One of the most critical jobs on a construction site is dogging, but becoming a dogger requires more than just knowing how to tie a few knots.

Correctly directing lifting equipment such as cranes can be the difference between a safe site and a potential disaster.

To start with, you need a dogging ticket or, as it is sometimes called, a dogman license. But how do you get this prerequisite for being a competent dogger? At Kallibr Training (RTO 32365) we offer dogging training, and in this article, we outline the path you can take to become a qualified dogger.

Step 1: Decide if dogging is the right career

Dogging has several functions on a construction site but in the main, a dogger is skilled at using slinging techniques to help transport loads safely. According to WorkSafe Victoria, doggers are workers responsible for slinging loads or directing crane movement from outside the operator’s view, using whistle signals or radios.

Slings, hooks, and improperly secured chains can pose a significant safety threat. As a result, a dogger should have the training and be licensed to do their job correctly, as well as be suited to the job on a personal level.

Personal characteristics of a Dogger

To become a dogger, you need to have certain personality traits to excel in this career. Does this sound like you?

  • You find practical outdoor work enjoyable
  • You are safety-oriented
  • You’re capable of judging distances pretty well
  • You’re physically fit for this demanding job
  • You have a head for heights (many doggers go on to become riggers, which involves more work at height)
  • You have excellent hearing and vision
  • And you’re at least 18 years old

If you think dogging would be a suitable career for you, the next step is to do the proper training to become a fully qualified dogger. However, dogging is high-risk work, so it’s good to be aware of the risks and be confident that it’s the right career move for you.

Step 2: Take a dogging training course at a registered training organisation

A dogging ticket is necessary for anyone engaging in dogging work, including accurately applying slinging methods or inspecting the fit and condition of lifting equipment.

A licensed dogger is involved in the following tasks:

  • Assessing the weight of the load to be lifted
  • Adhering to SWMS and documents regarding lifting procedures
  • Analysing how appropriate the lifting gear is
  • Understanding techniques for slinging the load
  • Making sure the freight is always visible when it’s being moved
  • Ensuring the lifting points are marked on the load

Learning these skills is all part of your dogger training course.

What does dogging training involve?

At Kallibr Training, you will take part in a training course held over five days, at one of our Kallibr Training centres in Sydney and Brisbane. If you want private training for a group of staff, we can arrange it at your preferred location as long as you meet certain conditions. Please get in touch if you are interested in on site training for your team.

The Dogging course content includes:

  • Occupational health and safety
  • Job planning including identifying hazards and putting in place measures for the safe movement of loads
  • Accurately measuring the mass of objects
  • Use, maintain, and inspect slings, hooks, fittings, and accessories
  • Slinging of loads
  • Use of signals to communicate with the crane operator

How long does dogging training run for?

The dogging training at Kallibr Training runs over five days. After completing the course and successfully passing your assessment, you can apply get your dogging ticket from your local workplace health and safety authority.

How much is dogging training?

At Kallibr Training, our dogging training course starts at $1,397 with slight variances depending on your location.

Will I need to renew my dogging ticket?

A dogging license lasts for five years, so you will need to keep an eye on your license to ensure it doesn’t expire.

Become a qualified dogger

Dogging plays a crucial role in any construction project. However, without proper dogging training and a license from a registered organisation, you will be risking your health and safety, and the safety of your workmates.

Kallibr Training is a registered training organisation that provides top-quality dogging training. Our experienced trainers have successfully trained thousands of workers in Australia, and they have experience working with hundreds of companies in the construction, infrastructure and energy industries.

At Kallibr Training, we offer real-life experience training to prepare you to take on the job. Our well-equipped training centres in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne offer a convenient and realistic learning environment. Plus, we’re flexible, so training can occur at our centres, on-site, or remotely depending on your needs.

Our easy-to-use online booking and enrolment process makes it easy for managers to book group classes for their teams. Book your dogging course here.