There are many misconceptions about the difference between dogging and rigging. However, they are not interchangeable terms. The two words have different meanings.
In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between dogging and rigging, as well as whether the two are covered under the same license.
What is rigging?
First, rigging may refer to all mechanical load shifting systems used to move heavy objects. This includes cranes, winches, and pulleys. Additionally, rigging may also refer to the act setting equipment and materials for moving and lifting.
Every construction site, especially those with high-rise structures, uses rigging.
In addition to construction sites, ships and large trucks require rigging for loading and shifting heavy equipment as well as materials.
What is dogging?
Dogging encompasses a number of functions on a construction site. Primarily, a dogger is someone who is skilled in the use of slinging techniques to safely sling a load.
Someone who is appropriately trained in dogging is known as a dogman or dogger, and they play an important role in construction, demolition, heavy vehicle industries, shipping, freight and more.
A dogger is the main person responsible for the correct selection and inspection of lifting gear to safely sling a load, meaning they carry a serious responsibility on site. Loads that are not correctly secured with slings, hooks and chains can become a major safety hazard, so the dogger needs to be suitably trained and licensed in how to do their job.
Doggers are also trained in directing plant operators to safely move loads around a site. Along with tying down and slinging loads, the dogger helps crane, telehandler and excavator operators safely move their load when it is difficult for the driver to see.
By using hand signals, whistles and two way radios to communicate, the dogger can guide the plant operator to place their load down safely.
Do you need a ticket to be a dogman?
A big part of dogging work involves exercising good judgement in choosing the best lifting gear for the job, and the method of fixing it to the load.
If a dogger fails to appropriately rig an object, it can lead to serious and potentially fatal accidents on site, which is why dogman tickets are essential for anyone working in this field.
You can learn dogging with a registered training organisation and then apply for your ticket. As part of a dogman ticket or license, the dogger learns how to assess nature of the load, its mass, friction, strength and especially its centre of gravity.
What about rigging – do I need a rigger’s licence?
If you want to work as a rigger, you’ll need to undertake a course with a registered training organisation. Rigging involves a lot of dangerous aspects including working with heavy loads, so in order to get your riggers license, you’ll need to complete a rigging course, and then once you have passed an assessment, apply for your license.
Are rigging and dogging covered under one license?
Dogging covers specific tasks in conjunction with cranes and lifting equipment, such as the use of slinging techniques, selection and inspection of lifting gear, and directing the crane operator in moving heavy loads.
Rigging covers all this and more, including safely erecting structural steel, placing precast concrete members, and setting up crane loading platforms.
Getting your dogging licence is the first step and is a prerequisite to obtaining the basic rigging licence.
