ILLEGAL TO REPRODUCE without written ... - Crane Institute

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© 2016 Crane Institute of America, LLC. All rights reserved. ILLEGAL TO REPRODUCE without written permission.

1910.179(a) — Definitions applicable to this section

(1) A “crane” is a machine for lifting and lowering a load and moving it horizontally, with the hoisting mech-anism an integral part of the machine. Cranes wheth-er fixed or mobile are driven manually or by power.

(2) An “automatic crane” is a crane which when activated operates through a preset cycle or cycles.

(3) A “cab-operated crane” is a crane controlled by an operator in a cab located on the bridge or trolley.

(4) “Cantilever gantry crane” means a gantry or semi-gantry crane in which the bridge girders or trusses extend transversely beyond the crane runway on one or both sides.

(5) “Floor-operated crane” means a crane which is pendant or nonconductive rope controlled by an op-erator on the floor or an independent platform.

(6) “Gantry crane” means a crane similar to an overhead crane except that the bridge for carrying the trolley or trolleys is rigidly supported on two or more legs running on fixed rails or other runway.

(7) “Hot metal handling crane” means an overhead crane used for transporting or pouring molten material.

(8) “Overhead crane” means a crane with a movable bridge carrying a movable or fixed hoisting mechanism and traveling on an overhead fixed runway structure.

(9) “Power-operated crane” means a crane whose mechanism is driven by electric, air, hydraulic, or inter-nal combustion means.

(10) A “pulpit-operated crane” is a crane operated from a fixed operator station not attached to the crane.

(11) A “remote-operated crane” is a crane con-trolled by an operator not in a pulpit or in the cab at-tached to the crane, by any method other than pendant or rope control.

(12) A “semigantry crane” is a gantry crane with one end of the bridge rigidly supported on one or more legs that run on a fixed rail or runway, the other end of the bridge being supported by a truck running on an elevated rail or runway.

(13) “Storage bridge crane” means a gantry type crane of long span usually used for bulk storage of ma-terial; the bridge girders or trusses are rigidly or nonrig-idly supported on one or more legs. It may have one or more fixed or hinged cantilever ends.

(14) “Wall crane” means a crane having a jib with or without trolley and supported from a side wall or line of columns of a building. It is a traveling type and oper-ates on a runway attached to the side wall or columns.

(15) “Appointed” means assigned specific responsi-bilities by the employer or the employer’s representative.

(16) “ANSI” means the American National Stan-dards Institute.

(17) An “auxiliary hoist” is a supplemental hoist-ing unit of lighter capacity and usually higher speed than provided for the main hoist.

(18) A “brake” is a device used for retarding or stopping motion by friction or power means.

(19) A “drag brake” is a brake which provides re-tarding force without external control.

(20) A “holding brake” is a brake that automati-cally prevents motion when power is off.

(21) “Bridge” means that part of a crane consist-ing of girders, trucks, end ties, footwalks, and drive mechanism which carries the trolley or trolleys.

(22) “Bridge travel” means the crane movement in a direction parallel to the crane runway.

(23) A “bumper” [buffer] is an energy absorbing device for reducing impact when a moving crane or trolley reaches the end of its permitted travel; or when two moving cranes or trolleys come in contact.

(24) The “cab” is the operator’s compartment on a crane.

(25) “Clearance” means the distance from any part of the crane to a point of the nearest obstruction.

(26) “Collectors current” are contacting devices for collecting current from runway or bridge conductors.

(27) “Conductors, bridge” are the electrical con-ductors located along the bridge structure of a crane to provide power to the trolley.

(28) “Conductors, runway” [main] are the electri-cal conductors located along a crane runway to provide power to the crane.

OSHA 1910.179Overhead and Gantry Cranes

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(29) The “control braking means” is a method of controlling crane motor speed when in an overhauling condition.

(30) “Countertorque” means a method of control by which the power to the motor is reversed to develop torque in the opposite direction.

(31) “Dynamic” means a method of controlling crane motor speeds when in the overhauling condition to provide a retarding force.

(32) “Regenerative” means a form of dynamic braking in which the electrical energy generated is fed back into the power system.

(33) “Mechanical” means a method of control by friction.

(34) “Controller, spring return” means a control-ler which when released will return automatically to a neutral position.

(35) “Designated” means selected or assigned by the employer or the employer’s representative as being qualified to perform specific duties.

(36) A “drift point” means a point on a travel mo-tion controller which releases the brake while the mo-tor is not energized. This allows for coasting before the brake is set.

(37) The “drum” is the cylindrical member around which the ropes are wound for raising or lowering the load.

(38) An “equalizer” is a device which compensates for unequal length or stretch of a rope.

(39) “Exposed” means capable of being contacted inadvertently. Applied to hazardous objects not ade-quately guarded or isolated.

(40) “Fail-safe” means a provision designed to au-tomatically stop or safely control any motion in which a malfunction occurs.

(41) “Footwalk” means the walkway with handrail, attached to the bridge or trolley for access purposes.

(42) A “hoist” is an apparatus which may be a part of a crane, exerting a force for lifting or lowering.

(43) “Hoist chain” means the load bearing chain in a hoist. NOTE: Chain properties do not conform to those shown in ANSI B30.9-1971, Safety Code for Slings.

(44) “Hoist motion” means that motion of a crane which raises and lowers a load.

(45) “Load” means the total superimposed weight on the load block or hook.

1910.179(a) – Definitions... (cont’d) (46) The “load block” is the assembly of hook or shackle, swivel, bearing, sheaves, pins, and frame sus-pended by the hoisting rope.

(47) “Magnet” means an electromagnetic device carried on a crane hook to pick up loads magnetically.

(48) “Main hoist” means the hoist mechanism pro-vided for lifting the maximum rated load.

(49) A “man trolley” is a trolley having an opera-tor’s cab attached thereto.

(50) “Rated load” means the maximum load for which a crane or individual hoist is designed and built by the manufacturer and shown on the equipment nameplate(s).

(51) “Rope” refers to wire rope, unless otherwise specified.

(52) “Running sheave” means a sheave which ro-tates as the load block is raised or lowered.

(53) “Runway” means an assembly of rails, beams, girders, brackets, and framework on which the crane or trolley travels.

(54) “Side pull” means that portion of the hoist pull acting horizontally when the hoist lines are not oper-ated vertically.

(55) “Span” means the horizontal distance center to center of runway rails.

(56) “Standby crane” means a crane which is not in regular service but which is used occasionally or in-termittently as required.

(57) A “stop” is a device to limit travel of a trolley or crane bridge. This device normally is attached to a fixed structure and normally does not have energy ab-sorbing ability.

(58) A “switch” is a device for making, breaking, or for changing the connections in an electric circuit.

(59) An “emergency stop switch” is a manually or automatically operated electric switch to cut off electric power independently of the regular operating controls.

(60) A “limit switch” is a switch which is operated by some part or motion of a power-driven machine or equipment to alter the electric circuit associated with the machine or equipment.

(61) A “main switch” is a switch controlling the entire power supply to the crane.

(62) A “master switch” is a switch which domi-nates the operation of contactors, relays, or other re-motely operated devices.

(63) The “trolley” is the unit which travels on the bridge rails and carries the hoisting mechanism.

(64) “Trolley travel” means the trolley movement at right angles to the crane runway.

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(65) “Truck” means the unit consisting of a frame, wheels, bearings, and axles which supports the bridge girders or trolleys.

1910.179(b) — General requirements

(1) Application. This section applies to overhead and gantry cranes, including semigantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, and others having the same fundamental characteristics. These cranes are grouped because they all have trolleys and similar travel characteristics.

(2) New and existing equipment. All new overhead and gantry cranes constructed and installed on or after August 31, 1971, shall meet the design specifications of the American National Standard Safety Code for Over-head and Gantry Cranes, ANSI B30.2.0-1967, which is incorporated by reference as specified in Sec. 1910.6.

(3) Modifications. Cranes may be modified and re-rated provided such modifications and the supporting structure are checked thoroughly for the new rated load by a qualified engineer or the equipment manufacturer. The crane shall be tested in accordance with paragraph (k) (2) of this section. New rated load shall be displayed in accordance with subparagraph (5) of this paragraph.

(4) Wind indicators and rail clamps. Outdoor storage bridges shall be provided with automatic rail clamps. A wind-indicating device shall be provided which will give a visible or audible alarm to the bridge operator at a predetermined wind velocity. If the clamps act on the rail heads, any beads or weld flash on the rail heads shall be ground off.

(5) Rated load marking. The rated load of the crane shall be plainly marked on each side of the crane, and if the crane has more than one hoisting unit, each hoist shall have its rated load marked on it or its load block and this marking shall be clearly legible from the ground or floor.

(6) Clearance from obstruction. (i) Minimum clearance of 3 inches overhead and

2 inches laterally shall be provided and maintained be-tween crane and obstructions in conformity with Crane Manufacturers Association of America, Inc, Specifi-cation No. 61, which is incorporated by reference as specified in Sec. 1910.6, (formerly Electric Overhead Crane Institute, Inc).

1910.179(a) – Definitions... (cont’d) (ii) Where passageways or walkways are provid-ed obstructions shall not be placed so that safety of per-sonnel will be jeopardized by movements of the crane.

(7) Clearance between parallel cranes. If the run-ways of two cranes are parallel, and there are no inter-vening walls or structure, there shall be adequate clear-ance provided and maintained between the two bridges.

(8) Designated personnel. Only designated personnel shall be permitted to operate a crane covered by this section.

1910.179(c) — Cabs

(1) Cab location.(i) The general arrangement of the cab and the

location of control and protective equipment shall be such that all operating handles are within convenient reach of the operator when facing the area to be served by the load hook, or while facing the direction of travel of the cab. The arrangement shall allow the operator a full view of the load hook in all positions.

(ii) The cab shall be located to afford a mini-mum of 3 inches clearance from all fixed structures within its area of possible movement.

(2) Access to crane. Access to the cab and/or bridge walkway shall be by a conveniently placed fixed lad-der, stairs, or platform requiring no step over any gap exceeding 12 inches. Fixed ladders shall be in confor-mance with the American National Standard Safety Code for Fixed Ladders, ANSI A14.3-1956, which is incorporated by reference as specified in Sec. 1910.6.

(3) Fire extinguisher. Carbon tetrachloride extin-guishers shall not be used.

(4) Lighting. Light in the cab shall be sufficient to en-able the operator to see clearly enough to perform his work.

1910.179(d) — Footwalks and ladders

(1) Location of footwalks. (i) If sufficient headroom is available on cab-op-

erated cranes, a footwalk shall be provided on the drive side along the entire length of the bridge of all cranes having the trolley running on the top of the girders.

(ii) Where footwalks are located in no case shall less than 48 inches of headroom be provided.

(2) Construction of footwalks. (i) Footwalks shall be of rigid construction and

designed to sustain a distributed load of at least 50 pounds per square foot.

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(ii) Footwalks shall have a walking surface of antislip type.

NOTE: Wood will meet this requirement.(iii) [Reserved](iv) The inner edge shall extend at least to the

line of the outside edge of the lower cover plate or flange of the girder.

(3) Toeboards and handrails for footwalks. Toe-boards and handrails shall be in compliance with sec-tion 1910.23 of this part.

(4) Ladders and stairways. (i) Gantry cranes shall be provided with ladders

or stairways extending from the ground to the footwalk or cab platform.

(ii) Stairways shall be equipped with rigid and substantial metal handrails. Walking surfaces shall be of an antislip type.

(iii) Ladders shall be permanently and securely fastened in place and shall be constructed in compli-ance with 1910.27.

1910.179(e) — Stops, bumpers, rail sweeps, and guards

(1) Trolley stops.(i) Stops shall be provided at the limits of travel

of the trolley.(ii) Stops shall be fastened to resist forces ap-

plied when contacted.(iii) A stop engaging the tread of the wheel shall

be of a height at least equal to the radius of the wheel.(2) Bridge bumpers.

(i) A crane shall be provided with bumpers or other automatic means providing equivalent effect, un-less the crane travels at a slow rate of speed and has a faster deceleration rate due to the use of sleeve bear-ings, or is not operated near the ends of bridge and trol-ley travel, or is restricted to a limited distance by the nature of the crane operation and there is no hazard of striking any object in this limited distance, or is used in similar operating conditions. The bumpers shall be capable of stopping the crane (not including the lifted load) at an average rate of deceleration not to exceed 3 ft/s/s when traveling in either direction at 20 percent of the rated load speed.

(a) The bumpers shall have sufficient ener-gy absorbing capacity to stop the crane when traveling at a speed of at least 40 percent of rated load speed.

(b) The bumper shall be so mounted that there is no direct shear on bolts.

(ii) Bumpers shall be so designed and installed as to minimize parts falling from the crane in case of breakage.

(3) Trolley bumpers. (i) A trolley shall be provided with bumpers or

other automatic means of equivalent effect, unless the trolley travels at a slow rate of speed, or is not operated near the ends of bridge and trolley travel, or is restricted to a limited distance of the runway and there is no haz-ard of striking any object in this limited distance, or is used in similar operating conditions. The bumpers shall be capable of stopping the trolley (not including the lifted load) at an average rate of deceleration not to exceed 4.7 ft/s/s when traveling in either direction at one-third of the rated load speed.

(ii) When more than one trolley is operated on the same bridge, each shall be equipped with bumpers or equivalent on their adjacent ends.

(iii) Bumpers or equivalent shall be designed and installed to minimize parts falling from the trolley in case of age.

(4) Rail sweeps. Bridge trucks shall be equipped with sweeps which extend below the top of the rail and project in front of the truck wheels.

(5) Guards for hoisting ropes. (i) If hoisting ropes run near enough to other

parts to make fouling or chafing possible, guards shall be installed to prevent this condition.

(ii) A guard shall be provided to prevent contact between bridge conductors and hoisting ropes if they could come into contact.

(6) Guards for moving parts. (i) Exposed moving parts such as gears, set

screws, projecting keys, chains, chain sprockets, and reciprocating components which might constitute a hazard under normal operating conditions shall be guarded.

(ii) Guards shall be securely fastened. (iii) Each guard shall be capable of supporting

without permanent distortion the weight of a 200-pound person unless the guard is located where it is impos-sible for a person to step on it.

1910.179(d) – Footwalks... (cont’d)

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1910.179(f) — Brakes

(1) Brakes for hoists.(i) Each independent hoisting unit of a crane

shall be equipped with at least one self-setting brake, hereafter referred to as a holding brake, applied directly to the motor shaft or some part of the gear train.

(ii) Each independent hoisting unit of a crane, ex-cept worm-geared hoists, the angle of whose worm is such as to prevent the load from accelerating in the lowering direction shall, in addition to a holding brake, be equipped with control braking means to prevent overspeeding.

(2) Holding brakes.(i) Holding brakes for hoist motors shall have

not less than the following percentage of the full load hoisting torque at the point where the brake is applied.

(a) 125 percent when used with a control braking means other than mechanical.

(b) 100 percent when used in conjunction with a mechanical control braking means.

(c) 100 percent each if two holding brakes are provided.

(ii) Holding brakes on hoists shall have ample thermal capacity for the frequency of operation re-quired by the service.

(iii) Holding brakes on hoists shall be applied automatically when power is removed.

(iv) Where necessary holding brakes shall be provided with adjustment means to compensate for wear.

(v) The wearing surface of all holding-brake drums or discs shall be smooth.

(vi) Each independent hoisting unit of a crane handling hot metal and having power control brak-ing means shall be equipped with at least two holding brakes.

(3) Control braking means.(i) A power control braking means such as re-

generative, dynamic or countertorque braking, or a me-chanically controlled braking means shall be capable of maintaining safe lowering speeds of rated loads.

(ii) The control braking means shall have am-ple thermal capacity for the frequency of operation re-quired by service.

(4) Brakes for trolleys and bridges.(i) Foot-operated brakes shall not require an ap-

plied force of more than 70 pounds to develop manu-facturer’s rated brake torque.

(ii) Brakes may be applied by mechanical, elec-trical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or gravity means.

(iii) Where necessary brakes shall be provided with adjustment means to compensate for wear.

(iv) The wearing surface of all brake drums or discs shall be smooth.

(v) All foot-brake pedals shall be constructed so that the operator’s foot will not easily slip off the pedal.

(vi) Foot-operated brakes shall be equipped with automatic means for positive release when pres-sure is released from the pedal.

(vii) Brakes for stopping the motion of the trol-ley or bridge shall be of sufficient size to stop the trolley or bridge within a distance in feet equal to 10 percent of full load speed in feet per minute when traveling at full speed with full load.

(viii) If holding brakes are provided on the bridge or trolleys, they shall not prohibit the use of a drift point in the control circuit.

