Term

Definition

Category

30k

 refers to the capacity of a forklift, when working in the field the crew members may refer to the equipment by the lifts capacity instead of the make or model. Equipment

Adjustable Gantry Crane

 a type of crane that is adjustable in height or span (or both), offering flexibility in lift and placement of heavy loads.
See also Portable Gantry Crane		 Equipment

Air Dolly

 is a type of moving equipment that uses a cushion of air to lift and transport heavy loads. The air dolly is connected to an air supply, often from a standard air compressor. It works like a hovercraft. This is also known as air skates or air bearings.
See also Air Skates		 Equipment

Air Skates

 a load-moving tool that utilizes compressed air to lift heavy objects, allowing them to be moved with minimal friction, often used for delicate or precision handling.
See also Air Dolly		 Equipment

ANSI

 is the American National Standards Institutes. ANSI is a private organization that works within practically every industry to provide a general framework for fair standards development and quality conformity assessment systems. Misc.

ASME

 is the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. This organization publishes more detailed / current standards than OSHA. Often referenced by OSHA. Misc.

Avoidance zone/ Danger zone

 refers to an area around a lifting operation where personnel are prohibited from entering or staying due to potential hazards. The avoidance zone is established to ensure the safety of workers, bystanders, and equipment during lifting and rigging activities. Misc.

Axial Load

 is the entirety of a load’s vertical on the structural support of the rigging. Rigging

Basket Hitch

 involves doubling the sling and placing it under the load, with the ends of the sling attached to the lifting device. This provides more support for the load than a vertical hitch, and can be used to lift wider loads.
See also Rigging Hitches		 Rigging

Best Known Method (BKM)

 Refers to the most effective and efficient method or procedure known for achieving a specific outcome or result, often based on experience, research, or proven practices. Safety

Blind lift

 any lift involving a load that is out of the direct view of the operator. Blind lifts are generally always categorized as critical lifts. Equipment

Blocking

 wood or a similar material used under outrigger floats to support and distribute loads to the ground.
See also Cribbing, Dunnage		 Rigging

Blue Bar / Pry Bar

 a long metal bar that is used to push or maneuver heavy objects. This can be referred to as a Pry Bar, however Blue Bar is used in the field due to the color of the bar. Equipment

Bolt

 is a type of fastener used to join two or more parts together. Equipment

Bottle Jack

 a type of hydraulic jack, shaped like a bottle. It can lift heavy weights and is widely used in construction and vehicle repair. Equipment

Bridle Hitch

 a hitch that involves using multiple slings to distribute the load, each sling is attached to the lifting device, and the other end is attached to the load. This is often used when the load’s center of gravity is not in the middle or for objects that are awkwardly shaped.
See also Rigging Hitches		 Rigging

Bump back

 is a technique used to position a load or object precisely. This technique involves gently tapping or nudging the load in the backward direction using a forklift or another lifting device. Signals

Bump forward

 is a technique used to position a load or object precisely. This technique involves gently tapping or nudging the load in the forward direction using a forklift or another lifting device. Signals

Center of Gravity (COG)

 is the point where the load’s weight is being dispersed evenly and the sides remain perfectly balanced. This should always be a high level of focus when planning a rigging task. Note that the COG can change and is not always centered evenly in a load. Rigging

Certified Person

 is an individual who has obtained a formal certification or recognition in a particular field or area of expertise. Certification is typically granted by an authorized organization or institution after the individual has demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and competence through assessments, examinations, or other qualifying criteria. Personnel

Chain

 a connected flexible series of metal links used for fastening or securing objects and pulling or supporting loads. Chins are available in various grades.

Grade 70 transport chain is intended for load binding only. This chain is used to hold heavy items down to a flatbed truck and the gold-chromate finish as well as the carbon-steel construction makes this chain easy to spot. This chain should not be used for lifting.

