How To Interview Your Crane Rigger
Are you thinking of hiring a crane? Other than the operator, you also need a rigger to guide the operator and ensure site safety. Below is a guide with some questions to help you interview and choose a crane rigger. Ultimately it will ensure you have an experienced and skilled crane rigger at your site.
What Are Their Qualifications?
This is a vital consideration when hiring a crane rigger. There are different classes of crane rigger licences, each allowing workers to rig specific cranes. For instance, a basic rigging (RB) licence allows the rigger to perform dogging work. On the other hand, the intermediate rigging (RI) licence allows the professional to rig self-climbing hoists, cranes and dredgers. The advanced rigging (RA) licence to rig sophisticated equipment such as flying foxes, derricks and gin poles. As a rule, the rigger must have also a high-risk work licence.
What Is Their Experience?
The crane rigger should have rigged similar cranes to the one you will be hiring in the past. Contact the rigger's references. Other than confirming that the rigger is experienced, inquire about their general conduct at the site. For example, can the individual keep time? Does the rigger have excellent leadership and communication skills? Remember, he or she will guide employees at the site.
What Services Will They Offer?
Below are some responsibilities of crane riggers:
- A site assessment to determine risks that could hinder crane operation. They could include low-lying electrical cables, unstable soil or underground gas lines.
- Installing the crane at an appropriate location.
- Conducting regular crane inspections to ensure the equipment does not have any defects.
- Educating site personnel about the crane's line of movement and blind spots.
- Using an appropriate mode of communication at the site. For instance, they could use flags to warn employees of a moving crane or signal the crane operator to lift or lower the load.
- Attaching and detaching loads and ensuring the crane operates within the specified weight limits. The rigger will also warn the crane operator of poor weather.
- Depending on the rigger's licence and experience, they could offer additional services such as installing scaffolding and operating demolition equipment.
What Are Their Terms?
Inquire about the rigger's terms. For instance, you want to know about their availability. If you have a tight construction schedule, you want a rigger who is available to work at night and during the weekends. Inquire about the rigger's charges. Some will prefer an hourly rate, while others will charge a standard rate.
When hiring a crane rigger, assess their qualifications, experience, services and terms. Contact a company that offers rigging services to learn more.