A rigger is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in the assistance of manual
mechanical advantage device
A simple machine that exhibits mechanical advantage is called a mechanical advantage device - e.g.:
* Lever: The beam shown is in static equilibrium around the fulcrum. This is due to the moment created by vector force ''"A"'' counterclockwise ( ...
comprising
pulley
A pulley is a wheel on an axle or shaft that is designed to support movement and change of direction of a taut cable or belt, or transfer of power between the shaft and cable or belt. In the case of a pulley supported by a frame or shell that ...
,
block and tackle or motorised such as a
crane or
derrick or
chain hoists (chain fall) or
capstan winch
Capstan may refer to:
* Capstan (band), an American post-hardcore band
* Capstan (cigarette), a brand of British cigarette
*Capstan (nautical), a rotating machine used to control or apply force to another element
*Capstan (tape recorder), rotating ...
.
Etymology
The term comes from the days of
sailing ships, when a rigger was a person who worked with
rigging
Rigging comprises the system of ropes, cables and chains, which support a sailing ship or sail boat's masts—''standing rigging'', including shrouds and stays—and which adjust the position of the vessel's sails and spars to which they are ...
, that is, ropes for hoisting the sails. Sailors could put their rope skills to work in lifting and hauling. In an era before mechanical haulage and cranes, ropes, pulleys and muscle power were all that was available to move heavy objects. A specialized subset are
telecommunication riggers,
entertainment industry riggers. In time,
rigging
Rigging comprises the system of ropes, cables and chains, which support a sailing ship or sail boat's masts—''standing rigging'', including shrouds and stays—and which adjust the position of the vessel's sails and spars to which they are ...
became a trade in itself, giving rise to modern usages with some original terminology remaining, with its roots all but forgotten.
Description
Riggers attach loads of equipment to cranes or structures using shackles, cables, chains, clamps or straps, employing pulleys, winches, lifts or chain hoists (aka chain motors). Quick load calculations are necessary for each load and engineering principles are always in play. Riggers use various suspension techniques to get their load around obstacles on a construction site or loading dock or event site to the desired location and height.
See also
* ''
World's Toughest Fixes
''World's Toughest Fixes'' is an American reality series that premiered on the National Geographic Channel on September 28, 2008. It featured Sean Riley participating in various "tough fixes"; repairs and renovations done on equipment that is very ...
'', an American reality-TV series with a focus on industrial rigging
References
{{Reflist
External links
Specialized Carriers and Riggers AssociationWhat is a Rigger?
- Rigger.com, by Toolwell
Subpart CC – Cranes and Derricks in Construction: Qualified Rigger
- OSHA - 2010
Construction trades workers
Marine occupations