Which safety standard should riggers follow in North America?

Riggers in North America should follow ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards because these standards specifically address the safety practices and requirements for rigging operations in various industries, including theatre and entertainment. ANSI develops and oversees performance standards that are aimed at ensuring safe practice in the working environment.

Following ANSI standards is crucial for riggers because they provide comprehensive guidelines covering the design, use, maintenance, and testing of rigging equipment. These standards also focus on the performance criteria that help ensure the safety and reliability of rigging systems, protecting not only the riggers themselves but also performers and the audience.

While other organizations, like OSHA and NFPA, have important roles in workplace safety and fire protection, ANSI standards are particularly tailored for the rigging context and are essential for addressing specific rigging practices. OSHA regulations govern worker safety and health, but they do not provide the detailed rigging-specific guidelines that ANSI does. NFPA guidelines focus more on fire safety and prevention rather than rigging operations. Therefore, ANSI standards are the most relevant for riggers operating in North America.