Grade 80 or 100 chain can be used in Rigging, ASME and/or ASTM standards must be followed. The manufacturer will also have to put a tag on the chain sling that indicates what maximum load or Working Load Limit can be safely applied to the sling, making it easier for end users to know the limitation

 Equipment

Choker Hitch

 is a type of hitch involves wrapping the sling around the load and then passing one end of the sling through the other. This creates a secure grip on the load, and is useful for lifting loads that are likely to shift or slip. However, it reduces the lifting capacity of the sling.
See also Rigging Hitches		 Rigging

Clearance

 is the horizontal or vertical distance from any part of the object being moved or equipment that is being operated (cranes, forklifts) to the point of the nearest obstruction. When transporting a load the clearance changes and this should always be a high level of focus for all involved. Safety

Come-along

 lever-operated chain or wire rope devices designed for pulling, not lifting; also called pullers. Unlike hoists, the tension is held by a releasable ratchet. Much smaller and lighter than hoists of equal capacity, they are not intended nor allowed for lifting, but are suited for activities such as skidding machinery. Equipment

Competent Person

 by way of training and/or experience, this person is knowledgeable of applicable standards, is capable of identifying workplace hazards relating to the specific operation and has the authority to correct them. Personnel

Crane Rigging

 specifically involves the setup, operation, and control of cranes to move heavy or oversized loads. It involves the use of rigging hardware such as slings, shackles, and hooks to secure the load, and the operation of the crane to lift and position the load. Rigging

Crane Scales

 is a piece of equipment that can weigh heavy to heaviest of the loads and machinery, thus making the weighing process much easier and faster. Weighing equipment used in a myriad of industries bringing huge benefits to the user. Equipment

Crate

 a large shipping container, often made of wood, used to transport or store items. Equipment

Crating

 the process of packaging and securing goods within a crate for storage or transport. Rigging

Cribbing

 the practice of using wooden or synthetic blocks, wedges, or shims to create a stable and secure support structure for heavy objects or equipment. It involves stacking these cribbing materials in a strategic manner to distribute the weight and provide a level and solid foundation.
See also Blocking, Dunnage		 Rigging

Critical lift

 a hoisting or lifting operation that has been determined to present an increased level of risk beyond normal lifting activities. Rigging

Decon (Decontamination)

 neutralize or remove hazardous chemicals / material from (an area, object, or person). Safety

Design Factor

 the ratio between the designed breaking load of a sling or piece of equipment and the working load limit. Generally expressed as a ratio, e.g. 5 to 1. Misc.

Designated Person

 a person who is selected or assigned by the employer or the employee’s representative as being qualified to perform specific duties. Personnel

Dunnage

 refers to materials or objects used to protect and secure cargo during transportation or storage. It can include items such as wood blocks, foam padding, or inflatable airbags that are placed between or around the cargo to prevent movement, absorb shock, and provide stability.
See also Blocking, Cribbing		 Rigging

Electric pallet Jack

 a type of pallet jack or material handling equipment that is powered by electricity, typically used to lift and move pallets or loads within a warehouse or industrial setting. Equipment

Electrical Hoist

 a hoist that is powered by electricity. It uses an electric motor to provide the lifting force, which can be controlled and operated with the help of electrical controls and switches. Electrical hoists are typically more efficient and offer precise control compared to manual or mechanical hoists. Equipment

Fatigue

 is weakness in materials, especially metal, caused by repeated variations of stress. Rigging equipment made of metal material—wire rope, chain, shackles, etc.—is vulnerable to becoming fatigued. Rigging equipment that becomes fatigued may lose some, or all, functionality. Safety

Fixed Gantry Crane

 is a type of crane that is not movable and is usually used for heavy lifting tasks, where they remain in one location for a long time. Equipment

Foreman

 a person in charge of a group of workers, typically overseeing their work on a construction site, workshop, or similar setting. Personnel

Fork hooks

 a forklift hoisting hook attachment converts your forklift into a mobile lift crane in seconds, easily attaches to a forklift sliding onto the forks. Equipment

Forklift

 a powered industrial truck used to lift and move materials over short distances. Equipment

Forks

 are the load-bearing components of a forklift or similar machinery. They are the protruding arms or prongs that are used to lift and transport loads, typically pallets, crates, or other goods. Equipment

