BY MAGGIE MACHALE
Crane operations are filled with potential hazards, and each lift requires careful planning, skilled execution and close attention to detail. Familiarity with rigging safety practices protects both workers and equipment, preventing injuries, dropped loads and structural damage. For those reasons, employers carry the responsibility to train their crews to recognize risks and make informed decisions in the field.
Organizations such as Bishop Lifting have reinforced this need through their emphasis on technical expertise, equipment guidance and structured safety instruction. Their training resources, including courses on rigging, fall protection and confined space entry, highlight the importance of pairing hands-on knowledge with updated practices. This approach reflects a broader industry priority: fielding crews that understand not only how to complete a lift, but how to do so safely.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Rigging mistakes remain more common than many assume. Using damaged or inappropriate hardware, overlooking wear or relying on improvisation when proper gear is unavailable can quickly lead to failures. Inadequate training contributes as well; even seasoned workers may be unfamiliar with updated standards or evolving best practices. Miscommunication compounds these risks, especially when crews are working under pressure or across noisy jobsites.
Ensuring that every crew member understands both the basics and complexities of rigging forms the foundation of a safer work environment. Strong
March 2026 • www. thepartsconnection. org • 13