In high-risk industries like construction, mining, and warehousing, rigging equipment plays a crucial role in lifting, securing, and moving heavy loads. To ensure safety and compliance, regular testing and tagging of rigging gear is required. The question is: who is qualified to perform these inspections, and what standards must be followed? This article breaks down the legal requirements, industry standards, and who is authorised to test and tag rigging equipment in Australia.

What Does Testing and Tagging Rigging Equipment Involve?

Testing and tagging is a critical process that ensures rigging gear meets safety standards and remains in proper working condition. The process includes:

• Visual Inspections – Checking for damage, wear, corrosion, or deformations
• Load Testing – Applying weight to verify strength and functionality
• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) – Detecting internal cracks or defects
• Tagging and Documentation – Labelling inspected equipment with details of compliance, inspection dates, and certification

Under Australian regulations, testing and tagging must be performed by a competent and qualified individual to ensure compliance and safety.

Who Can Test and Tag Rigging Equipment in Australia?

Not just anyone can perform testing and tagging. According to Safe Work Australia and various industry standards, the following individuals and entities are authorised:

1. Competent Persons (Trained & Qualified Inspectors)

A “competent person” is someone with the knowledge, skills, training, and experience necessary to inspect and test rigging equipment properly.

This may include:

• Licensed riggers with formal training
• Qualified lifting and rigging inspectors
• Certified engineers specialising in lifting equipment

To be considered competent, an inspector must have:

• Training in Australian rigging safety standards (AS 3775, AS 4991, AS 1891)
• Experience working with lifting, hoisting, and rigging
• Knowledge of inspection procedures and testing methods

2. Third-Party Inspection & Testing Companies

Many businesses outsource testing and tagging to certified third-party companies that specialize in lifting and rigging inspections. These companies use advanced testing methods, such as:

• Ultrasonic and magnetic particle testing for internal defects
• Load testing with calibrated equipment
• High-precision measurements of wear and tear

Using a third-party service ensures unbiased, independent inspections and proper documentation to maintain compliance.

3. In-House Safety Officers (With Proper Training)

In some cases, businesses train in-house safety officers or maintenance teams to handle routine inspections and tagging. However, they must be formally trained and certified to inspect rigging equipment safely. Some businesses send employees to certified training courses on rigging safety and compliance.