Rigging
We have all heard the phrase "A chain is only as strong as its weakest link".
When it comes to material handling and hoisting heavy or off-centered objects, the rigging can often be the weakest link. Proper rigging techniques and the way the load is secured can make the difference between a successful lift and an unfortunate accident.
Rigging-related accidents can be deadly. When rigging fails the load will fall and there is no way to stop it. Anyone in or near the fall zone would not have time to safely move to the clear. In addition to causing tragic and serious injury to workers, rigging failures can also damage or destroy expensive equipment and materials.
Rigging failure can strike at any moment if:
- the wrong sling is used;
- rigging hardware isn’t rated for the task;
- the sling angle is incorrect;
- employees are adequately trained and equipped safety programs aren’t fully implemented.
Rigging rules effective 2/1/2013.
For more information, see: Questions & Answers About the Cranes, Rigging and Personnel Lifting Rule.
Rules
Rules for Specific Activities or Workplaces
- Construction (with cranes): Rigger qualifications (WAC 296-155-53306)
- Construction (with cranes): Rigging requirements (WAC 296-155-55600)
- Construction (without cranes): Rigger qualifications (WAC 296-155-33700)
- Construction (without cranes): Rigging requirements (WAC 296-155-33705)
- Maritime: Rigging for Shipbuilding, Ship Repairing and Shipbreaking (WAC 296-304-070)
- Rigging (General Industry) (WAC 296-24-29421)
- Rigging for Longshore, Stevedore and Waterfront-Related Operations (WAC 296-56-60073)
Videos
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Library.
Important:
Some videos may contain code violations or information inconsistent with Washington State's Safety & Health rules.
Many commercially produced safety and health videos are based on Federal OSHA Standards. Federal OSHA standards may not be as stringent as the Washington State Industrial Safety and Health Standards. Every effort has been made by the library to evaluate the videos before purchasing them. Safety and Health Standards may have changed since the time of purchase. The user assumes the responsibility of previewing the videos before showing and using it with a knowledgeable instructor.
See videos about these subjects:
See these titles:
- Rigging Equipment Basics
- Rigging Safety in Construction Environments
- Rigging and Lifting with Mobile Construction Equipment
Search for videos related to this topic:
Other Resources
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Important:
"Links" to other information sources are provided as a courtesy, but we cannot vouch for or take responsibility for information contained beyond files administered by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Links from this page do not represent or imply the endorsement of commercial products by the State of Washington, Labor and Industries, or by departmental staff. For more information, read L&I's Intended Usage policy.
Falling 700-lb Joist Breaks Laborer's Leg (SHARP Hazard Alert)- Journeyman carpenter struck by Falling Wall Section (SHARP Fatality Narrative)
- Questions & Answers About the Cranes, Rigging and Personnel Lifting Rule.
Related Topics
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