What is the design factor (DF) required for human supporting rigging systems?

The design factor (DF) required for human-supporting rigging systems is indeed 10:1. This means that for every unit of load applied to the rigging system, the system must be capable of withstanding ten times that amount without failure. This high safety margin is crucial in ensuring the safety of personnel working above the ground, as it accounts for various factors like dynamic loads, wear and tear, and unforeseen stresses that may occur during use.

The 10:1 design factor is a widely accepted standard in the rigging industry, aligning with best practices to mitigate risks associated with the inherent dangers of hanging loads that people may rely on. By ensuring that the rigging system can handle much more than the maximum expected load, the risk of accidents or structural failure is significantly minimized.

It is also important to note that while other design factors, such as 5:1 or 8:1, may apply to non-human supporting systems or specific equipment types, they do not provide the same level of safety assurance required when lives are at stake. Therefore, the 10:1 design factor is critical for protecting the safety of individuals who are operating in and around rigging systems designed to support human loads.