(ix) Brakes on trolleys and bridges shall have ample thermal capacity for the frequency of operation required by the service to prevent impairment of func-tions from overheating.

(5) Application of trolley brakes.(i) On cab-operated cranes with cab on trolley, a

trolley brake shall be required as specified under para-graph (f)(4) of this section.

(ii) A drag brake may be applied to hold the trol-ley in a desired position on the bridge and to eliminate creep with the power off.

(6) Application of bridge brakes.(i) On cab-operated cranes with cab on bridge,

a bridge brake is required as specified under paragraph (f)(4) of this section.

(ii) On cab-operated cranes with cab on trolley, a bridge brake of the holding type shall be required.

(iii) On all floor, remote and pulpit-operated crane bridge drives, a brake of noncoasting mechanical drive shall be provided.

1910.179(g) — Electric equipment

(1) General.(i) Wiring and equipment shall comply with

subpart S of this part.(ii) The control circuit voltage shall not exceed

600 volts for a.c. or d.c. current.

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(iii) The voltage at pendant push-buttons shall not exceed 150 volts for a.c. and 300 volts for d.c.

(iv) Where multiple conductor cable is used with a suspended pushbutton station, the station must be supported in some satisfactory manner that will pro-tect the electrical conductors against strain.

(v) Pendant control boxes shall be constructed to prevent electrical shock and shall be clearly marked for identification of functions.

(2) Equipment.(i) Electrical equipment shall be so located or

enclosed that live parts will not be exposed to acciden-tal contact under normal operating conditions.

(ii) Electric equipment shall be protected from dirt, grease, oil, and moisture.

(iii) Guards for live parts shall be substantial and so located that they cannot be accidently deformed so as to make contact with the live parts.

(3) Controllers.(i) Cranes not equipped with spring-return con-

trollers or momentary contact pushbuttons shall be pro-vided with a device which will disconnect all motors from the line on failure of power and will not permit any motor to be restarted until the controller handle is brought to the “off” position, or a reset switch or button is operated.

(ii) Lever operated controllers shall be provided with a notch or latch which in the “off” position pre-vents the handle from being inadvertently moved to the “on” position. An “off” detent or spring return arrange-ment is acceptable.

(iii) The controller operating handle shall be lo-cated within convenient reach of the operator.

(iv) As far as practicable, the movement of each controller handle shall be in the same general directions as the resultant movements of the load.

(v) The control for the bridge and trolley travel shall be so located that the operator can readily face the direction of travel.

(vi) For floor-operated cranes, the controller or controllers if rope operated, shall automatically return to the “off” position when released by the operator.

(vii) Pushbuttons in pendant stations shall re-turn to the “off” position when pressure is released by the crane operator.

(viii) Automatic cranes shall be so designed that all motions shall fail-safe if any malfunction of opera-tion occurs.

1910.179(g) – Electric Equip. (cont’d) (ix) Remote-operated cranes shall function so that if the control signal for any crane motion becomes ineffective the crane motion shall stop.

(4) Resistors.(i) Enclosures for resistors shall have openings

to provide adequate ventilation, and shall be installed to prevent the accumulation of combustible matter too near to hot parts.

(ii) Resistor units shall be supported so as to be as free as possible from vibration.

(iii) Provision shall be made to prevent broken parts or molten metal falling upon the operator or from the crane.

(5) Switches.(i) The power supply to the runway conductors

shall be controlled by a switch or circuit breaker located on a fixed structure, accessible from the floor, and ar-ranged to be locked in the open position.

(ii) On cab-operated cranes a switch or circuit breaker of the enclosed type, with provision for locking in the open position, shall be provided in the leads from the runway conductors. A means of opening this switch or circuit breaker shall be located within easy reach of the operator.

(iii) On floor-operated cranes, a switch or circuit breaker of the enclosed type, with provision for lock-ing in the open position, shall be provided in the leads from the runway conductors. This disconnect shall be mounted on the bridge or footwalk near the runway collectors. One of the following types of floor-operated disconnects shall be provided:

(a) Nonconductive rope attached to the main disconnect switch.

(b) An undervoltage trip for the main circuit breaker operated by an emergency stop button in the pendant pushbutton in the pendant pushbutton station.

(c) A main line contactor operated by a switch or pushbutton in the pendant pushbutton station.

(iv) The hoisting motion of all electric traveling cranes shall be provided with an overtravel limit switch in the hoisting direction.

(v) All cranes using a lifting magnet shall have a magnet circuit switch of the enclosed type with provi-sion for locking in the open position. Means for discharg-ing the inductive load of the magnet shall be provided.

(6) Runway conductors. Conductors of the open type mounted on the crane runway beams or overhead shall be so located or so guarded that persons entering or leaving the cab or crane footwalk normally could not come into contact with them.

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(7) Extension lamps. If a service receptacle is provided in the cab or on the bridge of cab-operated cranes, it shall be a grounded three-prong type perma-nent receptacle, not exceeding 300 volts.

1910.179(h) — Hoisting equipment

(1) Sheaves.(i) Sheave grooves shall be smooth and free

from surface defects which could cause rope damage.(ii) Sheaves carrying ropes which can be mo-

mentarily unloaded shall be provided with close-fitting guards or other suitable devices to guide the rope back into the groove when the load is applied again.

(iii) The sheaves in the bottom block shall be equipped with close-fitting guards that will prevent ropes from becoming fouled when the block is lying on the ground with ropes loose.

(iv) Pockets and flanges of sheaves used with hoist chains shall be of such dimensions that the chain does not catch or bind during operation.

(v) All running sheaves shall be equipped with means for lubrication. Permanently lubricated, sealed and/or shielded bearings meet this requirement.

(2) Ropes.(i) In using hoisting ropes, the crane manu-

facturer’s recommendation shall be followed. The rated load divided by the number of parts of rope shall not exceed 20 percent of the nominal breaking strength of the rope.

(ii) Socketing shall be done in the manner speci-fied by the manufacturer of the assembly.

(iii) Rope shall be secured to the drum as follows:(a) No less than two wraps of rope shall remain

on the drum when the hook is in its extreme low position.(b) Rope end shall be anchored by a clamp

securely attached to the drum, or by a socket arrange-ment approved by the crane or rope manufacturer.

(iv) Eye splices. [Reserved](v) Rope clips attached with U-bolts shall have

the U-bolts on the dead or short end of the rope. Spac-ing and number of all types of clips shall be in accor-dance with the clip manufacturer’s recommendation. Clips shall be drop-forged steel in all sizes manufac-tured commercially. When a newly installed rope has been in operation for an hour, all nuts on the clip bolts shall be retightened.

1910.179(g) – Electric Equip. (cont’d) (vi) Swaged or compressed fittings shall be ap-plied as recommended by the rope or crane manufacturer.

(vii) Wherever exposed to temperatures, at which fiber cores would be damaged, rope having an independent wire rope or wire-strand core, or other temperature-damage resistant core shall be used.

(viii) Replacement rope shall be the same size, grade, and construction as the original rope furnished by the crane manufacturer, unless otherwise recommended by a wire rope manufacturer due to actual working con-dition requirements.

(3) Equalizers. If a load is supported by more than one part of rope, the tension in the parts shall be equalized.

(4) Hooks. Hooks shall meet the manufacturer’s recommendations and shall not be overloaded.

1910.179(i) — Warning device

Except for floor-operated cranes a gong or other effec-tive warning signal shall be provided for each crane equipped with a power traveling mechanism.

1910.179(j) — Inspection

(1) Inspection classification.(i) Initial inspection. Prior to initial use all new

and altered cranes shall be inspected to insure compli-ance with the provisions of this section.

(ii) Inspection procedure for cranes in regular service is divided into two general classifications based upon the intervals at which inspection should be per-formed. The intervals in turn are dependent upon the nature of the critical components of the crane and the degree of their exposure to wear, deterioration, or mal-function. The two general classifications are herein des-ignated as “frequent” and “periodic” with respective in-tervals between inspections as defined below:

(a) Frequent inspection – Daily to monthly intervals.

(b) Periodic inspection – 1 to 12-month intervals.

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(2) Frequent inspection. The following items shall be inspected for defects at intervals as defined in para-graph (j)(1)(ii) of this section or as specifically indi-cated, including observation during operation for any defects which might appear between regular inspec-tions. All deficiencies such as listed shall be carefully examined and determination made as to whether they constitute a safety hazard:

(i) All functional operating mechanisms for maladjustment interfering with proper operation. Daily.

(ii) Deterioration or leakage in lines, tanks, valves, drain pumps, and other parts of air or hydraulic systems. Daily.

(iii) Hooks with deformation or cracks. Visual inspection daily; monthly inspection with a certifica-tion record which includes the date of inspection, the signature of the person who performed the inspection and the serial number, or other identifier, of the hook inspected. For hooks with cracks or having more than 15 percent in excess of normal throat opening or more than 10 degrees twist from the plane of the unbent hook refer to paragraph (l)(3)(iii)(a) of this section.

(iv) Hoist chains, including end connections, for excessive wear, twist, distorted links interfering with proper function, or stretch beyond manufacturer’s recommendations. Visual inspection daily; monthly inspection with a certification record which includes the date of inspection, the signature of the person who performed the inspection and an identifier of the chain which was inspected.

(v) [Reserved](vi) All functional operating mechanisms for

excessive wear of components.(vii) Rope reeving for noncompliance with

manufacturer’s recommendations.(3) Periodic inspection. Complete inspections of

the crane shall be performed at intervals as generally defined in paragraph (j)(1)(ii)(b) of this section, depend-ing upon its activity, severity of service, and environ-ment, or as specifically indicated below. These inspec-tions shall include the requirements of paragraph (j)(2) of this section and in addition, the following items. Any deficiencies such as listed shall be carefully examined and determination made as to whether they constitute a safety hazard:

(i) Deformed, cracked, or corroded members.(ii) Loose bolts or rivets.(iii) Cracked or worn sheaves and drums.

(iv) Worn, cracked or distorted parts such as pins, bearings, shafts, gears, rollers, locking and clamp-ing devices.

(v) Excessive wear on brake system parts, lin-ings, pawls, and ratchets.

(vi) Load, wind, and other indicators over their full range, for any significant inaccuracies.

(vii) Gasoline, diesel, electric, or other pow-erplants for improper performance or noncompliance with applicable safety requirements.

(viii) Excessive wear of chain drive sprockets and excessive chain stretch.

(ix) [Reserved] (x) Electrical apparatus, for signs of pitting or

any deterioration of controller contactors, limit switch-es and pushbutton stations.

(4) Cranes not in regular use. (i) A crane which has been idle for a period of 1

month or more, but less than 6 months, shall be given an inspection conforming with requirements of para-graph (j)(2) of this section and paragraph (m)(2) of this section before placing in service.

(ii) A crane which has been idle for a period of over 6 months shall be given a complete inspection conforming with requirements of paragraphs (j)(2) and (3) of this section and paragraph (m)(2) of this section before placing in service.

(iii) Standby cranes shall be inspected at least semi-annually in accordance with requirements of paragraph (j)(2) of this section and paragraph (m)(2) of this section.

1910.179(k) — Testing

(1) Operational tests. (i) Prior to initial use all new and altered cranes

shall be tested to insure compliance with this section including the following functions:

(a) Hoisting and lowering. (b) Trolley travel. (c) Bridge travel. (d) Limit switches, locking and safety devices. (ii) The trip setting of hoist limit switches shall

be determined by tests with an empty hook traveling in increasing speeds up to the maximum speed. The actu-ating mechanism of the limit switch shall be located so that it will trip the switch, under all conditions, in suffi-cient time to prevent contact of the hook or hook block with any part of the trolley.

1910.179(j) – Inspection (cont’d)

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(2) Rated load test. Test loads shall not be more than 125 percent of the rated load unless otherwise recommend-ed by the manufacturer. The test reports shall be placed on file where readily available to appointed personnel.

1910.179 (l) — Maintenance

(1) Preventive maintenance. A preventive mainte-nance program based on the crane manufacturer’s rec-ommendations shall be established.

(2) Maintenance procedure.(i) Before adjustments and repairs are started on

a crane the following precautions shall be taken:(a) The crane to be repaired shall be run to a

location where it will cause the least interference with other cranes and operations in the area.

(b) All controllers shall be at the off position.(c) The main or emergency switch shall be

open and locked in the open position.(d) Warning or “out of order” signs shall be

placed on the crane, also on the floor beneath or on the hook where visible from the floor.

(e) Where other cranes are in operation on the same runway, rail stops or other suitable means shall be provided to prevent interference with the idle crane.

(ii) After adjustments and repairs have been made the crane shall not be operated until all guards have been reinstalled, safety devices reactivated and maintenance equipment removed.

(3) Adjustments and repairs.(i) Any unsafe conditions disclosed by the in-

spection requirements of paragraph (j) of this section shall be corrected before operation of the crane is re-sumed. Adjustments and repairs shall be done only by designated personnel.

(ii) Adjustments shall be maintained to assure correct functioning of components. The following are examples:

(a) All functional operating mechanisms.(b) Limit switches. (c) Control systems.(d) Brakes. (e) Power plants.

(iii) Repairs or replacements shall be provided promptly as needed for safe operation. The following are examples:

1910.179(k) – Testing (cont’d) (a) Crane hooks showing defects described in paragraph (j)(2)(iii) of this section shall be discard-ed. Repairs by welding or reshaping are not generally recommended. If such repairs are attempted they shall only be done under competent supervision and the hook shall be tested to the load requirements of paragraph (k)(2) of this section before further use.

(b) Load attachment chains and rope slings showing defects described in paragraph (j)(2) (iv) and (v) of this section respectively.

(c) All critical parts which are cracked, bro-ken, bent, or excessively worn.

(d) Pendant control stations shall be kept clean and function labels kept legible.

1910.179(m) — Rope inspection

(1) Running ropes. A thorough inspection of all ropes shall be made at least once a month and a cer-tification record which includes the date of inspec-tion, the signature of the person who performed the inspection and an identifier for the ropes which were inspected shall be kept on file where readily available to appointed personnel. Any deterioration, resulting in appreciable loss of original strength, shall be carefully observed and determination made as to whether further use of the rope would constitute a safety hazard. Some of the conditions that could result in an appreciable loss of strength are the following:

(i) Reduction of rope diameter below nominal diameter due to loss of core support, internal or external corrosion, or wear of outside wires.

(ii) A number of broken outside wires and the de-gree of distribution or concentration of such broken wires.

(iii) Worn outside wires. (iv) Corroded or broken wires at end connections. (v) Corroded, cracked, bent, worn, or improp-

erly applied end connections. (vi) Severe kinking, crushing, cutting, or un-

stranding.

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(2) Other ropes. All rope which has been idle for a period of a month or more due to shutdown or stor-age of a crane on which it is installed shall be given a thorough inspection before it is used. This inspection shall be for all types of deterioration and shall be per-formed by an appointed person whose approval shall be required for further use of the rope. A certification record shall be available for inspection which includes the date of inspection, the signature of the person who performed the inspection and an identifier for the rope which was inspected.

1910.179(n) — Handling the load

(1) Size of load. The crane shall not be loaded be-yond its rated load except for test purposes as provided in paragraph (k) of this section.

(2) Attaching the load.(i) The hoist chain or hoist rope shall be free

from kinks or twists and shall not be wrapped around the load.

(ii) The load shall be attached to the load block hook by means of slings or other approved devices.

(iii) Care shall be taken to make certain that the sling clears all obstacles.

(3) Moving the load.(i) The load shall be well secured and properly

balanced in the sling or lifting device before it is lifted more than a few inches.

(ii) Before starting to hoist the following condi-tions shall be noted:

(a) Hoist rope shall not be kinked.(b) Multiple part lines shall not be twisted

around each other.(c) The hook shall be brought over the load

in such a manner as to prevent swinging.(iii) During hoisting care shall be taken that:

(a) There is no sudden acceleration or decel-eration of the moving load.

(b) The load does not contact any obstructions.(iv) Cranes shall not be used for side pulls ex-

cept when specifically authorized by a responsible per-son who has determined that the stability of the crane is not thereby endangered and that various parts of the crane will not be overstressed.

(v) While any employee is on the load or hook, there shall be no hoisting, lowering, or traveling.

(vi) The employer shall require that the operator avoid carrying loads over people.

(vii) The operator shall test the brakes each time a load approaching the rated load is handled. The brakes shall be tested by raising the load a few inches and applying the brakes.

(viii) The load shall not be lowered below the point where less than two full wraps of rope remain on the hoisting drum.

(ix) When two or more cranes are used to lift a load one qualified responsible person shall be in charge of the operation. He shall analyze the operation and in-struct all personnel involved in the proper positioning, rigging of the load, and the movements to be made.

(x) The employer shall ensure that the operator does not leave his position at the controls while the load is suspended.

