Rufat Dadashov
Lifting And Rigging Specialist
Baku
Work Preference
Summary
Senior Lifting and Rigging Specialist with 20+ years of experience in planning, supervising, and executing complex lifting operations across construction, drilling, logistics, and marine subsea projects. Extensive expertise in lift planning, rigging design, heavy load handling, and crane operations, ensuring safe and efficient execution in high-risk environments.
Proven track record in developing and approving Lifting Plans, Method Statements, Job Safety Analyses (JSA), and risk assessments, with strong knowledge of international standards and regulations. Experienced in shutdowns (TAR), brownfield and greenfield projects, hook-up activities, and subsea installations.
Highly skilled in conducting site surveys, feasibility studies, ground-bearing pressure calculations, and environmental and safety inspections. Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, train and certify personnel, and enforce HSE policies to achieve full compliance and zero-incident performance.
Strong background in equipment inspection, maintenance coordination, and verification of lifting gear and load-bearing points. Recognized for attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to manage multiple operations simultaneously under tight deadlines.
Committed to operational excellence, continuous improvement, and delivering safe, compliant, and cost-effective lifting solutions aligned with company and industry standards.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
21
21
Certifications
3
3
Languages
Work History
Logistics and HSE Superintendent (Lifting Technical Authority)
ENI International B.V.
Basrah, Iraq
12.2023 - Current
- Led and coordinated lifting operations across multiple departments (HSE, QA/QC, Maintenance, Procurement), ensuring safe and efficient execution of complex lifting activities.
- Developed and implemented lifting procedures, guidelines, and instructions, establishing a centralized competence framework for lifting operations.
- Prepared, reviewed, and approved Lifting Plans, Method Statements, and Job Safety Analyses (JSA), ensuring full compliance with company and international standards.
- Supported and monitored the full lifting process lifecycle, from planning and risk assessment to execution and post-lift evaluation, improving operational control and safety performance.
- Contributed to the development and implementation of the Lifting Management System (EIBV/ZFOD), ensuring alignment with local regulations and internal standards (LOGIS-DG-2609-0-2016).
- Identified and mitigated lifting risks by conducting hazard assessments and implementing control measures, supporting zero-incident objectives.
- Provided technical guidance on lifting deviations and non-compliance, ensuring corrective actions were effectively implemented.
- Optimized equipment selection by recommending appropriate cranes and lifting gear based on load characteristics, site conditions, and operational constraints.
- Supported maintenance teams in planning and executing preventive and corrective maintenance of lifting equipment, improving reliability and operational readiness.
- Evaluated and qualified lifting contractors and subcontractors, ensuring compliance with technical and safety requirements.
- Collaborated with HSE teams to define lift categorization, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.
- Promoted best practices by engaging with internal stakeholders and global teams, sharing knowledge and aligning with latest lifting technologies and standards.
- Monitored and assessed lifting operations to ensure adherence to defined standards and continuous improvement of lifting performance.
Site Lifting Engineer
JOCAP (TOTAL-SOCAR Joint Operating Company of Absheron Petroleum B. V)
Baku, Constructions Yard And Offshore
09.2019 - 06.2023
- Analyzed gaps between local regulations and international lifting standards, implementing compliant procedures across multiple sites, improving alignment with corporate and regulatory requirements.
- Developed and enforced lifting and handling procedures, ensuring 100% workforce awareness and compliance through structured communication and training.
- Reviewed and approved 100+ lifting plans annually, including critical and non-critical lifts, ensuring safe execution in high-risk environments.
- Conducted regular site audits and inspections, identifying hazards and implementing mitigation measures, contributing to improved safety performance and reduced incident exposure.
- Assessed and verified competencies of lifting personnel, supporting the nomination of qualified Lifting Teams and ensuring compliance with operational standards.
- Advised HSE, project management, and operational teams on lifting strategies, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance across multiple projects.
- Led audits of high-risk lifting activities, ensuring adherence to company and international standards and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
- Managed lifting equipment compliance, ensuring full implementation of inspection and certification policies across all operational sites.
- Supported inspection departments in the evaluation and selection of third-party inspection bodies, providing technical expertise and oversight.
- Coached and mentored lifting and rigging personnel on-site, enhancing competency levels and promoting a strong safety culture.
- Identified and mitigated operational risks, contributing to safer lifting operations and improved project execution.
