Why Rigger, Signalperson, and EM 385 Training Matters for Construction Safety and Government Projects
- David Barnhouse
- Aug 1
- 2 min read
Staying Safe and Qualified on Today’s Job Sites
Construction work has no room for guesswork, especially when heavy lifting, cranes, or military contracts are involved. Specialized safety training is not just about compliance, it’s about protecting lives, preventing costly accidents, and unlocking opportunities for higher-level projects.
This is where Rigger, Signalperson, and EM 385-1-1 training becomes essential.
Rigger Training: The Key to Safe Lifting
Riggers play a vital role in preparing and securing loads for lifting operations. A minute rigging error can result in serious injury or damage to equipment.
Some of the most important subject matter includes:
Inspection of rigging hardware
Estimation of load weight and balance
Choosing slings and a hitch
Safe lifting practices
Practical applications of rigging
Correct rigger training guarantees all personnel involved with the lifting operation are aware of the risks and responsibilities involved in the job.
Signalperson Training: The Voice Behind the Crane
Signalpersons are the go-between communicators between ground persons and crane operators; they are the lifelines of site safety on lifting operations.
Typical training subjects include:
Common hand signals
Radio communication practices
Hazards awareness on the lift
OSHA qualification standards
Crane coordination procedures
Timely, correct communication avoids accidents, increases efficiency, and keeps your site in compliance with safety regulations.
EM 385-1-1 Training: A Requirement for Government and Military Projects
EM 385-1-1 is the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' safety and health guide. It takes more stringent safety precautions than OSHA and is required on all federal construction work, especially on U.S. military installations.
Why it matters:
Required for all Army Corps of Engineers projects
Contains more advanced standards for fall protection, confined spaces, and hazard communication
Guarantees compliance with military-level requirements
Essential for contractors who want to bid on federal projects
Understanding and following EM 385 standards protects workers while also qualifying teams for specialized, high-value projects.
Stay Trained. Stay Compliant. Stay Competitive.
Whether you’re aiming to reduce job site risk or qualify for military base contracts, proper training in rigging, signaling, and EM 385-1-1 standards is not optional, it’s critical.
Need Help Getting Certified?
Island CERTS Corporation offers OSHA and EM 385-compliant safety training tailored for real-world applications and job site readiness. If you're looking to get certified or have questions about upcoming training sessions:
📞 (671) 653-5501
Train smart. Work safely. Win more contracts.
