Rigging In Construction Explained
When it comes to understanding the role of rigging in construction, the process is ultimately all about putting safety first - but what does it involve?
By definition, rigging is the term we use to describe the system of ropes or chains employed to support a ship's masts and to control or set the yards and sails. As the phrase is commonly linked to ropes, rigging in construction is somewhat of a similar concept, with the same materials used to secure loads and provide support.
Rigging construction is the act of moving, securing or putting down a load, while using the appropriate mechanical shifting equipment. It also involves erecting and dismantling cranes and hoists. To move a load, riggers use equipment like cranes and hoists or other machinery like chain blocks and winch systems, which is why the process plays a crucial role in operating cranes safely on a job site.
The Role Of Rigging In Construction
Rigging is used on most construction sites to move and place materials and the rigging process can be customized according to the needs of each site. As rigging involves the lifting and moving of heavy objects, it can be a complicated process, as there are many variables to consider when setting up a rigging or hoisting operation.
However, rigging and dogging are two terms used in the construction industry that are often interchangeable, but actually have separate meanings. While rigging encompasses all types of mechanical load shifting, such as transporting, positioning, securing and setting up equipment, dogging is generally used to describe the process of slinging techniques to safely sling a load. In the world of construction, demolition, heavy vehicle industries, shipping, freight and crane operation, you generally can’t do any form of rigging without dogging, which may explain why they are commonly confused.
Crane rigging refers to the process that you'll need to go through in order to prepare your crane equipment for a lift and then execute your lift according to plan. However, like any piece of machinery or equipment, safely working with cranes is slightly more complex than pressing the “on” button, especially given the weight of the loads that a crane operator, rigger and dogger would usually be working with. As such, there are specific licenses and qualifications that each of these roles are required to undertake.
If you want to work as a rigger, you’ll need to undertake a course with a registered training organisation. Rigging involves a lot of dangerous aspects including working with heavy loads, so in order to get your riggers license, you’ll need to complete a basic, intermediate or advanced rigging course, and then once you have passed an assessment, apply for your license.
If you’re in the process of hiring a crane or are about to be, ensure that you thoroughly check the qualifications of the people who will be working with the crane on your job site before the work gets underway. According to Safe Work Australia, there are around 240 serious injury claims every year that are related to working with cranes, so it’s up to you to check the safety record of who you choose to work with if you wish to avoid your job site becoming yet another statistic.
It’s also important to ensure that you conduct your own in depth research on crane hire companies before committing to one - and a good place to start is the internet. Google reviews and even peers within your industry are always a good starting point to ensure that you get a clear scope as to how your preferred company does business. In fact, a reputable crane hire provider will only be too happy to show you their track record.
Sourcing Crane Hire Solutions With Lindores
Lindores Mobile Cranes (LMC) are a mobile crane and labour hire business that has unequalled experience in the construction industry spanning two generations. In operation since 2007, we’re a family owned business and are also proud owners of Brisbane’s only Humma crane. Our family has been in the industry for over 50 years.
Google reviews and even peers within the industry are always a good starting point to ensure that a mobile crane hire company is a reputable business provider. At Lindores, we’re only too happy to show you the feedback from our customers, as it’s something that we’re actually quite proud of.
At LMC, we pride ourselves on knowing what our customers require, and aren’t afraid to think outside of the box with suggestions in order to reduce costs and increase productivity. If you would like to explore your options regarding crane hire in South East Queensland or aren’t quite sure where to start, get in touch with us today.
The Liftout
Urban construction across Brisbane’s inner suburbs, like Brisbane City, Fortitude Valley and West End, presents a unique challenge. Limited street access, tight driveways, weight-restricted concrete slabs, and close proximity to neighbouring buildings mean that traditional mobile cranes simply won’t fit. At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we’ve seen how mini crawler cranes are transforming the way construction is carried out on these sites. Compact, precise, and highly mobile, these machines are fast becoming essential for projects across Queensland . Rethinking Lifting for Urban Environments In city and suburban projects, space is at a premium. Construction teams often deal with narrow laneways, busy streets, or strict local council rules that make large-scale crane operations unfeasible. In some cases, access is so restricted that conventional lifting equipment can’t get anywhere near the job site. That’s where mini crawler cranes come in. Built specifically for tight and complex environments, these machines allow builders to lift heavy materials safely and efficiently, without the need for wide access or extensive setup areas. See our full fleet of mobile and mini cranes. Compact Size, Serious Capability Despite their size, mini crawler cranes don’t compromise on performance. Designed to operate in confined spaces, they’re able to move through narrow driveways and even fit inside buildings if required. Their rubber tracks reduce surface pressure, making them safe for use on rooftops or polished concrete slabs, and their zero tail-swing allows for safe manoeuvring in environments with little margin for error. These features make them ideal for everything from steel erection and glass installation to HVAC placement and residential renovations. We’ve supported projects as varied as boutique homes in New Farm and shopfront fit outs in Surfers Paradise , proving how versatile these compact machines really are. Designed for the Modern Job Site Mini crawler cranes are an increasingly popular choice for residential builds, renovations, and even commercial fit outs across Queensland. Their small footprint and fast setup time mean less downtime, lower costs, and fewer headaches when working in restricted-access environments. Ready to Lift Smarter in Tight Spaces? At Lindores Mobile Cranes , we’ve helped countless clients across Brisbane , the Gold Coast , and South East Queensland navigate complex job sites with ease. Our team can advise you on the right crane for your lift, organise pre-lift planning, and provide experienced operators who understand the ins and outs of working in urban environments. Contact our team today by calling 07 3376 0611 or email lmcorps@lmcranes.com.au.
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