What should always be used to ensure the safety of personnel during rigging operations?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential during rigging operations because it encompasses a variety of gear designed to protect workers from potential hazards. This includes items such as gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and respiratory protection, which collectively help to minimize the risk of injury in different environments.

While safety harnesses, hard hats, and safety barriers are also important safety measures, they serve specific roles. Safety harnesses primarily protect individuals working at heights by preventing falls, whereas hard hats offer head protection against falling objects. Safety barriers are used to restrict access to hazardous areas. However, PPE provides a broader range of protection and is necessary for overall safety regardless of the specific conditions present during rigging operations. Ensuring that all personnel are equipped with the necessary PPE is fundamental to maintaining safety throughout the rigging process.