Gantry Crane

 is an overhead crane that has one or two beams supported by freestanding legs and moves on wheels, a track, or rail system carrying a bridge, trolley, and hoist. Project sites use gantry cranes as their lifting solution as a variation of overhead or bridge cranes. Equipment

Get One

 a term used in the field when lifting equipment with multiple jacks. ‘Get One’ means taking one full pump/lift cycle in unison with the other team members or jacks. Calling out ‘get one’ by the lift director will ensure synchronized slow and controlled lift. Signals

Hands On

 is a term used in the field to let the riggers know just before a piece of equipment is about to be lifted or moved. Hands on is a command for employees to physically put hands on the equipment prior to lifting or moving to ensure a load is stable, this is method used to prevent a load tipping over. Signals

Heavy Duty 10K Pallet Jack

 a type of pallet jack that is designed to handle heavy loads and has a weight capacity of up to 10,000 pounds.
See also Pallet Jack		 Equipment

Hoist

 a device used for lifting and lowering heavy loads vertically. It typically consists of a lifting mechanism, such as a chain, wire rope, or lifting straps. Equipment

Hoist lift/ Versa lift

 refers to the vertical movement or elevation of a load using a hoisting device or mechanism. It involves the act of lifting an object or load from a lower position to a higher position, typically using a hoist, crane, or lifting equipment. The term ‘Hoist’ or ‘Versa’ is often used as a way to refer to these types of forklift trucks in general. Rigging

Hold That

 a term used in the field when lifting or moving equipment. ‘Hold That’ means stopping but not releasing the load and is similar to a brief stop to ensure placement of the load and movement in the correct direction or final location. Calling out ‘Hold That’ by the lift director or team will ensure synchronized slow and controlled movement. Signals

Hydraulic Jack

 uses fluid to generate lifting force. A pump plunger is used to move oil through two cylinders, creating pressure that lifts the jack. These are commonly used in automotive and industrial settings.

Hydraulic lifting can be found in a variety of jacks including toe jacks, bottle jacks, and pallet jacks.

 Equipment

Hyster

 is a brand name for equipment, particularly forklift trucks. The term ‘Hyster’ is often usded as a way to refer to forklift trucks in general. Equipment

Jack

 a device used to lift heavy loads by applying a force and is used to descripe different types of rigging jacks.

See also Bottle Jack, Hydraulic Jack, Pallet Jack, Ram Jack, Toe Jack

 Equipment

Jib boom attachment

 is an attachment designed to fit onto straight mast and extendable-reach type forklifts to lift and move suspended loads, most typically over or under obstacles and in tight areas. They quickly and easily convert your forklift into a mobile pivoting boom lift. These jib boom cranes are capable of lifting a range of weight capacities and heights Equipment

Johnson Bar / J Bar

 a long metal bar with wheels that is used to push or maneuver heavy objects. Equipment

Laborer

 a person who performs many tasks that require physical labor on construction sites. Personnel

Lift Director

 a person who has oversight of a wide variety of activities, including addressing safety concerns; ensuring personnel understand their responsibilities, duties and associated hazards; and making sure precautions have been implemented for special lifting operations. Personnel

Lift Height

 the highest vertical distance a forklift can lift a load safely. Safety

Line of sight

 the straight-line path between a spotter and the operator. Safety

Load

 is the weight being lifted or moved. Rigging

Load Capacity or Working Load Limit (WLL)

 this tells you how heavy a load the rigging equipment is rated to support. Rigging

Load Dimensions/ Tool Dimensions

 the physical measurements (length, width, height) of a piece of equipment or vehicle that determine the maximum load it can carry safely. This term can often be referred to as Tool Dimensions. Rigging

Load Test

 is a test performed to ensure the accuracy of the rigging’s rated load capacity. Safety

Loading Dock

 is a raised platform or area where trucks, vans, or other vehicles can back up for the loading and unloading of goods into a building or warehouse. Loading docks often have adjustable height platforms to match the vehicle’s bed height for efficient loading and unloading. Misc.