- Advised and supported rigging teams in planning and execution, ensuring safe handling of heavy and complex loads across diverse project environments.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously, consistently meeting deadlines in fast-paced and high-pressure environments.
- Delivered practical solutions to complex lifting challenges, improving operational efficiency and minimizing delays.
Site Lifting Specialist / Construction HSE
TOTAL E&P
Halul Island, Qatar
05.2017 - 09.2019
- Directed and supervised lifting and heavy transport operations across multiple sites, managing 500+ lifts per month, including critical and high-risk lifts.
- Planned and executed complex lifting activities, achieving 100% compliance with HSE standards and contributing to zero lost-time incidents (LTI) during project phases.
- Reviewed and approved complex lifting plans, ensuring full alignment with international standards, project specifications, and safety requirements.
- Provided technical expertise during early-stage planning of abnormal lifts, reducing operational risks and improving execution efficiency.
- Evaluated third-party lifting plans and engineering drawings, ensuring all operations remained within Safe Working Load (SWL) limits and regulatory compliance.
- Conducted site inspections and audits, identifying hazards and implementing corrective actions to enhance overall safety performance.
- Led training and competency development for lifting personnel, strengthening workforce capability and ensuring adherence to safe lifting practices.
- Managed inspection, certification, and integrity assurance of a fleet of 50+ cranes and lifting equipment, ensuring 100% compliance with inspection schedules.
- Performed failure analysis and technical investigations, reducing equipment downtime and improving operational reliability.
- Participated in incident investigations, implementing corrective actions that minimized recurrence and improved safety outcomes.
- Assessed and re-certified crane operators and lifting teams, ensuring compliance with project and regulatory competency requirements.
- Coordinated with subcontractors to develop safe systems of work, improving productivity and reducing operational delays.
- Delivered consistent results under high-pressure conditions, managing multiple priorities across shutdowns, night shifts, and critical project timelines.
Rigging Superintendent
ASCO International
Baku, Supply Base, Sangachal Terminal, BTC Pipeline
07.2012 - 05.2017
- Managed and controlled all site lifting operations, including heavy plant equipment, lifting crews, and execution of routine and complex lifting activities.
- Led onshore construction lifting team of 70+ personnel, ensuring safe execution of both simple and high-risk lifting operations.
- Provided technical leadership and engineering support, delivering lifting and rigging solutions for operational and construction requirements.
- Developed, implemented, and maintained lifting and rigging procedures in compliance with company standards and international regulations.
- Assessed and re-assessed plant operators and lifting personnel, ensuring full compliance with competency, certification, and training requirements.
- Ensured all lifting equipment (cranes, forklifts, accessories) complied with applicable specifications, standards, and statutory requirements.
- Verified inspection and certification status of lifting equipment, ensuring valid third-party test certificates were maintained at all times.
- Monitored contractors’ lifting operations, ensuring strict compliance with approved lifting procedures, safety standards, and project requirements.
- Reviewed and approved lifting plans, providing technical input and ensuring safe execution of lifting activities across multiple project phases.
- Acted as technical authority in lifting and rigging incident investigations, supporting root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
- Performed technical audits of lifting contractors, identifying non-conformities and driving compliance improvements.
- Supported procurement activities by providing technical specifications and requirements for lifting equipment and rigging accessories.
- Organized and delivered theoretical and practical training programs for lifting crews, improving workforce competence and operational safety.
- Assembled and implemented rigging systems in accordance with engineering best practices and safety standards.
- Applied critical thinking and problem-solving skills to evaluate lifting challenges and implement effective technical solutions.
- Contributed to daily operations support, ensuring smooth coordination between lifting teams, supervisors, and project stakeholders.
- Demonstrated leadership capability, motivating teams and improving performance in high-pressure operational environments.
Rigging Supervisor
Rigblast Engineering Company
Baku, Offshore
09.2007 - 07.2012
- Organized, planned, and controlled 50+ platform lifting and rigging operations per day for drilling and OPS activities, ensuring safe execution in offshore environments.
- Supervised and coordinated lifting teams of 20 personnel per shift (operations and drilling), maintaining full responsibility for safety, compliance, and operational execution.
- Developed, implemented, and maintained lifting and rigging procedures, achieving a 100% compliance rate with company and offshore safety standards during audits.
- Ensured 100% compliance of cranes and lifting equipment with inspection and certification requirements, including statutory and third-party verification standards.
