Can a certified rigger be considered a qualified rigger?

Despite the implementation of OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC - Crane & Derrick Standard for Construction on November 10, 2010, the topic of whether a certified rigger is qualified continues to be a subject of debate. In this article, I provide my personal views alongside relevant facts and terminology from the standard.

In my opinion, being a certified rigger does not necessarily mean an individual is qualified to rig all loads safely. Their responsible management should evaluate their skill level and ensure they are appropriately trained before assigning them to material handling activities. For instance, even highly experienced riggers may not consider themselves qualified to rig the space shuttle without proper education and training, despite developing many of the current rigger certification exam questions.

While I support rigger certification, which involves a written or computer-based exam and a practical hands-on exam administered by a third party, it should not be the sole criterion for assuming an individual is qualified. Rather, companies must assess an individual's proficiency level for their job responsibilities. This approach can lead to a more knowledgeable workforce and consequently decrease accidents. Therefore, management must avoid assuming that every employee with a rigger or crane operator certification is qualified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Is a certified rigger required by the OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC–Crane & Derrick Standard or a qualified rigger?

The OSHA standard requires a qualified rigger in certain cases but not a certified rigger. This was implemented on November 8, 2010, under OSHA 1926.1401, 1926.1404, and 1926.1425.

1. What does OSHA define as a qualified rigger in the OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC- Crane & Derrick Standard?

A qualified rigger is a rigger who meets the criteria for a qualified person.

1. What does OSHA mean by a qualified person?

A qualified person is someone who has demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter and work through extensive knowledge, training, experience, or a recognized degree or certificate of professional standing.

1. When is a qualified rigger required according to the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC- Crane & Derrick Standard?

A qualified rigger is required during crane assembly/disassembly and when employees are involved in hooking, unhooking, or guiding the load. They are also required in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure within the fall zone. OSHA 1926.1404(r)(1) and 1926.1425(c) provide more information.

1. What is the Fall Zone, according to OSHA?

The Fall Zone refers to the area where materials that are partially or completely suspended could fall in the event of an accident, including but not limited to the area directly beneath the load.

1. Do qualified riggers need to be trained or certified by an accredited organization or evaluated by a third party?

According to the OSHA Fact Sheet for Subpart CC–Cranes and Derricks in Construction, the answer is no, but the employer may choose to engage a third party. A copy of the OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1926 Subpart CC- Crane & Derrick Standard regulatory text is available on OSHA.gov.