Machinery moving

 refers to the process of lifting, moving, handling, or erection/assembly of large, heavy loads, and sensitive/delicate machines.  Often times machinery is moved over and through difficult obstacles not meant for this type of movement.  Machinery Movers must have expertise in General Rigging but also equipment and machinery erection, leveling, aligning, and leveling. Rigging

Manufacturers Recommendations

 information provided by a vendor on specific handling requirements/recommendations. Safety

Mast

 refers to the vertical assembly or structure of a forklift or other similar lifting device that supports and guides the lifting mechanism. Misc.

Mechanical Hoist

 a hoist that utilizes mechanical means, such as gears, pulleys, or levers, to lift and lower heavy loads. It relies on mechanical advantage and physical mechanisms to provide the lifting force. Mechanical hoists can be manually operated or powered by a motor. Equipment

MIMO

 an acronym for move in, move out. Often used in semiconductor industries on large projects to describe the rigging scope of work. Rigging

Minimum breaking strength (MBS)

 the amount of stress required to bring a rigging component to its breaking point. The MBS is a factor in determining a component’s rated load capacity. Rigging

Minimum clearance distance

 the OSHA-required distance that cranes, load lines, and loads must maintain from energized power lines. This OSHA term is synonymous with the ASME term prohibited zone. Safety

Move in

 is used when equipment, materials or machinery are being transported into a location. This process requires careful planning to ensure that the equipment is moved safely and efficiently. Rigging techniques are often used to help with the lifting, positioning, and securing of heavy objects. Rigging

Move Out

 refers to the removal of equipment, materials or machinery from a location. Like the move in process, this also involves careful planning and the use of rigging techniques to ensure the safe and efficient transport of equipment. Rigging

NCCCO

 is the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators. The NCCCO develops performance standards for safe crane operation and provides certification for crane operators, riggers, signal persons, and other personnel involved in crane operation. Misc.

OSHA

 is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, which publishes federal standards and general safety requirements for a wide range of industries. Their rules are enforced through fines and penalties. Safety

Pallet Jack

 a tool used to lift and move pallets, equipment, machinery, and other materials. This is sometimes the best tool for moving heavy expensive equipment. Equipment

Pedestal

 a supporting structure or platform that elevates and provides a stable base for various objects or structures. Also referred to as foundation or tool base. Misc.

Pin

 is a slender, cylindrical piece of metal or other material that is used to hold two or more parts together, allowing them to pivot or move relative to each other. Equipment

Plate/Floor Covering

 is used when moving equipment over Raised Metal Floor or to protect flooring/surface from the heavy movement of equipment. Equipment

Porta Power

 is a portable hydraulic tool used for various applications that require the generation of significant force. It consists of a hydraulic pump, hydraulic hoses, and a hydraulic ram or cylinder. It is also known as a hydraulic power unit or hydraulic ram.
See also Power Pack		 Equipment

Portable Gantry Crane

 a cranes that is lighter and can be disassembled and reassembled, making them ideal for temporary projects.
See also Adjustable Gantry Crane		 Equipment

Power Pack

 is the hydraulic system that powers the cylinders. Also known as a hydraulic power unit or HPU, is a self-contained system that generally includes a motor, a hydraulic pump, and a reservoir for hydraulic fluid. It is designed to generate and control the flow of hydraulic fluid, providing the necessary power to operate hydraulic machinery or equipment.
See also Porta Power		 Equipment

PPE

 is personal protective equipment. It refers to specialized equipment or clothing that is worn or used by individuals to protect themselves from potential hazards in the workplace or during specific activities. Equipment

Pre-Task Plan (PTP)

 a detailed plan outlining the procedures, responsibilities, resources, and potential hazards of a specific job or task before it is begun. It is designed to ensure that all work is carried out safely and efficiently. Safety

Pulley

 a simple machine used to change the direction of a force applied to move an object. Equipment

Push bar

 also known as a push handle or push bumper, is a horizontal bar or handle attached to the front or rear of a vehicle, typically used for pushing or maneuvering objects or other vehicles. The primary purpose of a push bar is to provide a secure grip or point of contact for pushing or nudging objects, particularly in situations where precise control and force are required. Equipment

