• Safe rigging prevents injuries or damage to property.going up. image by Paula Gent from Fotolia.com
  
  Rigging is used to lift heavy or large objects from the ground to work spaces above ground or to move them from one location to another. Because the objects or materials are so large and heavy, rigging must be used correctly and safely to ensure that no one is injured or killed by falling objects.
  
  

Determine Weight of Load

• The first step to using rigging safely is to determine the weight of the item or materials that will be lifted by the rigging. To be sure that the correct sling is used in the rigging, the load weight must be found. If the actual weight is not available, then the load weight must be calculated.
  
  

Select Sling

• There are six basic types of slings used in rigging: chain, wire rope, metal mesh, natural fiber rope, synthetic rope or synthetic web. Each type has strengths and weaknesses. Chain is strong and easily conforms to the shape of the load, but sudden shock can damage a chain sling. Wire rope and metal mesh get their strengths from their size and construction, so select the correct size for the weight of the load. These types of slings are normally not flexible, which means that bending can cause failure of the sling. Natural fiber rope, synthetic rope and web are generally temporary because of their reduced strength and their tendency to be more affected by abrasive substances.
  
  

Inspect Sling

• No matter which type of sling has been selected, it must be inspected before use. Chain slings should be checked for stretching or gouges in the links. Wire rope and metal mesh should be checked for broken wires, corrosion and excessive wear. Natural fiber rope, synthetic rope and synthetic mesh should be checked for cuts, fraying or melted fibers.
  
  

Check Hardware

• All hardware, such as fittings or clips, must be the proper strength for the load that will be lifted. Know what type is needed for each load and how to properly use them. Hardware should be stamped with its maximum load limit and this limit should be followed.
  
  

Check for Aerial Hazards

• Electrocution can occur if a load or the rigging securing the load comes into contact with overhead power lines. Lifting must be done at least 3 meters from power lines that are up to 150,000 volts. Lines ranging between 150,000 volts and 250,000 volts require 4.5 meters worth of space, and lines that are over 250,000 volts require 6 meters of space. Wind can cause movement of power lines, so caution is needed when working in the wind.
  
  

Lifting Safety

• A load must be centered while being lifted to prevent swinging or excess stress on one side of the sling. The hoist line should always be vertical to prevent side loads from damaging rigging. When the weather causes decreased vision or excessive wind, lifting should be done with care or postponed until conditions are better.