Ever wondered who’s responsible for moving heavy equipment safely on a construction site, oil platform, or wind farm? That’s a rigger.
They handle all the slings, shackles, and lifting gear to make sure everything gets lifted, moved, and set down without accidents. It’s a skill in high demand across offshore oil & gas, renewables, and construction — and one that requires precision, teamwork, and a strong safety mindset.
If you want to start a career in this field, the first step is OPITO Rigger Initial Training. Even if you’ve never touched rigging gear before, this course teaches you the basics you need to work safely onshore or offshore.
Why OPITO Rigger Training Matters
Rigging and lifting operations can be risky.
One small mistake can injure someone, damage expensive equipment, or delay a whole project. That’s why OPITO training is recognised worldwide — it sets the standard for safety and competence.
Completing the OPITO Rigger Initial Training course ensures you understand the fundamentals: how to handle equipment safely, communicate effectively with your team, and carry out lifts without unnecessary risks.
For someone new to rigging, it’s a great way to build confidence and make sure you’re ready for real work.
View OPITO Rigger Initial Training
What You’ll Learn
This is an entry-level, three-day course. During the training, you’ll learn:
- Roles and responsibilities of a rigger
- Different types of lifting equipment, including slings and shackles
- Pre-use inspections and safety checks
- Planning and performing lifts safely
- Signalling and team communication
- Safe rigging and lifting techniques
- Identifying hazards and responding appropriately
It’s very hands-on. You’ll work with real equipment under supervision, so you can apply what you learn in real-life scenarios safely.
Certification
Upon successful completion, you’ll receive an OPITO Rigger Initial Training (Stage 1) certificate.
- Validity: Approximately 2 years and 8 months
- OPITO Rigger Initial Training (Stage 1) provides foundational knowledge and supervised practical skills.
To achieve full OPITO competence, candidates must complete:
- A Workplace Experience Logbook, documenting supervised lifting operations
- A Rigger Competence Assessment, conducted by an OPITO-approved assessor
The Initial Training gives you the foundation, while the logbook and Competence Assessment ensure you can safely apply your skills in real operations.
Learn more about our OPITO pathway options
Who Should Take This Course
This course is ideal for anyone entering rigging operations.
- New workers entering rigging or lifting operations
- Offshore oil & gas candidates
- Onshore wind farm technicians needing basic rigging knowledge
- Employees requiring compliance training
Even if you’ve never done this kind of work before, this training will give you the confidence to handle basic rigging safely.
Onshore vs Offshore Rigging
While the fundamentals of rigging apply across environments, offshore operations involve stricter controls, confined spaces, and higher-risk lifting activities.
OPITO training ensures riggers are prepared for both onshore energy projects and offshore oil, gas, and wind installations.
Why Train With Stier Training Services
Stier Training Services is an OPITO-approved training provider, delivering rigger training aligned with offshore oil & gas and renewable energy standards. We focus on practical, real-world training. Our instructors are OPITO-certified with field experience, so you can be rest assured that you’re not just memorising theory.
Courses are delivered by OPITO-certified instructors with real offshore and industrial lifting experience, using purpose-built rigging facilities and industry-standard equipment. Courses are available in English and Spanish.
Stier Training Services supports participants who want to progress through the OPITO pathway. Flexible dates and corporate options make it easy to enroll individually or as a team.
What to Expect
You should expect a lot of hands-on work. PPE is provided and must be worn. Some exercises may be physically demanding, so you’ll need to be prepared for that.
You’ll practise safe lifting techniques, proper signalling, communication and hazard awareness. By the end of the day, you should feel ready to apply these skills safely in real operations.
Learn more and book the OPITO Rigger Initial Training
Course Dates and Registration
Seats are limited, so early registration is recommended.
Book Now – OPITO Rigger Initial Training
If you have any questions, reach out to us today!
FAQ
1) Can beginners take the OPITO Rigger Initial Training course?
Yes. The OPITO Rigger Initial Training is designed for people with little or no prior experience.
2) How long is the certification valid?
Approximately 2 years and 8 months, in line with OPITO requirements, after which progression to competence assessment or reassessment is required.
3) What equipment will I use?
Slings, shackles, rigging gear, and other lifting tools. You’ll learn correct handling and pre-use inspection procedures.
4) Do I need OPITO training for offshore work?
Generally, yes. Completing the OPITO Initial Training is the first step in securing Rigging work in the Offshore Oil & Gas market. Workplace experience and competence assessments are needed to progress on with the OPITO offshore standards.
5) What is the difference between the Initial Training and the Competence Assessment/Reassessment?
Initial Training teaches you the basics and gives hands-on practice. The Competence Assessment confirms you can safely apply your skills after experience carrying out rigging activities on the job, while Reassessment keeps your certification valid over time. These were formally known as Stage 1, Stage 3 and Stage 4.
Starting a career in rigging is hands-on, practical, and in demand. If you’re ready to get certified safely, sign up for the OPITO Rigger Initial Training today!