(xi) When starting the bridge and when the load or hook approaches near or over personnel, the warning signal shall be sounded.

(4) Hoist limit switch.(i) At the beginning of each operator’s shift, the

upper limit switch of each hoist shall be tried out un-der no load. Extreme care shall be exercised; the block shall be “inched” into the limit or run in at slow speed. If the switch does not operate properly, the appointed person shall be immediately notified.

(ii) The hoist limit switch which controls the upper limit of travel of the load block shall never be used as an operating control.

1910.179(o) — Other requirements, gen-eral

(1) Ladders.(i) The employer shall ensure that hands are free

from encumbrances while personnel are using ladders.(ii) Articles which are too large to be carried in

pockets or belts shall be lifted and lowered by hand line.(2) Cabs.

(i) Necessary clothing and personal belongings shall be stored in such a manner as not to interfere with access or operation.

(ii) Tools, oil cans, waste, extra fuses, and other necessary articles shall be stored in the tool box, and shall not be permitted to lie loose in or about the cab.

(3) Fire extinguishers. The employer shall ensure that operators are familiar with the operation and care of fire extinguishers provided.

1910.179(m) – Rope inspection (cont’d)

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1910.184(a) – Scope

This section applies to slings used in conjunction with other material handling equipment for the movement of material by hoisting, in employments covered by this part. The types of slings covered are those made from alloy steel chain, wire rope, metal mesh, natural or synthetic fiber rope (conventional three strand construction), and synthetic web (nylon, polyester, and polypropylene).

1910.184(b) – Definitions

“Angle of loading” is the inclination of a leg or branch of a sling measured from the horizontal or vertical plane; provided that an angle of loading of five degrees or less from the vertical may be considered a vertical angle of loading.

“Basket hitch” is a sling configuration whereby the sling is passed under the load and has both ends, end attachments, eyes or handles on the hook or a single master link.

“Braided wire rope” in a wire rope formed by plaiting component wire ropes.

“Bridle wire rope sling” is a sling composed of multiple wire rope legs with the top ends gathered in a fitting that goes over the lifting hook.

“Cable laid endless sling-mechanical joint” is an endless wire rope sling made from one length of rope wrapped six times around a core formed by hand tucking the ends of the rope inside the six wraps.

“Cable laid rope” is a wire rope composed of six wire ropes wrapped around a fiber or wire rope core.

“Cable laid rope sling-mechanical joint” is a wire rope sling made from a cable laid rope with eyes fabricated by pressing or swaging one ore more metal sleeves over the rope junction.

“Choker hitch” is a sling configuration with one end of the sling passing under the load and through an end attachment handle or eve on the other end of the sling.

“Coating” is an elastomer or other suitable material applied to a sling or to a sling component to impart desirable properties.

“Cross rod” is a wire used to join spirals of metal mesh to form a complete fabric.

“Designated” means selected or assigned by the employer or the employer’s representative as being qualified to perform specific duties.

“Equivalent entity” is a person or organization (including an employer) which, by possession of equipment, technical knowledge and skills, can perform with equal competence the same repairs and tests as the person or organization with which it is equated.

“Fabric (metal mesh)” is the flexible portion of a metal mesh sling consisting of a series of transverse coils and cross rods.

“Female handle (choker)” is a handle with a handle eye and a slot of such dimension as to permit passage of a male handle thereby allowing the use of a metal mesh sling in a choker hitch.

“Handle” is a terminal fitting to which metal mesh fabric is attached.

“Handle eye” is an opening in a handle of a metal mesh sling shaped to accept a hook, shackle or other lifting device.

“Hitch” is a sling configuration whereby the sling is fastened to an object or load, either directly to it or around it.

“Link” is a single ring of a chain.“Male Handle (triangle)” is a handle with a handle

eye.“Master coupling link” is an alloy steel welded

coupling link used as an intermediate link to join alloy steel chain to master links.

“Master link” or “gathering ring” is a forged or welded steel link used to support all members (legs) of an alloy steel chain sling or wire rope sling.

“Mechanical coupling link” is a nonwelded, mechanical closed steel link used to attach master links, hooks, etc., to alloy steel chain.

“Proof load” is the load applied in performance of a proof test.

“Proof test” is a nondestructive tension test performed by the sling manufacturer or an equivalent entity to verify construction and workmanship of a sling.

OSHA 1910.184Slings

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“Rated capacity” or “working load limit” is the maximum working load permitted by the provisions of this section.

“Reach” is the effective length of an alloy steel chain sling measured from the top bearing surface of the upper terminal component to the bottom bearing surface of the lower terminal component.

“Selvage edge” is the finished edge of synthetic webbing designed to prevent unraveling.

“Sling” is an assembly which connects the load to the material handling equipment.

“Sling manufacturer” is a person or organization that assembles sling components into their final form for sale to users.

“Spiral” is a single transverse coil that is the basic element from which metal mesh is fabricated.

“Strand laid endless sling-mechanical joint” is a wire rope sling made endless from one length of rope with the ends joined by one or more metallic fittings.

“Strand laid grommet-hand tucked” is an endless wire rope sling made from one length of strand wrapped six times around a core formed by hand tucking the ends of the strand inside the six wraps.

“Strand laid rope” is a wire rope made with stands (usually six or eight) wrapped around fiber core, wire strand core, or independent wire rope core (IWRC).

“Vertical hitch” is a method of supporting a load by a single, vertical part of leg of the sling.

1910.184(c) – Safe operating practices

Whenever any sling is used, the following practices shall be observed:

(1) Slings that are damaged or defective shall not be used.

(2) Slings shall not be shortened with knots or bolts or other makeshift devices.

(3) Sling legs shall not be kinked.(4) Slings shall not be loaded in excess of their rated

capacities.(5) Slings used in a basket hitch shall have the loads

balanced to prevent slippage.(6) Slings shall be securely attached to their loads.(7) Slings shall be padded or protected from the

sharp edges of their loads.(8) Suspended loads shall be kept clear of all

obstructions.

(9) All employees shall be kept clear of loads about to be lifted and of suspended loads.

(10) Hands or fingers shall not be placed between the sling and its load while the sling is being tightened around the load.

(11) Shock loading is prohibited.(12) A sling shall not be pulled from under a load

when the load is resting on the sling.

1910.184(d) – Inspections

Each day before being used, the sling and all fasten-ings and attachments shall be inspected for damage or defects by a competent person designated by the em-ployer. Additional inspections shall be performed dur-ing sling use, where service conditions warrant. Dam-aged or defective slings shall be immediately removed from service.

1910.184(e) – Alloy steel chain slings

(1) Sling identification. Alloy steel chain slings shall have permanently affixed durable identification stating size, grade, rated capacity, and reach.

(2) Attachments.(i) Hooks, rings, oblong links, pear shaped

links, welded or mechanical coupling links or other at-tachments shall have a rated capacity at least equal to that of the alloy steel chain with which they are used or the sling shall not be used in excess of the rated capac-ity of the weakest component.

(ii) Makeshift links or fasteners formed from bolts or rods, or other such attachments, shall not be used.

(3) Inspections.(i) In addition to the inspection required by

paragraph (d) of this section, a thorough periodic in-spection of alloy steel chain slings in use shall be made on a regular basis, to be determined on the basis of (A) frequency of sling use; (B) severity of service condi-tions; (C) nature of lifts being made; and (D) experi-ence gained on the service life of slings used in similar circumstances. Such inspections shall in no event be at intervals greater than once every 12 months.

(ii) The employer shall make and maintain a re-cord of the most recent month in which each alloy steel chain sling was thoroughly inspected, and shall make such record available for examination.

1910.184(b) – Definitions (cont’d)

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M inimum allowab le chain size and maxi mumallowab le wear at any point of link.

Chain size ,inches

1/ 43 / 81/ 25 / 83 / 47 / 81

1 1/ 81 1/ 41 3 / 81 1/ 21 3 / 4

min allowab lechain size , inches

13 / 6419 / 6425 / 643 1/ 6419 / 3 24 5 / 6413 / 1629 / 3 2

11 3 / 3 21 3 / 161 13 / 3 2

max allowab lechain wear, inches

3 / 645 / 647 / 649 / 645 / 3 211/ 643 / 167 / 3 21/ 49 / 3 25 / 16

1 1/ 3 2

(iii) The thorough inspection of alloy steel chain slings shall be performed by a competent person designat-ed by the employer, and shall include a thorough inspec-tion for wear, defective welds, deformation and increase in length. Where such defects or deterioration are pres-ent, the sling shall be immediately removed from service.

(4) Proof testing. The employer shall ensure that before use, each new, repaired, or reconditioned alloy steel chain sling, including all welded components in the sling assembly, shall be proof tested by he sling manufacturer or equivalent entity, in accordance with paragraph 5.2 of the American Society of Testing and Materials Specification A391-65, which is incorporated by reference in Sec. 1910.6 (ANSI G61.1 – 1968). The employer shall retain a certificate of the proof test and shall make it available for examination.

(5) Sling use. Alloy steel chain slings shall not be used with loads in excess of the [manufacturer’s rated capacities]. Slings ... shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

(6) Safe operating temperatures. Alloy steel chain slings shall be permanently removed from service if they are heated above 1000 deg. F. When exposed to service temperatures in excess of 600 deg. F, maximum work-ing load limits ... shall be reduced in accordance with the chain or sling manufacturer’s recommendations.

(7) Repairing and reconditioning alloy steel chain slings.

(i) Worn or damaged alloy steel chain slings or attachments shall not be used until repaired. When welding or heat testing is performed, slings shall not be used unless repaired, reconditioned and proof tested by the sling manufacturer or an equivalent entity.

(ii) Mechanical coupling links or low carbon steel repair links shall not be used to repair broken lengths of chain.

(8) Effects of wear. If the chain size at any point of any link is less than that stated in [table below], the sling shall be removed from service.

(9) Deformed attachments.(i) Alloy steel chain slings with cracked or de-

formed master links, coupling links or other compo-nents shall be removed from service.

(ii) Slings shall be removed from service if hooks are cracked, have been opened more than 15 per-cent of the normal throat opening measured at the nar-rowest point or twisted more than 10 degrees from the plane of the unbent hook.

1910.184(f) — Wire rope slings

(1) Sling use. Wire rope slings shall not be used with loads in excess of the [manufacturer’s rated capac-ities]. Slings ... shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

(2) Minimum sling lengths.(i) Cable laid and 6 x 19 and 6 x 37 slings shall

have a minimum clear length of wire rope 10 times the component rope diameter between splices, sleeves or end fittings.

(ii) Braided slings shall have a minimum clear length of wire rope 40 times the component rope diam-eter between the loops or end fittings.

(iii) Cable laid grommets, strand laid grommets and endless slings shall have a minimum circumferen-tial length of 96 times their body diameter.

(3) Safe operating temperatures. Fiber core wire rope slings of all grades shall be permanently removed from service if they are exposed to temperatures in ex-cess of 200 deg. F. When nonfiber core wire rope slings of any grade are used at temperatures above 400 deg. F or below minus 60 deg. F, recommendations of the sling manufacturer regarding use at that temperature shall be followed.

(4) End attachments.(i) Welding of end attachments, except covers

to thimbles, shall be performed prior to the assembly of the sling.

(ii) All welded end attachments shall not be used unless proof tested by the manufacturer or equiva-lent entity at twice their rated capacity prior to initial use. The employer shall retain a certificate of the proof test, and make it available for examination.

1910.184(e) — Alloy steel chain (cont’d)

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(5) Removal from service. Wire rope slings shall be immediately removed from service if any of the follow-ing conditions are present:

(i) Ten randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay, or five broken wires in one strand in one rope lay.

(ii) Wear or scraping of one-third the original diameter of outside individual wires.

(iii) Kinking, crushing, bird caging or any other damage resulting in distortion of the wire rope structure.

(iv) Evidence of heat damage.(v) End attachments that are cracked, deformed

or worn.(vi) Hooks that have been opened more than 15

percent of the normal throat opening measured at the narrowest point or twisted more than 10 degrees from the plane of the unbent hook.

(vii) Corrosion of the rope or end attachments.

1910.184(g) — Metal mesh slings

(1) Sling marking. Each metal mesh sling shall have permanently affixed to it a durable marking that states the rated capacity for vertical basket hitch and choker hitch loadings.

(2) Handles. Handles shall have a rated capacity at least equal to the metal fabric and exhibit no deforma-tion after proof testing.

(3) Attachments of handles to fabric. The fabric and handles shall be joined so that:

(i) The rated capacity of the sling is not reduced.(ii) The load is evenly distributed across the

width of the fabric.(iii) Sharp edges will not damage the fabric.

(4) Sling coatings. Coatings which diminish the rated capacity of a sling shall not be applied.

(5) Sling testing. All new and repaired metal mesh slings, including handles, shall not be used unless proof tested by the manufacturer or equivalent entity at a minimum of 1 1/2 times their rated capacity. Elastomer impregnated slings shall be proof tested before coating.

(6) Proper use of metal mesh slings. Metal mesh slings shall not be used to lift loads in excess of their rated capacities as prescribed [by the manufacturer]. Slings not included in this table shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

(7) Safe operating temperatures. Metal mesh slings which are not impregnated with elastomers may be used in a temperature range from minus 20 deg. F to plus 550 deg. F without decreasing the working load limit. Metal mesh slings impregnated with polyvinyl chloride or neoprene may be used only in a temperature range from zero degrees to plus 200 deg. F. For op-erations outside these temperature ranges or for metal mesh slings impregnated with other materials, the sling manufacturer’s recommendations shall be followed.

(8) Repairs.(i) Metal mesh slings which are repaired shall

not be used unless repaired by a metal mesh sling man-ufacturer or an equivalent entity.

(ii) Once repaired, each sling shall be perma-nently marked or tagged, or a written record main-tained, to indicate the date and nature of the repairs and the person or organization that performed the repairs. Records of repairs shall be made available for examina-tion.

(9) Removal from service. Metal mesh slings shall be immediately removed from service if any of the fol-lowing conditions are present:

(i) A broken weld or broken brazed joint along the sling edge.

(ii) Reduction in wire diameter of 25 percent due to abrasion or 15 percent due to corrosion.

(iii) Lack of flexibility due to distortion of the fabric.

(iv) Distortion of the female handle so that the depth of the slot is increased more than 10 percent.

(v) Distortion of either handle so that the width of the eye is decreased more than 10 per cent.

(vi) A 15 percent reduction of the original cross sectional area of metal at any point around the handle eye.

(vii) Distortion of either handle out of its plane.

1910.184(h) — Natural and synthetic fi-ber rope slings

(1) Sling use.(i) Fiber rope slings made from conventional

three strand construction fiber rope shall not be used with loads in excess of the [manufacturer’s rated capacities].

(ii) Fiber rope slings shall have a diameter of curvature meeting at least the minimums specified in Figures N-184-4 and N-185-5 [not shown; see “Contact Surface Requirements for Slings” at right].

1910.184(f) — Wire rope slings (cont’d)

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(iii) Slings ... shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

(2) Safe operating temperatures. Natural and syn-thetic fiber rope slings, except for wet frozen slings, may be used in a temperature range from minus 20 deg. F to plus 180 deg. F without decreasing the working load limit. For operations outside this temperature range and for wet frozen slings, the sling manufacturer’s recom-mendations shall be followed.

(3) Splicing. Spliced fiber rope slings shall not be used unless they have been spliced in accordance with the following minimum requirements and in ac-cordance with any additional recommendations of the manufacturer:

(i) In manila rope, eye splices shall consist of at least three full tucks, and short splices shall consist of at least six full tucks, three on each side of the splice center line.

(ii) In synthetic fiber rope, eye splices shall con-sist of at least four full tucks, and short splices shall consist of at least eight full tucks, four on each side of the center line.

(iii) Strand end tails shall not be trimmed flush with the surface of the rope immediately adjacent to the full tucks. This applies to all types of fiber rope and both eye and short splices. For fiber rope under one inch in diameter, the tail shall project at least six rope diameters beyond the last full tuck. For fiber rope one inch in diameter and larger, the tail shall project at least six inches beyond the last full tuck. Where a projecting tail interferes with the use of the sling, the tail shall be tapered and spliced into the body of the rope using at least two additional tucks (which will require a tail length of approximately six rope diameters beyond the last full tuck).

(iv) Fiber rope slings shall have a minimum clear length of rope between eye splices equal to 10 times the rope diameter.

(v) Knots shall not be used in lieu of splices.(vi) Clamps not designed specifically for fiber

ropes shall not be used for splicing.(vii) For all eye splices, the eye shall be of such

size to provide an included angle of not greater than 60 degrees at the splice when the eye is placed over the load or support.

(4) End attachments. Fiber rope slings shall not be used if end attachments in contact with the rope have sharp edges or projections.

