Employers must use qualified riggers during hoisting activities for assembly and disassembly work (1926.1404(r)(1)). Additionally, qualified riggers are required whenever workers are within the fall zone and hooking, unhooking, or guiding a load, or doing the initial connection of a load to a component or structure (1926.1425(c)).

Who can be a qualified rigger?

A qualified rigger is a rigger who meets the criteria for a qualified person. Employers must determine whether a person is qualified to perform specific rigging tasks. Each qualified rigger may have different credentials or experience.

A qualified rigger is a person that

• possesses a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or

• has extensive knowledge, training, and experience, and

• can successfully demonstrate the ability to solve problems related to rigging loads. The person designated as the qualified rigger must have the ability to properly rig the load for a particular job.

The current ASME B30.5 standard, which was released in 2021, requires at least one qualified rigger whenever a mobile crane is being used, regardless of industry. The standard further defined “qualified” as requiring evidence of satisfactorily passing both written and practical exams

Chapter 5-3 of ASME B30.5 states that riggers at a load-handling activity are, at a minimum, responsible for the following:

Ensuring the weight of the load and its approximate center of gravity have been obtained.

Selecting and inspecting the proper rigging equipment and ensuring said equipment complies with the applicable ASME B30 Volume.

Ensuring the rated load of the rigging equipment is selected and configured such that it is sufficient for the load to be handled.

Properly attaching the rigging equipment to the hook, shackle, or other load-handling device.

Ensuring the rigging equipment is protected from abrasion, cutting, or other damage during load-handling activities.

Rigging the load to ensure balance and stability.

Knowing and understanding the applicable signals for equipment in use.

Installing and using a tag line when additional load stabilization is necessary