38102 Rigging Practices

Course Syllabus: NCCER Rigging Practices

Course Title: Rigging Practices Course Code: NCCER Module 38102 (Note: Some sources or older references may associate similar content with 38101; this syllabus aligns with the standard NCCER Rigging Practices module as part of Basic/Intermediate Rigger training) Level: Basic Rigger (Level 2) Duration: 15 Hours (including theory, practical demonstrations, and performance testing) Format: Classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and performance assessments Credit Hours: Approximately 1 academic credit (varies by institution)

Course Description

This module covers essential safety practices, hazard recognition, communication methods, and procedural techniques for safe rigging operations. Trainees learn to identify rigging and crane hazards, use proper communication (including hand signals), assess site and environmental risks, and perform safe attachments for routine lifts. Emphasis is placed on preventing accidents, emergency response, and compliance with industry standards such as ASME B30.

This course is part of the NCCER Rigger curriculum and prepares trainees for safe participation in lifting operations.

Prerequisites

• Completion of NCCER Basic Safety and Introduction to Construction (Core Curriculum recommended)
• Completion of Rigging Equipment (NCCER Module 38101 or equivalent knowledge of slings, hardware, and inspection)
• Basic understanding of rigging hardware and hitches

Learning Objectives

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

1. Identify and use correct ASME hand signals to guide a crane operator.
2. Identify basic rigging and crane safety procedures and determine the center of gravity of a load.
3. Identify pinch points on a crane and explain how to avoid them.
4. Identify site and environmental hazards associated with rigging.
5. Properly attach rigging hardware for routine lifts and specialized lifts (e.g., pipe lifts).
6. Explain the importance of sling tension calculations and load balancing.

Performance Tasks (Required for NCCER Certification)

Trainees must demonstrate proficiency under instructor supervision:

1. Use and interpret standard ASME hand signals.
2. Determine the center of gravity of a sample load.
3. Properly attach rigging hardware for routine lifts and pipe/valve lifts.
4. Conduct pre-lift safety checks and identify hazards in simulated scenarios.

Required Materials

• NCCER Rigging Trainee Guide (Level 2 or Basic Rigger edition)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots, high-visibility vest
• Access to rigging hardware samples (slings, shackles, hooks) and simulation tools (provided in training facility)
• ASME B30 standards reference (hand signals chart)

Course Outline

The course is divided into sessions totaling 15 hours. Approximate time allocations are provided.

Session 1: Introduction and Communication in Rigging (3 hours)

• Overview of rigging practices and responsibilities
• Methods and modes of communication
  • Verbal communication
  • Nonverbal (hand signals per ASME B30.2 and B30.5)
• Practice: Interpreting and demonstrating standard hand signals

Session 2: General Rigging Safety and Crane Hazards (4 hours)

• Basic rigging precautions and crane safety procedures
• Identifying pinch points and load path hazards
• Load control, tag lines, and barricades
• Determining center of gravity and load balancing basics
• Sling tension and its importance in safe lifts
• Practice: Calculating center of gravity and simulating load control

Session 3: Site and Environmental Hazards (4 hours)

• Personal protection and equipment supervision
• Working around power lines (safety distances and procedures)
• Site hazards and restrictions (weather, ground conditions, overhead obstructions)
• Attaching rigging hardware for routine and specialized lifts (e.g., pipes, valves)
• Practice: Hardware attachment demonstrations and hazard identification in scenarios

Session 4: Emergency Response and Review (4 hours)

• Emergency procedures: Fire response, lift malfunctions, hazardous weather
• Pre-lift and post-lift safety checks
• Review of key concepts
• Performance testing and practical assessments

Assessment and Grading

• Written Exam: Multiple-choice test covering theory, safety practices, and standards (minimum 70% to pass)
• Performance Testing: Hands-on evaluation of required tasks (must complete all tasks satisfactorily)
• Attendance and Participation: Full attendance required; active participation in discussions and practices
• NCCER Credential: Successful completion earns credit toward NCCER Basic Rigger certification (wallet card and registry entry upon full program completion)

Safety Policies

• All trainees must wear required PPE at all times during practical sessions.
• Zero-tolerance policy for unsafe practices; violations may result in removal from the course.
• Training emphasizes “safety first” – report all hazards immediately.

Instructor Contact

(To be provided by training provider)

This syllabus is based on official NCCER curriculum guidelines for Rigging Practices and prepares trainees for real-world safe rigging operations in construction and industrial settings.