Basic Rigging (RB) study materials
Basic Rigging (RB) study resources

Basic Rigging (RB) study plan

Basic Rigging (RB) · Give each week a clear focus.

8 weeks · About 6 hours per week

Week 1

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.

Week 2

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.

Week 3

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.

Week 4

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.

Week 5

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.

Week 6

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.

Week 7

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.

Week 8

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.