Why Flexibility and Durability Matter More Than Ever
APPLICATION
Rigging for Utility Construction
Why Flexibility and Durability Matter More Than Ever
By Seth Skydel
16
You can’ t miss the equipment on a utility construction site— aerials, digger derricks and boom trucks dominate the landscape. But behind the scenes, it’ s the rigging gear that often makes the difference between a safe lift and a dangerous one. Properly chosen rigging products are the backbone of dependable, efficient lifting that powers the utility industry.
“ Lifting capacity is always a key factor, but rigging decisions in utility construction involve much more,” said Felix Nyberg, VP of product – portfolio optimization at Kito Crosby.“ You have to factor in site conditions, equipment combinations and the durability of gear that’ s often pushed to its limits. And durability and flexibility go hand in hand on utility jobsites.”
Above-ground utility work demands rigging that can adapt to different
Crosby SHUR-LOC locking hooks mechanically lock in place for the duration of the lift and prevent opening until the load is relaxed and the safety trigger is engaged. The bearing swivel version allows this hook to swivel under load as well.
Telecom & Utility Construction | Spring 2025 equipment setups, while underground jobs often involving digger derricks and excavators require gear that can withstand high abuse and constant movement, Nyberg added.
Right Tools
Andy Baranowski, product manager at Kito Crosby, said the best place to start is by understanding the range of rigging products available and knowing which one fits the application. In the company’ s product line are a wide range of choices, including:
• Swivels are essential when lifting objects that need to rotate under load. They allow 360-degree movement while lifting to prevent slings or cables from twisting or binding, something that is especially critical with truck-mounted cranes.
• Tower and derrick blocks are commonly used to lift loads and personnel on utility jobsites. They’ re built with redundant securement systems, ensuring that if one component fails the lift remains secure.
• Self-locking hooks lock automatically under load and can’ t be opened until the load is fully released and the safety trigger is engaged Some models also swivel under load, allowing
For overhead power line construction, the Kito LB-SL lever hoist can be used when pulling, tensioning and lifting loads. The lever hoist has a load capacity over 19,800 pounds.
for safer, more controlled lifts.
• Weld-on hooks are commonly seen on excavation equipment like earth-moving buckets. They’ re ideal for quickly attaching rigging in trenching or underground utility operations for lowering or lifting loads both above and below ground.
Smart Rigging Technology also plays a growing role in utility and construction