20 Jan 2026
WHAT IS RIGGING EQUIPMENT: TYPES OF RIGGING
Rigging refers to the process of lifting, moving, positioning or securing heavy loads using specialised tools and techniques. It is commonly used in industries such as construction, manufacturing, shipping and energy, where large or awkward materials must be handled safely and precisely. The primary purpose of rigging is to ensure that loads are supported, balanced and controlled during lifting operations, reducing the risk of accidents, equipment damage or structural failure.
Rigging equipment includes the hardware, devices and assemblies that make these operations possible. Items from hooks to lifting beams are used to attach loads to cranes, hoists or other lifting machinery. Without proper types of rigging equipment, even the most powerful lifting machinery would be unable to move heavy materials safely or efficiently. Each component plays a critical role in distributing weight, maintaining load stability and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
This blog post explains what is meant specifically by rigging equipment and why it is essential in heavy lifting and material handling applications. It also explores the different types of rigging equipment, outlining how each is used and where it is most effective. By understanding the various types of rigging and their functions, safer and more efficient lifting operations can be achieved.
What Is Rigging Equipment?
Rigging equipment includes the devices, tools and components that need to be used to lift, hoist, pull or secure heavy loads in a safe manner. They play a crucial role in a wide range of industries, from construction and manufacturing to shipping and entertainment, ensuring that materials and equipment are handled efficiently and securely.
It is important to distinguish between rigging and lifting. Rigging involves preparing and securing the load using the correct equipment and techniques, while lifting refers to the actual movement or hoisting of the load. For example, a crane is what lifts the object, the chain is what rigs it up ready for lifting. Proper rigging ensures load stability, reduces the risk of accidents and prevents damage to both the load and surrounding property.
Rigging equipment can range from simple hardware such as hooks, shackles, chains and slings to more complex systems that include spreader beams, hoists and multi-point lifting assemblies. As well as industrial applications, rigging equipment is also used in the entertainment sector for securing lighting, audio and stage structures.
Selecting the correct types of rigging equipment for the job is essential for safety and operational efficiency while protecting both people and property during lifting and load-handling activities.
Types of Rigging Equipment
Lifting Hooks & Lifting Shackles
Both lifting hooks and lifting shackles are essential pieces of kit for rigging. These accessories are what connect the material being moved to a crane or a hoist. They act as a strong, adaptable and removable link in a solid chain of movement. There are multiple different types, shapes and sizes of these accessories that will fit multiple pieces of equipment and offer safe manual handling on any site.
Wire Ropes & Lifting Slings
Wire ropes and lifting slings can be seen as the next step in the solid chain of movement from lifting hooks and shackles. These types of rigging equipment provide safe, stable and efficient material handling. A lifting sling will be a complete rigging assembly, whereas a wire rope, webbing or chain will be just one part of it.
Pulleys & Block Systems
These are mechanical devices which include snatch blocks, sheaves and Securepulley scaffold pulleys. They are designed to change the direction of force and provide mechanical advantage. By redistributing effort, they significantly reduce the overall force required to lift or move heavy loads, improving efficiency, safety and control in construction, rigging and other industrial lifting operations.
Eye Bolts, Wire Rope Accessories & Small Hardware
These types of rigging equipment include eye bolts, lifting rings, wire-rope fittings, thimbles, sockets and other essential components used to anchor loads, secure loops and terminate wire ropes. These hardware pieces provide reliable connection points, ensuring safe and efficient lifting, rigging and load-management operations to help you remain protected and fully compliant with manual handling regulations and best practices.
Lifting & Spreader Beams (Spreader / Load-Spreading Devices)
Lifting and spreader beams are another essential rigging tool that are designed to offer multiple points of attachment that promote an even more stable and balanced load. Although similar, they do work differently; lifting beams work by using bending forces and have a single hook point up top and more down below. This is good for work with limited headroom or uneven loads. Spreader beams use compression and have two top points and are better for wide loads in locations with plenty of headroom.
Specialised Hardware & Accessories
At LES, we also offer a full range of specialised rigging equipment and accessories that include swivels, which allow rotation without twisting rigging lines. Load arrestors, turnbuckles and rigging screws, and rigging frames for complex lifts. Depending on your upcoming project requirements, load-indicator devices may also be incorporated. These components enhance safety, control and precision in lifting and rigging operations across multiple industries, ensuring reliable performance at all times.
Choosing the Right Type of Rigging for the Job
Selecting the appropriate rigging equipment requires careful consideration of several key factors. The weight and centre of gravity of the load must be evaluated to ensure the rigging can support it safely. The shape of the load itself, its lifting angle and the number of lifting points are also going to influence equipment choice. Certain environmental conditions, such as temperature, corrosion risk and exposure to chemicals, should be taken into account. In some cases, load distribution or multi-point lifting may be required to maintain stability during manual handling.
Safety should always be paramount when choosing types of rigging. Overloading or using unsuitable components significantly increases the risk of load slipping or failure, leading to accidents, injuries or property damage. Proper inspection and maintenance are essential, including regular checks for wear, damage and corrosion. All components must meet safe working load limits and manufacturer specifications to ensure reliable, safe lifting operations on a consistent basis.
Conclusion
What is rigging equipment? The types of rigging equipment you will come across encompass the tools, hardware and assemblies that are used to lift, move and secure heavy loads safely. From slings and shackles to hooks and lifting beams, each component plays a vital role in maintaining load stability, distributing weight and preventing accidents.
Proper selection and use of rigging equipment are fundamental to ensuring safe, efficient and compliant heavy lifting and material handling operations across industries. For expert advice and guidance on selecting the right equipment, or support with rigging solutions tailored to your specific needs, contact LES today and ensure your lifting operations are performed safely and effectively.
