What is rigging in event technology?

Rigging in event technology is the planning, construction, fastening and securing of loads above a stage or audience. This includes trusses, moving heads, loudspeaker arrays, LED walls, curtains and special effects – every component mounted overhead. Rigging is not improvisation but an engineering discipline that combines static calculation, material knowledge and safety expertise. The goal is a stable, safe hanging construction that meets the load and venue requirements. Because loads hang above people, rigging is the safety-critical foundation of every professional event and demands qualified personnel and certified equipment.

What does the term "rigging" mean?

The term "rigging" originates from sailing, where the rigging was the entire system of ropes and tackle holding a ship's sails. In event technology, "rigging" describes the process of building, lifting, positioning and securing suspended loads. A clear distinction applies: the rig is the finished suspended structure, while rigging is the activity of assembling and securing it. Trusses – known in industry jargon as truss (German Fachwerk, meaning lattice) – are central to rigging and are used to fly loudspeakers, moving heads, LED walls and video technology safely above the stage.

Rigging is the fachgerecht (professional) attaching, lifting, positioning and securing of loads above people or in safety-critical areas of an event. It covers aluminium trusses, chain hoists, Anschlagmittel such as round slings, steel cables and shackles, plus safety ropes and secondary safeties. Rigging ensures that technical loads hang in the right place, are correctly aligned and remain permanently secure. It is far more than a practical assembly step – it is a safety-critical field requiring experience, qualification and suitable, certified equipment for a reliable, impressive production.

Is rigging difficult work?

Yes, rigging is demanding and responsible work. Riggers often work at height and under time pressure, and the main hazards are falls of persons and falling loads. Any small error in material selection, planning or assembly can have serious consequences, because loads hang above people. Rigging therefore requires precise planning, documented statics, correct dimensioning of Anschlagmittel and certified execution. In Germany, three IGVW rigger levels exist, with the SQQ2 rigger certificate as proof of competence. Difficult work, yes – but manageable with proper qualification, quality equipment and strict adherence to standards such as DGUV Vorschrift 17.

What belongs to rigging equipment?

Rigging equipment consists of several building blocks that work as a system. It includes load-bearing structures such as single-, two-, three- and four-point aluminium trusses, and lifting gear such as manual and electric chain hoists, often with load monitoring. It also covers Anschlagmittel and connecting elements – round slings, steel cables, chains, shackles, half couplers and turnbuckles – plus safety components like safety fall ropes and secondary safeties. Finishing items such as truss covers, banner clamps and ballast weights complete the picture. Every element must be correctly dimensioned to its working load limit (WLL) and regularly inspected.

What are Anschlagmittel in event technology?

Anschlagmittel in event technology are the connecting and fastening elements that securely link trusses, technical devices and other components to load-bearing structures. Typical Anschlagmittel include steel cables, round slings, chains and shackles. In event technology they must be correctly dimensioned for the specific load, comply with applicable standards and safety requirements, and undergo regular mandatory inspections to guarantee ongoing serviceability. A key principle is that every connection is only as strong as its weakest link, so Anschlagmittel must always be selected by working load limit (WLL) and used exactly as intended.

What is the difference between suspended rigging and ground support?

The difference lies in how the structure carries its load. Suspended rigging hangs the truss from certified ceiling points via motors and Anschlagmittel – space-saving and clean, but only possible where the venue offers rated load points. Ground support builds self-supporting towers and beams that stand on the floor, usually with base plates, sleeve blocks and ballast weights. Ground support is the standard solution for open-air events, tents and venues without rigging points. Choosing between suspended rigging and ground support determines your entire material list, so clarify the available load points before you plan the build.

Which truss should I buy for my stage?

Which truss you should buy depends on load, span and application. For light indoor decoration, two- or three-point trusses are usually sufficient. For concert and touring stages, four-point trusses such as the Naxpro-Truss HD31-44 (50 mm tube, 3 mm wall) offer maximum stability. For roof, dome and heavy outdoor constructions, the GS94 class with its 60 mm / 5 mm tubes and 40 x 3 mm diagonals is designed for the highest demands. Always compare the load table of the specific system and ensure connectors belong to the same build line. LTT advises you on the optimal solution.

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Rigging – stage technology