ccupational Certificate – Rigging (NQF Level 2–4)

The Occupational Certificate: Rigging (NQF Level 2–4) is a specialised three-year qualification designed to prepare learners for careers in lifting, moving, positioning, and securing heavy loads across various industries. This programme equips you with the skills to operate a wide range of mechanical lifting equipment, supervise lifting operations, erect and dismantle scaffolding, and implement fall prevention systems safely and effectively.

Riggers work in sectors such as construction, mining, manufacturing, marine, oil and gas, entertainment, telecommunications, and more. The qualification blends classroom instruction, practical training, and workplace experience to ensure learners meet industry standards.

Duration

• 3 years full-time

• Structured rotation between college-based learning and workplace experience

Minimum Admission Requirements

• NQF Level 1 or Grade 9 with Mathematics and Science (minimum)

• Preference for applicants with Grade 12

• Must be linked to an employer before registration

Programme Overview

Knowledge Modules

• The World of the Rigger (NQF 3)

• Shielded Metal Arc Welding & Gas-Cutting (NQF 2)

• Tools & Equipment (NQF 2)

• Engineering Materials, Drawings & Sketches (NQF 2)

• Scaffolding, Working at Heights & Fall Protection Systems (NQF 2)

• Supervision of Scaffolding Operations up to 6m (NQF 3)

• Access Scaffolding Inspection (NQF 4)

• Rope Work: Knots, Bends, Hitches, Lashings, Attachments & Splices (NQF 2)

• Steel Wire Ropes (NQF 3)

• Winder Ropes, Safety Detaching Hooks & Sheave Wheels (NQF 4)

• Basic Slinging & Lifting Operations (NQF 2)

• Intermediate Slinging & Lifting Methods (NQF 3)

• Lifting Equipment & Machines (NQF 3)

• Advanced Lifting Methods (NQF 4)

• Management-Related Activities (NQF 4)

Practical Skills Modules

• Work Safely & Respond to Emergencies (NQF 2)

• Fabricate Components & Rigging Hand Tools (NQF 2)

• Arc Welding & Gas Cutting (NQF 2)

• Interpret Engineering Drawings (NQF 2)

• Erect & Dismantle Scaffolding (NQF 2)

• Supervise Scaffolding Operations (NQF 3)

• Inspect Access Scaffolding (NQF 4)

• Rope Work & Steel Wire Rope Preparation (NQF 2–3)

• Work with Winder Ropes & Sheave Wheels (NQF 4)

• Sling & Lift Loads (Basic to Advanced, NQF 2–4)

• Perform Management Tasks (NQF 4)

Work Experience Modules

Generic Modules

• Implement Fall Protection Plans & Lifelines (NQF 2)

• Erect & Dismantle Access Scaffolding (NQF 2)

• Supervise Scaffolding Operations (NQF 3)

• Sling, Lift & Secure Loads (NQF 2)

Specialisations

Construction, Chemical & Marine

• Intermediate & Advanced Lifting Techniques (NQF 3–4)

• Work with Steel Wire Ropes, Winder Ropes & Sheave Wheels (NQF 3–4)

• Health & Safety Workplace Fundamentals (NQF 3)

Mining

• Advanced Lifting Techniques (NQF 4)

• Winder Rope & Sheave Wheel Maintenance (NQF 4)

• Health & Safety Workplace Fundamentals (NQF 3)

Career Opportunities

Qualified riggers can work in:

• Manufacturing

• Oil & Gas

• Mining

• Shipbuilding & Marine Services

• Construction

• Power & Telecommunications

• Entertainment & Film Production

• Hospitals & Heavy Equipment Facilities

Roles may include:

• Load Mover

• Crane Operator Assistant

• Scaffolding Supervisor

• Rope Access Specialist

• Rigging Foreman