wire ropes, and other rigging tools
- Calculating load weight, balance, and centre of gravity
- Planning and executing safe lifting operations
- Erecting and dismantling cranes and hoists
- Transporting and positioning heavy materials and equipment
Common Applications
- Moving structural steel beams, concrete panels, and prefabricated sections into place during building construction
- Positioning large components and machinery in infrastructure projects such as bridges, dams, and tunnels
- Installing heavy equipment in factories and industrial plants
Safety and Training
Rigging is a high-risk activity due to the potential hazards of lifting heavy loads, such as dropped loads, equipment failure, and pinch injuries. To minimize risks:
- Only trained and certified riggers should perform or supervise rigging operations.
- Rigging equipment must be inspected regularly for wear and damage.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, and steel-toed boots are mandatory.
- Safety protocols include never exceeding equipment load limits, maintaining clear communication, and avoiding standing under suspended loads.
Planning is crucial, including developing a lifting plan, obtaining permits, and managing risks.
Difference Between Rigging and Lifting
- Rigging involves setting up the equipment and securing the load for movement.
- Lifting is the actual hoisting and placement of the load using machines like cranes or forklifts.
Role of the Rigger
A rigger is a trained professional responsible for:
- Assessing load requirements and selecting suitable rigging equipment
- Setting up and securing loads for lifting or transport
- Ensuring all safety measures are followed throughout the operation
Licenses and Certifications Needed for Construction Rigging
OSHA Requirements (United States)
OSHA mandates that riggers must be “qualified” for rigging activities on construction sites, especially when working with cranes and heavy loads. A qualified rigger is someone who has received formal training and/or on-the-job instruction, possesses the necessary knowledge and experience, and can demonstrate the ability to safely perform rigging tasks.
OSHA does not require formal certification for all riggers, but employers must ensure their riggers are qualified for the specific tasks assigned.
Certification Options
While not always legally required, certification is often preferred or required by employers, especially for more complex or hazardous lifts.
The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) offers widely recognized certifications:
- Rigger Level I: Qualifies individuals to perform simple, repetitive rigging tasks where load weight, centre of gravity, and rigging configuration are known or provided.
- Rigger Level II: For more advanced rigging, including selecting rigging components and determining procedures based on rigging capacity.
Other organizations may offer similar certifications, and some regions or employers may require additional or specialized certifications, such as for crane operation or industrial equipment handling.
Training Levels
Rigging training is typically structured in levels:
- Basic/Level I: Covers fundamental rigging concepts, equipment use, and hazard identification.
- Intermediate/Level II: Expands on equipment selection, load calculations, and more complex rigging scenarios.
- Advanced: For supervisory roles or highly complex rigging operations.
Licensing
A specific rigging license may be required in some jurisdictions, particularly for high-risk work or when operating certain equipment. Requirements vary by region, so it is important to check local regulations.
After completing an approved training course and passing an exam, workers may need to apply for a license with their local workplace safety authority.
Specialized Roles
Lift directors and rigging engineers must meet stricter requirements, including completion of recognized training programs and, often, possession of relevant degrees or professional standing.
Rigger Certification in Indian and GCC Markets
National Skill Qualifications Framework (NSQF):
The Construction Skill Development Council of India (CSDCI) offers structured training and certification for riggers under the NSQF, typically at Level 4 for entry-level riggers and Level 5 for advanced rigging roles.
Minimum educational qualification is usually 5th or 8th standard pass, with some advanced courses requiring additional experience.
Course durations vary from intensive 3-day programs for working professionals (Certified Advanced Rigger) to longer 400-hour foundational courses.
Certification is awarded after both theoretical and hands-on practical training, followed by assessment and examination. Successful candidates receive certificates recognized by the Government of India or relevant sector skill councils.
Training Providers:
Accredited institutes such as NISHE, Indian Industrial Training Institute, and others offer Rigger Level I (basic) and Level II (advanced) courses, aligned with industry and safety standards.
Apprenticeship programs are also available, with trade tests conducted by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT).
GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) Markets
GCC countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait) generally require riggers to hold certifications that comply with international safety standards, such as those from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) or equivalent.
Rigger Level I and Level II certifications from NCCCO are widely recognized and often required for work on major construction and industrial projects. Certification involves passing both written and practical exams, with recertification typically required every five years.
Some GCC countries may have additional local licensing or registration requirements. However, international certifications (NCCCO, LEEA, or equivalent) are usually accepted and sometimes mandatory for large projects, especially in the oil & gas and infrastructure sectors.
Training and assessment are often delivered in partnership with approved training centers, and candidates must be at least 18 years old and comply with safety and substance policies.
Average Salaries of Riggers Region-wise
