The main difference between rigging and scaffolding is the fact that rigging involves the use of ropes and pulleys while scaffolding is a structure set up to provide support for construction workers.
Rigging equipment is quite mobile since it involves materials being moved up and down a construction site. Scaffolding on the other hand is immobile and can only be moved horizontally when using mobile scaffold towers.
Meaning of Rigging
Rigging is a term that can be broadly used to describe equipment that is used to hoist, lift, push or pull objects on construction sites. Rigging equipment helps hoist and crane operators when the task at hand involves lifting and moving a load horizontally. Installation of rigging is a task that has to be done by licensed riggers.
Advantages of rigging
When working on unstable grounds where scaffolding cannot be set up, rigging can be used in its place to provide support for construction workers and the transportation of building materials up and down a construction site. Rigging equipment is also able to handle a wide weight class and therefore better to work with when the materials being used are heavy enough to damage scaffolding equipment. Rigging is also quite secure to use as the equipment is fastened with strong cables which provide extra support for any kind of heavy load that is being moved on a construction site.
Comparison Table
| Rigging | Scaffolding |
|---|---|
| It involves the use of ropes and pulleys | It provides a working platform for workers |
| The equipment is mobile and can be moved up and down | The structure is immobile and can only be moved horizontally |
| Can be used on unstable grounds | It’s not advisable to use it on unstable grounds |
| Ideal for heavy loads because it’s fastened using strong cables | It has a weight limit that shouldn’t be exceeded |
With its wide range of uses, rigging is a great option to choose if you are unsure whether scaffolding will be able to meet your needs. With its various advantages, rigging can be quite expensive which makes it less popular on construction sites. With a better understanding of the differences between rigging and scaffolding, you can be able to realise which will bring you the required results for your construction project.