The Definition of Qualified Rigger

Definition of Qualified Rigger

A qualified rigger is a person who rigs loads for cranes and derricks and meets the criteria of a qualified person: they have a recognized credential or extensive knowledge, training and experience, and have demonstrated they can solve problems related to rigging. The term comes from OSHA's Cranes and Derricks in Construction standard, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC.

Rigging covers selecting slings and hardware, estimating load weight and center of gravity, choosing a hitch, attaching the load and controlling it during the lift. Mistakes can drop a load or shift it unexpectedly, so OSHA requires a qualified rigger for the highest-risk rigging tasks.

Key Facts About Qualified Riggers

• OSHA requires a qualified rigger for rigging during crane assembly and disassembly (1926.1404(r)).
• A qualified rigger must also hook, unhook or guide a load, or do the initial connection to a structure, when workers are within the fall zone (1926.1425(c)).
• OSHA does not require a third-party certification, but the employer must be able to show the rigger meets the qualified person definition. Many employers use accredited rigger certifications as evidence.
• Qualification can be limited to the types of rigging a person has proven they can do, such as basic slinging versus complex multi-crane lifts.

Example of a Qualified Rigger

A crew is setting precast wall panels while ironworkers wait nearby to make the connections. Because workers are in the fall zone during the initial connection, the panel must be rigged by a qualified rigger. The rigger checks the panel weight against the lift plan, inspects the slings and shackles, confirms the lifting inserts and uses tag lines to control the panel as it is placed.

How to Qualify Riggers on Your Sites

1. Identify lifts and tasks where OSHA or your lifting procedure requires a qualified rigger.
2. Set clear criteria for knowledge of load weights, center of gravity, sling angles, hitches and hardware inspection.
3. Assess each rigger through practical demonstration as well as written testing or certification.
4. Record the scope of each rigger's qualification and when it should be reviewed.
5. Require rigging gear to be inspected before each shift and removed from service when damaged.

Related Terms

• Qualified Person
• Qualified Signal Person
• Knots (Rigging)
• Lift Plan
• Load Chart

Qualified Rigger Frequently Asked Questions

Does every rigging task need a qualified rigger?

No. Under federal OSHA, a qualified rigger is required for assembly and disassembly and for hooking, unhooking or guiding loads when workers are in the fall zone. Many employers choose to require qualified riggers for all crane lifts as a best practice.

Is rigger certification required by OSHA?

OSHA does not require certification for riggers, unlike crane operators. However, a certification from an accredited program is one of the easiest ways to show a rigger meets the qualified person definition.

Can a crane operator also be the qualified rigger?

It is possible if the operator meets the definition and can perform both roles safely, but on most lifts the rigger works at the load while the operator stays at the controls, so the roles are usually separate.

What is the fall zone?

The fall zone is the area where the load or part of the rigging could fall if it came loose. OSHA limits who can be in the fall zone and adds rigging requirements when workers must be there.