Having a qualified rigger on site during a lift isn’t just a best practice—it’s a requirement under OSHA and ASME standards. Whether you’re using a crane on a major construction site or in a tree-trimming application, updated guidelines now mandate the presence of a qualified rigger in far more scenarios than before. If you’re responsible for compliance, crew safety, or lift planning, understanding qualified rigger requirements is critical.
Understanding rigger qualifications is a non-negotiable necessity for safe lifting on a jobsite.
A rigger is a trained professional responsible for safely attaching, lifting, and maneuvering loads using cranes, hoists, slings, shackles, and other rigging equipment. The job of a rigger requires deep knowledge of load weights, center of gravity, sling angles, and rigging hardware.
Riggers often serve as the key link between the crane operator and the load. They are trusted to ensure proper rigging configurations and communicate clearly to guide critical lifts. In short, a rigger’s expertise protects both people and property.
A qualified rigger is a person who has:
• Completed a written and practical exam covering rigging hardware, sling hitches, load calculations, and equipment inspection
• Been officially designated as “qualified” by their employer based on skills, training, and prior experience
It’s important to note that passing exams alone isn’t enough. Only the employer can assign the qualified status, and it must be job-specific. A certified rigger may be highly competent in structural rigging but may not be qualified to handle unstable loads or a tandem lift involving multiple cranes.
According to the ASME B30.5 standard, a qualified rigger is someone who:
• Possesses a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing (e.g., NCCCO certified rigger or NCCER certified rigger)
• Has substantial rigging experience and training
• Can demonstrate the ability to solve rigging problems and apply sound rigging practices
Employers must ensure the rigger’s credentials match the complexity and risks of the specific job.
Prior to the 2021 update of the ASME B30.5 standard, a qualified rigger was only required during crane assembly/disassembly or when workers were in the fall zone. The revised standard now mandates that:
• A qualified rigger must be present for any lift using a mobile crane over 2,000 lbs capacity—regardless of whether personnel are nearby.
This change broadens the scope of compliance and affects more industries than ever. From construction and heavy industrial projects to utility work and crane rigging for landscaping or tree removal, the rule applies across the board.
Employers play a central role in compliance. To designate a qualified rigger, an employer must:
• Review written and practical test results
• Evaluate rigging experience and training
• Ensure the rigger is competent for the specific lift scenario
• Maintain documentation proving the individual meets all qualified rigger requirements
This designation should be lift-specific. A rigger may be qualified for one type of load or equipment setup but not another.
According to ASME B30.5 (2021), you must have a qualified rigger present:
• Any time a mobile crane over 2,000 lbs is in use
• Regardless of whether personnel are in the fall zone
• For all industries, not just construction—tree trimming, HVAC installation, industrial rigging, and more
This rule applies even on smaller-scale lifts or in jobsites where a full rigging crew may not typically be present.
Having unqualified personnel or just a supervisor on site does not meet the standard. A properly designated qualified rigger is now required in all applicable lifting operations.
To meet compliance with OSHA and ASME standards, LGH recommends the following steps:
• Ensure riggers undergo comprehensive rigger training that aligns with ASME B30.5 and OSHA guidelines
• Consider certifications from nationally recognized bodies such as NCCCO or NCCER
• Empower supervisors to evaluate rigging personnel based on both test results and actual performance
• Always document each rigger’s credentials, experience, and job-specific assignments
By maintaining a roster of qualified riggers with the right skills and certifications, you protect your crew, meet legal requirements, and ensure safe and efficient lifts.
LGH provides more than equipment—we offer the knowledge and experience to support your lift planning from start to finish. Whether you’re sourcing rigging gear or making sure your team understands the latest qualified rigger requirements, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us at 800-878-7305 or reach out to your local LGH representative for expert guidance and fully certified lifting equipment.
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, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