- Verified competence and certification of 100% of lifting personnel, ensuring only qualified operators were assigned to critical offshore lifting tasks.
- Monitored contractor lifting operations across multiple campaigns, achieving >95% compliance with approved lifting plans and safety procedures.
- Reviewed and approved 150+ critical lifting plans per year, including complex offshore and high-risk lifting operations.
- Acted as technical authority in lifting and rigging incident investigations, contributing to a ~20% reduction in repeat lifting-related incidents through corrective actions and lessons learned.
- Assembled and supervised rigging systems for 100+ critical lifts, ensuring full compliance with engineering and safety standards.
- Calculated and verified load parameters (weight, geometry, center of gravity) for 100% of critical lifts, reducing execution errors and rework.
- Interpreted 100+ engineering drawings and technical specifications annually, ensuring accurate and safe lifting methodology development.
- Supported 10+ major derrick erection and maintenance campaigns, achieving zero lifting-related lost-time incidents (LTI) during execution phases.
- Inspected lifting equipment and accessories prior to use on a daily basis, ensuring 100% equipment readiness and certification validity.
- Documented lifting operations, calculations, and incident reports for 100% of critical activities, ensuring full audit traceability and compliance.
- Prepared and submitted weekly progress and safety reports, improving management visibility and decision-making efficiency.
- Maintained offshore lifting safety performance with zero LTI across multiple project phases, through strict enforcement of procedures and risk controls.
Education
High School Diploma -
Secondary School 211
Baku, Azerbaijan 04.2001 -
Bachelor - Metrology and Standardization
Azerbaijan State Technical University
Baku, Azerbaijan 04.2001 -
Diploma - Athletics trainer & sports psychologist
Baku College of Sports
Baku, Azerbaijan 04.2001 -
Skills
Lifting & Rigging Certifications
Rigging & Lifting Level 4 (OPITO)
ECITB Rigger (ICE Level 3 & 4)
Appointed Person (OPITO)
CPCS – Construction Plant Competence Scheme
Lifting & Equipment Operations
Responsible Person for Lifting Operations (RPO)
Technical adjustment of cranes
Heavy lifting planning and supervision
Lifting equipment inspection and control
HSE & Safety Management
Hazard identification and risk assessment
Incident investigation and root cause analysis
Problem-solving and decision-making
Team leadership and collaboration
Certification
2023-02 OPITO Approved Rigging Lifting (Lv.4)
Accomplishments
Successfully led the digitalization of lifting plans, integrating them with the e-PTW system, improving efficiency, traceability, and safety compliance across operations.
Delivered complex lifting operations on brownfield and greenfield projects, including shutdowns and high-risk lifts, with zero lost-time incidents.
Acted as Appointed Person / Lifting Lead, ensuring all lifting activities complied with international standards and client requirements.
Improved lifting procedures and planning processes, reducing delays and optimizing crane utilization.
Coordinated multidisciplinary teams (engineering, operations, HSE) to ensure safe execution of critical lifts under tight deadlines.
Contributed to incident investigations and hazard identification, strengthening preventive measures and safety culture on site.
Played a key role in project mobilization and execution across multiple international locations, adapting to challenging operational environments.
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Affiliations
- OPITO – Certified (Rigging / Lifting Operations)
- ECITB – Certified Rigger (Levels 3 & 4)
- CPCS – Certified (Plant / Lifting Operations)
- Internal company systems: ISSOW / e-PTW certified user
Quote
If you really look closely, most overnight successes took a long time.
Steve Jobs
Languages
English
Advanced (C1)
Russian
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Turkish
Elementary (A2)
Timeline
Logistics and HSE Superintendent (Lifting Technical Authority)
ENI International B.V.
12.2023 - Current
Site Lifting Engineer
JOCAP (TOTAL-SOCAR Joint Operating Company of Absheron Petroleum B. V)
09.2019 - 06.2023
Site Lifting Specialist / Construction HSE
TOTAL E&P
05.2017 - 09.2019
Rigging Superintendent
ASCO International
07.2012 - 05.2017
Rigging Supervisor
Rigblast Engineering Company
09.2007 - 07.2012
High School Diploma -
Secondary School 211
04.2001 -
Bachelor - Metrology and Standardization
Azerbaijan State Technical University
04.2001 -
Diploma - Athletics trainer & sports psychologist
Baku College of Sports
04.2001 -