The working forces exerted on structures, rigging components, and equipment can be extremely dangerous when rigging is done incorrectly. When rigging accidents take place structures and equipment become damaged and people are hurt or killed. It is necessary to understand the foundational elements of safe rigging practices, and to be able to utilize them from the tailboard discussion to the inspection of components and all the way through to the safe completion of the job.

Successful linework is a team sport, no one is an island. The classroom of learners is divided into smaller “crews” in order to facilitate teamwork, and Socratic questioning methods help to achieve demonstrable understanding. Since many components have a familiar look and feel, highly technical concepts can be discussed without being esoteric. Learning with this engaged methodology provides a valuable opportunity to talk about the behavioral aspects of safe rigging practices. Indeed, the safest rigging device we have is a well-educated, communicative crew of people working collaboratively.