Why You Need A Crane Rigger At Your Site

Posted on: 12 March 2021

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Crane riggers are professionals that assist in crane operation. Many contractors will often be conflicted about hiring crane riggers. It is especially so since they do not understand the benefits of having a rigger at the site. Below is an excerpt discussing the benefits of having a crane rigger at your site. 

Site Inspection and Preparation

A crane rigger will conduct a preliminary site inspection to determine any preparation works required before setting up the crane. For example, they will check the project specifications to determine an appropriate area to install the crane. Besides, the rigger will inspect the site for hazards such as unstable soils and power lines. You may need to compact the ground or use rocks to improve ground stability. Powerlines must be removed and disconnected if they will come in direct contact with the crane. The rigger can also advise on a suitable crane to use. For example, a rough terrain crane would be ideal if the site is rocky or muddy.

Risk Assessments and Crane Safety

Once you install the crane, the rigger will inform employees of the safety measures they should observe while the crane is in use. They include:

  • The site must be barricaded to prevent unauthorised people from accessing it.
  • All site personnel should wear protective clothing. For instance, a visibility jacket will ensure the crane operator can see workers from afar.
  • The rigger will give the employees a guide on crane operation. For instance, they will inform them of the direction that the boom will swing.
  • Discipline is an essential component of crane safety. Therefore, employees should not attempt to operate the crane or use its bucket as a hoist. 

Loading and Guiding The Crane 

The rigger plays a crucial role during loading and unloading of the crane. Typically, they will decide on a suitable place to load the crane. Besides, the rigger will check load charts to determine the maximum weight that the crane can carry. After loading, the rigger will signal the operator to hoist the load and guide them during lowering. The rigger will also mark the crane's blind spots to ensure workers avoid these locations. Besides, they will monitor wind speeds and inform the crane operator to shut off the equipment if the speeds are too high.  

When hiring a crane rigger, assess their certification to ensure that they are qualified and experienced to operate the crane you have at your site. Additionally, inquire about the rigger's availability. Remember, they must be at the site as long as the crane is operational. 

To learn more, contact a local rigging service.