Lifting and Rigging Safety Practices including the Safe use of ‘Tag Lines’

Safe work practices must be followed by everyone who 

works with or near construction equipment especially when lifting overhead loads.

First let's talk about the safety precautions for 

workers in the operating areas of overhead loads, but who are not 

directly involved with their operation or use.  

This information could be considered part of the JSA (Job Safety Analysis) 

when preparing to lift a load.

·     Stay alert and pay attention!

·     Never stand or walk under a load, whether it's moving or stationary.

·     Always warn others of moving and approaching overhead loads.

·     Never attempt to distract signal persons or operators 

of the overhead equipment 

while they are performing their jobs. 

Only assigned persons should be directing the operator of the lifting equipment. 

When two or more persons are trying to direct the operator it may get confusing 

and this is when accidents and injuries usually occur.

·     Always obey warning signs, especially those that are posted in critical areas.

Safety rules for operators, signal persons and hookup crews

·     Always conduct a circle check of your equipment

 and inspect any attachments such as 

slings and tag lines for hazards.

·     Never operate or use equipment that is unsafe.

·     Always be sure that the operator and signal 

persons are in direct and clear view.

·     Never carry a load over other workers.

·     Never allow anyone to ride on the load or hooks.

·     If a load appears to be slung improperly, lower it and have it adjusted.

·     All members of the crew must know their job responsibilities 

and the proper procedures.

 Correct placement of the sling or choker, or of the chain, contribute to safe lift 

travel and positioning of the load. 

The placement controls the balance and how the system will handle on the hook 

throughout the operation.

Safe Use of ‘Tag Lines’

Sometimes the crew must determine whether a tag line is needed to control the 

motion and position of the load while it's in the air. Knowing how to place and

 manipulate the tag line safely requires skill and alertness. 

What is a ‘tag line’? According to OSHA Standard 1926.953(d)  

a ‘Tag line’ is used when hazards to employees exist tag lines or other suitable 

devices shall be used to control loads being handled by hoisting equipment. 

Tag lines are also designed to keep workers away from the 
hazards present when trying to direct or control material that is being raised. 
Tag lines are used to prevent dangerous swing or spin of 
materials when raised or lowered by equipment.

Tag lines should be used to control the motion and positioning of:

·     Plows and wings

·     Jersey barriers

·     Culverts

·     Catch basin tubs

Safe operation of hoisting equipment requires 

efficient teamwork and a thorough

knowledge of the skills involved.

If all of us do our jobs well and safely, there is no reason why the injuries or accidents caused by working with or near equipment that lifts or hoists cannot be virtually eliminated