How to become a safety net rigger
There are several routes to becoming a safety net rigger. You can gain the qualifications you need by completing a specialist course, an apprenticeship or applying directly to an employer.
You should explore these routes to becoming a safety net rigger, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site. A valid UK driving licence may also be required.
College/training provider
You’ll need to obtain your Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training (FASET) certificate from an authorised centre. Once sufficiently experienced, you can move onto an NVQ or SVQ in Safety Net Rigging. You will also need to obtain a safety net rigger card as evidence of professional capability. This is available from trainee through to experienced status.
Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship with a construction site is a good way into the industry.
You could apply for an intermediate scaffolder apprenticeship with a construction or specialist scaffolding company, which will take 18 months, before moving into a role as a safety net rigger.
You'll need 2 - 3 GCSEs, usually including maths and English, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you’ll be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
Work
If you have some basic experience, you could apply directly to a construction or specialist scaffolding company to gain onsite experience as a safety net rigger. You will need to undertake specialist qualifications to work in this role. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced safety net rigger and progress as your abilities improve and you complete training.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a safety net rigger. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a safety net rigger include:
- Ability to work safely at height
- Able to work well as a team
- Proactive and able to show initiative.
