Section 4: Introduction to Hoisting, Lifting and Rigging
General Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, the apprentice will be able to:
- Describe rigging, hoisting, and lifting equipment, their applications, maintenance, and procedures for use.
- Describe the regulatory requirements pertaining to rigging, hoisting, and lifting equipment.
- Describe communication methods used during rigging, hoisting, and lifting operations.
- Perform basic hand signals used in hoisting and lifting operations (Practical).
Overview
Hoisting, lifting, and rigging are fundamental skills for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning mechanics. HVAC/R equipment — condensing units, air-handling units, compressors, boilers, and chillers — is often large, heavy, and awkwardly shaped. Moving this equipment safely requires knowledge of mechanical principles, proper equipment selection, legislative compliance, and effective communication on the job site.
This subject is part of Unit 3810 (Workplace Safety & Equipment Management), which is common core for both 313A (Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic) and 313D (Residential Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic) at Level 1.
Terminology & Fundamentals
Accurate use of industry terminology is the foundation of safe hoisting and rigging operations. Misunderstandings between a rigger and a signaller can result in dropped loads, equipment damage, or serious injury. This chapter defines the core vocabulary, identifies job-site hazards, and explains the applicable Ontario legislation.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Breaking Strength | The load at which a rigging component is expected to fail under a single application of force. Never use this figure as an operational limit. |
| Centre of Gravity (CoG) | The point within a load at which the entire weight is considered to act. Proper rigging positions the lift point directly above the CoG to prevent tilting. |
| Design Factor (Safety Factor) | The ratio of breaking strength to WLL (e.g., a 5:1 factor means WLL is 20% of breaking strength). |
| Hoisting | The vertical lifting or lowering of a load using mechanical equipment such as a crane, hoist, or chain fall. |
| Lifting | The act of raising a load, either manually or with mechanical assistance. Manual lifting refers to ergonomic body mechanics; mechanical lifting uses equipment. |
| Load | The total weight of the object(s) being lifted, including any rigging hardware attached to it. |
| Rated Capacity | The maximum load a piece of equipment (crane, hoist, jack) is certified to carry under defined conditions. |
| Rigger | A qualified person responsible for selecting, inspecting, and attaching rigging equipment to a load. |
| Rigging | The process of attaching, securing, and arranging hardware (slings, shackles, hooks, etc.) to a load so it can be safely hoisted or moved. |
| Safe Working Load (SWL) | Often used interchangeably with WLL; the maximum load permitted under specific operational conditions. |
| Signaller (Dogman) | The person responsible for directing the equipment operator using standardized hand signals or other communication methods. |
| Tag Line | A rope attached to a suspended load to control its movement and prevent uncontrolled rotation or swinging. |
| Working Load Limit (WLL) | The maximum mass a piece of rigging equipment is designed to support in general service, as specified by the manufacturer. |