Riggers erect hoisting tackle, assemble and erect derricks or sheer legs for construction purposes and install and maintain steel cables and ropes. They also assist in erecting chimneystacks, large buildings, heavy machinery, etc.
Before objects are handled, riggers calculate their weight and ascertain the best way of securing and moving them. Riggers are responsible for the inspection, lubrication and maintenance of all types of lifting tackle, including cranes, derricks, driving winders, jacks, hoists and manually operated lifting equipment. They need to have a sound knowledge of scaffolding, platforms and tripods.
Riggers can also perform groundwork such as the clearing of tracks after a railway accident, or installing or moving heavy machinery.
They play important roles in all branches of heavy industry. They may work in workshops, underground in mines, on ground level or hundreds of metres up in the air. This job can often be very dangerous. Riggers are seldom stationary while working. They are continually moving about, climbing and working in all possible positions and locations.
Satisfying Aspects
- the non-routine nature of the work
- the challenge each job presents
- varied employment possibilities
- good remuneration
Demanding aspects
- an element of danger involved in the work
- dirty working conditions which sometimes prevail
- having to work shifts or overtime, or away from home
Requirements
A rigger should:
- be at least 16 years old;
- be mentally and physically sound and healthy;
- possess endurance and stamina;
- not be afraid of heights;
- be responsible and safety conscious;
- be able to work quickly and efficiently;
- be willing to do heavy physical work;
- be willing to move around a lot and work in different positions.
School Subjects
Grade 9 Certificate.
Some employers prefer higher qualifications.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Engineering and Technology, Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Training
There are three ways to qualify as a registered artisan:
1. An apprenticeship is a 4-year contract between company and apprentice, comprising a 12-week theoretical training, which includes 4 subjects at national exam level.
2. A learnership is a structured learning programme that leads to a qualification in a certain field. The learnership programme includes a theoretical and a practical component. It usually takes about a year to complete. The training takes place on-site (on the premises of the organisation). This has the advantage that the learner gets on-the-job experience whilst training.
3. FET colleges offer theoretical training to prospective artisans via the new National Certificate Vocational (NCV). During this 3-year programme (levels 2 to 4), learners complete a school-leaving certificate (this NCV) similar to the
new National Senior Certificate (NSC) in schools. They are also exposed to a practical workshop component.
All learners are required to complete a practical internship under the supervision of an experienced artisan. As an alternative to doing the full qualification, a learner can apply to do a skills programme at a FET College. Skills programmes are short practical hands-on courses.
For more information about qualifications and skills programmes, contact your nearest FET College. FET Colleges are accredited and funded by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) such as MERSETA or CHIETA. They also receive bursary funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the NCV programme.
Learners must all receive training in occupational safety and first aid, fire-fighting and preventative security measures. Learners study everything about the installation, maintenance and repair of all electrical equipment. They must also become familiar with municipal legislation relevant to electricity supply and consumption.
Employer
- building industry
- heavy engineering concerns
- government undertakings
- metal industries
- railways undertakings
- explosives and allied industries
- mines
- such organizations as: Sasol, Transnet, Eskom, Mittal Steel
Contact
The Liaison Officer
Seifsa
P O Box 1338
Johannesburg, 2000
Tel. (011) 833-6033