Skip to content

Bigfoot Crane Academy 877-740-6590

News

Center of Gravity: Balancing Loads Properly | Civil Rigging

27 Sep 2024

When preparing for a lift, determining the center of gravity (COG) is just as important as knowing the load’s weight. The COG is the point at which the load’s weight is evenly distributed, and if it's not positioned directly beneath the hook, the load will become unstable, creating a dangerous situation. A misaligned COG will cause the load to shift until it settles directly below the suspension point, which can lead to accidents or damage.

According to Ralf Notheis, Manager of Bigfoot Academy, there are at least five different ways to find the COG and only one requires an on-site calculation. “Sometimes loads come with engineered lugs already in place based on the COG,” says Notheis. “Other times the COG is supplied to the rigger, either marked on the load itself or in the paperwork.”

Methods for Finding the Centre of Gravity

In Bigfoot's Civil Rigging Course, riggers learn the two most common methods for determining the COG: estimating and calculating.

  • Estimating the COG involves test lifts, where riggers adjust rigging lengths as needed to achieve balance.
  • Calculating the COG requires basic tools like a tape measure and a calculator to determine the precise point where the load will be balanced.

Riggers also receive specialized training for dealing with narrow loads and uniquely shaped items, which often present additional challenges in maintaining load control. Understanding these principles is essential for ensuring that loads remain stable throughout the lift.

The Importance of COG in Civil Rigging

Unstable loads are one of the leading causes of accidents and injuries in rigging operations. Proper training on how to determine the COG not only prevents accidents but also allows riggers to lift loads efficiently and safely. At Bigfoot Academy, our goal is to equip every rigger with the skills and knowledge necessary to avoid instability and execute safe lifts.

Want to learn more about balancing loads and ensuring safe lifts? Enroll in our Civil Rigging Course today and gain the expertise to master load control and safety. Click the button below to get started!

Prev Post
Next Post

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Shop the look

Choose Options

Recently Viewed

Edit Option
Have Questions or Want a Quote?
Request a Quote - Back In Stock Notification
Terms & Conditions
Declaration: Collection of information: The information on this form and all required admissions and registration documentation is collected strictly for the purpose of meeting the data requirements for admission and administration. Your privacy is protected under the Freedom of Information and Privacy Act limiting how your information may be used or disclosed. If you have any questions about the collection and use of your information please contact the Freedom of Information Coordinator, Bigfoot Crane Academy at 1(877) 852-2192. Declaration: I declare that the information that I have provided in this application is complete and correct. Falsifying any document or information submitted will result in the cancellation of admission or registration to the Bigfoot Crane Academy. I understand that the submission of this application in no way guarantees admission to a program or course and that admission is subject to meeting program or course prerequisites and space availability. If I am accepted into the Bigfoot Crane Academy, I agree to familiarize myself with and abide by the Policy Manual for Students during my tenure at the Academy. In addition, I agree as a condition of registration at the Bigfoot Crane Academy to pay all fees and charges as required by the deadlines posted.
this is just a warning
Shopping Cart
0 items