The ICTQual AB Combined Level 1 Award in Banksman, Slinger & Rigger is an entry-level vocational qualification designed to introduce learners to the fundamental principles of safe lifting operations. It is suitable for individuals who are new to the construction, oil & gas, manufacturing, and industrial sectors and want to begin a career in lifting support roles.

This course provides basic training in banksman duties, slinging methods, and rigging fundamentals. Learners gain essential knowledge of lifting equipment, safe load handling techniques, and standard communication signals used to coordinate lifting activities between crane operators and ground personnel in a safe and controlled manner.

A key focus of the program is workplace health and safety awareness. Learners are introduced to hazard identification, basic risk assessment, and safe working practices required in active industrial and construction environments. The course ensures participants understand how to work safely under supervision.

Upon successful completion, learners will have the foundational skills required to assist in lifting operations with confidence and safety awareness. This qualification improves employability and serves as a strong starting point for progression into higher-level banksman, slinger, and rigger training programs.

All About ICTQual AB Combined Level 1 Award in Banksman, Slinger & Rigger

Course Introduction
Eligibility Criteria
Intended Learner
Study Modules
Learning Objectives

Course Overview

The ICTQual AB Combined Level 1 Award in Banksman, Slinger & Rigger is a 1-day fast-track training program delivering up to 3 hours of focused instruction, designed to provide essential foundational skills in safe lifting operations. This short-duration qualification is ideal for beginners seeking a quick introduction to banksman, slinger, and rigger responsibilities in construction and industrial environments.

The course is structured into six concise study units, each covering key aspects of basic lifting operations. Learners are introduced to lifting equipment awareness, fundamental slinging methods, basic rigging concepts, and standard hand and verbal signaling techniques used on-site to ensure safe communication during lifting activities.

The program also includes essential coverage of workplace health and safety principles, such as basic hazard identification, risk awareness, and safe working behavior in active job site environments. Emphasis is placed on understanding correct procedures to support safe lifting under supervision.

Upon completion of all six study units within this 1-day, 3-hour training program, learners will have a clear understanding of core lifting support tasks. This qualification enhances basic employability and provides a stepping stone toward further training and progression in the banksman, slinger, and rigger profession.

Applicants for the ICTQual AB Combined Level 1 Award in Banksman, Slinger & Rigger (1-day, 3-hour training program) must meet the following basic requirements to ensure successful participation in this introductory course.

Age Requirement:
Candidates must be at least 18 years old due to the safety-sensitive nature of lifting operations and construction site activities.
Educational Background:
No formal academic qualifications are required. However, basic literacy and numeracy skills are recommended to understand simple instructions, safety guidance, and training materials effectively.
Experience:
No prior experience in banksman, slinger, or rigger roles is required. This is a beginner-level awareness course designed for complete newcomers. Any general exposure to construction sites or industrial environments will be an added advantage but is not mandatory.
English Language Proficiency:
Learners must have a good command of English, both written and spoken.

The ICTQual AB Combined Level 1 Award in Banksman, Slinger & Rigger (1-day, 3-hour training program) is designed for individuals who want a quick introduction to the fundamentals of safe lifting operations and basic site practices in construction and industrial environments.

Absolute beginners who want to understand the basics of banksman, slinger, and rigger roles
School leavers or fresh job seekers exploring careers in construction or heavy industry
General laborers seeking entry-level awareness of lifting and rigging operations
Workers with no prior experience in crane coordination or load handling
Individuals preparing for future training in higher-level lifting qualifications
Site visitors or support staff needing basic safety awareness in lifting environments

This course is ideal for anyone who wants a fast, simple, and practical introduction to lifting operations and a pathway toward further professional development in the banksman, slinger, and rigger field.

Study Units

This qualification, theICTQual AB Combined Level 1 Award in Banksman, Slinger & Rigger, consists of 6 mandatory units.

Introduction to Banksman, Slinging, and Rigging
Health and Safety Regulations and Risk Assessment
Basic Hand Signals and Communication
Lifting Equipment and Sling Selection
Safe Working Load (SWL) and Load Characteristics
Basic Lifting and Moving Operations

Learning Outcomes:

Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:

Introduction to Banksman, Slinging, and Rigging

Understand the roles and responsibilities of a banksman, slinger, and rigger in lifting operations.
Recognise the importance of coordination and teamwork in ensuring safe load handling.
Identify common workplace scenarios where banksman, slinging, and rigging skills are essential.

Health and Safety Regulations and Risk Assessment

Learn key health and safety regulations related to lifting and rigging operations.
Understand the importance of conducting risk assessments before performing lifting tasks.
Identify common hazards in lifting operations and apply appropriate control measures.

Basic Hand Signals and Communication

Demonstrate effective hand signals used in lifting and rigging operations.
Understand the importance of clear and precise communication between banksmen, slingers, and crane operators.
Learn how to use radio communication as a supplementary method in complex lifting environments.

Lifting Equipment and Sling Selection

Identify different types of lifting equipment and their applications.
Understand the selection criteria for slings based on load type, weight, and shape.
Learn how to inspect lifting equipment for signs of wear, damage, or defects.

Safe Working Load (SWL) and Load Characteristics

Understand the concept of safe working load (SWL) and its importance in lifting operations.
Learn how to determine the weight and centre of gravity of a load before lifting.
Recognise different load characteristics and their impact on lifting stability and safety.

Basic Lifting and Moving Operations

Demonstrate safe lifting techniques to minimise risks during load handling.
Understand the importance of proper load securing and balance before lifting.
Learn basic rigging procedures for safely moving loads within a worksite.

FAQs ICTQual AB Combined Level 1 Award in Banksman, Slinger & Rigger

Many industrial sites require a formal “ticket” or certificate even for assistant roles. This Award provides the necessary proof of competence to meet site safety insurance requirements.

After gaining on-site experience, learners can progress to the Level 2 Award or Certificate, which involves more complex loads and independent rigging responsibilities.

The combined format makes you more versatile. Employers prefer staff who can jump between signaling and slinging as needed, which increases your value to the team.

While the Award does not technically expire, it is a “best practice” in the industry to undergo a refresher or competency check every 2 years to stay sharp on safety protocols.

While theory can sometimes be delivered online, the practical assessment must be conducted in person at an approved training center to ensure hands-on competency.