Rigging Standard
IATSE Local 470

In an effort to reduce confusion and in order to provide a safer work environment, the following standards have been adopted to define a Rigger for appropriate required work calls.

A QUALIFIED Rigger is defined:
Has acquired the skill level to be accepted to this status. By passing the rigging exams as provided by IATSE Local 470, and successfully demonstrated his/her ability to solve and/or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, as well as demonstrating the ability to lead, supervise and coordinate others as necessary in the subject matter. Also must possess the tools required to execute the responsibilities of the position.

An AUTHORIZED Rigger is defined:
A person temporarily approved or assigned by the union or agent to perform specific type of duty at the job site who is trained to perform such duties safely and effectively under the supervision of a Qualified Rigger.

It must be understood that there are two types of Rigging: THEATRICAL and ARENA.

1. Theatrical
   1. Counterweight systems. Must have at least basic knowledge of materials, manufacturing methods, and the proper applications of different rigging systems. Has skills related to the installation and construction of rigging systems.
2. Arena
   1. Takes place in arenas, theatres, convention centers or outdoor roof structures. Mounting temporary lifting systems.

ALL Riggers:

• Must demonstrate ability to lift seventy-five (75) pounds
• Must demonstrate ability to tie appropriate knots
• Must have basic knowledge of rigging
• Must subscribe to local rigging conditions
• Must have a working knowledge of rigging terms

Rigging Sub Categories:

1. Ground/Down Rigger
2. Grid Rigger
3. Bucket/Aerial Rigger
4. High/Up Rigger
5. Climbing or Rope Access
6. ETCP Arena
7. ETCP Theatre

Ground/Down Rigger: Maintains safe perimeters underneath high work being done, maintains a safe path and perimeter around aerial work platforms, monitors the movement of aerial work platforms, assemblies to lines for high work being done, marks or “lays” out points on the floor and moves designators for high work (rigging points and laser plumbs), assembles and checks out motion control systems, makes attachments to lifting frames, lighting trusses, audio, video and scenery for hoisting or flying, does visual and mechanical safety inspections.

Grid Rigger: Has all of the skills and responsibility of a ground rigger and must be able to identify suitable structure and attachment for rigging, must be able to lift one-hundred (100) pounds, must have advanced rope skills, be able to apply rope work mechanical advantages, as well as knowledge of materials, manufacturing methods and the proper applications of different rigging systems.

Bucket/Aerial Rigger: Possessing all the skills as a Grid Rigger with addition to the ability to operate an aerial work platform.

High/Up Rigger: Virtually identical to a Grid Rigger, only they apply their trade while standing, sitting on or hanging from an exposed structural member.

Climbing or Rope Access: Virtually identical to a High/Up Rigger, but also must have exceptional rope skills. They must also be very physically fit and able to pull their own body weight up into structural ceilings on belay while applying personal fall protection as they go. They must be proficient with harness positioning systems and advanced rope friction and hauling systems.