(1) The rigger must meet the qualification requirements (subsection (3) of this section) prior to performing hoisting activities for assembly and disassembly work (WAC 296-155-53402 (19)(a)). A qualified rigger is required whenever employees are engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding the load, or in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure, and are within the fall zone (WAC 296-155-53400 (43)(c)). This requirement must be met by using either Option (1) or Option (2).

(a) Option (1) - Third-party qualified evaluator. The rigger has documentation from a third-party qualified evaluator showing that the rigger meets the qualification requirements listed in subsection (3) of this section.

(b) Option (2) - Employer's qualified evaluator. You have your qualified evaluator assess the individual and determine that the individual meets the qualification requirements listed in subsection (3) of this section and provides documentation of that determination. An assessment by an employer's qualified evaluator under this option is not portable meaning other employers are not permitted to use this qualification to meet the requirements of this section.

(c) You must make the documentation for whichever option is used available at the site while the rigger is employed by the employer. The documentation must specify each type of rigging for which the rigger meets the requirements of subsection (3) of this section.

(2) If subsequent actions by the rigger indicate that the individual may not meet the qualification requirements listed in subsection (3) of this section, you must not allow the individual to continue working as a rigger until retraining is provided and a reassessment is made in accordance with subsection (1) of this section that confirms that the individual meets the qualification requirements.

(3) Qualification requirements. Each rigger must:

(a) Know and understand the requirements located in ASME B30.7-2006, Base-Mounted Drum Hoists, B30.9-2010, Slings, B30.10-2009, Hooks, B30.16-2007, Overhead Hoists (Underhung), B30.20-2010, Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices, B30.21-2005, Manually Lever Operated Hoists and B30.26-2004, Rigging Hardware, as applicable.

(b) Know and understand the type of sling and hitch used. For example, if synthetic web slings are used, the rigger must know and understand the removal criteria for this type of sling and how to properly use the sling.

(c) Be competent in the application of the type of hitches used.

(d) Have a basic understanding of slings, rigging hardware and below-the-hook lifting devices (as applicable); their limitations, rigging practices, associated hazards and inspection requirements.

(e) Know and understand load weight estimation, center of gravity, effect of angles on rigging components, load turning, knots/tag lines, chain hoist/come-a-long usage, winch and block usage, and basic hand signals, as applicable.

(f) Know and understand the relevant requirements of WAC 296-155-556 through 296-155-56220 and this section.

(g) Demonstrate that they meet the requirements in (a) through (e) of this subsection through a written test and through a practical test. All tests must be documented.

(4) Qualification period. A rigger qualification cannot exceed a 5-year period; this qualification must be renewed every 5 years to ensure riggers maintain qualified status. At a minimum, this renewal must include a documented written exam.