COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the Effective Communication Strategies in Rigging Operations course. This training is designed to equip you with the essential communication techniques needed to carry out lifting operations safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with Australian standards.
Rigging work involves high-risk tasks that demand precise coordination, clear instructions, and real-time updates to prevent incidents and ensure safe load handling. Poor communication in rigging environments can result in dropped loads, structural damage, injury, or even fatality—making effective communication a non-negotiable element of safe rigging operations.
The course begins by exploring the critical role that communication plays in rigging work. Participants will gain an understanding of how consistent, deliberate communication supports planning, hazard control, teamwork, and on-site productivity. The section also covers the types of communication commonly used on rigging sites, from formal toolbox meetings and lift plan briefings to informal verbal commands and visual signals used during live lifts.
Effective communication begins with identifying the requirements of each task. This section examines how communication needs vary depending on the complexity of the lift—such as blind lifts, multi-crane lifts, congested environments, or high-risk activities. Participants will learn how to assess communication demands at the planning, execution, and review stages of rigging tasks.
Clear roles and responsibilities are key to successful team communication. This section outlines the communication duties of riggers, doggers, crane operators, and site supervisors. Understanding the command chain and accountability for confirming and relaying messages ensures that each team member knows when and how to speak—and who must listen and act.
Verbal communication is the backbone of many rigging tasks. Participants will learn the importance of using agreed-upon terminology, clear tone, and repetition in noisy environments. Voice commands must be delivered in a structured and predictable manner to guide lift movements, pause points, and safe landing of loads.
Hand and signal systems are essential in situations where verbal communication is limited or not possible. This section introduces standard hand signals recognised in Australian rigging operations, the role of the dogger or spotter in directing movement, and techniques for ensuring signal visibility across varying job site conditions.
Two-way radios and electronic tools are increasingly used in rigging. Participants will explore how to use radios professionally, including call signs, acknowledgement phrases, emergency alerts, and protocols for managing poor signal or interference. Maintaining clear and secure communication channels is especially important in complex or tandem lifts.
Planning is essential for high-risk rigging tasks. This section provides strategies for incorporating communication requirements into lift plans, assigning roles for critical lifts, and developing contingency plans in case of communication breakdown. Effective lift plans detail not only the movement of loads but also how team members will stay connected throughout.
Pre-lift briefings and toolbox talks set the foundation for safe execution. Participants will learn how to communicate task sequences, risk controls, and coordination strategies through verbal explanations, site walk-throughs, or visual diagrams. Ensuring that all personnel understand their role before work begins is a key risk mitigation measure.
Rigging teams must often coordinate with other trades and external parties. This section explores communication techniques for managing interfaces with scaffolders, crane crews, traffic control, and other subcontractors. Shared spaces and overlapping schedules require proactive, respectful communication to avoid site disruptions and safety hazards.
Real-time communication during lifts is critical. This section teaches how to relay instructions during all stages of load movement—from initiation and swing to descent and landing. Participants will practise how to issue stop commands immediately when conditions change or visibility is lost, helping to prevent serious incidents.
Hazards and on-site changes must be communicated quickly. Participants will learn how to identify and report emerging risks—such as deteriorating weather, equipment faults, or structural changes—and escalate issues when resolution is beyond their control. Dynamic communication keeps all personnel aligned with changing conditions.
Breakdowns in communication can cause confusion and conflict. This section outlines strategies for resolving misunderstandings on the spot, de-escalating tension during stressful lifts, and addressing confusion constructively. Maintaining respect and focus on safety is essential during high-pressure operations.
Documentation is an important form of communication in rigging. Participants will be introduced to the written elements of rigging safety, including lift plans, inspection records, SWMS, and incident reports. Effective written communication ensures compliance and supports accountability.
Some environments challenge communication due to noise or visibility. This section offers practical solutions such as hand signals, flags, tactile cues, and clear visual positioning for doggers and operators. Participants will learn how to adapt communication methods when PPE, weather, or machinery noise limits verbal communication.
Inclusive communication is vital on diverse worksites. This section encourages awareness of cultural and language differences, introduces strategies for supporting team members with lower English proficiency, and emphasises the use of visual aids and demonstrations to ensure full understanding.
