Basic Rigging (RB) study plan
Basic Rigging (RB) · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Rigging Safety and Standards & Rigging Hardware and Slings
Identify the scope and key requirements of OSHA 1926 Subpart CC and ASME B30.9 as they apply to basic rigging operations.
List the five primary causes of rigging accidents and match each to a specific preventive action.
Define the terms qualified rigger, competent person, and designated person per OSHA definitions.
Select the correct sling type (chain, wire rope, synthetic web) for three given load and environment scenarios.
Your checkpoint
Create a one-page reference sheet summarizing OSHA rigging roles, sling selection criteria, and five accident causes with preventive actions.
Rigging Hardware and Slings
Compute the working load limit (WLL) for a given chain sling using the manufacturer's tag and applicable reduction factors.
Determine the WLL of a wire rope sling using the formula WLL = diameter squared times 8 (in tons) for a single-leg vertical hitch.
Identify the three types of synthetic web sling damage that require immediate removal from service.
Explain the difference between proof load and working load limit and state the proof load test multiplier for each sling type.
Your checkpoint
Complete a 10-problem WLL calculation worksheet with at least 90% accuracy, showing all formulas and reduction factors used.
Rigging Hardware and Slings & Knots, Hitches, and Sling Configurations
Demonstrate how to inspect and tag out a damaged shackle, hook, and master link according to ASME B30.26 and B30.10.
Describe the effect of sling angle on tension for a two-leg bridle hitch and calculate the tension in each leg for angles of 30, 45, and 60 degrees.
Tie and identify five basic rigging knots: bowline, clove hitch, half hitch, timber hitch, and sheet bend.
Explain when to use a choker hitch versus a vertical hitch and state the capacity reduction for a choker hitch.
Your checkpoint
Produce a photo log or sketch showing each of the five knots correctly tied, with a one-sentence description of its rigging application.
Load Weight Estimation and Center of Gravity
Estimate the weight of common materials (steel, concrete, wood, aluminum) using volume and density formulas.
Calculate the center of gravity for a symmetrical and an asymmetrical load using the principle of moments.
Determine the tension in each sling leg for a four-leg lift with an off-center center of gravity.
Use a load weight estimation worksheet to verify the weight of a given load against the crane's capacity chart.
Your checkpoint
Solve three load weight and center of gravity case studies, showing all calculations and a final weight estimate within 10% of the actual value.
Knots, Hitches, and Sling Configurations & Load Weight Estimation and Center of Gravity
Design a rigging plan for a load with an offset center of gravity, including sling selection, hitch type, and tension calculations.
Calculate the effective capacity of a multi-leg sling assembly when the legs are not symmetrically loaded.
Explain the effect of sling angle on the load's center of gravity and stability during a lift.
Identify three methods to control load rotation and sway during a lift using tag lines and hitch placement.
Your checkpoint
Draft a complete rigging plan for a 2-ton asymmetrical load, including a sketch, sling tension calculations, and a list of hardware selected.
Lifting and Moving Loads / Hand Signals
Demonstrate the standard hand signals for hoist, lower, stop, emergency stop, and dog everything.
Describe the proper sequence for a pre-lift safety meeting and load check.
Explain the roles of the signal person, rigger, and crane operator during a lift and the communication protocol.
Identify three environmental factors (wind, ground conditions, power lines) that affect lifting operations and state the required action for each.
Your checkpoint
Record a video or perform a live demonstration of the required hand signals with a partner, scoring at least 90% on a signal recognition checklist.
Rigging Safety and Standards & Lifting and Moving Loads / Hand Signals
Review OSHA 1926 Subpart CC requirements for rigging equipment inspection, including frequency and documentation.
Explain the requirements for a lift plan and when a critical lift plan is necessary.
Identify the steps to safely move a load using a come-along and chain fall, including anchoring and load control.
Describe the procedure for refusing an unsafe lift and the documentation required.
Your checkpoint
Write a one-page inspection checklist for rigging hardware and slings that aligns with OSHA and ASME requirements.
Rigging Safety and Standards & Rigging Hardware and Slings & Knots, Hitches, and Sling Configurations & Load Weight Estimation and Center of Gravity & Lifting and Moving Loads / Hand Signals
Complete a full-length practice exam under timed conditions, targeting a score of 80% or higher.
Review all incorrect answers and create flashcards for weak areas.
Re-calculate WLL and center of gravity problems from weeks 2 and 4 to reinforce retention.
Summarize the top 10 rigging safety rules in your own words.
Your checkpoint
Achieve a score of at least 80% on a timed 50-question practice exam and submit a list of five areas for further review.
Milestones
Week 2: Score at least 80% on a 10-question quiz covering OSHA roles, sling types, and WLL calculations.
Week 4: Correctly estimate the weight and center of gravity of three different loads within 10% accuracy.
Week 6: Demonstrate all required hand signals with 100% accuracy in a practical check.
Week 8: Pass a timed 50-question practice exam with a score of 80% or higher.