Rigger Career Description
Riggers are artisans who work with cables and ropes, which are used mainly for hoisting objects. They also have good knowledge of scaffolding, platforms, tripods and derricks and work in any branch of heavy industry.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
The work of riggers includes different tasks such as the erection of hoisting tackle, assembling and erection of derricks, sheer-legs for construction purposes, and the installation and maintenance of steel cables used in various ways with pulleys, lifts, hoists or cranes.
Riggers assist in erecting chimney-stacks, large buildings and heavy machinery. They also do groundwork such as clearing up tracks after railway accidents, installation of machinery and moving heavy machinery from one place to another. Riggers make use of various types of equipment. They often use ropes and must therefore be acquainted with the various types of wire and manila ropes, knots and all the different ways of splicing.
Before an object is handled, riggers calculate its weight, and ascertain the best way of securing and moving it. When everything is safe, they give instructions to the hoist or crane-driver. The ropes and cables must be inspected regularly and precautions must be taken to avoid knots and kinks in the cables. Safety is of the utmost importance.
Riggers are also responsible for the lubrication of all types of gear and lifting tackle. Riggers sometimes have to work overtime. They may work in a workshop, underground in a mine, on ground level or hundreds of metres up in the air when erecting different kinds of structures. Riggers' jobs are often very dangerous.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Riggers must be physically fit and have a fair amount of physical strength and endurance. They must not be afraid of heights and be safety conscious. They must be responsible and be able to work accurately and quickly.
Where can I work?
Riggers are employed everywhere in industry, mining and construction companies.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Self-employment possibilities do exist.
|