Qualified Forklift Operator

 an individual who has received proper training and certification to safely operate a forklift, adhering to specific safety standards and regulations. Personnel

Qualified Person

 is an individual who possesses the necessary knowledge, training, and experience to perform specific tasks or duties safely and effectively. Personnel

Qualified Rigger

 a rigger who meets the criteria for a qualified person. Personnel

Qualified Signal Man

 an individual who has been trained and certified to give standard hand or voice signals to control the movements of the equipment. Personnel

Qualified Spotter

 an individual who has been trained and certified to assist in the positioning of equipment and help ensure the safety of workers and the general public during the operation of heavy machinery. Personnel

Radius

 the parallel distance from the pinpoint of turning of the crane top to the center of gravity around the load. Misc.

Raised Access Floor (RAF)

 is a type of flooring system commonly used in commercial buildings, data centers, and server rooms. It consists of a series of metal panels supported by adjustable pedestals or supports, creating a raised platform above the structural floor. This is also known as a raised metal floor. Misc.

Raised Metal Floor (RMF)

 is a type of flooring system commonly used in commercial buildings, data centers, and server rooms. It consists of a series of metal panels supported by adjustable pedestals or supports, creating a raised platform above the structural floor. This is also known as a raised access floor. Misc.

Ram Jack

 is a device used for lifting heavy loads or applying a strong force through the use of hydraulic pressure. It consists of a cylinder, piston, and hydraulic fluid that work together to create the lifting or pushing force.
See also Hydraulic Jack		 Equipment

Ratchet Strap

 a fastener used to hold down cargo or equipment/material during transport. It consists of a strap made of a heavy-duty material and a ratcheting mechanism that allows the strap to be tightened and held in place. Equipment

Rated Load

 the maximum working load permitted by a component manufacturer under a specific set of conditions. Alternate names for rated load include working load limit (WLL), rated capacity, and safe working load (SWL). Rigging

Reach Lift/Reach Fork

 is a type of forklift designed specifically for warehouse operations and storage applications. The name ‘reach’ comes from the truck’s ability to extend or ‘reach’ its forks into racking, beyond the stabilizing legs, allowing it to retrieve or place loads that are unreachable by traditional forklifts. It is designed to work in narrow aisles and confined spaces, where maximizing vertical storage capacity is crucial.
See also Telehandler		 Equipment

Rigger

 a person who specializes in the lifting and moving of extremely large or heavy objects. Often found in industries like construction or manufacturing where heavy materials or equipment need to moved or installed. Personnel

Rigging (noun)

 the equipment used to lift and move heavy loads. Rigging

Rigging (verb)

 using special equipment to lift and move heavy loads. Rigging

Rigging Hitches

 methods of connecting a load to a lifting device, such as a crane or hoist, using slings. The type of hitch used depends on the shape, weight, and center of gravity of the load, as well as the lifting capacity of the sling and the lifting device.
See also Basket Hitch, Bridle Hitch, Choker Hitch, Triangular Hitch, Vertical Hitch		 Equipment

Rol-A-Lift

 is a brand name for a type of material handling equipment commonly known as a  dolly. It is specifically designed for moving heavy or bulky loads, such as machinery, appliances, or furniture, with ease and efficiency. Equipment

Securing

 the process of making something stable, fixed, or immobile to prevent movement, shifting, or displacement. It involves using various methods, tools, or techniques to fasten or restrain an object, load, or structure to ensure its stability and safety during transportation, storage, or other activities. Rigging

Shackle

 is a U-shaped piece of metal secured with a clevis pin or bolt across the opening, or a hinged metal loop secured with a quick-release locking pin mechanism. Popular brand includes Crosby. Equipment

Shock Load

 when a force is applied rapidly to a static load, the sudden movement or shifting will add to the overall weight of the static load. Misc.

