Steel Erection Rigging
Objective: To understand the basic principles of steel erection rigging.
In addition to normal rigging hazards, steel erections create additional circumstances that must be considered.

Operations:
- Operator control: Licensed operators are responsible for all operations under their direct control and are authorized to stop and refuse to handle loads if any concerns regarding safety arise.
- Hoist riding: Do not use the crane’s headache ball, hook, or load to transport personnel unless conventional means are deemed more hazardous or impossible.
- Safety latches: Do not deactivate safety latches or render them inoperable unless a qualified rigger determines that the lift can be performed more safely by doing so or that equivalent protection is provided in a site-specific erection plan.
- Working under loads: Carefully pre-plan to assure that no employees are required to work in dangerous conditions, such as under a suspended load.
- Multiple lifts: Multiple lifts are only allowed if the following conditions are met:
- A multiple lift rigging assembly is used.
- A maximum of five members are hoisted per lift.
- Only beams and similar structures are lifted.
- All employees engaged in the lift have received proper training.
- Cranes and hoisting equipment are used in compliance with the manufacturer’s specifications and limitations.
- Controlled lowering is used whenever the load is over the connectors.
Operations (continued):
- Hand signals: Operators and signalers must be familiar with hand signals for directing cranes. Refer to Hand Signals for Crane Operation in the Risk Management Center.
- Each type of sling has different abilities, characteristics, restrictions for use, inspection and testing criteria, and conditions for repair or removal from service.
Pre-shift visual inspection:
Prior to each shift, a competent person must perform a visual inspection of the crane and its components to assure they are in good working condition. Rigging equipment must also be inspected by a qualified rigger.