A Guide On Crane Rigging
Do you intend to hire a crane? Other than the crane operator, you will also need crane riggers to assist the operator and ensure safety at the site. Below is a guide on the work of crane riggers and the considerations to make when hiring crane riggers.
Crane Inspection
The rigger will conduct regular crane inspections and maintenance. It includes the following.
If you hire a tower crane, the crane riggers will assemble the jib and install masts to grow the crane.
The rigger will inspect the lifting components such as the wire ropes, hoist chains and hooks.
The amount of tire tread is important. Worn-out tires will cause the crane to slip in wet conditions or steep surfaces.
If you have a crawler crane, the riggers will clean the undercarriage and inspect track components such as the shoes, bushings, rollers and sprockets.
The riggers will inspect and service the hydraulic system. Besides, they will regularly inspect the brake, transmission and engine systems.
Loading And Offloading
The crane rigger will assist the operator during loading and offloading. Typically, he or she will check the crane's weight limits to know how much weight to attach. The rigger will also install outrigger pads and counterweights to ensure crane stability. Moreover, he or she will assess load charts and give advice on a suitable loading angle. The rigger will be in constant communication with the employees and the operator to determine an appropriate location to place the loads.
Crane Safety
Crane riggers will help ensure safety at the site. For example, they will develop an appropriate communication strategy to prevent miscommunication at the site. For instance, they could use hand signals, flags or walkie-talkies. The riggers will also identify blindspots and forecast windy conditions and storms. It helps prevent accidents at the site.
Hiring Crane riggers
One of your concerns when hiring a crane rigger is his or her qualifications. For example, a basic rigging licence allows the rigger to perform dogging work. An intermediate licence enables the professional to perform light rigging works such as hoist inspection, rigging cranes and installing tilt slabs. An advanced rigging licence allows the rigger to perform all kinds of rigging works.
You should also assess the rigger's experience. Typically, he or she should have dealt with a similar or larger crane in the past. Besides, the rigger should have excellent communication skills. Remember, he or she will instruct the operator and employees at the site.
To learn more, contact a crane rigger.
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