Rigging Glossary Q–Z: Advanced Rigging & Lifting Terms

We’ve covered the fundamentals in Part 1 (A–H) and the inspection and hardware language in Part 2 (I–P). Now we finish the series with the advanced terms that experienced riggers, crane operators, and inspectors use every day — often without realizing how critical they are to safe lifts.

From reeving and rated capacity to WLL, side loading, and proper wire rope clip installation, these terms directly impact how lifts are planned and executed on Canadian job sites.

Here’s Part 3 of our Canadian Rigging Glossary (Q–Z) — the final piece of the terminology puzzle.

Q

Qualified Rigger – A competent, trained worker as defined by provincial OH&S regulations.

Quadrant – Section of a sheave or drum used when reeving multi-part lines.

R

Rated Capacity – Maximum working load assigned by manufacturer.

Reeving – Passing wire rope through sheaves to create mechanical advantage.

Regular Lay – Wire rope construction where wires twist opposite to strand direction.

S

Shackle – U-shaped lifting connector with pin (anchor, chain, or screw pin types).

Sheave – Grooved wheel guiding rope in hoists and blocks.

Side Loading – Applying force to the side of a hook or shackle; unsafe and prohibited.

Sling Angle – Angle formed between sling leg and horizontal; dramatically affects tension.

Socket (spelter socket) – Wire rope termination using poured metal for strength.

T

Tag Line – Rope used to control load rotation and swing.

Thimble – Grooved insert placed in sling eyes to prevent wear.

Turnbuckle – Adjustable tensioning device used in static rigging.

U

Unlay – Separation or loosening of rope strands indicating damage.

Ultimate Strength – Maximum force a component can withstand before failure.

V

Vertical Hitch – Sling attached directly from hook to load.

W

Working Load Limit (WLL) – Maximum safe load permitted in service.

Wire Rope Clip – Clamp used to form wire rope eyes (installed “never saddle a dead horse”).

Winch – Device used to pull or lift loads using rope or cable.

X

X-Hitch – Double choker hitch providing extra load control.

Y

Yield Strength – Stress level where material begins permanent deformation.

Z

Zinc Coating (Galvanized) – Corrosion protection applied to wire rope.

Understanding these advanced terms improves communication between riggers, crane operators, inspectors, and supervisors — directly impacting safe lifting practices across Canadian job sites. If you missed Part 1 - Glossary A-H click here or Part 2 - Glossary I - P click here