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> Regulations
and Human Factors > Responsibilities
of a Certificated Parachute Rigger > Facilities and Tools
Issuance of a parachute rigger certificate
is just the first step toward becoming a professional parachute
rigger. As the uncertificated person gains experience packing,
he or she should also begin to acquire an inventory of tools
and manuals necessary to exercise the privileges of a certificate.
In compliance with 14 CFR, section 65.127, there are several
items necessary before the parachute rigger can exercise the
privileges of his/her certificate. One of these requirements
is a smooth table top that is at least 3 feet wide by 40 feet
long; however, this is necessary only if the parachute rigger
is going to pack round parachutes. With square reserve parachutes
gaining widespread use in the skydiving community in recent
years, some parachute riggers are specializing in packing only
square reserve parachutes. A table can be used for packing this
type of parachute, but the manufacturer may specify any smooth,
clean surface with a size that accommodates the canopy. In this
case, a clean, carpeted floor will do the job and a table may
not be necessary. According to 14 CFR, subsection 65.127(b),
the parachute rigger needs suitable housing that is adequately
heated, lighted, and ventilated for drying and airing parachutes.
This is subject to interpretation by the parachute rigger and
the Administrator since the standards fluctuate based on location
and time of year. A parachute rigger must have enough tools
and equipment to pack and maintain the types of parachutes for
which he/she is rated to service. This may include only the
basic tools of a packing fid, temporary pin, and pullup cord
if this is all that the manufacturer says is necessary to pack
its product. However, there is a broad selection of tools necessary
for a well-equipped parachute rigger to possess. These are covered
in detail in Chapter 6—Hand Tools, Sewing Machines, and
the Parachute Loft.
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