Rigger (industry)

A rigger or slinger is a skilled tradesperson who specializes in the assistance of manual mechanical advantage device comprising pulley, block and tackle or motorised such as a crane or derrick or chain hoists (chain fall) or capstan winch.

Sailors could put their rope skills to work in lifting and hauling.

In an era before mechanical haulage and cranes, ropes, pulleys and muscle power were all that was available to move heavy objects.

In time, rigging became a trade in itself, giving rise to modern usages with some original terminology remaining, with its roots all but forgotten.

Riggers use various suspension techniques to get their load around obstacles on a construction site or loading dock or event site to the desired location and height.