Hiring and Maintaining Heavy Construction Equipment

When renting cranes, most people are particular about the availability of the crane operator. However, they forget the other critical component of crane operation; the crane rigger. Riggers are trained personnel who work hand in hand with the crane operator. Typically, they maintain a safe working environment when the crane is in use. 

Below is an excerpt discussing the reasons why you need a crane rigger and the considerations to make when hiring this professional. 

Choosing A Suitable Crane

A problem experienced by contractors and homeowners is that they do not conduct a site survey before hiring a crane. Therefore, they risk hiring a smaller or larger crane. An experienced crane rigger will assess your construction plans and the site conditions to determine which crane is the best fit for your site. For example, a telescopic handler would be ideal when working in constricted spaces. On the other hand, rough terrain and crawler cranes will work on unstable and uneven surfaces. 

Crane Installation and Inspection

Once the crane arrives at your site, the rigger will identify an appropriate location to install the crane. Typically, the crane should be installed on a rigid surface to prevent it from sinking or toppling when loaded. When installing a tower crane, the rigger will guide you in building a foundation for the crane. Once the crane becomes operational, the rigger will conduct regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that the device is in excellent working condition. 

Site Safety

Many of your site personnel may not understand the risks of having a crane at the site. As such, it is the rigger's responsibility to ensure they know the safety measures to observe when the crane is at the site. For example, they should wear protective clothing to ensure that they are visible to the operator. Additionally, they should avoid the crane's blind spots. The riggers will also educate your personnel on the crane's line of operation and how they can communicate with the operator. 

Consider the following when hiring a crane rigger: 

• The rigger should have an appropriate licence. Rigger licences are grouped into basic, intermediate and advanced rigging licences. A high-risk work permit is a must-have.
• Assess whether the rigger is experienced in the operations of the crane you will have at the site.
• Inquire about the rigger's availability. Remember, they will have to be present every time that the crane is in use.
• Check the rigger's pricing. In some cases, you do not have to pay the rigger when you hire the crane on a wet charge basis. 

Crane riggers are essential in maintaining crane safety. They will help you select an appropriate crane, install and inspect the crane, and train your employees on on-site safety. Remember to observe the recommended tips when hiring the rigger.