Why Rigging Should Never Be a DIY Task in Industrial Settings

In industrial environments, rigging is more than just moving heavy equipment—it’s a precision operation that requires skill, experience, and an uncompromising commitment to safety. While it may be tempting for some facilities to handle rigging tasks internally to cut costs, doing so without proper training and planning can lead to serious injuries, costly equipment damage, and violations of safety regulations.

When it comes to industrial rigging services, cutting corners isn’t just risky—it’s reckless. Here’s why rigging should always be left to certified professionals.

The Hidden Dangers of Improper Rigging

Without the right training, even seemingly simple rigging tasks can turn hazardous fast. Improper rigging practices can result in:

• Injuries or fatalities from dropped loads, pinched limbs, or unstable hoisting
  
• Crushed or damaged machinery, often worth tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars
  
• Structural damage to buildings or infrastructure
  
• OSHA violations, which can result in stiff fines or even temporary shutdowns
  

A poorly executed rigging job doesn’t just pose risks to the equipment—it endangers everyone on site.

The Value of Certified Rigging Professionals

Professional riggers are trained in load calculations, rigging techniques, lift planning, and site coordination. They’re equipped with the experience and credentials to ensure every load is handled properly and every move is executed safely.

Certified rigging professionals also understand how to:

• Choose the right slings, chains, hooks, and spreader bars
  
• Identify the center of gravity of irregular or top-heavy loads
  
• Execute complex lifts with multiple hoists or cranes
  
• Communicate clearly across teams to avoid dangerous missteps
  

Working with a qualified rigging team ensures that every move is calculated, controlled, and compliant with local and federal safety standards.

What Can Go Wrong: Real-World Scenarios

Here are just a few examples of what can happen when facilities try to DIY industrial rigging:

Scenario 1: The Underestimated Load
A facility attempts to move a 10,000 lb generator using a forklift and a makeshift sling. The sling isn’t rated for the weight, and during the lift, it snaps. The generator crashes to the floor, damaging not only the unit but also the concrete and surrounding walls.

Scenario 2: No Load Calculation
In another instance, a team attempts to rig and lift a production machine without calculating the center of gravity. As the crane lifts, the machine tilts uncontrollably and slams into a column—jeopardizing both the structure and worker safety.

Scenario 3: Inadequate Communication
A rigging operation with multiple workers fails to assign a signal person. During a blind lift, a miscommunication causes the load to swing unexpectedly, striking a team member and resulting in a severe injury and OSHA investigation.

Each of these disasters could have been avoided with proper industrial rigging services and a team trained in safe rigging protocol.

Tools, Planning & Coordination: What Professionals Bring

Professional riggers bring far more than muscle—they bring:

• Rigging-specific tools like shackles, turnbuckles, and lifting beams
  
• Accurate load weight and center of gravity assessments
  
• Detailed lift plans, including charts, angles, and load paths
  
• Coordination between riggers, crane operators, signal persons, and on-site managers
  

Everything is accounted for—from ground stability to weather conditions—before a single piece of equipment is lifted.

Your Trusted Partner for Industrial Rigging

At LongHorn General Contractors, we provide safe, certified rigging machine moving services across Utah and the surrounding region. Our team of experts ensures every load is moved efficiently, safely, and in full compliance with OSHA and ANSI standards.

From heavy equipment installations to machinery relocation, we have the tools, knowledge, and experience to handle even the most complex rigging challenges.

Don’t gamble with your team’s safety or your equipment’s future. Hire the professionals.

Contact LongHorn General Contractors today for expert industrial rigging services you can count on.