In an emergency, communication must be immediate and accurate. Participants will learn how to report incidents or near misses using appropriate protocols, activate emergency plans, and coordinate response with first responders. Effective communication can save lives in the event of lift-related emergencies.
After the lift, reviewing communication effectiveness is essential. This section provides guidance on conducting debriefs, identifying improvement areas, and promoting a no-blame environment where team members feel comfortable discussing what went well and what didn’t. Lessons learned are documented to refine future operations.
By the end of this course, you will have the knowledge and practical communication strategies to manage rigging operations safely, efficiently, and professionally—supporting clear instructions, timely responses, and coordinated teamwork across every stage of lifting work.
Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:
1. Introduction to Communication in Rigging Operations
- The importance of clear and consistent communication in rigging
- Risks associated with miscommunication during lifting activities
- Overview of formal and informal communication channels on-site
2. Identifying Communication Requirements for Rigging Work
- Understanding task complexity and communication needs
- Situational demands: blind lifts, multi-crane lifts, congested sites
- Determining communication needs at planning, execution, and review stages
3. Roles and Responsibilities in Rigging Communication
- Duties of riggers, doggers, crane operators, and supervisors
- Communication chain of command on rigging teams
- Accountability for relaying, confirming, and acting on information
4. Verbal Communication During Lifting Operations
- Clear voice commands and agreed terminology
- Minimising noise interference through positioning and repetition
- Verbal updates during load movement, hold points, and landing
5. Non-Verbal Communication: Hand and Signal Systems
- Standard hand signals used in Australian rigging operations
- Signal responsibilities of doggers and spotters
- Ensuring visibility and understanding across team members
6. Radio and Electronic Communication Tools
- Using two-way radios and headsets in complex lifts
- Radio protocols: call signs, confirmation phrases, emergency use
- Troubleshooting poor reception or interference
7. Planning Communication for Complex or High-Risk Lifts
- Developing lift plans with designated communication strategies
- Assigning communication roles during tandem lifts or critical lifts
- Establishing contingency protocols in lift plans
8. Conducting Pre-Lift Briefings and Toolbox Talks
- Communicating lift plan, sequence, hazards, and controls
- Verifying task understanding with all personnel involved
- Using drawings, diagrams, or physical walk-throughs for clarity
9. Coordinating with Other Trades and Site Stakeholders
- Liaising with crane crews, scaffolders, site managers, and traffic control
- Sharing space and scheduling constraints that affect rigging activities
- Managing communication with subcontractors or external stakeholders
10. Real-Time Communication During Load Movement
- Relaying instructions during lift initiation, load swing, and descent
- Keeping operators informed of ground crew visibility and obstructions
- Issuing stop or emergency commands promptly and clearly
11. Communicating Hazards and Changes On-Site
- Identifying new or emerging risks during the lift
- Adjusting to weather, structural, or equipment-related changes
- Escalating unresolvable issues to supervisors quickly
12. Managing Miscommunication and Conflict in Rigging Crews
- Identifying sources of confusion or breakdown
- Addressing misunderstandings respectfully and constructively
- De-escalating tensions during high-pressure lifts
13. Documentation and Written Communication in Rigging
- Recording lift plans, risk assessments, and inspection reports
- Communicating defects, incidents, or changes in writing
- Completing SWMS and daily pre-start checklists
14. Communicating in Noisy or Restricted Environments
- Strategies when verbal signals are not audible
- Use of hand gestures, flags, or tactile communication
- Adjusting communication to suit weather, PPE, and site noise
15. Culturally Inclusive Communication Practices
- Recognising language barriers or literacy concerns
- Using visual aids or demonstrations for clarity
- Ensuring respectful and inclusive dialogue on multicultural teams
16. Communication During Emergencies and Incident Response
- Reporting incidents or near misses to the correct personnel
- Following emergency communication procedures
- Coordinating response and evacuation during lift-related emergencies
17. Post-Lift Debriefs and Performance Feedback
- Reviewing lift success, communication issues, and improvement areas
- Encouraging open team discussions without blame
- Documenting lessons learned for future operations
COURSE DURATION:
The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.
COURSE DELIVERY:
Purchase and download course content.
ASSESSMENT:
A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.
CERTIFICATION:
Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.