Each course combines theory, practical training and a High Risk Work licence assessment. CTI’s centre is around an hour from Melbourne CBD, with the equipment and training areas needed to complete the course in one place
What Is Rigging?
Rigging is the use of mechanical load-shifting equipment and associated gear to move, place or secure loads. Riggers may also set up or dismantle cranes, hoists, structures and other plant.
The work can include:
- Erecting structural steel
- Installing precast concrete members
- Setting up hoists and winches
- Moving or securing plant
- Installing safety screens and static lines
- Rigging cranes, conveyors and excavators
- Working with suspended scaffolds or cable systems
The rigging licence you need depends on the type and difficulty of the work. Victoria has 3 rigging High Risk Work licence classes: Basic (RB), Intermediate (RI) and Advanced (RA).
Which rigging licence do you need?
The 3 licence classes form a step-by-step training path. You start with dogging, move into Basic Rigging, then add Intermediate and Advanced if your work calls for them.
Basic Rigging (RB)
A Basic Rigging licence covers common rigging work such as:
- Structural steel erection
- Precast concrete members
- Hoists
- Mast-climbing work platforms
- Safety nets and static lines
- Perimeter safety screens and shutters
- Cantilevered crane-loading platforms
You need to hold the prerequisite dogging unit before starting CPCCLRG3001.
CTI’s basic rigging course near Melbourne takes 5 consecutive days. It is the first rigging level and the normal starting point for someone who already has a Dogging (DG) licence.
See the full Basic Rigging course requirements and dates.
Intermediate Rigging (RI)
Intermediate Rigging includes all Basic Rigging work, along with more involved tasks such as:
- Rigging cranes, conveyors, dredges and excavators
- Rigging tilt-up or precast concrete panels
- Demolition rigging
- Dual-crane lifts
- Hoists with jibs
- Self-climbing hoists
You must complete Basic Rigging before moving to the Intermediate unit.
CTI’s intermediate rigging course near Melbourne takes 4 days. It suits licensed Basic riggers who need to work with larger plant, tilt panels, demolition or lifts involving more than one crane.
View the Intermediate Rigging course for current prerequisites, dates and fees.
Advanced Rigging (RA)
Advanced Rigging is the highest rigging licence class. It includes Basic and Intermediate work, along with:
- Gin poles and shear legs
- Flying foxes and cableways
- Guyed derricks and structures
- Suspended scaffolds
- Fabricated hung scaffolds
You must hold the Intermediate Rigging unit before starting CPCCLRG4001.
The advanced rigging course near Melbourne takes 4 days at CTI. It is aimed at experienced riggers moving into specialised structures, cable systems and suspended rigging work.
See the full Advanced Rigging course details.
Compare the 3 rigging courses
| Licence class | Course length | Prerequisite | Common work covered |
| Basic Rigging (RB) | 5 days | Dogging (DG) | Structural steel, hoists, precast members, safety screens and static lines |
| Intermediate Rigging (RI) | 4 days | Basic Rigging (RB) | Crane rigging, tilt panels, demolition, dual lifts and conveyors |
| Advanced Rigging (RA) | 4 days | Intermediate Rigging (RI) | Gin poles, cableways, guyed structures and suspended scaffolds |
Each level builds on the one before it. You cannot skip straight from dogging to Intermediate or Advanced Rigging.
What happens during rigging training?
CTI’s courses mix classroom learning with practical work. You will spend time planning tasks, checking equipment, setting up rigging systems and carrying out work under the trainer’s direction.
The exact activities depend on the licence class, but training may cover:
- Reading work instructions and lift plans
- Checking the work area for hazards
- Selecting and inspecting rigging equipment
- Working out load weights and forces
- Setting up hoists, winches and other systems
- Stabilising structural members and plant
- Communicating with crane operators and the ground crew
- Dismantling equipment and packing up safely
Training days run for around 8 hours. Bring suitable work clothing and all personal protective equipment listed in your enrolment information.
How are you assessed?
The High Risk Work licence assessment includes theory and practical tasks.
You will need to show that you can plan the work, choose and inspect equipment, set up the task, carry out the rigging work and pack up safely. The assessor will also check your knowledge of hazards, equipment limits and safe work methods.
Passing the course gives you the assessment results and Statement of Attainment needed to apply for the relevant licence class. WorkSafe Victoria issues the actual High Risk Work licence.
Do you need a dogging ticket first?
Yes. CPCCLDG3001 Licence to Perform Dogging is the prerequisite for the Basic Rigging unit.
Dogging training covers choosing and checking lifting gear, working out suitable slinging methods and directing crane operators when they cannot see the load.
That knowledge is used throughout rigging work. The licence path is:
- Dogging (DG)
- Basic Rigging (RB)
- Intermediate Rigging (RI)
- Advanced Rigging (RA)
You only need to go as far as the work requires. Some people stay at Basic Rigging for years, while others move through the levels as they take on different jobs.
