38101 Rigging Equipment

Course Syllabus: Rigging Equipment (NCCER Module 38101-11)

Course Information

• Module ID: 38101-11 (also referenced as 38101 in some NCCER materials)
• Course Title: Rigging Equipment
• Training Hours: 10 hours (including theory and hands-on practice)
• Level: Basic Rigger / Entry-Level Rigging
• Prerequisites: Recommended completion of NCCER Core Curriculum (Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, etc.) or equivalent safety training. No prior rigging experience required.
• Certification: Successful completion contributes toward NCCER Basic Rigger credential and wallet card upon passing written and performance assessments.

Course Description

This module introduces the safe use, inspection, and application of basic rigging equipment and hardware. Trainees learn to identify common rigging components, perform inspections, apply proper hitches, and handle loads safely. Emphasis is placed on safety practices, equipment limitations, and rejection criteria to prevent accidents in lifting and moving operations.

The course aligns with NCCER’s standardized curriculum for rigging fundamentals and prepares trainees for real-world material handling in construction, industrial, and maintenance environments.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:

1. Identify and describe the use of various slings (fiber rope, wire rope, chain, synthetic web, and metal mesh) and common rigging hardware.
2. Perform visual inspections of slings, hardware, and attachments, and determine rejection criteria based on industry standards.
3. Describe and demonstrate proper sling hitches (vertical, choker, basket) and configurations for safe load control.
4. Identify and explain the use of rigging attachments (shackles, hooks, eyebolts, rings, turnbuckles, etc.) and below-the-hook lifting devices.
5. Describe the operation and safe use of hoists, jacks, rollers, and other equipment for load movement.
6. Apply safe load-handling practices, including load balance, tag lines, and communication during lifts.
7. Recognize hazards associated with rigging equipment and implement preventive measures.

Course Outline and Schedule

The course is typically delivered over 2–3 days, combining classroom instruction, demonstrations, and hands-on practice. Total: 10 hours.

Day 1: Introduction and Slings (4 hours)

• Overview of rigging principles and safety responsibilities
• Types of slings: construction, materials, capacities, and applications
  • Fiber rope and synthetic slings
  • Wire rope slings
  • Chain slings
  • Synthetic web and metal mesh slings
• Sling angle stress and load calculations basics
• Hands-on: Sling identification and handling

Day 2: Hardware, Hitches, and Inspection (4 hours)

• Common rigging hardware and attachments
  • Shackles, hooks, clips, rings, links, and turnbuckles
  • Spreader and equalizer beams
• Hitch types and configurations (vertical, choker, basket, bridle)
• Inspection procedures and rejection criteria (damage, wear, corrosion)
• Hands-on: Inspection of slings/hardware and demonstration of hitches

Day 3: Hoisting Equipment and Safety Practices (2 hours + Review/Assessment)

• Hoists, jacks, rollers, tuggers, and lateral load movement equipment
• Below-the-hook lifting devices
• Safe practices: load control, tag lines, communication, and hazard recognition
• Review and Q&A
• Hands-on performance tasks

Teaching Methods

• Instructor-led presentations using NCCER PowerPoint slides
• Videos and demonstrations of rigging techniques
• Hands-on practice with actual rigging equipment (recommended: NCCER Rigging Kit or equivalent)
• Group discussions on real-world scenarios and safety incidents

Required Materials

• NCCER Trainee Guide: Rigging Equipment (Module 38101-11)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots
• Access to rigging hardware samples (slings, shackles, hooks, etc.) for inspection and practice
• Calculator for basic load calculations

Assessment and Evaluation

• Written Exam: Multiple-choice test covering module objectives (70% passing score required)
• Performance Tasks (verified by instructor):
  • Inspect and identify defects in slings and hardware
  • Properly apply common hitches to a load
  • Demonstrate safe load-handling techniques
• Grading: Pass/Fail based on NCCER standards. Retesting available for failed components.
• Performance profile documented in NCCER Registry for credentialing.

Safety Note

All training emphasizes OSHA and ASME standards for rigging safety. Unsafe practices during hands-on activities will result in immediate correction and potential removal from practice sessions.

Instructor Qualifications

Certified NCCER Craft Instructor with rigging experience preferred.

This syllabus is based on NCCER’s official curriculum for Module 38101-11 Rigging Equipment. For the latest updates or official materials, visit nccer.org or contact an accredited NCCER training sponsor.