1910.184(h) — Natural and syn. (cont’d) (5) Removal from service. Natural and synthetic fiber rope slings shall be immediately removed from service if any of the following conditions are present:

(i) Abnormal wear.(ii) Powdered fiber between strands.(iii) Broken or cut fibers.(iv) Variations in the size or roundness of

strands.(v) Discoloration or rotting.(vi) Distortion of hardware in the sling.

(6) Repairs. Only fiber rope slings made from new rope shall be used. Use of repaired or reconditioned fi-ber rope slings is prohibited.

1910.184(i) — Synthetic web slings

(1) Sling identification. Each sling shall be marked or coded to show the rated capacities for each type of hitch and type of synthetic web material.

(2) Webbing. Synthetic webbing shall be of uniform thickness and width and selvage edges shall not be split from the webbing’s width.

(3) Fittings. Fittings shall be:(i) Of a minimum breaking strength equal to

that of the sling; and(ii) Free of all sharp edges that could in any way

damage the webbing.(4) Attachment of end fittings to webbing and for-

mation of eyes. Stitching shall be the only method used to attach end fittings to webbing and to form eyes. The thread shall be in an even pattern and contain a suf-ficient number of stitches to develop the full breaking strength of the sling.

(5) Sling use. Synthetic web slings ... shall not be used with loads in excess of the [manufacturer’s rated capacities]. Slings ... shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

(6) Environmental conditions. When synthetic web slings are used, the following precautions shall be taken:

(i) Nylon web slings shall not be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists or liquids of acids or phe-nolics are present.

(ii) Polyester and polypropylene web slings shall not be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists or liquids of caustics are present.

(iii) Web slings with aluminum fittings shall not be used where fumes, vapors, sprays, mists or liquids of caustics are present.

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(7) Safe operating temperatures. Synthetic web slings of polyester and nylon shall not be used at tem-peratures in excess of 180 deg. F. Polypropylene web slings shall not be used at temperatures in excess of 200 deg. F.

(8) Repairs.(i) Synthetic web slings which are repaired shall

not be used unless repaired by a sling manufacturer or an equivalent entity.

(ii) Each repaired sling shall be proof tested by the manufacturer or equivalent entity to twice the rated capacity prior to its return to service. The employer shall retain a certificate of the proof test and make it available for examination.

(iii) Slings, including webbing and fittings, which have been repaired in a temporary manner shall not be used.

(9) Removal from service. Synthetic web slings shall be immediately removed from service if any of the following conditions are present:

(i) Acid or caustic burns;(ii) Melting or charring of any part of the sling

surface;(iii) Snags, punctures, tears or cuts;(iv) Broken or worn stitches; or(v) Distortion of fittings.

1910.184(i) — Synthetic web (cont’d)

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1926.1400 — Scope

(a) This standard applies to power-operated equip-ment, when used in construction, that can hoist, lower and horizontally move a suspended load. Such equipment includes, but is not limited to: articulating cranes (such as knuckle-boom cranes); crawler cranes; floating cranes; cranes on barges; locomotive cranes; mobile cranes (such as wheel mounted, rough-terrain, all-terrain, commercial truck-mounted, and boom truck cranes); multi-purpose machines when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load; industrial cranes (such as carry-deck cranes); dedi-cated pile drivers; service/ mechanic trucks with a hoisting device; a crane on a monorail; tower cranes (such as a fixed jib, i.e., “hammerhead boom”), luffing boom and self-erecting); pedestal cranes; portal cranes; overhead and gantry cranes; straddle cranes; sideboom cranes; derricks; and variations of such equipment. However, items listed in paragraph (c) of this section are excluded from the scope of this standard.

(b) Attachments. This standard applies to equipment included in paragraph (a) of this section when used with attachments. Such attachments, whether crane-attached or suspended include, but are not limited to: hooks, mag-nets, grapples, clamshell buckets, orange peel buckets, concrete buckets, drag lines, personnel platforms, augers or drills and pile driving equipment.

(c) Exclusions. This subpart does not cover:(1) Machinery included in paragraph (a) of this

section while it has been converted or adapted for a non-hoisting/lifting use. Such conversions/adaptations include, but are not limited to, power shovels, excavators and concrete pumps.

(2) Power shovels, excavators, wheel loaders, backhoes, loader backhoes, track loaders. This machinery is also excluded when used with chains, slings or other rigging to lift suspended loads.

(3) Automotive wreckers and tow trucks when used to clear wrecks and haul vehicles.

OSHA 1926 Subpart CCCranes and Derricks

(4) Digger derricks when used for augering holes for poles carrying electric or telecommunication lines, placing and removing the poles, and for handling as-sociated materials for installation on, or removal from, the poles, or when used for any other work subject to subpart V of this part. To be eligible for this exclusion, digger derrick use in work subject to subpart V of this part must comply with all of the provisions of that subpart, and digger derrick use in construction work for telecom-munication service (as defined at Sec. 1910.268(s)(40)) must comply with all of the provisions of Sec. 1910.268.

(5) Machinery originally designed as vehicle-mounted aerial devices (for lifting personnel) and self-propelled elevating work platforms.

(6) Telescopic/hydraulic gantry systems. (7) Stacker cranes. (8) Powered industrial trucks (forklifts), except

when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load.

(9) Mechanic’s truck with a hoisting device when used in activities related to equipment maintenance and repair.

(10) Machinery that hoists by using a come-a-long or chainfall.

(11) Dedicated drilling rigs. (12) Gin poles when used for the erection of com-

munication towers. (13) Tree trimming and tree removal work. (14) Anchor handling or dredge-related operations

with a vessel or barge using an affixed A-frame. (15) Roustabouts. (16) Helicopter cranes. (17) Material Delivery (i) Articulating/knuckle-boom truck cranes that

deliver material to a construction site when used to transfer materials from the truck crane to the ground, without arranging the materials in a particular sequence for hoisting.

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(ii) Articulating/knuckle-boom truck cranes that deliver material to a construction site when the crane is used to transfer building supply sheet goods or building supply packaged materials from the truck crane onto a structure, using a fork/cradle at the end of the boom, but only when the truck crane is equipped with a properly functioning automatic overload prevention device. Such sheet goods or packaged materials include, but are not limited to: sheets of sheet rock, sheets of plywood, bags of cement, sheets or packages of roofing shingles, and rolls of roofing felt.

(iii) This exclusion does not apply when:(A) The articulating/knuckle-boom crane

is used to hold, support or stabilize the material to fa-cilitate a construction activity, such as holding material in place while it is attached to the structure;

(B) The material being handled by the articulating/knuckle-boom crane is a prefabricated component. Such prefabricated components include, but are not limited to: precast concrete members or panels, roof trusses (wooden, cold-formed metal, steel, or other material), prefabricated building sections such as, but not limited to: floor panels, wall panels, roof panels, roof structures, or similar items;

(C) The material being handled by the crane is a structural steel member (for example, steel joists, beams, columns, steel decking (bundled or unbundled) or a component of a systems-engineered metal building (as defined in 29 CFR 1926 subpart R).

1926.1400 – Scope (cont’d) (D) The activity is not specifically ex-cluded under §1400(c)(17)(i) and (ii).

(d) All sections of this subpart CC apply to the equipment covered by this standard unless specified otherwise.

(e) The duties of controlling entities under this sub-part include, but are not limited to, the duties specified in § 1926.1402(c), § 1926.1402(e) and § 1926.1424(b).

(f) Where provisions of this standard direct an op-erator, crew member, or other employee to take certain actions, the employer must establish, effectively com-municate to the relevant persons, and enforce, work rules to ensure compliance with such provisions.

(g) For work covered by subpart V of this part, compliance with 29 CFR § 1910.269(p) is deemed compliance with §§ 1926.1407 through 1926.1411.

(h) Section 1926.1402 does not apply to cranes de-signed for use on railroad tracks, when used on railroad tracks that are part of the general railroad system of transportation that is regulated pursuant to the Federal Railroad Administration under 49 CFR part 213, and that comply with applicable Federal Railroad Admin-istration requirements. See § 1926.1402(f).

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OSHA 1926 Subpart CCAssembly/Disassembly

1926.1403 — Assembly/Disassembly – selection of manufacturer or employer procedures

When assembling or disassembling equipment (or at-tachments), the employer must comply with all appli-cable manufacturer prohibitions and must comply with either:

(a) Manufacturer procedures applicable to as-sembly and disassembly, or

(b) Employer procedures for assembly and disassembly. Employer procedures may be used only where the employer can demonstrate that the proce-dures used meet the requirements in § 1926.1406. NOTE: The employer must follow manufacturer pro-cedures when an employer uses synthetic slings during assembly or disassembly rigging. (See § 1926.1404(r).)

1926.1404 — Assembly/Disassembly - General Requirements (applies to all as-sembly and disassembly operations)

(a) Supervision – competent-qualified person.(1) Assembly/disassembly must be directed by

a person who meets the criteria for both a competent person and a qualified person, or by a competent person who is assisted by one or more qualified persons (“A/D director”).

(2) Where the assembly/disassembly is being performed by only one person, that person must meet the criteria for both a competent person and a quali-fied person. For purposes of this standard, that person is considered the A/D director.

(b) Knowledge of procedures. The A/D director must understand the applicable assembly/disassembly procedures.

(c) Review of procedures. The A/D director must re-view the applicable assembly/disassembly procedures immediately prior to the commencement of assembly/disassembly unless the A/D director understands the pro-cedures and has applied them to the same type and con-figuration of equipment (including accessories, if any).

(d) Crew instructions.(1) Before commencing assembly/disassembly

operations, the A/D director must ensure that the crew members understand all of the following:

(i) Their tasks.(ii) The hazards associated with their tasks.(iii) The hazardous positions/locations that

they need to avoid.(2) During assembly/disassembly operations,

before a crew member takes on a different task, or when adding new personnel during the operations, the requirements in paragraphs (d)(1)(i) through

(d)(1)(iii) of this section must be met.(e) Protecting assembly/disassembly crew members

out of operator view.(1) Before a crew member goes to a location

that is out of view of the operator and is either in, on, or under the equipment, or near the equipment (or load) where the crew member could be injured by movement of the equipment (or load), the crew member must in-form the operator that he/she is going to that location.

(2) Where the operator knows that a crew member went to a location covered by paragraph (e)(1) of this section, the operator must not move any part of the equipment (or load) until the operator is informed in accordance with a prearranged system of communication that the crew member is in a safe position.

(f) Working under the boom, jib or other components.(1) When pins (or similar devices) are being

removed, employees must not be under the boom, jib, or other components, except where the requirements of paragraph (f)(2) of this section are met.

(2) Exception. Where the employer demon-strates that site constraints require one or more em-ployees to be under the boom, jib, or other components when pins (or similar devices) are being removed, the A/D director must implement procedures that mini-mize the risk of unintended dangerous movement and minimize the duration and extent of exposure under the boom. (See Non-mandatory Appendix B of this subpart for an example.)

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1926.1404 — General reqs (cont’d)

(g) Capacity limits. During all phases of assembly/disassembly, rated capacity limits for loads imposed on the equipment, equipment components (including rigging), lifting lugs and equipment accessories, must not be ex-ceeded for the equipment being assembled/disassembled. (h) Addressing specific hazards. The A/D direc-tor supervising the assembly/disassembly operation must address the hazards associated with the operation, which include: (1) Site and ground bearing conditions. Site and ground conditions must be adequate for safe assembly/disassembly operations and to support the equipment during assembly/disassembly (see § 1926.1402 for ground condition requirements).

(2) Blocking material. The size, amount, condi-tion and method of stacking the blocking must be suf-ficient to sustain the loads and maintain stability.

(3) Proper location of blocking. When used to support lattice booms or components, blocking must be appropriately placed to:

(i) Protect the structural integrity of the equipment, and

(ii) Prevent dangerous movement and collapse.

(4) Verifying assist crane loads. When using an assist crane, the loads that will be imposed on the assist crane at each phase of assembly/disassembly must be verified in accordance with § 1926.1417(o)(3) before assembly/disassembly begins.

(5) Boom and jib pick points. The point(s) of at-tachment of rigging to a boom (or boom sections or jib or jib sections) must be suitable for preventing structural dam-age and facilitating safe handling of these components.

(6) Center of gravity. (i) The center of gravity of the load must be identified if that is necessary for the method used for maintaining stability. (ii) Where there is insufficient information to accurately identify the center of gravity, measures designed to prevent unintended dangerous movement resulting from an inaccurate identification of the center of gravity must be used. (See Non-mandatory Appen-dix B of this subpart for an example.) (7) Stability upon pin removal. The boom sec-tions, boom suspension systems (such as gantry A-frames and jib struts), and components must be rigged or supported to maintain stability upon the removal of the pins.

(8) Snagging. Suspension ropes and pendants must not be allowed to catch on the boom or jib connec-tion pins or cotter pins (including keepers and locking pins).

(9) Struck by counterweights. The potential for unintended movement from inadequately supported counterweights and from hoisting counterweights.

(10) Boom hoist brake failure. Each time reli-ance is to be placed on the boom hoist brake to pre-vent boom movement during assembly/disassembly, the brake must be tested prior to such reliance to de-termine if it is sufficient to prevent boom movement. If it is not sufficient, a boom hoist pawl, other locking device/back-up braking device, or another method of preventing dangerous movement of the boom (such as blocking or using an assist crane) from a boom hoist brake failure must be used.

(11) Loss of backward stability. Backward sta-bility before swinging the upperworks, travel, and when attaching or removing equipment components.

(12) Wind speed and weather. The effect of wind speed and weather on the equipment.

(i) [Reserved.](j) Cantilevered boom sections. Manufacturer lim-

itations on the maximum amount of boom supported only by cantilevering must not be exceeded. Where these are unavailable, a registered professional engi-neer familiar with the type of equipment involved must determine in writing this limitation, which must not be exceeded. (k) Weight of components. The weight of each of the components must be readily available. (l) [Reserved.] (m) Components and configuration. (1) The selection of components, and configura-tion of the equipment, that affect the capacity or safe operation of the equipment must be in accordance with: (i) Manufacturer instructions, prohibitions, limitations, and specifications. Where these are unavail-able, a registered professional engineer familiar with the type of equipment involved must approve, in writ-ing, the selection and configuration of components; or (ii) Approved modifications that meet the requirements of § 1926.1434 (Equipment modifications). (2) Post-assembly inspection. Upon completion of assembly, the equipment must be inspected to ensure compliance with paragraph (m)(1) of this section (see § 1926.1412(c) for post-assembly inspection requirements).

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1926.1404 — General reqs (cont’d)

(n) [Reserved.] (o) Shipping pins. Reusable shipping pins, straps, links, and similar equipment must be removed. Once they are removed they must either be stowed or other-wise stored so that they do not present a falling object hazard.

(p) Pile driving. Equipment used for pile driving must not have a jib attached during pile driving operations. (q) Outriggers and Stabilizers. When the load to be handled and the operating radius require the use of outriggers or stabilizers, or at any time when outrig-gers or stabilizers are used, all of the following require-ments must be met (except as otherwise indicated): (1) The outriggers or stabilizers must be either fully extended or, if manufacturer procedures permit, deployed as specified in the load chart. (2) The outriggers must be set to remove the equipment weight from the wheels, except for loco-motive cranes (see paragraph (q)(6) of this section for use of outriggers on locomotive cranes). This provision does not apply to stabilizers. (3) When outrigger floats are used, they must be attached to the outriggers. When stabilizer floats are used, they must be attached to the stabilizers. (4) Each outrigger or stabilizer must be visible to the operator or to a signal person during extension and setting. (5) Outrigger and stabilizer blocking must: (i) Meet the requirements in paragraphs (h)(2) and (h)(3) of this section. (ii) Be placed only under the outrigger or stabilizer float/pad of the jack or, where the outrigger or stabilizer is designed without a jack, under the outer bearing surface of the extended outrigger or stabilizer beam. (6) For locomotive cranes, when using outrig-gers or stabilizers to handle loads, the manufacturer’s procedures must be followed. When lifting loads with-out using outriggers or stabilizers, the manufacturer’s procedures must be met regarding truck wedges or screws. (r) Rigging. In addition to following the require-ments in 29 CFR 1926.251 and other requirements in this and other standards applicable to rigging, when rigging is used for assembly/disassembly, the employer must ensure that: (1) The rigging work is done by a qualified rigger.

(2) Synthetic slings are protected from: abra-sive, sharp or acute edges, and configurations that could cause a reduction of the sling’s rated capacity, such as distortion or localized compression. NOTE: Require-ments for the protection of wire rope slings are con-tained in 29 CFR 1926.251(c)(9). (3) When synthetic slings are used, the syn-thetic sling manufacturer’s instructions, limitations, specifications and recommendations must be followed.

