Rigging Failure Expert Witness

Rigging failures often involve multiple contributing factors. Evaluating these incidents typically requires analysis of rigging configuration, load distribution, sling angles, connection hardware, and the lifting procedures used during the operation.

A rigging failure investigation may include evaluation of:

• sling configuration and sling angle forces
• load weight and center of gravity
• rigging hardware and connection points
• crane capacity and load radius
• lift planning and communication between crews
• condition of rigging equipment

Understanding how these factors interact is often essential when determining how a dropped load or rigging failure occurred.

Rigging failures during crane operations may involve conditions such as:

• improper sling configuration
• excessive sling angles creating increased load forces
• incorrect load weight estimation
• worn or damaged rigging equipment
• inadequate rigging hardware selection
• improper load balance or shifting loads

Rigging incidents often occur when multiple operational factors reduce the safety margin of the lifting operation.

Rigging operations require coordination between crane operators, riggers, signal persons, and lift supervisors. Clear communication and proper rigging setup are essential for safe lifting operations.

Because construction sites involve constantly changing conditions, rigging configurations may need to adapt to different loads, equipment, and jobsite circumstances.

Understanding how rigging decisions are made in the field is often important when evaluating rigging failures and dropped load incidents.

As a rigging failure expert witness, Edward Guerra evaluates incidents using a combination of field experience, technical documentation, and industry standards.

This analysis may include review of:

• rigging equipment specifications
• lift planning documentation
• crane configuration and load charts
• operator and rigger responsibilities
• job site conditions and communication practices

The objective is to determine how the lifting operation was conducted and to explain the operational factors that may have contributed to the rigging failure.