The Importance of Heavy Equipment Rigging in Industrial Operations
Are you considering building a large-scale project or needing guidance for lifting heavy equipment? Well, you’re at the right place! In this blog, we’ll explore all aspects of rigging, why you should hire professional services, the types of rigging equipment, and the safety practices involved with rigging jobs.
In simple terms, rigging refers to the process of hoisting up an equipment and carefully maneuvering it to the desired location; this process is facilitated by specialized tools. Depending on the examination of the object’s weight, balance point, and size, the riggers decide what are best-suited tools to carry out the task efficiently. Some of the specialized tools include: slings, shackles, wire rope, turnbuckles, chains, and jacks. The use of various tools and techniques by skilled labor itself tells us about the importance of this component in any industrial project.
There are several types of heavy rigging equipment that make moving heavy equipment possible and efficient. They can look overwhelming, but with the right knowledge of their functionalities, you’ll enjoy a rigging process that is simple and straightforward.
- Chain Rigging: As the name suggests, it offers a durable way of lifting or moving heavy loads with chains. Chains are further supported by tools such as hooks, shackles, and other rigging hardware.
- Wire Rope Rigging: Steel special ropes are used for lifting and securing loads. Due to their strength and flexibility, steel ropes are usually the go-to for riggers when they’re working with cranes and hoists.
- Synthetic Sling Rigging: Synthetic slings are made with nylon or polyester, providing options that are not only lightweight but also protect loads from damage when they’re being lifted.
- Beam Clamps and Trolleys: Beam clamps and trolleys help secure loads with overhead beams or tracks. They help facilitate horizontal movement, too.
- Cranes and Hoists: These are among the most crucial pieces of equipment for the rigging process, as they are heavy-duty and facilitate the moving of heavy loads vertically.
The Importance of Industrial Rigging Services
With rigging heavy equipment, several risks are involved, some as serious as life-threatening situations for the workforce. Other potential risks include damage to equipment, labor safety, and accidents. Working with unprofessional or untrained laborers means they won’t have the proper knowledge of specialized tools, which can lead to an increased risk of equipment falling or damaging, which in turn also poses a danger to the safety of the laborers. That being said, it would be wise to have a professional rigging service onboard with you.
Best Safety Practices- A Guide
Still not confident about the whole heavy equipment rigging and installation process? Well, you need not worry; we’ve gathered a list of best safety practices to ensure safe and secure operation:
- Training: Knowledge of all safety protocols, equipment handling, and other specifications is important for all workforce members. Like all domains, proper and professional training is crucial for a smooth rigging process.
- Routine Inspections: To ensure no accidents are caused by out-of-order or faulty equipment, assigned labor should regularly inspect equipment if it is in working condition.
- Communication: Effective communication should be encouraged among all personnel, as there are more accidents caused by miscommunication than we think.
- Load limits: While it might be tempting to overload rigging equipment to save time, this is a terrible practice. Strict adherence to weight limits must be practiced at all times.
Heavy load rigging is essential to all industry operations; safety protocols, adherence to load limits, and professional training are practices that can’t be overlooked. With the proper knowledge, this process can seem less daunting and straightforward.