What Are Some of the Things That a Crane Rigger Will Do to Help a Crane Operator?

When you think about having something lifted with a crane, you might think that most of the work is done by the crane operator who actually physically operates the crane. It's true that crane operators are typically skilled, hardworking individuals who do important jobs when jobs need to be done with cranes. However, they are not the only important employees who typically work on a work site where cranes are used. Additionally, crane riggers will work along with crane operators to help get the job done. If you're curious about how a crane rigger will often help a crane operator, consider the examples below. 

Properly Secure the Load

First of all, the crane rigger will typically be responsible for properly securing a load so that it can be lifted by a crane in the first place. They might use chains, ropes, pulleys, and more in order to do this. If you think this job is easy, then you should know that it's a bit more complicated than many people realise. A crane rigger has to determine the weight of the load and make sure that the crane can safely and effectively lift it. They also have to figure out the center of gravity for the load to be sure that it's properly secured and ready to be lifted.

Look for Obstacles

In some situations, there aren't really any obstacles to worry about when a crane is being used. However, this often is not the case. In many cases, cranes are used on busy work sites or construction sites. There might be overhead utility lines or bridges, nearby buildings, and more that the crane operator will have to worry about when using the crane. Typically, a crane rigger will take a few minutes to assess any obstacles that might be in the way of the crane operator. When possible, they might move these obstacles. Otherwise, they will let the crane operator know about the obstacles that they will need to watch out for while they're operating the crane.

Guide the Crane Operator

A good crane operator should have an idea of how to maneuver the crane in order to move the load around, but this doesn't mean it's not helpful for them to have a little bit of guidance. A crane rigger will serve as eyes and ears for a crane operator who might not be able to see everything when they're working. The crane rigger should use hand signals or other signals to help guide the crane operator as they work.