Last month, we covered the Latest Qualified Rigger Standards according to the new ASME B30.5 standard. If you missed it, you can read our blog about rigger standards here. Something we didn’t cover, however, is the difference between rigging qualification and rigging certification according to OSHA and ANSI/ASME definitions. This blog will break down the difference between these two terms.
As a review, rigger qualification is primarily a designation given to a rigger by their employer. The employer must consider the rigger’s skills, knowledge, and experience to determine if the rigger is qualified for the specific operation in question.
Under the latest ASME standard, the employer must also obtain proof that the rigger has successfully completed written and practical exams, administered by anyone, that test:
Qualified riggers do not have to be certified by an accredited organization or third party. A qualified rigger may very well be a person with extensive hands-on experience but no formal training or certifications.
Under the latest standard, OSHA and ASME require a qualified rigger to be present in any situation where a mobile crane over 2,000 lbs capacity is being used.
On the other hand, rigging certification is achieved by passing a written and practical exam administered by an accredited certifying agency. Currently, ANAB – the ANSI National Accreditation Board – only accredits the NCCCO to deliver rigger certifications. The NCCCO offers Rigger Level I, Rigger Level II, and Lift Director certification programs.
While there’s no OSHA or ANSI/ASME requirement for rigging certification, due to the NCCCO’s credibility, CCO Rigger I or II certification is often a desired qualification on contract bids. In some cases, certifications may also meet the requirements for an employer to designate a rigger as qualified. Specifically, the NCCCO Rigger II program fulfills the core competencies outlined in the ASME B30.5 standard for rigger qualification.
The most important thing to note is that rigger qualification and rigger certification do not have shared meanings. Each has its advantages.
The process to qualify riggers can be done with less preparation than is required for certification, and it fulfills OSHA and ASMI/ASME requirements. However, the qualification process may not always provide a means to fully evaluate whether a rigger truly has the technical knowledge and hands-on skills needed to perform a specific task.
Conversely, the rigging certification process requires more preparation but covers testing on slings, knots, signaling, load control, and other safety issues. As such, it generally acts as a good yardstick to measure rigger ability.
Comprehensive training is generally needed for those seeking rigger certification to gain the technical knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to pass the exams. Luckily, our friends at ITI (Industrial Training International) endorse the national certification program offered by the NCCCO and provide specialized preparatory training courses to persons seeking a NCCCO rigging certification.
For more information on NCCCO Rigger Certification Training, visit the ITI website to learn about NCCCO Rigging Certification training.
Understanding the difference between rigger qualification and rigging certification is important for maintaining compliance, improving jobsite safety, and ensuring each lift is handled by the right person for the task. A qualified rigger is designated by the employer based on their knowledge, experience, and ability to perform a specific rigging operation. Rigging certification, on the other hand, is earned through written and practical testing administered by an accredited certifying organization.
While certification is not always required by OSHA or ANSI/ASME, it can provide a valuable benchmark for evaluating a rigger’s skills and may be preferred or required on certain jobsites, bids, or projects. Ultimately, both qualification and certification play an important role in safe lifting operations. Employers should understand the requirements, evaluate each lift carefully, and make sure the riggers assigned to the work have the proper training, knowledge, and experience for the job.
For any lifting, rigging, pulling, jacking, safety, or material handling needs, contact your local LGH representative or call 800-878-7305 to speak with one of our rental specialists.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces, our lifting equipment is available for rent from 23 locations throughout North America, and our customers are supported by over 50 Rental Representatives nationwide.
