Over the last few months, we’ve discussed the qualities, experience, and job opportunities for skilled riggers. If you think this is the right career move for you, there are some other expectations for the role. Specifically, you need the proper training and certification. There are several types of rigging jobs, so you need to make sure you’re getting the right training for a career in a shipyard. Here are a few things you should know.
OSHA Regulations
The occupational safety and health administration, or OSHA, has a number of requirements for various specialized roles, including riggers. Companies need to used individuals classified as qualified riggers for any jobs that require assembly and disassembly work as well as times when workers in the fall zone are hooking and unhooking large materials.
By the OSHA definition, a qualified rigger is someone who meets the criteria they’ve established, but those credentials and experience can be different depending on the job. It is the employer’s responsibility to determine whether a person is qualified to perform rigging tasks. They must possess a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing or have extensive knowledge, training, and experience. They also have to demonstrate problem-solving skills related to rigging successfully.
Required Degree or Certification
You don’t necessarily need a required degree or certification to be a qualified rigger, but it helps. There is no single accredited program that trains riggers. But one thing that training and certification provides for potential employers is an understanding that you take the role seriously and are committed and dedicated to quality standards.
Determine the Requirements for Shipyard Employers
Employers will often hire a third–party organization to determine if their employees are skilled as qualified riggers. They’re not required to do this, but they have the option to do so to improve their safety and performance. You need to check out what local shipyards do so you can fit your qualifications into their requirements.
Specific Training
What you should look for if you want to receive training is a program that focuses on:
- Rigging safety
- Rigging communication
- Math, geometry, and calculations
- Use of specific tools and equipment
Do you want to know more about finding jobs as a skilled rigger? Talk to the team at Hutco today.