Side Loading

 is the process of loading or unloading a vehicle or container from the side, rather than from the rear or front. It involves the lateral movement of the load onto or off the vehicle or container. This term can also be utilized when sideloading weight with shakles. Rigging

Signal Man

 an individual that communicates with the equipment handler, giving them clear and precise signals to guide their actions during operations. Communication is often conducted through standardized hand and/or voice signals. Personnel

Skidding

 is the process of moving a heavy load horizontally along a predefined path or tracks, usually by means of a skidding system. Skidding systems often use hydraulic cylinders to push or pull the load along the track. The track may be greased or use other low-friction methods to facilitate movement. Rigging

Sling

 a loop of material, usually a strap or chain, used to lift heavy objects. Equipment

Spotter

 an individual who ensures that the operator has a clear path for maneuvering the equipment and helps prevent accidents by watching out for obstacles, people, or any potential hazards in the operating area. Personnel

Static Load

 a load that has been lifted but is stationary. Rigging

Strap Down

 the process of securing or fastening an object or load using straps or restraints to prevent movement, shifting, or displacement during transportation or storage. It involves applying tension to the straps and fastening them tightly around the object or load to hold it securely in place.
See also Strapping		 Rigging

Strapping

 a method of securing or bundling items together using a strong and flexible material, typically a strap or band. Strappingis used to mitigate the possibility of dropping a load while being moved, typically by a forklift.
See also Strap Down		 Rigging

Superintendent

 a person who oversees and directs the operations of a certain area or unit, usually in construction, educational institutions, or other large establishments. Personnel

Telehandler

 is a versatile lifting and materials handling machine commonly used in construction, agriculture, and other industries. It combines the features of a forklift and a crane to provide extended reach, lifting capacity, and maneuverability. Popular brands include Lull and JCB.
See also Reach Lift, Reach Fork		 Equipment

Toe Jack

 hydraulic jacks designed with a low-profile claw or toe, enabling them to slide into small spaces to lift heavy machinery.
See also Hydraulic Jack		 Equipment

Tool Rigging

 the set up and use of hand-operated or smaller, more specialized equipment to move or secure a load. Tool rigging may involve a variety of hardware and tools such as chains, ropes, slings, shackles, hoists, and come-alongs. It is often utilized in smaller or more precise lifting operations or to secure equipment or materials in place. Rigging

Tools

 a term frequently used in the field to refer to the items being moved in or out. This can include semi-conductor equipment and machinery. Rigging

Top Heavy

 an object or structure that has a disproportionately heavy or significant weight distribution towards its upper portion. It implies that the center of mass of the object or structure is located higher up, making it less stable and more prone to tipping or imbalance. Rigging

Transition

 in machinery moving/rigging a transition refers to the change in flooring surface from either one surface to another or moving over a gap or expansion joint. Most commonly used when transitioning from dock onto an elevator. Equipment

Transition Plate

 a plate used to cover the transition so equipment can safely and smoothly move over a transition. Plate has beveled or tapered ends. Equipment

Triangular Hitch

 this hitch is similar to the choker hitch, but instead of passing one end of the sling through the other, both ends of the sling are attached to the hook, and the load is placed in the resulting loop. This hitch is used when a strong and stable connection is needed.
See also Rigging Hitches		 Rigging

Turning Radius

 the minimum radius or the tightest curve that a vehicle, forklift, or object can navigate when making a turn without hitting or colliding with obstacles or boundaries. It is the measure of the space required for a vehicle to complete a turn from a stationary position or while in motion. Misc.

Ultimate Strength / Ultimate Load

 is the average load or force at which the​ product fails or no longer supports the load.​ Safety

Uncrating

 is the process of removing goods from a crate or other types of packaging. Rigging

Unskidding

 is the process of reversing the skidding operation, i.e., moving the load in the opposite direction along the track. Rigging

Vendor equipment/tooling

 any equipment, machinery, or tools that are supplied by a third-party vendor or suppliers. These can include a wide range of items including shipping brackets or fixtures. Rigging

Vertical Hitch

 also known as a straight or single hitch, this is the simplest type of hitch. The sling attaches to the load at one point, and the load hangs straight down. This type of hitch is typically used for lifting and moving long, narrow items.
See also Rigging Hitches		 Rigging