1926.1405 — Disassembly – additional requirements for dismantling of booms and jibs (applies to both the use of man-ufacturer procedures and employer pro-cedures)

Dismantling (including dismantling for changing the length of) booms and jibs. (a) None of the pins in the pendants are to be re-moved (partly or completely) when the pendants are in tension. (b) None of the pins (top or bottom) on boom sec-tions located between the pendant attachment points and the crane/derrick body are to be removed (partly or completely) when the pendants are in tension. (c) None of the pins (top or bottom) on boom sec-tions located between the uppermost boom section and the crane/derrick body are to be removed (partly or completely) when the boom is being supported by the uppermost boom section resting on the ground (or other support). (d) None of the top pins on boom sections located on the cantilevered portion of the boom being removed (the portion being removed ahead of the pendant attach-ment points) are to be removed (partly or completely) until the cantilevered section to be removed is fully supported.

1926.1406 — Assembly/Disassembly - employer procedures - general requirements

(a) When using employer procedures instead of manufacturer procedures for assembly/disassembly, the employer must ensure that the procedures: (1) Prevent unintended dangerous movement, and prevent collapse, of any part of the equipment.

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1926.1405 — Additional reqs...(cont’d)

(2) Provide adequate support and stability of all parts of the equipment.

(3) Position employees involved in the assem-bly/disassembly operation so that their exposure to unintended movement or collapse of part or all of the equipment is minimized.

(b) Qualified person. Employer procedures must be developed by a qualified person.

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OSHA 1926.1413Wire Rope Inspection

1926.1413 — Wire Rope - Inspection

(a) Shift inspection.(1) A competent person must begin a visual in-

spection prior to each shift the equipment is used, which must be completed before or during that shift. The in-spection must consist of observation of wire ropes (run-ning and standing) that are likely to be in use during the shift for apparent deficiencies, including those listed in paragraph (a)(2) of this section. Untwisting (opening) of wire rope or booming down is not required as part of this inspection.

(2) Apparent deficiencies.(i) Category I. Apparent deficiencies in this

category include the following:(A) Significant distortion of the wire

rope structure such as kinking, crushing, unstranding, birdcaging, signs of core failure or steel core protrusion between the outer strands.

(B) Significant corrosion.(C) Electric arc damage (from a source

other than power lines) or heat damage.(D) Improperly applied end connections.(E) Significantly corroded, cracked, bent,

or worn end connections (such as from severe service).(ii) Category II. Apparent deficiencies in

this category are:(A) Visible broken wires, as follows:

(1) In running wire ropes: six ran-domly distributed broken wires in one rope lay or three broken wires in one strand in one rope lay, where a rope lay is the length along the rope in which one strand makes a complete revolution around the rope.

(2) In rotation resistant ropes: two randomly distributed broken wires in six rope diam-eters or four randomly distributed broken wires in 30 rope diameters.

(3) In pendants or standing wire ropes: more than two broken wires in one rope lay locat-ed in rope beyond end connections and/or more than one broken wire in a rope lay located at an end connection.

(B) A diameter reduction of more than 5% from nominal diameter.

(iii) Category III. Apparent deficiencies in this category include the following:

(A) In rotation resistant wire rope, core protrusion or other distortion indicating core failure.

(B) Prior electrical contact with a power line.

(C) A broken strand.(3) Critical review items. The competent person

must give particular attention to all of the following: (i) Rotation resistant wire rope in use. (ii) Wire rope being used for boom hoists and luffing hoists, particularly at reverse bends. (iii) Wire rope at flange points, crossover points and repetitive pickup points on drums. (iv) Wire rope at or near terminal ends. (v) Wire rope in contact with saddles, equal-izer sheaves or other sheaves where rope travel is limited. (4) Removal from service. (i) If a deficiency in Category I (see para-graph (a)(2)(i) of this section) is identified, an imme-diate determination must be made by the competent person as to whether the deficiency constitutes a safety hazard. If the deficiency is determined to constitute a safety hazard, operations involving use of the wire rope in question must be prohibited until: (A) The wire rope is replaced (see § 1926.1417), or (B) If the deficiency is localized, the problem is corrected by severing the wire rope in two; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Join-ing lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this paragraph, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position. (ii) If a deficiency in Category II (see para-graph (a)(2)(ii) of this section) is identified, operations involving use of the wire rope in question must be pro-hibited until: (A) The employer complies with the wire rope manufacturer’s established criterion for re-moval from service or a different criterion that the wire rope manufacturer has approved in writing for that spe-cific wire rope (see § 1926.1417),

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(B) The wire rope is replaced (see § 1926.1417), or

(C) If the deficiency is localized, the problem is corrected by severing the wire rope in two; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Join-ing lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this paragraph, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position.

(iii) If a deficiency in Category III is identi-fied, operations involving use of the wire rope in ques-tion must be prohibited until:

(A) The wire rope is replaced (see § 1926.1417), or

(B) If the deficiency (other than power line contact) is localized, the problem is corrected by severing the wire rope in two; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Joining lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. Repair of wire rope that con-tacted an energized power line is also prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this paragraph, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position.

(iv) Where a wire rope is required to be removed from service under this section, either the equipment (as a whole) or the hoist with that wire rope must be tagged-out, in accordance with § 1926.1417(f)(1), until the wire rope is repaired or replaced.

(b) Monthly inspection.(1) Each month an inspection must be conduct-

ed in accordance with paragraph (a) (shift inspection) of this section.

(2) The inspection must include any deficien-cies that the qualified person who conducts the annual inspection determines under paragraph (c)(3)(ii) of this section must be monitored.

(3) Wire ropes on equipment must not be used until an inspection under this paragraph demonstrates that no corrective action under paragraph (a)(4) of this section is required.

(4) The inspection must be documented according to § 1926.1412(e)(3) (monthly inspection documentation).

(c) Annual/comprehensive.(1) At least every 12 months, wire ropes in use

on equipment must be inspected by a qualified person in accordance with paragraph (a) of this section (shift inspection).

1926.1413 — Wire Rope - Insp. (cont’d) (2) In addition, at least every 12 months, the wire ropes in use on equipment must be inspected by a qualified person, as follows:

(i) The inspection must be for deficiencies of the types listed in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

(ii) The inspection must be complete and thorough, covering the surface of the entire length of the wire ropes, with particular attention given to all of the following:

(A) Critical review items listed in para-graph (a)(3) of this section.

(B) Those sections that are normally hidden during shift and monthly inspections of disassembly.

(3) If a deficiency is identified, an immediate determination must be made by the qualified person as to whether the deficiency constitutes a safety hazard.

(i) If the deficiency is determined to con-stitute a safety hazard, operations involving use of the wire rope in question must be prohibited until:

(A) The wire rope is replaced (see § 1926.1417), or

(B) If the deficiency is localized, the problem is corrected by severing the wire rope in two; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Join-ing lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this paragraph, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position.

(ii) If the qualified person determines that, though not presently a safety hazard, the deficiency needs to be monitored, the employer must ensure that the deficiency is checked in the monthly inspections.

(4) The inspection must be documented accord-ing to § 1926.1412(f)(7) (annual/comprehensive in-spection documentation). (d) Rope lubricants that are of the type that hinder inspection must not be used. (e) All documents produced under this section must be available, during the applicable document retention period, to all persons who conduct inspections under this section.

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1926.1419 — Signals - General Requirements

(a) A signal person must be provided in each of the following situations:

(1) The point of operation, meaning the load travel or the area near or at load placement, is not in full view of the operator.

(2) When the equipment is traveling, the view in the direction of travel is obstructed.

(3) Due to site specific safety concerns, either the operator or the person handling the load determines that it is necessary.

(b) Types of signals. Signals to operators must be by hand, voice, audible, or new signals.

(c) Hand signals.(1) When using hand signals, the Standard

Method must be used (see Appendix A of this subpart). Exception: Where use of the Standard Method for hand signals is infeasible, or where an operation or use of an attachment is not covered in the Standard Method, non-standard hand signals may be used in accordance with paragraph (c)(2) of this section.

(2) Non-standard hand signals. When using non-standard hand signals, the signal person, operator, and lift director (where there is one) must contact each other prior to the operation and agree on the non-stan-dard hand signals that will be used. (d) New signals. Signals other than hand, voice, or audible signals may be used where the employer dem-onstrates that: (1) The new signals provide at least equally ef-fective communication as voice, audible, or Standard Method hand signals, or (2) The new signals comply with a national con-sensus standard that provides at least equally effective communication as voice, audible, or Standard Method hand signals. (e) Suitability. The signals used (hand, voice, au-dible, or new), and means of transmitting the signals to the operator (such as direct line of sight, video, radio, etc.), must be appropriate for the site conditions.

OSHA 1926.1419Signals

(f) During operations requiring signals, the ability to transmit signals between the operator and signal person must be maintained. If that ability is interrupted at any time, the operator must safely stop operations requiring signals until it is reestablished and a proper signal is given and understood.

(g) If the operator becomes aware of a safety prob-lem and needs to communicate with the signal person, the operator must safely stop operations. Operations must not resume until the operator and signal person agree that the problem has been resolved.

(h) Only one person may give signals to a crane/derrick at a time, except in circumstances covered by paragraph (j) of this section.

(i) [Reserved.](j) Anyone who becomes aware of a safety problem

must alert the operator or signal person by giving the stop or emergency stop signal. (NOTE: § 1926.1417(y) requires the operator to obey a stop or emergency stop signal).

(k) All directions given to the operator by the signal person must be given from the operator’s direction per-spective. (l) [Reserved.] (m) Communication with multiple cranes/der-ricks. Where a signal person(s) is in communication with more than one crane/derrick, a system must be used for identifying the crane/derrick each signal is for, as follows: (1) for each signal, prior to giving the function/direction, the signal person must identify the crane/der-rick the signal is for, or (2) must use an equally effective method of identifying which crane/derrick the signal is for.

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1926.1420 — Signals – radio, telephone or other electronic transmission of signals

(a) The device(s) used to transmit signals must be tested on site before beginning operations to ensure that the signal transmission is effective, clear, and reliable.

(b) Signal transmission must be through a dedicated channel, except:

(1) Multiple cranes/derricks and one or more signal persons may share a dedicated channel for the purpose of coordinating operations.

(2) Where a crane is being operated on or ad-jacent to railroad tracks, and the actions of the crane operator need to be coordinated with the movement of other equipment or trains on the same or adjacent tracks.

(c) The operator’s reception of signals must be by a hands-free system.

1926.1421 — Signals – voice signals – ad-ditional requirements

(a) Prior to beginning operations, the operator, sig-nal person and lift director (if there is one), must con-tact each other and agree on the voice signals that will be used. Once the voice signals are agreed upon, these workers need not meet again to discuss voice signals unless another worker is added or substituted, there is confusion about the voice signals, or a voice signal is to be changed.

(b) Each voice signal must contain the following three elements, given in the following order: function (such as hoist, boom, etc.), direction; distance and/or speed; function, stop command.

(c) The operator, signal person and lift director (if there is one), must be able to effectively communicate in the language used.

1926.1422 — Signals – hand signal chart

Hand signal charts must be either posted on the equipment or conspicuously posted in the vicinity of the hoisting operations.

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OSHA 1926.1423-1425Fall Protection,

Work Area Control and Free Fall

1926.1423 — Fall protection

(a) Application.(1) Paragraphs (b), (c)(3), (e) and (f) of this sec-

tion apply to all equipment covered by this subpart ex-cept tower cranes.

(2) Paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (d), (g), (j) and (k) of this section apply to all equipment covered by this subpart.

(3) Paragraphs (c)(4) and (h) of this section ap-ply only to tower cranes.

(b) Boom walkways.(1) Equipment manufactured after November

8, 2011 with lattice booms must be equipped with walk-ways on the boom(s) if the vertical profile of the boom (from cord centerline to cord centerline) is 6 or more feet.

(2) Boom walkway criteria.(i) The walkways must be at least 12 inches

wide.(ii) Guardrails, railings and other permanent

fall protection attachments along walkways are:(A) Not required.(B) Prohibited on booms supported by

pendant ropes or bars if the guardrails/railings/attach-ments could be snagged by the ropes or bars.

(C) Prohibited if of the removable type (designed to be installed and removed each time the boom is assembled/disassembled).

(D) Where not prohibited, guardrails or railings may be of any height up to, but not more than, 45 inches.

(c) Steps, handholds, ladders, grabrails, guard-rails and railings.

(1) Section 1926.502(b) does not apply to equip-ment covered by this subpart.

(2) The employer must maintain in good condi-tion originally-equipped steps, handholds, ladders and guardrails/railings/grabrails.

(3) Equipment manufactured after November 8, 2011 must be equipped so as to provide safe access and egress between the ground and the operator work station(s), including the forward and rear positions, by the provision of devices such as steps, handholds, lad-ders, and guardrails /railings/grabrails. These devices must meet the following criteria:

(i) Steps, handholds, ladders and guardrails/railings/grabrails must meet the criteria of SAE J185 (May 2003) (incorporated by reference, see § 1926.6) or ISO 11660-2:1994(E) (incorporated by reference, see § 1926.6) except where infeasible.

(ii) Walking/stepping surfaces, except for crawler treads, must have slip resistant features/proper-ties (such as diamond plate metal, strategically placed grip tape, expanded metal, or slip-resistant paint). (4) Tower cranes manufactured after November 8, 2011 cab, machinery platforms, and tower (mast), by the provision of devices such as steps, handholds, lad-ders, and guardrails/railings/grabrails. These devices must meet the following criteria:

(i) Steps, handholds, ladders, and guardrails/railings/grabrails must meet the criteria of ISO 11660-1:2008(E) (incorporated by reference, see § 1926.6) and ISO 11660-3:2008(E) (incorporated by reference, see § 1926.6) or SAE J185 (May 2003) (incorporated by reference, see § 1926.6) except where infeasible.

(ii) Walking/stepping surfaces must have slip-resistant features/properties (such as diamond plate metal, strategically placed grip tape, expanded metal, or slip-resistant paint).

(d) Personal fall arrest and fall restraint systems. Personal fall arrest system components must be used in personal fall arrest and fall restraint systems and must conform to the criteria in § 1926.502(d) except that § 1926.502(d)(15) does not apply to components used in personal fall arrest and fall restraint systems. Either body belts or body harnesses must be used in personal fall arrest and fall restraint systems.

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(e) For non-assembly/disassembly work, the em-ployer must provide and ensure the use of fall protec-tion equipment for employees who are on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than 6 feet above a lower level as follows:

(1) When moving point-to-point:(i) On non-lattice booms (whether horizon-

tal or not horizontal).(ii) On lattice booms that are not horizontal.(iii) On horizontal lattice booms where the

fall distance is 15 feet or more.(2) While at a work station on any part of the

equipment (including the boom, of any type), except when the employee is at or near draw-works (when the equipment is running), in the cab, or on the deck.

(f) For assembly/disassembly work, the employ-er must provide and ensure the use of fall protection equipment for employees who are on a walking/work-ing surface with an unprotected side or edge more than 15 feet above a lower level, except when the employee is at or near draw-works (when the equipment is run-ning), in the cab, or on the deck.

(g) Anchorage criteria.(1) Sections 1926.502(d)(15) and 1926.502(e)

(2) apply to equipment covered by this subpart only to the extent delineated in paragraph (g)(2) of this section.

(2) Anchorages for personal fall arrest and po-sitioning device systems.

(i) Personal fall arrest systems must be an-chored to any apparently substantial part of the equip-ment unless a competent person, from a visual inspec-tion, without an engineering analysis, would conclude that the criteria in § 1926.502(d)(15) would not be met.

(ii) Positioning device systems must be an chored to any apparently substantial part of the equip-ment unless a competent person, from a visual inspec-tion, without an engineering analysis, would conclude that the criteria in § 1926.502(e)(2) would not be met.

(iii) Attachable anchor devices (portable an-chor devices that are attached to the equipment) must meet the anchorage criteria in § 1926.502(d)(15) for personal fall arrest systems and § 1926.502(e)(2) for positioning device systems.

(3) Anchorages for fall restraint systems. Fall restraint systems must be anchored to any part of the equipment that is capable of withstanding twice the maximum load that an employee may impose on it dur-ing reasonably anticipated conditions of use.

(h) Tower cranes.(1) For work other than erecting, climbing, and

dismantling, the employer must provide and ensure the use of fall protection equipment for employees who are on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than 6 feet above a lower level, except when the employee is at or near draw-works (when the equipment is running), in the cab, or on the deck.

(2) For erecting, climbing, and dismantling work, the employer must provide and ensure the use of fall protection equipment for employees who are on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than 15 feet above a lower level.

