Construction

Learn how to choose the right lifting accessories, hitch types and how to communicating with crane operators.

Introduction to Rigging
Rigging covers the moving, placing or securing of a load using mechanical load shifting equipment.


It's commonly used industries such as construction, shipping, entertainment, logging yards and manufacturing plants.


According to OSHA, qualified riggers are required in which of the following circumstances?


General common sense and safety rules apply:
Keep your hands, fingers and feet clear of pinch points
Be aware of stacked materials that can potentially be knocked over with a swinging load
Ensure you have a designated spotter to help you check that proper clearances are maintained
Warn near by workers before beginning each raising, lowering or swinging task
Make sure proper blockades are in to remind non authorised rigging personnel to stay clear
Wear the correct PPE such as a hard had, glasses, gloves and steel capped boots.


General Safety


Introduction

Here are the things you should look out for:
✅  All marking are legible
✅  Threads of the pin and the body are undamaged
✅  Body is in good condition –  not distorted or unduly
✅  Free from nicks, gouges, cracks and corrosion
Most importantly, never try to modify, repair or reshape a shackle by welding, heating or bending as this will affect the Working Load Limit (WLL). Any defective equipment should be removed from service.2


Check shackles before each use!


In general all slings must have the correct usage information affixed to it, such as load capacity and load temperatures, as some sling materials may stretch or melt under extreme heat.
See image above for an example of information that typically appears on the label, such as the WLL, WLL in different holding positions, material, warnings.


Chains
Best used for your heaviest load and high temperature environments, as it's least likely to be damaged by heat when compared to the other types of slings.
Always inspect it for cuts or worn links before each use.


Wire rope
Most common sling used across many industries. These should always be inspected for worn out, broken wires, kinks, and the end connection must be secure.


Synthetic fabrics
These are generally the most flexible type of sling, as it protects the load from abrasion.
Since it's lightweight it also reduces worker fatigue and stress, since it's much lighter weight than the other sling types.


Metal mesh
Generally these slings are wide and flat so it makes easier to balance a load.
Most suited to lifting things with sharp edges as the mesh component protects are the integrity of the sling.


Choosing the right lifting accessory

Hitch Types
This lesson covers the different ways slings can be used to securely hold onto the items being moved. The decision to choose the right type of hitch should be made with your crane operator.


Choke Hitch
The sling is wrapped around the item and is secured back onto itself, thus creating a circular shape much like a collar around a dog. When the sling is pulled tightly the tension keeps the item in place. This method works particularly well with wide loads.


Double Wrap (a.k.a Double Choke)
The sling is wrapped around the load twice before being secured in place. It's usually applied to flat loads.


⚠️ Safety Precautions ⚠️
Best method to use on anything that has an angle or anything vertical as it'll stop it from slipping.
Make sure the slings do not over lap at the bottom of the load.


In a choke hitch the sling wraps around the load, much like a dog's collar and leash.


Which of the following images demonstrates a choke hitch?


Which hitch is are banned in some countries?


Hitch Types & Terminology

Centring the load
The hook and wires run vertically to the centre the load's centre of gravity.
Riggers are responsible for telling the operator when they're at the centre of the load. Once you notify the crane driver they'll be able to proceed with lifting the load.
Let's see what happens when a load is under or over jibbed in the next slide...


Working with Boom Cranes
There are two special signals that are used in conjunction with boom cranes, for when you want to raise or lower the boom.


Boom Down
When you want the boom lowered extend your arm, close your fist and point your thumb down.


Boom Up
When you want the boom raised extend your arm, close your fist and point your thumb up.


In what scenario would you use this signal?


In an emergency you would indicate to your crane driver by extending both arms horizontally outwards, and then inwards towards your chest.


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