What constitutes good rigging practice?

Good crane operation and rigging practice is achieved by having a plan. Below are some “best practices” for accomplishing your goal:

1. Operators must be determined by their company to be competent, and in some cases certified, to perform the lift.
2. Rigging hardware that will be used must be inspected and free of deformation, cracks, excessive nicks, etc.
3. Sling protection must be used on all types of slings. Use pads, guards and sleeves to protect against cutting and abrasion.
4. Slings that will be used must be inspected and free of tears, cuts, nicks, abrasion, etc.
5. Choose the right hardware and slings for the application based on the rating and working load limit (WLL).
6. The total load weight needs to be known prior to the lift. Make sure to include below-the-hook devices (lifting beams, spreader bars, etc.).
7. A rigger must decide the best hitch for the task at hand. The goal is to have proper support and connection to the load.
8. The load must be structurally sound and free of obstructions in order to be lifted.
9. The sling angle must be taken into account (60°, 45°, 30°). Always check your rigging chart.
10. Center of Gravity (COG) must be determined and accounted for. Always do a test lift.
11. Every item used to make a lift must have all the correct identification (manufacturer’s name, working load limit, serial number, etc.)
12. Environmental conditions (extreme temperatures, wind, moisture, etc.) must be taken into account before lifting the load.
13. Know your proximity to the load. Where are you standing when the load is suspended? Never stand under a load or in close proximity.

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Source: Mazzella