(i) [Reserved.](j) Anchoring to the load line. A personal fall ar-

rest system is permitted to be anchored to the crane/derrick’s hook (or other part of the load line) where all of the following requirements are met: (1) A qualified person has determined that the set-up and rated capacity of the crane/derrick (includ-ing the hook, load line and rigging) meets or exceeds the requirements in § 1926.502(d)(15). (2) The equipment operator must be at the work site and informed that the equipment is being used for this purpose. (3) No load is suspended from the load line when the personal fall arrest system is anchored to the crane/derrick’s hook (or other part of the load line). (k) Training. The employer must train each em-ployee who may be exposed to fall hazards while on, or hoisted by, equipment covered by this subpart on all of the following: (1) the requirements in this subpart that address fall protection. (2) the applicable requirements in §§ 1926.500 and 1926.502.

1926.1423 — Fall Protection (cont’d)

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1926.1424 — Work area control

(a) Swing radius hazards. (1) The requirements in paragraph (a)(2) of this section apply where there are accessible areas in which the equipment’s rotating superstructure (whether per-manently or temporarily mounted) poses a reasonably foreseeable risk of: (i) Striking and injuring an employee; or (ii) Pinching/crushing an employee against another part of the equipment or another object. (2) To prevent employees from entering these hazard areas, the employer must: (i) Train each employee assigned to work on or near the equipment (“authorized personnel”) in how to recognize struck-by and pinch/crush hazard areas posed by the rotating superstructure. (ii) Erect and maintain control lines, warning lines, railings or similar barriers to mark the boundaries of the hazard areas. Exception: When the employer can demonstrate that it is neither feasible to erect such barriers on the ground nor on the equipment, the hazard areas must be clearly marked by a combination of warning signs (such as “Danger –Swing/Crush Zone”) and high visibility mark-ings on the equipment that identify the hazard areas. In addition, the employer must train each employee to understand what these markings signify. (3) Protecting employees in the hazard area. (i) Before an employee goes to a location in the hazard area that is out of view of the operator, the em-ployee (or someone instructed by the employee) must ensure that the operator is informed that he/she is going to that location. (ii) Where the operator knows that an employee went to a location covered by paragraph (a)(1) of this section, the operator must not rotate the superstructure until the operator is informed in accordance with a prear-ranged system of communication that the employee is in a safe position. (b) Where any part of a crane/derrick is within the working radius of another crane/derrick, the controlling entity must institute a system to coordinate operations. If there is no controlling entity, the employer (if there is only one employer operating the multiple pieces of equipment), or employers, must institute such a system.

1926.1425 — Keeping clear of the load

(a) Where available, hoisting routes that minimize the exposure of employees to hoisted loads must be used, to the extent consistent with public safety.

(b) While the operator is not moving a suspended load, no employee must be within the fall zone, except for employees:

(1) Engaged in hooking, unhooking or guiding a load;(2) Engaged in the initial attachment of the load to

a component or structure; or(3) Operating a concrete hopper or concrete bucket.

(c) When employees are engaged in hooking, unhook-ing, or guiding the load, or in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure and are within the fall zone, all of the following criteria must be met:

(1) The materials being hoisted must be rigged to prevent unintentional displacement.

(2) Hooks with self-closing latches or their equivalent must be used. Exception:“J” hooks are permitted to be used for setting wooden trusses.

(3) The materials must be rigged by a qualified rigger.(d) Receiving a load. Only employees needed to re-

ceive a load are permitted to be within the fall zone when a load is being landed.

(e) During a tilt-up or tilt-down operation:(1) No employee must be directly under the load.(2) Only employees essential to the operation are

permitted in the fall zone (but not directly under the load). An employee is essential to the operation if the employee is conducting one of the following operations and the employer can demonstrate it is infeasible for the employee to perform that operation from outside the fall zone: (1) physically guide the load; (2) closely monitor and give instructions regarding the load’s movement; or (3) either detach it from or initially attach it to an-other component or structure (such as, but not limited to, making an initial connection or installing bracing).NOTE: Boom free fall is prohibited when an employee is in the fall zone of the boom or load, and load line free fall is prohibited when an employee is directly under the load; see § 1926.1426.

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1926.1427 — Operator qualification and certification

(a) The employer must ensure that, prior to operating any equipment covered under subpart CC, the person is operating the equipment during a training period in accordance with paragraph (f) of this section, or the operator is qualified or certified to operate the equipment in accordance with the following:

(1) When a non-military government entity issues operator licenses for equipment covered under subpart CC, and that government licensing program meets the requirements of paragraphs (e)(2) and (j) of this section, the equipment operator must either be:

(i) licensed by that government entity for opera-tion of equipment within that entity’s jurisdiction; or

(ii) qualified in compliance with paragraph (d) of this section. (2) Where paragraph (a)(1) of this section is not ap-plicable, the certification or qualification must comply with one of the options in paragraphs (b) through (d) of this section.

(3) Exceptions: Operator qualification or certification under this section is not required for operators of derricks (see § 1926.1436), sideboom cranes (see § 1926.1440), or equipment with a maximum manufacturer-rated hoisting/lifting capacity of 2,000 pounds or less (see § 1926.1441).

(4) Whenever operator qualification or certification is required under § 1926.1427, the employer must provide the qualification or certification at no cost to operators who are employed by the employer on November 8, 2010].

(b) Option (1): Certification by an accredited crane opera-tor testing organization.

(1) For a testing organization to be considered ac-credited to certify operators under this subpart, it must:

(i) Be accredited by a nationally recognized ac-crediting agency based on that agency’s determination that industry recognized criteria for written testing materials, practical examinations, test administration, grading, facilities/equipment and personnel have been met.

(ii) Administer written and practical tests that: (A) Assess the operator applicant regarding, at a minimum, the knowledge and skills listed in paragraphs (j)(1) and (2) of this section.

(B) Provide different levels of certification based on equipment capacity and type. (iii) Have procedures for operators to re-apply and be re-tested in the event an operator applicant fails a test or is decertified. (iv) Have testing procedures for re-certification designed to ensure that the operator continues to meet the technical knowledge and skills requirements in paragraphs (j)(1) and (2) of this section. (v) Have its accreditation reviewed by the nation-ally recognized accrediting agency at least every three years.

(2) An operator will be deemed qualified to operate a particular piece of equipment if the operator is certified under paragraph (b) of this section for that type and capacity of equipment or for higher-capacity equipment of that type. If no accredited testing agency offers certification examina-tions for a particular type and/or capacity of equipment, an operator will be deemed qualified to operate that equipment if the operator has been certified for the type/capacity that is most similar to that equipment and for which a certification examination is available. The operator’s certificate must state the type/capacity of equipment for which the operator is certified.

(3) A certification issued under this option is portable and meets the requirements of paragraph (a)(2) of this section.

(4) A certification issued under this paragraph is valid for 5 years.

(c) Option (2): Qualification by an audited employer program. The employer’s qualification of its employee must meet the following requirements:

(1) The written and practical tests must be either:(i) Developed by an accredited crane operator

testing organization (see paragraph (b) of this section); or(ii) Approved by an auditor in accordance with

the following requirements:(A) The auditor is certified to evaluate such

tests by an accredited crane operator testing organization (see paragraph (b) of this section).

(B) The auditor is not an employee of the employer.

OSHA 1926.1427Operator Qualification

and Certification

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(C) The approval must be based on the audi-tor’s determination that the written and practical tests meet nationally recognized test development criteria and are valid and reliable in assessing the operator applicants regarding, at a minimum, the knowledge and skills listed in paragraphs (j)(1) and (2) of this section.

(D) The audit must be conducted in accor-dance with nationally recognized auditing standards.

(2) Administration of tests.(i) The written and practical tests must be ad-

ministered under circumstances approved by the auditor as meeting nationally recognized test administration standards.

(iii) The auditor must not be an employee of the employer. (iv) The audit must be conducted in accordance with nationally recognized auditing standards. (3) The employer program must be audited within 3 months of the beginning of the program and at least every 3 years thereafter. (4) The employer program must have testing procedures for requalification designed to ensure that the operator continues to meet the technical knowledge and skills requirements in paragraphs (j)(1) and (2) of this sec-tion. The requalification procedures must be audited in accordance with paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) of this section.

(5) Deficiencies. If the auditor determines that there is a significant deficiency (“deficiency”) in the program, the employer must ensure that:

(i) No operator is qualified until the auditor confirms that the deficiency has been corrected. (ii) The program is audited again within 180 days of the confirmation that the deficiency was corrected. (iii) The auditor files a documented report of the deficiency to the appropriate Regional Office of the Oc-cupational Safety and Health Administration within 15 days of the auditor’s determination that there is a deficiency.

(iv) Records of the audits of the employer’s program are maintained by the auditor for three years and are made available by the auditor to the Secretary of Labor or the Secretary’s designated representative upon request. (6) A qualification under this paragraph is: (i) Not portable. Such a qualification meets the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section only where the operator is employed by (and operating the equipment for) the employer that issued the qualification. (ii) Valid for 5 years. (d) Option (3): Qualification by the U.S. military.

(1) For purposes of this section, an operator who is an employee of the U.S. military is considered qualified if he/she has a current operator qualification issued by the U.S. military for operation of the equipment. An employee of the U.S. military is a federal employee of the Department of Defense or Armed Forces and does not include employees of private contractors. (2) A qualification under this paragraph is: (i) Not portable. Such a qualification meets the requirements of paragraph (a) of this section only where the operator is employed by (and operating the equipment for) the employer that issued the qualification. (ii) Valid for the period of time stipulated by the issuing entity. (e) Option (4): Licensing by a government entity. (1) For purposes of this section, a government li-censing department/office that issues operator licenses for operating equipment covered by this standard is considered a government accredited crane operator testing organization if the criteria in paragraph (e)(2) of this section are met.

(2) Licensing criteria.(i) The requirements for obtaining the license

include an assessment, by written and practical tests, of the operator applicant regarding, at a minimum, the knowledge and skills listed in paragraphs (j)(1) and (2) of this section.

(ii) The testing meets industry recognized crite-ria for written testing materials, practical examinations, test administration, grading, facilities/equipment and personnel.

(iii) The government authority that oversees the li-censing department/office, has determined that the requirements in paragraphs (e)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section have been met.

(iv) The licensing department/office has testing procedures for relicensing designed to ensure that the op-erator continues to meet the technical knowledge and skills requirements in paragraphs (j)(1) and (2) of this section.

(3) A license issued by a government accredited crane operator testing organization that meets the requirements of this option:

(i) Meets the operator qualification requirements of this section for operation of equipment only within the jurisdiction of the government entity.

(ii) Is valid for the period of time stipulated by the licensing department/office, but no longer than 5 years.

(f) Pre-qualification/certification training period. An em-ployee who is not qualified or certified under this section is permitted to operate equipment only as an operator-in-training and only where the requirements of this paragraph are met.

1926.1427 — Operator Qual. (cont’d)

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(1) The employer must provide each operator-in-train-ing with sufficient training prior to operating the equipment to enable the operator-in-training to operate the equipment safely under limitations established by this section (includ-ing continuous monitoring) and any additional limitations established by the employer.

(2) The tasks performed by the operator-in-training while operating the equipment must be within the operator-in-training’s ability.

(3) Trainer. While operating the equipment, the operator-in-training must be continuously monitored by an individual (“operator’s trainer”) who meets all of the follow-ing requirements:

(i) The operator’s trainer is an employee or agent of the operator-in-training’s employer. (ii) The operator’s trainer is either a certified operator under this section, or has passed the written portion of a certification test under one of the options in paragraphs (b) through (e) of this section, and is familiar with the proper use of the equipment’s controls. (iii) While monitoring the operator-in-training, the operator’s trainer performs no tasks that detract from the trainer’s ability to monitor the operator-in-training. (iv) For equipment other than tower cranes: the operator’s trainer and the operator-in-training must be in direct line of sight of each other. In addition, they must communicate verbally or by hand signals. For tower cranes: the operator’s trainer and the operator-in-training must be in direct communication with each other. (4) Continuous monitoring. The operator-in-training must be monitored by the operator’s trainer at all times, except for short breaks where all of the following are met: (i) The break lasts no longer than 15 minutes and there is no more than one break an hour. (ii) Immediately prior to the break the operator’s trainer informs the operator-in-training of the specific tasks that the operator-in-training is to perform and limitations to which he/she must adhere during the operator trainer’s break. (iii) The specific tasks that the operator-in-training will perform during the operator trainer’s break are within the operator-in-training’s abilities. (5) The operator-in-training must not operate the equipment in any of the following circumstances unless the exception stated in paragraph (f)(5)(v) of this section is applicable.

(i) If any part of the equipment, load line, or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), if operated up to the equipment’s maximum working radius in the work zone (see 1926.1408(a)(1)), could get within 20 feet of a power line that is up to 350 kV, or within 50 feet of a power line that is over 350 kV. (ii) If the equipment is used to hoist personnel. (iii) In multiple-equipment lifts. (iv) If the equipment is used over a shaft, cof-ferdam, or in a tank farm.

(v) In multiple-lift rigging operations, except where the operator’s trainer determines that the operator-in-training skills are sufficient for this high skill work.

(g) Under this section, a testing entity is permitted to provide training as well as testing services as long as the criteria of the applicable accrediting agency (in the option selected) for an organization providing both services are met.

(h) Language and Literacy Requirements.(1) Tests under this section may be administered

verbally, where the operator candidate:(i) Passes a written demonstration of literacy

relevant to the work.(ii) Demonstrates the ability to use the type of

written manufacturer procedures applicable to the class/type of equipment for which the candidate is seeking certification.

(2) Tests under this section may be administered in any language the operator candidate understands, and the operator’s certificate must note the language in which the test was given. The operator is qualified under paragraph (b)(2) of this section to operate equipment that is furnished with materials required by this subpart that are written in the language of the certification. The operator may only operate equipment furnished with such materials.

(i) [Reserved.](j) Certification criteria. Qualifications and certifications

must be based, at a minimum, on the following:(1) A determination through a written test that:

(i) The individual knows the information neces-sary for safe operation of the specific type of equipment the individual will operate, including all of the following:

(A) The controls and operational/performance characteristics.

(B) Use of, and the ability to calculate (manually or with a calculator), load/capacity information on a variety of configurations of the equipment.

(C) Procedures for preventing and responding to power line contact.


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(D) Technical knowledge similar to the subject matter criteria listed in Appendix C of this subpart applicable to the specific type of equipment the individual will operate. Use of the Appendix C criteria meets the require-ments of this provision.

(E) Technical knowledge applicable to:(1) The suitability of the supporting

ground and surface to handle expected loads.(2) Site hazards.(3) Site access.

(F) This subpart, including applicable incorporated materials.

(ii) The individual is able to read and locate relevant information in the equipment manual and other materials containing information referred to in paragraph (j)(1)(i) of this section. (2) A determination through a practical test that the individual has the skills necessary for safe operation of the equipment, including the following: (i) Ability to recognize, from visual and auditory observation, the items listed in § 1926.1412(d) (shift inspection). (ii) Operational and maneuvering skills. (iii) Application of load chart information. (iv) Application of safe shut-down and securing procedures. (k) Phase-in. (1) The provisions of this section became applicable November 8, 2010, except for paragraphs (a)(2) and (f) which are applicable November 10, 2017. (2) When § 1926.1427(a)(1) is not applicable, all of the requirements in paragraphs (k)(2)(i) and (ii) of this section apply until November 10, 2017: (i) The employer must ensure that operators of equipment covered by this standard are competent to operate the equipment safely. (ii) Where an employee assigned to operate machinery does not have the required knowledge or ability to operate the equipment safely, the employer must train that employee prior to operating the equipment. The employer must ensure that each operator is evaluated to confirm that he/she understands the information provided in the training.

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OSHA 1926.1428Signal Person Qualifications

1926.1428 — Signal person qualifications

(a) The employer of the signal person must ensure that each signal person meets the Qualification Require-ments (paragraph (c) of this section) prior to giving any signals. This requirement must be met by using either Option (1) or Option (2) of this section.

(1) Option (1) – Third party qualified evalua-tor. The signal person has documentation from a third party qualified evaluator (see Qualified Evaluator (third party), § 1926.1401 for definition) showing that the sig-nal person meets the Qualification Requirements (see paragraph (c) of this section). (2) Option (2) – Employer’s qualified evalua-tor. The employer’s qualified (see Qualified Evaluator (not a third party), § 1926.1401 for definition) evalua-tor assesses the individual and determines that the indi-vidual meets the Qualification Requirements (see para-graph (c) of this section) and provides documentation of that determination. An assessment by an employer’s qualified evaluator under this option is not portable – other employers are not permitted to use it to meet the requirements of this section.

