Hiring lifting equipment helps keep projects moving without the cost of maintaining a permanent fleet. However, it also raises an important question of, do you need a licensed operator to use hired lifting gear?
The answer depends on the equipment, its capacity and the work being carried out. Hiring a chain hoist, sling, lifting beam or air winch does not automatically mean everyone on site requires a licence. However, when the work involves dogging, rigging or operating certain cranes and hoists, the appropriate licensing requirements apply. Ensuring the right people are trained and licensed is essential for keeping the job safe and compliant
What Does “Certified Operator” Mean?
The term “certified operator” is often used broadly in the lifting industry, but it does not refer to one specific qualification. What matters is that the person carrying out the work has the right training, experience and competency for the task.
For higher-risk work, WorkSafe WA may also require the operator to hold a relevant High Risk Work Licence (HRWL). This can include licences for dogging, basic, intermediate or advanced rigging, as well as operating certain vehicle loading cranes, mobile cranes, tower cranes and hoists.
When Is a Dogging License Required?
Dogging work involves selecting suitable lifting gear and slinging methods based on the load’s weight, shape and centre of gravity. It can also include inspecting equipment or directing an operator who cannot see the load.
A Dogging High Risk Work Licence is generally required, although rigging licences also cover this work. It may not be needed where the lift has been fully planned by a competent person, the equipment and attachment method are clearly specified, and no on-the-spot judgement is required.
Workers must still receive appropriate training, and a documented lifting procedure should be in place before work begins.
Cranes and Earthmoving Equipment
Crane operators must hold a High Risk Work Licence that matches the type and capacity of the equipment they are using. This includes vehicle loading cranes rated at 10 metre-tonnes or more, non-slewing mobile cranes over three tonnes, and certain slewing, bridge, gantry and tower cranes.
Since 10 August 2025, licensing rules in WA have also applied when earthmoving machinery is used to suspend loads over three tonnes. The licence required depends on the type of machinery and whether it can slew.
Some exemptions may apply in limited situations, but dogging or rigging licences may still be needed when workers are selecting lifting gear, slinging loads or directing the operator.
Before starting any lift, consider the equipment, load weight, lifting method and each person’s responsibilities, rather than relying only on the machinery listed on the hire quote.
Lifting Equipment Hire: Licensing and Equipment Safety
Hiring lifting equipment involves more than choosing the right machinery for the job. While licensed operators are required for certain high-risk tasks, the lifting equipment itself must also be suitable, correctly rated and properly maintained.
Before use, inspect all hired lifting gear, including slings, chains, hooks, shackles, lifting beams and hoists, for signs of wear or damage. You should also confirm that each item is compatible with the load and planned lifting method.
Your Lifting Equipment Hire Checklist:
- Load type, weight and centre of gravity
- Required lifting height and range of movement
- Equipment’s rated capacity
- Whether your crew needs to select slinging methods or gear
- Whether the load stays visible to the operator
- Whether dogging, rigging or crane operation is involved
- Which HRWL classes (if any) apply
- Site procedures, supervision and exclusion zones
- Equipment inspection and maintenance history
Not sure on any of these? That’s exactly what the team at Rigging Rentals is here for.
Hire the Right Lifting Equipment with Rigging Rentals
With one of Australia’s largest lifting and rigging equipment inventories, we can supply the gear needed for projects of almost any size or complexity.
Our hire range includes:
Our lifting equipment hire range includes air hoists and winches, slings, spreader and lifting beams, rigging hardware, load monitoring equipment, man cages, load skates and jacks, water load bags and portable gantry cranes. With capacities ranging from smaller lifts through to 1,000 tonnes, we can help match the right equipment to your project.
Every item is inspected, tested and maintained before leaving our yard, giving you reliable equipment without the cost of owning and servicing a permanent fleet.
Our team can help match the right equipment to your load, site conditions and project timeframe. However, the hirer remains responsible for planning the lift, confirming the equipment is suitable and ensuring the work is completed by appropriately trained and licensed personnel.
Need lifting equipment for your next project? Contact Rigging Rentals to discuss the right solution for the job.
Disclaimer—The content provided on this blog is intended for informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that the information presented here is completely accurate or up-to-date. The information should not be considered as professional or expert advice for rigging, lifting, or any related activities. Users should not rely solely on the information provided in this blog and should consult with qualified professionals and/or manufacturers before making any decisions or taking any actions related to rigging and lifting equipment or practices. Rigging Rentals is not responsible for any loss, injury, or damage that may occur as a result of applying the information provided on this blog.
