We, the undersigned, urge the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) to make their rigging hardware standards freely accessible to all. Rigging hardware plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of lifting operations across various industries, including construction, entertainment, manufacturing, and transportation. However, the current practice of restricting access to these standards behind costly paywalls limits the dissemination of crucial safety information, putting workers and projects at risk.

By offering the rigging hardware standards for free, ASME would facilitate widespread adoption and compliance, ultimately enhancing workplace safety and reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Accessible standards empower workers, engineers, and businesses to make informed decisions, choose the right equipment, and implement best practices without financial barriers.

Moreover, freely available standards promote innovation and collaboration within the industry by fostering a more inclusive environment where ideas and knowledge can be shared openly. This not only benefits individual organizations but also contributes to the overall advancement of rigging technologies and techniques.

In a world where safety should never be compromised, it is imperative that essential standards like those for rigging hardware are readily accessible to all stakeholders. We call upon ASME to demonstrate its commitment to safety and industry advancement by making these standards available for free, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for all.