(3) The employer must make the documenta-tion for whichever option is used available at the site while the signal person is employed by the employer. The documentation must specify each type of signal-ing (e.g. hand signals, radio signals, etc.) for which the signal person meets the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section.

(b) If subsequent actions by the signal person in-dicate that the individual does not meet the Qualifica-tion Requirements (see paragraph (c) of this section), the employer must not allow the individual to continue working as a signal person until re-training is provided and a re-assessment is made in accordance with para-graph (a) of this section that confirms that the individu-al meets the Qualification Requirements. (c) Qualification Requirements. Each signal per-son must: (1) Know and understand the type of signals used. If hand signals are used, the signal person must know and understand the Standard Method for hand signals. (2) Be competent in the application of the type of signals used. (3) Have a basic understanding of equipment operation and limitations, including the crane dynam-ics involved in swinging and stopping loads and boom deflection from hoisting loads. (4) Know and understand the relevant require-ments of § 1926.1419 through § 1926.1422 and § 1926.1428. (5) Demonstrate that he/she meets the require-ments in paragraphs (c)(1) through (4) of this section through an oral or written test, and through a practical test.

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1926.1431 — Hoisting personnel

The requirements of this section are supplemental to the other requirements in this subpart and apply when one or more employees are hoisted.

(a) The use of equipment to hoist employees is pro-hibited except where the employer demonstrates that the erection, use, and dismantling of conventional means of reaching the work area, such as a personnel hoist, ladder, stairway, aerial lift, elevating work platform, or scaffold, would be more hazardous, or is not possible because of the project’s structural design or worksite conditions. This paragraph does not apply to work covered by sub-part R (Steel Erection) of this part.

(b) Use of personnel platform.(1) When using equipment to hoist employees,

the employees must be in a personnel platform that meets the requirements of paragraph (e) of this section.

(2) Exceptions: A personnel platform is not required for hoisting employees: (i) Into and out of drill shafts that are up to and including 8 feet in diameter (see paragraph (o) of this section for requirements for hoisting these employees). (ii) In pile driving operations (see paragraph (p) of this section for requirements for hoisting these employees). (iii) Solely for transfer to or from a marine work-site in a marine-hoisted personnel transfer device (see paragraph (r) of this section for requirements for hoisting these employees). (iv) In storage-tank (steel or concrete), shaft and chimney operations (see paragraph (s) of this sec-tion for requirements for hoisting these employees). (c) Equipment set-up. (1) The equipment must be uniformly level, within one percent of level grade, and located on footing that a qualified person has determined to be sufficiently firm and stable. (2) Equipment with outriggers or stabilizers must have them all extended and locked. The amount of exten-sion must be the same for all outriggers and stabilizers and in accordance with manufacturer procedures and load charts.

OSHA 1926.1431Hoisting Personnel

(d) Equipment criteria.(1) Capacity: use of suspended personnel platforms.

The total load (with the platform loaded, including the hook, load line and rigging) must not exceed 50 percent of the rated capacity for the radius and configuration of the equipment, except during proof testing.

(2) Capacity: use of boom-attached personnel plat-forms. The total weight of the loaded personnel platform must not exceed 50 percent of the rated capacity for the radius and configuration of the equipment (except during proof testing).

(3) Capacity: hoisting personnel without a per-sonnel platform. When hoisting personnel without a personnel platform pursuant to paragraph (b)(2) of this section, the total load (including the hook, load line, rig-ging and any other equipment that imposes a load) must not exceed 50 percent of the rated capacity for the radius and configuration of the equipment, except during proof testing.

(4) When the occupied personnel platform is in a stationary working position, the load and boom hoist brakes, swing brakes, and operator actuated secondary braking and locking features (such as pawls or dogs) or automatic secondary brakes must be engaged.

(5) Devices.(i) Equipment (except for derricks and articulating

cranes) with a variable angle boom must be equipped with all of the following:

(A) A boom angle indicator, readily visible to the operator, and

(B) A boom hoist limiting device.(ii) Articulating cranes must be equipped with

a properly functioning automatic overload protection device.

(iii) Equipment with a luffing jib must be equipped with:

(A) A jib angle indicator, readily visible to the operator, and.

(B) A jib hoist limiting device.(iv) Equipment with telescoping booms must be

equipped with a device to indicate the boom’s extended length clearly to the operator, or must have measuring marks on the boom.

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(v) Anti two-block. A device which automatically prevents damage and load failure from contact between the load block, overhaul ball, or similar component, and the boom tip (or fixed upper block or similar component) must be used. The device(s) must prevent such damage/failure at all points where two-blocking could occur. Exception: this device is not required when hoisting per-sonnel in pile driving operations. Instead, paragraph (p)(2) of this section specifies how to prevent two-blocking during such operations.

(vi) Controlled load lowering. The load line hoist drum must have a system, other than the load line hoist brake, which regulates the lowering rate of speed of the hoist mechanism. This system or device must be used when hoisting personnel.(NOTE: Free fall of the load line hoist is prohibited (see § 1926.1426(d); the use of equipment in which the boom hoist mechanism can free fall is also prohibited (see § 1926.1426(a)(1).)

(vii) Proper operation required. Personnel hoisting operations must not begin unless the devices listed in this section are in proper working order. If a device stops working properly during such operations, the operator must safely stop operations. Personnel hoisting opera-tions must not resume until the device is again working properly. Alternative measures are not permitted. (See § 1926.1417 for tag-out and related requirements.)

(6) Direct attachment of a personnel platform to a luffing jib is prohibited.

(e) Personnel platform criteria. (1) A qualified person familiar with structural design must design the personnel platform and attachment/suspension system used for hoisting personnel. (2) The system used to connect the personnel plat-form to the equipment must allow the platform to remain within 10 degrees of level, regardless of boom angle. (3) The suspension system must be designed to minimize tipping of the platform due to movement of employees occupying the platform. (4) The personnel platform itself (excluding the guard-rail system and personal fall arrest system anchorages), must be capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least five times the maximum intended load. (5) All welding of the personnel platform and its components must be performed by a certified welder familiar with the weld grades, types and material speci-fied in the platform design.

1926.1431 – Hoisting Personnel (cont’d) (6) The personnel platform must be equipped with a guardrail system which meets the requirements of sub-part M of this part, and must be enclosed at least from the toeboard to mid-rail with either solid construction material or expanded metal having openings no greater than ½ inch (1.27cm). Points to which personal fall arrest systems are attached must meet the anchorage require-ments in subpart M of this part. (7) A grab rail must be installed inside the entire perimeter of the personnel platform except for access gates/doors. (8) Access gates/doors. If installed, access gates/doors of all types (including swinging, sliding, folding, or other types) must: (i) Not swing outward. If due to the size of the personnel platform, such as a 1-person platform, it is infeasible for the door to swing inward and allow safe entry for the platform occupant, then the access gate/door may swing outward. (ii) Be equipped with a device that prevents ac-cidental opening. (9) Headroom must be sufficient to allow employees to stand upright in the platform. (10) In addition to the use of hard hats, employ-ees must be protected by overhead protection on the personnel platform when employees are exposed to falling objects. The platform overhead protection must not obscure the view of the operator or plat-form occupants (such as wire mesh that has up to ½ inch openings), unless full protection is necessary. (11) All edges exposed to employee contact must be smooth enough to prevent injury. (12) The weight of the platform and its rated capac-ity must be conspicuously posted on the platform with a plate or other permanent marking. (f) Personnel platform loading. (1) The personnel platform must not be loaded in excess of its rated capacity. (2) Use. (i) Personnel platforms must be used only for employees, their tools, and the materials neces-sary to do their work. Platforms must not be used to hoist materials or tools when not hoisting personnel. (ii) Exception: materials and tools to be used dur-ing the lift, if secured and distributed in accordance with paragraph (f)(3) of this section may be in the platform for trial lifts. (3) Materials and tools must be: (i) Secured to prevent displacement.

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1926.1431 – Hoisting Personnel (cont’d)

(ii) Evenly distributed within the confines of the platform while it is suspended. (4) The number of employees occupying the personnel platform must not exceed the maximum number the platform was designed to hold or the num-ber required to perform the work, whichever is less. (g) Attachment and rigging. (1) Hooks and other detachable devices. (i) Hooks used in the connection between the hoist line and the personnel platform (including hooks on overhaul ball assemblies, lower load blocks, bridle legs, or other attachment assemblies or components) must be: (A) Of a type that can be closed and locked, eliminating the throat opening. (B) Closed and locked when attached. (ii) Shackles used in place of hooks must be of the alloy anchor type, with either: (A) A bolt, nut and retaining pin, in place; or (B) Of the screw type, with the screw pin secured from accidental removal. (iii) Where other detachable devices are used, they must be of the type that can be closed and locked to the same extent as the devices addressed in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section. Such devices must be closed and locked when attached. (2) Rope bridle. When a rope bridle is used to sus-pend the personnel platform, each bridle leg must be connected to a master link or shackle (see paragraph (g)(1) of this section) in a manner that ensures that the load is evenly divided among the bridle legs. (3) Rigging hardware (including wire rope, shackles, rings, master links, and other rigging hardware) and hooks must be capable of supporting, without failure, at least five times the maximum intended load applied or trans-mitted to that component. Where rotation resistant rope is used, the slings must be capable of supporting without failure at least ten times the maximum intended load. (4) Eyes in wire rope slings must be fabricated with thimbles. (5) Bridles and associated rigging for suspending the personnel platform must be used only for the platform and the necessary employees, their tools and materials necessary to do their work. The bridles and associated rigging must not have been used for any purpose other than hoisting personnel.

(h) Trial lift and inspection. (1) A trial lift with the unoccupied personnel plat-form loaded at least to the anticipated lift weight must be made from ground level, or any other location where employees will enter the platform, to each location at which the platform is to be hoisted and positioned. Where there is more than one location to be reached from a single set-up position, either individual trial lifts for each location, or a single trial lift, in which the platform is moved sequentially to each location, must be performed; the method selected must be the same as the method that will be used to hoist the personnel. (2) The trial lift must be performed immediately prior to each shift in which personnel will be hoisted. In addition, the trial lift must be repeated prior to hoisting employees in each of the following circumstances: (i) The equipment is moved and set up in a new location or returned to a previously used location. (ii) The lift route is changed, unless the competent person determines that the new route presents no new factors affecting safety. (3) The competent person must determine that: (i) Safety devices and operational aids required by this section are activated and functioning properly. Other safety devices and operational aids must meet the requirements of § 1926.1415 and § 1926.1416. (ii) Nothing interferes with the equipment or the personnel platform in the course of the trial lift. (iii) The lift will not exceed 50 percent of the equipment’s rated capacity at any time during the lift. (iv) The load radius to be used during the lift has been accurately determined. (4) Immediately after the trial lift, the competent person must: (i) Conduct a visual inspection of the equipment, base support or ground, and personnel platform, to de-termine whether the trial lift has exposed any defect to produce any adverse effect. (ii) Confirm that, upon the completion of the trial lift process, the test weight has been removed. (5) Immediately prior to each lift: (i) The platform must be hoisted a few inches with the personnel and materials/tools on board and inspected by a competent person to ensure that it is secure and properly balanced. (ii) The following conditions must be determined by a competent person to exist before the lift of person-nel proceeds: (A) Hoist ropes must be free of deficiencies in accordance with § 1926.1413(a).

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(B) Multiple part lines must not be twisted around each other. (C) The primary attachment must be centered over the platform. (D) If the load rope is slack, the hoisting system must be inspected to ensure that all ropes are properly seated on drums and in sheaves. (6) Any condition found during the trial lift and sub-sequent inspection(s) that fails to meet a requirement of this standard or otherwise creates a safety hazard must be corrected before hoisting personnel. (See § 1926.1417 for tag-out and related requirements.) (i) [Reserved.] (j) Proof testing. (1) At each jobsite, prior to hoisting employees on the personnel platform, and after any repair or modifi-cation, the platform and rigging must be proof tested to 125 percent of the platform’s rated capacity. The proof test may be done concurrently with the trial lift. (2) The platform must be lowered by controlled load lowering, braked, and held in a suspended position for a minimum of five minutes with the test load evenly distributed on the platform. (3) After proof testing, a competent person must inspect the platform and rigging to determine if the test has been passed. If any deficiencies are found that pose a safety hazard, the platform and rigging must not be used to hoist personnel unless the deficiencies are corrected, the test is repeated, and a competent person determines that the test has been passed. (See § 1926.1417 for tag-out and related requirements.) (4) Personnel hoisting must not be conducted until the competent person determines that the platform and rigging have successfully passed the proof test. (k) Work practices. (1) Hoisting of the personnel platform must be per-formed in a slow, controlled, cautious manner, with no sudden movements of the equipment or the platform. (2) Platform occupants must: (i) Keep all parts of the body inside the platform during raising, lowering, and horizontal movement. This provision does not apply to an occupant of the platform when necessary to position the platform or while per-forming the duties of a signal person. (ii) Not stand, sit on, or work from the top or inter-mediate rail or toeboard, or use any other means/device to raise their working height.

(iii) Not pull the platform out of plumb in relation to the hoisting equipment. (3) Before employees exit or enter a hoisted person-nel platform that is not landed, the platform must be se-cured to the structure where the work is to be performed, unless the employer can demonstrate that securing to the structure would create a greater hazard. (4) If the platform is tied to the structure, the operator must not move the platform until the operator receives confirmation that it is freely suspended. (5) Tag lines must be used when necessary to control the platform. (6) Platforms without controls. Where the platform is not equipped with controls, the equipment operator must remain at the equipment controls, on site, and in view of the equipment, at all times while the platform is occupied. (7) Platforms with controls. Where the platform is equipped with controls, all of the following must be met at all times while the platform is occupied: (i) The occupant using the controls in the platform must be a qualified person with respect to their use, in-cluding the safe limitations of the equipment and hazards associated with its operation. (ii) The equipment operator must be at a set of equipment controls that include boom and swing func-tions of the equipment, and must be on site and in view of the equipment. (iii) The platform operating manual must be in the platform or on the equipment. (8) Environmental conditions. (i) Wind. When wind speed (sustained or gusts) exceeds 20 mph at the personnel platform, a qualified person must determine if, in light of the wind conditions, it is not safe to lift personnel. If it is not, the lifting op-eration must not begin (or, if already in progress, must be terminated). (ii) Other weather and environmental conditions. A qualified person must determine if, in light of indica-tions of dangerous weather conditions, or other impend-ing or existing danger, it is not safe to lift personnel. If it is not, the lifting operation must not begin (or, if already in progress, must be terminated). (9) Employees being hoisted must remain in direct communication with the signal person (where used), or the operator. (10) Fall protection.

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(i) Except over water, employees occupying the personnel platform must be provided and use a per-sonal fall arrest system. The system must be attached to a structural member within the personnel platform. When working over or near water, the requirements of § 1926.106 apply.

(ii) The fall arrest system, including the attachment point (anchorage) used to comply with paragraph (i) of this section, must meet the requirements in § 1926.502.

(11) Other load lines. (i) No lifts must be made on any other of the equip-ment’s load lines while personnel are being hoisted, except in pile driving operations. (ii) Factory-produced boom-mounted person-nel platforms that incorporate a winch as original equipment. Loads are permitted to be hoisted by such a winch while employees occupy the person-nel platform only where the load on the winch line does not exceed 500 pounds and does not ex-ceed the rated capacity of the winch and platform. (12) Traveling – equipment other than derricks. (i) Hoisting of employees while the equipment is traveling is prohibited, except for: (A) Equipment that travels on fixed rails; or (B) Where the employer demonstrates that there is no less hazardous way to perform the work. (C) This exception does not apply to rubber-tired equipment. (ii) Where employees are hoisted while the equip-ment is traveling, all of the following criteria must be met: (A) Equipment travel must be restricted to a fixed track or runway. (B) Where a runway is used, it must be a firm, level surface designed, prepared and designated as a path of travel for the weight and configuration of the equip-ment being used to lift and travel with the personnel platform. An existing surface may be used as long as it meets these criteria. (C) Equipment travel must be limited to boom length. (D) The boom must be parallel to the direction of travel, except where it is safer to do otherwise. (E) A complete trial run must be performed to test the route of travel before employees are allowed to occupy the platform. This trial run can be performed at the same time as the trial lift required by paragraph (h) of this section which tests the lift route.

(13) Traveling – derricks. Derricks are prohibited from traveling while personnel are hoisted.

(l) [Reserved.](m) Pre-lift meeting. A pre-lift meeting must be:

(1) Held to review the applicable requirements of this section and the procedures that will be followed.

(2) Attended by the equipment operator, signal person (if used for the lift), employees to be hoisted, and the person responsible for the task to be performed.

(3) Held prior to the trial lift at each new work lo-cation, and must be repeated for any employees newly assigned to the operation.

