In any lifting operation especially in the oil and gas industry, safety and organization go hand in hand. Yet, one of the most overlooked aspects of safe lifting operations is the rigging loft. If you’ve ever wondered what a rigging loft is, how it’s managed, or what it takes to become a certified Rigging Loft Controller, this guide is for you.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about rigging loft management, its importance, and how to take the next step in your career through proper training and certification.
What is a Rigging Loft?
A rigging loft is a secure, designated space where lifting and rigging equipment is stored, maintained, inspected, and tracked. Items commonly found in a rigging loft include: Slings, shackles, hooks, chain blocks, spreader bars, lifting beams, etc.
While it might seem like just another storage area, the rigging loft plays a critical role in safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. A well-maintained loft ensures that only certified, safe, and functioning equipment is used in lifting operations, helping to prevent accidents, reduce downtime, and maintain compliance with international standards.
What is Rigging Loft Management?
Rigging loft management refers to the structured system of organizing, inspecting, recording, and issuing lifting gear used in daily operations. It’s not just about storing equipment, it’s about ensuring that every item is tracked, certified, and ready to perform safely.
Effective rigging loft management includes:
- Detailed inventory control
- Regular inspection and documentation
- Quarantine protocols for damaged or expired gear
- Issuance logs to monitor equipment use
- Compliance with international lifting regulations
Failing to manage a rigging loft properly can lead to the use of expired or unfit gear, putting workers and entire projects at risk. This is why rigging loft management is considered a core safety function in industrial environments.
The Role of a Rigging Loft Controller
At the heart of a well-run loft is a trained professional known as the Rigging Loft Controller.
A Rigging Loft Controller is responsible for:
- Managing and organizing lifting gear
- Maintaining inspection schedules and records
- Issuing and receiving tools with proper documentation
- Quarantining and tagging unsafe or uncertified equipment
- Ensuring compliance with lifting safety protocols
The controller acts as the gatekeeper of safety, ensuring that only approved gear gets into the field, and that records are accurate for audits or inspections. Without a dedicated controller, even the most advanced rigging system is vulnerable to error or misuse.
How to Become a Certified Rigging Loft Controller
Becoming a certified Rigging Loft Controller doesn’t just improve your technical know-how, it shows employers that you’re committed to safety, leadership, and operational excellence. To take on this critical role, individuals must undergo professional rigging loft training that covers both theory and hands-on practical sessions. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a globally recognized certification, opening doors to employment in oil and gas, construction, offshore operations, marine logistics, and other heavy industries.
JC International provides Rigging Loft Controller and Rigging loft Management courses which equips participants with the required knowledge and certifications. Enroll here!
