Comprehensive Guide to NYC Rigging Certifications & Training

Rigging is a critical aspect of construction and maintenance work in New York City. The Department of Buildings (DOB) enforces strict regulations to ensure safety and competency among rigging workers and supervisors. Whether you are entering the field or need to renew your certification, understanding the different rigging courses is essential. At Able Safety Consulting, we provide comprehensive training to help you meet NYC DOB requirements and stay compliant with local laws.

Why is Rigging Training Important?

Rigging operations involve lifting, securing, and moving heavy loads using cranes, hoists, and other equipment. Proper training helps prevent accidents, equipment failures, and job site hazards. NYC DOB mandates that rigging workers and supervisors complete specific courses before engaging in rigging activities.

Which Rigging Course Do You Need?

Choosing the right rigging course depends on your role and responsibilities on a construction site. Below is a breakdown of each course and who needs it.

16-Hour Rigging Worker (For new rigging workers)

This course is required for individuals who will be working with suspended scaffolding and other rigging equipment but are not supervising rigging operations. It is the minimum requirement for anyone performing rigging work under NYC DOB regulations. Enroll here

• Necessary for workers handling rigging equipment

• Covers fundamental safety procedures and load handling

• Certification is required before working on a rigging job site

8-Hour Rigging Worker Refresher (For workers renewing their certification)

If you have already completed the 16-Hour Rigging Worker course, you must take this refresher course every four years to stay compliant. Enroll here. It keeps workers up to date with:

• Safety regulation updates

• Rigging best practices

• NYC DOB compliance requirements

32-Hour Rigging Supervisor (For individuals looking to supervise rigging operations)

This course is required for individuals who want to become a Rigging Supervisor, which is necessary for those overseeing rigging work. Enroll here.

• Required for supervisory roles in rigging operations

• Covers site safety management and regulatory compliance

• Mandatory for obtaining a NYC DOB Rigging Supervisor certification

16-Hour Rigging Supervisor Refresher (For renewing a Rigging Supervisor certification)

Supervisors must renew their certification every four years with this refresher course. Enroll here. It provides updates on:

• Regulatory changes

• Advanced safety procedures

• Common rigging violations and how to prevent them

16-Hour Special Rigger (For obtaining a Special Rigger License)

This course is for individuals looking to obtain a NYC DOB Special Rigger License, which allows them to perform rigging work that does not involve cranes or hoisting machinery.

• Required before applying for the Special Rigger License

• Covers load calculations, equipment use, and NYC DOB regulations

• Completion of this course is followed by a licensing exam with NYC DOB

8-Hour Special Rigger Renewal (For maintaining a Special Rigger License)

To keep a Special Rigger License active, professionals must complete this course every four years.

• Ensures compliance with industry updates

• Reviews safety protocols and regulations

• Required by NYC DOB for license renewal

Get Certified with Able Safety Consulting

At Able Safety Consulting, we offer all the required NYC DOB-approved rigging courses to ensure you and your team meet the necessary safety and certification standards. Our expert instructors provide hands-on training and in-depth knowledge to help you excel in rigging operations.

Why Choose Us?

• NYC DOB-approved courses

• Experienced instructors with real-world knowledge

• Flexible training schedules

• Competitive pricing

IMPORTANT LINKS: 

• Master Rigger License: For individuals aiming to hoist or lower any article, regardless of weight, on the exterior of buildings in NYC, obtaining a Master Rigger License is essential. Detailed requirements and application procedures are available on the NYC DOB Master Rigger License page.

• Special Rigger License: Those intending to hoist or lower articles not exceeding 2,000 pounds on the exterior of buildings should pursue a Special Rigger License. Comprehensive information can be found on the NYC DOB Special Rigger License page.

• Tower/Climber Crane Rigger License: Professionals responsible for erecting or dismantling tower or climber cranes in NYC are required to have a Tower/Climber Crane Rigger License. Details are provided on the NYC DOB Tower/Climber Crane Rigger License page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a rigging certification, and why do I need one in NYC?

A rigging certification is a credential required by NYC DOB for workers involved in rigging activities. It ensures that individuals are trained in safe rigging practices, equipment handling, and compliance with local regulations.

2. How do I become a certified rigger in NYC?

To become a certified rigger in NYC, you must complete the required training based on your role. Workers need the 16-Hour Rigging Worker course, while supervisors must complete the 32-Hour Rigging Supervisor course. Special Riggers must complete the 16-Hour Special Rigger course and pass the NYC DOB licensing exam.

3. How often do I need to renew my rigging certification?

Rigging Worker and Rigging Supervisor certifications must be renewed every four years by taking the appropriate refresher course. Special Rigger License holders must also complete an 8-Hour Special Rigger Renewal course every four years.

4. What is the difference between a Rigging Supervisor and a Special Rigger?

A Rigging Supervisor oversees rigging operations on construction sites and must complete the 32-Hour Rigging Supervisor course. A Special Rigger is licensed to perform rigging work that does not involve cranes or hoisting machinery and must complete the 16-Hour Special Rigger course and pass an NYC DOB exam.

5. Can I take rigging certification courses online?

No, NYC DOB requires that rigging certification courses be conducted in-person to ensure hands-on training and compliance with safety standards.

6. Where can I take a rigging certification course in NYC?

You can take all required rigging certification courses at Able Safety Consulting. We offer NYC DOB-approved training with experienced instructors and flexible schedules. Visit AbleSafety.com to enroll.

7. How long does it take to complete a rigging certification course?

The duration depends on the course:

• 16-Hour Rigging Worker – 2 days

• 8-Hour Rigging Worker Refresher – 1 day

• 32-Hour Rigging Supervisor – 4 days

• 16-Hour Rigging Supervisor Refresher – 2 days

• 16-Hour Special Rigger – 2 days

• 8-Hour Special Rigger Renewal – 1 day

8. How much does a rigging certification cost?

Costs vary depending on the course. Check out AbleSafety.com for pricing and available discounts.

9. Do I need prior experience to take a rigging course?

No prior experience is needed for the 16-Hour Rigging Worker course. However, for supervisory and special rigger courses, prior work experience and additional licensing may be required.