Who is responsible for inspecting all rigging and rigging hardware as per OSHA 1926.251?

The responsibility for inspecting all rigging and rigging hardware falls upon a competent person as defined by OSHA regulations. A competent person is someone who is knowledgeable about the rigging equipment and has the authority to take appropriate actions regarding safety. This includes the ability to recognize hazards, determine how to address them, and ensure that the rigging is in safe working condition.

The competent person is trained and experienced enough to understand the specific requirements outlined in OSHA 1926.251, which places a strong emphasis on the integrity and safety of rigging materials. Regular inspection by a competent person helps to prevent accidents and enhances the safety of operations involving rigging hardware.

While a government inspector, site supervisor, or safety officer may have roles related to overall safety management, they are not necessarily trained to the same level of expertise regarding rigging due to the specific requirements of OSHA 1926.251. Therefore, it is the competent person who carries the primary responsibility for ensuring that rigging equipment is properly inspected, maintained, and safe for use.