Rigging Inspection ****************** This SOP defines the inspection requirements, criteria, and documentation standards for all rigging equipment used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Rigging inspections are a critical safety control and must be performed consistently at multiple stages of the equipment lifecycle. No rigging equipment may be used unless it has passed inspection. Purpose ======= - Prevent rigging-related failures and accidents. - Identify damaged, worn, or unsafe equipment before use. - Standardize inspection procedures across all rigging gear. - Ensure compliance with safety standards and best practices. - Establish clear documentation and accountability for rigging condition. Who This SOP Is For =================== - Rigging technicians - Lead riggers - Warehouse staff performing prep inspections - Repair and maintenance staff - Project Managers overseeing rigging scope - Authorized freelancers handling rigging equipment Anyone handling or approving rigging equipment must understand inspection requirements. Inspection Frequency ==================== Rigging equipment must be inspected at the following times: - **Warehouse Prep Inspection** – before deployment - **Pre-Use Inspection** – before installation on-site - **Operational Inspection** – during use - **Strike Inspection** – during removal - **Periodic Inspection** – scheduled, documented inspections Failure to inspect at any stage is a violation of this SOP. General Inspection Rules ======================== - Inspections must be visual and tactile. - Adequate lighting is required. - Clean equipment before inspection when possible. - If unsure about condition, remove from service. - Never assume prior inspections are sufficient. When in doubt, take it out. Equipment Covered ================= This SOP applies to all rigging-related equipment, including: - Chain motors - Motor controllers and pendants - Truss sections and hardware - Shackles, spansets, and steel - Slings and roundslings - Eyebolts and attachment points - Ground support components - Rigging tools and accessories Inspection Criteria by Equipment Type ===================================== Chain Motors ------------ Inspect for: - Chain wear or elongation - Hook deformation or cracks - Safety latch operation - Oil leaks or unusual noise - Damaged power or control cables - Valid inspection or service tag Remove motors from service if any issue is observed. Truss ----- Inspect for: - Cracked or bent chords - Damaged welds - Deformation at connection points - Compatibility issues - Missing or damaged hardware Truss with structural damage must be retired or repaired by qualified professionals. Shackles & Hardware ------------------- Inspect for: - Cracks or deformation - Stripped or damaged threads - Bent pins or bodies - Missing markings or ratings - Excessive corrosion Unrated or damaged hardware is prohibited. Spansets & Slings ----------------- Inspect for: - Cuts, tears, or abrasion - Core fiber exposure - Chemical or heat damage - Faded, missing, or illegible tags - Uneven wear patterns Any compromised sling must be removed from service. Steel & Wire Rope ----------------- Inspect for: - Broken wires - Kinks or birdcaging - Crushing or corrosion - Damaged terminations Steel damage may be subtle—inspect carefully. Ground Support Components ------------------------- Inspect for: - Bent or cracked frames - Missing hardware - Leveling mechanisms - Structural integrity - Compatibility with loads Ground support failures can be catastrophic. Inspection Outcomes =================== Pass ---- - Equipment is safe and within acceptable limits. - May be used as intended. Remove from Service ------------------- - Equipment shows damage, wear, or uncertainty. - Tag **Do Not Use**. - Route to repair or retirement. Never return unsafe equipment to circulation. Tagging & Identification ======================== - Use clear **Do Not Use** tags for failed items. - Do not rely on verbal warnings. - Segregate failed equipment immediately. - Do not remove tags without authorization. Tags protect everyone. Documentation ============= Inspections must be documented when required: - Scheduled periodic inspections - Motor service inspections - High-risk or critical equipment - Equipment removed from service Documentation should include: - Asset or serial number - Date - Inspector name - Findings - Action taken Records must be retained per policy. Responsibilities ================ Rigging Technicians ------------------- - Inspect equipment before use. - Stop work if issues are found. - Report concerns immediately. Lead Riggers ------------ - Verify inspections are performed. - Review inspection findings. - Enforce removal of unsafe equipment. Warehouse Staff --------------- - Perform prep inspections. - Track failed equipment. - Maintain inspection records. Project Managers ---------------- - Ensure inspection requirements are met. - Support equipment removal decisions. Quality Control =============== - No uninspected rigging equipment in use. - Failed items removed immediately. - Documentation completed when required. - Repeated failures reviewed for root cause. Inspection discipline saves lives.