Rigger & Signal Person

On a construction site, “rigging” refers to the process of securing, moving, and lowering a load using equipment like a crane or hoist. Crane rigger is a separate job from crane operator. Riggers make sure that loads are ready to be lifted and moved safely.

Rigging “certification” is a credential that confirms a person’s knowledge and ability in load rigging for heavy machinery. Having rigging training means you’ve proven competence in rigging knowledge, hand-signals, and pre-use inspection. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure an employee is properly trained and determine that you are qualified or competent to operate the equipment.

Rigger training ensures a safe work environment while working with a crane and rigging. Certified crane riggers know how to mitigate hazards associated with a lift, including the ability to choose the right equipment for the load, ensure load stability, set up and dismantle rigging, signal and guide the crane operator, follow OSHA standards, and more.

To be eligible to operate rigging equipment, you must enroll in a rigging training program, pass a written exam, and pass a practical exam with an accredited organization. After, you must demonstrate to your employer that you are competent and qualified to operate the equipment. It is their responsibility to see that you are trained, and if there is ever an accident, they will have to prove to OSHA that they trained you sufficiently.

The cost of a rigger certificate varies widely based on the type of institution. Online training can be one of the most cost-effective ways to start your rigger training. You may be able to complete the coursework and written exam for under $100 with an online training provider like us.  

Keep in mind that you can’t be fully certified without hands-on training and a practical exam, and those components will require additional costs.

Hands-on training and experience with the supervision of an experienced rigger is essential to becoming competent in the skill. That said, a certain amount of safety knowledge related to rigging is “book learning.”  Online courses are perfect for this part of your education. They allow you to work through the material at your own pace, when and where it’s best for you, and review the material as many times as necessary.  

OSHA allows online safety training as long as you’re completing it with an OSHA-authorized training provider and you’re able to correspond with an instructor when you have questions. All our rigging classes meet these requirements.

You may also need signal person training depending on your job duties and OSHA safety training requirements. While rigging and signaling are related, they have different roles:

• Riggers are responsible for safely attaching loads to cranes, hoists, or other lifting equipment. 
• Signal Persons communicate with crane operators using hand signals or radios to ensure safe lifting operations.

According to OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1428, a signal person is required when:

• The crane operator’s view is obstructed. 
• The operator or load is working near power lines. 
• The operator determines a signal person is needed for safety.

Some rigger training programs include signal person instruction. If your job involves directing crane movements, a separate signal person course may be necessary. Always check with your employer or local rules to make sure you're following the correct safety guidelines.

While it’s best to ask your supervisor which of these courses is most appropriate for you, below we’ll explain some of the differences between our rigging classes. 

Our most basic introductory courses are 1.5 hours long and adequate for people whose responsibilities fall short of NCCCO Level I Rigger training. Our Signal Person course is designed for signal persons who will have no rigging responsibilities. You’ll get an introduction to crane types, components, operating conditions, and related hazards, along with knowledge of crane hand and voice signals. Our Rigger Signalman course covers these topics, as well as different types of rigging gear like sling angles and hitches and how to estimate weights.

Anyone participating in rigging needs Rigger and Signal Person Training (Basic). This course is 3 hours long and equivalent to NCCCO’s Level 1 training when combined with the proper practical experience.

Our Rigger and Signal Person Training (Intermediate) course expands on the basic course to cover more extensive responsibilities. It’s 4 hours long and considered equivalent to NCCCO’s Level 2 training when combined with proper practical experience.

Our Rigger and Signal Person Training (Advanced) course is 5 hours long and appropriate for those ready to practice advanced techniques. This course is equivalent to NCCCO’s Level 3 training when combined with the proper practical experience.

Every construction site needs to employ trained and certified crane riggers and signaling persons to assist with moving large loads. In addition to riggers and signal persons, this training is also required for supervisors of rigging work. Some specialized craftspeople – like carpenters – may also need to be qualified riggers.