(n) Hoisting personnel near power lines. Hoisting personnel within 20 feet of a power line that is up to 350 kV, and hoisting personnel within 50 feet of a power line that is over 350 kV, is prohibited, except for work covered by subpart V of this part (Power Transmission and Distribution).

(o) Hoisting personnel in drill shafts. When hoisting employees into and out of drill shafts that are up to and including 8 feet in diameter, all of the following require-ments must be met:

(1) The employee must be in either a personnel plat-form or on a boatswain’s chair. (2) If using a personnel platform, paragraphs (a) through (n) of this section apply. (3) If using a boatswain’s chair:

(i) The following paragraphs of this section apply: (a), (c), (d)(1), (d)(3), (d)(4), (e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (f)(1), (f)(2)(i), (f)(3)(i), (g), (h), (k)(1), (k)(6), (k)(8), (k)(9), (k)(11)(i), (m), (n). Where the terms “personnel platform” or “platform” are used in these paragraphs, substitute them with “boatswain’s chair.”

(ii) A signal person must be stationed at the shaft opening.

(iii) The employee must be hoisted in a slow, con-trolled descent and ascent.

(iv) The employee must use personal fall protec-tion equipment, including a full body harness, attached independent of the crane/derrick. (v) The fall protection equipment must meet the applicable requirements in § 1926.502. (vi) The boatswain’s chair itself (excluding the personal fall arrest system anchorages), must be ca-pable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least five times the maximum intended load. (vii) No more than one person must be hoisted at a time.

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(p) Hoisting personnel for pile driving operations. When hoisting an employee in pile driving operations, the following requirements must be met:

(1) The employee must be in a personnel platform or boatswain’s chair.

(2) For lattice boom cranes: Clearly mark the cable (so that it can easily be seen by the operator) at a point that will give the operator sufficient time to stop the hoist to prevent two-blocking, or use a spotter who is in direct communication with the operator to inform the operator when this point is reached. For telescopic boom cranes: Clearly mark the cable (so that it can be easily seen by the operator) at a point that will give the operator sufficient time to stop the hoist to prevent two-blocking, and use a spotter who is in direct communication with the operator to inform the operator when this point is reached.

(3) If using a personnel platform, paragraphs (b) through (n) of this section apply.

(4) If using a boatswain’s chair:(i) The following paragraphs of this section apply:

(a), (c), (d)(1), (d)(3), (d)(4), (e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (f)(1), (f)(2)(i), (f)(3)(i), (g), (h), (j), (k)(1), (k)(6), (k)(8), (k)(9), (k)(11)(i), (m), and (n). Where the terms “personnel platform” or “platform” are used in these paragraphs, substitute them with “boatswains chair.”

(ii) The employee must be hoisted in a slow, con-trolled descent and ascent.

(iii) The employee must use personal fall protection equipment, including a full body harness, independently attached to the lower load block or overhaul ball.

(iv) The fall protection equipment must meet the applicable requirements in § 1926.502.

(v) The boatswain’s chair itself (excluding the personal fall arrest system anchorages), must be ca-pable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least five times the maximum intended load.

(vi) No more than one person must be hoisted at a time.

(q) [Reserved.](r) Hoisting personnel for marine transfer. When

hoisting employees solely for transfer to or from a marine worksite, the following requirements must be met:

(1) The employee must be in either a personnel platform or a marine-hoisted personnel transfer device.

(2) If using a personnel platform, paragraphs (a) through (n) of this section apply.

(3) If using a marine-hoisted personnel transfer de-vice:

(i) The following paragraphs of this section apply: (a), (c)(2), (d)(1), (d)(3), (d)(4), (e)(1) through (5), (e)(12), (f)(1), (g), (h), (j), (k)(1), (k)(8), (k)(9), (k)(10)(ii), (k)(11)(i), (k)(12), (m), and (n). Where the terms “person-nel platform” or “platform” are used in these paragraphs, substitute them with “marine-hoisted personnel transfer device.”

(ii) The transfer device must be used only for transferring workers.

(iii) The number of workers occupying the transfer device must not exceed the maximum number it was designed to hold.

(iv) Each employee must wear a U.S. Coast Guard personal flotation device approved for industrial use.

(s) Hoisting personnel for storage-tank (steel or con-crete), shaft and chimney operations. When hoisting an employee in storage tank (steel or concrete), shaft and chimney operations, the following requirements must be met:

(1) The employee must be in a personnel platform except when the employer can demonstrate that use of a personnel platform is infeasible; in such a case, a boatswain’s chair must be used.

(2) If using a personnel platform, paragraphs (a) through (n) of this section apply.

(3) If using a boatswain’s chair:(i) The following paragraphs of this section apply:

(a), (c), (d)(1), (d)(3), (d)(4), (e)(1), (e)(2), (e)(3), (f)(1), (f)(2)(i), (f)(3)(i), (g), (h), (k)(1), (k)(6), (k)(8), (k)(9), (k)(11)(i), (m), (n). Where the terms “personnel platform” or “platform” are used in these paragraphs, substitute them with “boatswains chair.”

(ii) The employee must be hoisted in a slow, con-trolled descent and ascent.

(iii) The employee must use personal fall protection equipment, including a full body harness, attached inde-pendent of the crane/derrick. When there is no adequate structure for attachment of personal fall arrest equipment as required in § 1926.502(d)(15), the attachment must be to the lower load block or overhaul ball. (iv) The fall protection equipment must meet the applicable requirements in § 1926.502. (v) The boatswain’s chair itself (excluding the per-sonal fall arrest system anchorages), must be capable of supporting, without failure, its own weight and at least five times the maximum intended load. (vi) No more than one person must be hoisted at a time.

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1926.1438 — Overhead & gantry cranes

(a) Permanently installed overhead and gantry cranes. The requirements of § 1910.179, except for § 1910.179(b)(1), and not the requirements of this subpart CC, apply to the following equipment when used in construction and permanently installed in a facility: overhead and gantry cranes, including semigantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, and other having the same fundamental characteristics.

(b) Overhead and gantry cranes that are not perma-nently installed in a facility.

(1) This paragraph applies to the following equip-ment when used in construction and not permanently in-stalled in a facility: overhead and gantry cranes, including semigantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, launching gantry cranes, and similar equipment having the same fundamental characteristics, irrespective of whether it travels on tracks, wheels or other means.

(2) The following requirements apply to equipment identified in paragraph (b)(1) of this section:

OSHA 1926.1438Overhead & Gantry Cranes

(i) Sections 1926.1400 through 1926. 1414; §§ 1926.1417 through 1926.1425; § 1926.1426(d), §§ 1926.1427 through 1926.1434; § 1926.1437, § 1926.1439, and § 1926.1441.

(ii) The following portions of § 1910.179:(A) Paragraphs (b)(5),(6),(7); (e)(1),

(3),(5),(6); (f)(1),(4); (g); (h)(1),(3); (k); and (n) of § 1910.179.

(B) The definitions in § 1910.179(a) except for “hoist” and “load.” For those words, the definitions in § 1926.1401 apply.

(C) Section 1910.179(b)(2), but only where the equipment identified in paragraph (b)(1) of this section (§ 1926.1438) was manufactured before September 19, 2001.

(iii) For equipment manufactured on or after September 19, 2001, the following sections of ASME B30.2-2005 (incorporated by reference, see § 1926.6) apply: 2-1.3.1; 2-1.4.1; 2-1.7.2; 2-1.8.2; 2-1.9.1; 2-1.9.2; 2-1.11; 2-1.12.2; 2-1.13.7; 2-1.14.2, 2-1.14.3; 2-1.14.5; 2-1.15; 2-2.2.2; 2-3.2.1.1. In addition, 2-3.5 applies, except in 2-3.5.1(b), “29 CFR 1910.147” is substituted for ANSI Z244.1.”

Applicable Standards From

ASME B30.17(2015)

Monorails and Underhung Cranes

ASME B30.16(2012)

Overhead Hoists (Underhung)

Copied by permission. Rev. 06.30.2016To order complete ASME standards, call Crane Institute of America at (800) 832-2726 or visit craneinstitute.com

ASME B30.2(2011)

Overhead and Gantry Cranes

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ASME B30.2 (2011) - Overhead and Gantry CranesWhere applicable the following ASME Standards apply to other types of overhead cranes and monorails

Chapter 2-1 General Construction and Installation

SECTION 2-1.1: MARKINGS

2-1.1.4 Multiple Hoist Identification MarkingsIf the crane has more than one hoisting unit, each hoist shall

have an identification marking on the hoist or trolley unit for its load block (i.e., 1 and 2; A and B; north and south; etc.) and shall be legible from the ground or floor. These markings shall also appear on the controllers used by the operator to indicate the controllers that operate each hoist.

SECTION 2-1.5: CABS - NORMAL OR SKELETON (IF PROVIDED)

2-1.5.5 Fire ExtinguisherA portable fire extinguisher, with a basic minimum extin-

guisher rating of 10 BC, shall be installed in the cab.

SECTION 2-1.7: SERVICE PLATFORMS (FOOTWALKS)

2-1.7.3 EgressThere should be a means of egress from cab-operated cranes

to permit departure under emergency conditions. The means of egress should depend on the facts of the situation.

SECTION 2-1.13: ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT

2-1.13.7 Lifting Magnets(a) A crane for use with a lifting magnet shall have a sepa-

rate magnet circuit switch of the enclosed type with provision for locking in the open (off) position. The magnet disconnect switch shall be connected on the line side (power supply side) of the crane disconnect switch.

(b) Means shall be provided for discharging the inductive load of a lifting magnet.

(c) Indication or signal lights should be provided to indi-cate that power to a lifting magnet is on or off. These lights, if used, shall be visible to the crane operator and to persons on the floor.

(d) For a remote-operated crane, the loss of the remote signal shall not result in demagnetizing the lifting magnet.

Chapter 2-2 Inspection and Testing

SECTION 2-2.1: INSPECTION

2-2.1.3 Functional Test Inspection(a) A functional test inspection is a visual and audible op-

erational examination of the crane, and shall be conducted at the beginning of each shift, or before the crane is first used during each shift. In special applications, where the suspended load is transferred from operator to operator at shift change, the functional inspection shall be performed when that lift is completed.

(b) Items that shall be inspected during performance of the functional test inspection are the following:

(1) operational controls (2) upper limit device in accordance with para. 2-3.5(a) (3) rope in accordance with para. 2-2.2.2(c) Adjustments, repairs or replacements necessary to satisfy

requirements shall be made in accordance with para. 2-4.2.4 prior to initial use if the functional test inspection reveals that there are items and conditions that do not comply with the provisions.

(d) Records of the inspection should be made.

2-2.1.4 Frequent Inspection(a) A frequent inspection of visual and audible examina-

tion of the crane.(b) Equipment shall be inspected at intervals dependent on

the use of the equipment as follows: (1) normal service - monthly (2) heavy service - weekly to monthly (3) severe service - daily to weekly(c) The following items shall be inspected: (1) operating mechanisms for proper operation, proper

adjustment, and unusual sounds; such as, but not limited to, squeaking, grinding, grating, etc.

(2) upper limit device(s) in accordance with para. 2-3.5(a) (3) tanks, valves, pumps, lines, and other parts of air or

hydraulic systems for leakage. (4) hooks and latches, if used, in accordance with the

provisions of ASME B30.10 (5) hook attachment and securing means (6) rope for proper spooling onto the drum(s) and sheave(s) (7) warning device(s) for proper operation (8) rope in accordance with para. 2-2.2.2(d) Adjustments repairs or replacements shall be made,

necessary, in accordance with para. 2-4.2.4(e) Records of the inspection should be made.

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SECTION 2-2.2: ROPE INSPECTION

2-2.2.2 Frequent Rope Inspection(a) All ropes should be visually inspected at the start of

each shift. These visual observations should be concerned with discovering gross damage, such as listed below, that may be a hazard.

(1) distortion of the rope, such as kinking, crushing, unstranding, birdcaging, main strand displacement, or core protrusion

(2) general corrosion (3) broken or cut strands (4) number, distribution, and type of visible broken wires(b) When damage as described in paras. 2-2.2.2(a)(1)

through (4) is discovered, the rope shall either be removed from service or given an inspection as detailed in para. 2-2.2.3(b).

Chapter 2-3 Operator Training and Operation

SECTION 2-3.3: OPERATION

2-3.3.4 Responsibilities of Crane Operators(a) Lifting and Moving the Load (1) Three phases of lifting and moving the load shall be

addressed as follows: (a) before the lift (b) during the lift (c) after the lift (2) In most crane operations, all of the requirements listed

in para. 2-3.3.4(b) are the responsibility of the operator of the crane.

(3) Rigging the load, attaching the load to the crane hook, and other tasks related to moving the load are sometimes handled by persons other than the crane operator.

(4) Crane operation characteristics such as, but not limited to, the type of crane, cab, floor, pulpit, or remote operated, the vantage point of the operator, and the purpose for which the crane is being used are conditions that determine whether the crane operator or another person is responsible for lift and move functions.

(5) Assignment of responsibilities is determined, identified, and documented by management for each crane application.

(b) Before the Lift. Cranes operators shall (1) read and be familiar with the applicable provisions of

crane equipment safety standards and the instructions listed in manual(s) provided with the equipment

(2) be familiar with controls, instructions, and warnings located on the lifting equipment


(3) operate the equipment only when physically and otherwise fit.

(4) not energize the main switch (crane disconnect) if a warning sign, lock or tag is n the device until the sign, lock or tag is removed by the person who placed it on the device, or by an authorized person

(5) not remove a warning sign, lock or tag that is on any switch that controls power to the crane, such as, but not lim-ited to, the crane disconnect, motion disconnect, or runway disconnect, if the sign, lock, or tag was placed on the device by another person.

(6) place all controllers in the off position before closing the main line disconnect device

(7) verify that no worker is on or adjacent to the crane before closing the main switch (crane disconnect)

(8) perform a functional test inspection and test in ac-cordance with the requirements of para. 2-2.1.3

(9) not remove or obscure the warning or safety labels, plates, or tags furnished on the lifting equipment

(10) be familiar with and understand hand signals(11) verify that the hook, bridge, and trolley travel in the

same direction as shown on the controls(12) verify that the hoist rope is free from kinks or twists

and is not wrapped around the load(13) attach the load to the hook or have the load attached

to the hook by means of sings or other lifting devices(14) verify that the load, sling, or lifting device is seated

in the bowl of the hook(15) use a hook latch when provided(16) verify that the hook latch (when provided) is closed

and not supporting any part of the load(17) verify that the rope is seated in the drum grooves and

in the sheave(s) grooves if there is or has been a slack rope condition

(18) activate the warning device, when a device is furnished(a) before starting the bridge or trolley motion of the

crane(b) intermittently during travel of the crane when ap-

proaching persons in the he path of the load(19) board the crane (cab) only at authorized locations

and designated boarding entrances(20) verify that the transmitter selected is the correct

transmitter for the crane to be operated(c) During the Lift. Crane operators shall

(1) respond to signals from the person directing the lift or a designated signalperson

(2) be responsible for the lift when a signalperson is not used

(3) obey any stop signal regardless of who gives it(4) Lift a load only if its weight and the weight of any

lifting device are within the rated load of the crane and hoist(s) as marked on the crane and hoist load block or load blocks

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(a) The operator shall verify the weight of the total load if there is a question whether the total load top be lifted exceeds the rated load of the crane and/or hoists

(b) The operator shall not use a load-limiting device to measure the load

(c) A total load exceeding the rated shall not be lifted except during properly authorized tests or planned engineered lifts in accordance with Section 2-3.4.

(5) stop the crane’s function in a controlled manner when the operator has doubt as to the safety of crane operations

(6) verify multiple part lines are not twisting around each other when the lift is made

(7) take up slack rope carefully, lift the load a few inches (cm) to check the load holding brake action and verify that the load is secured, balanced, and positioned on the hook and in the sling or lifting device.

(8) minimize swinging of the load or load block(9) maintain firm footing when operating lifting equipment(10) avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration of the

load(11) use the crane to lift vertically, without side pull, ex-

cept when specifically authorized by a qualified person who has determined that

(a) the various parts of the crane will not be overstressed(b) the hoist rope will not bear or rub against other

members of the crane, such as girders or trolley frame, except members specifically designed for such contact

(c) such side pulls will not cause the hoist rope to be pulled out of the sheaves or across drum grooves

(12) verify that the load and rigging are free to move and will clear all obstructions

(13) check the hoist brake(s), if a load approaching the rated load is to be handled, by lifting the load a short distance and applying the brake(s)

(14) stop the lifting of the load before the upper limit device is engaged. The hoist limit device that controls the upper limit of travel of the load block shall not be used as an operating control in normal operation unless additional means are provided to prevent damage from overtravel

(15) avoid carrying loads over people(16) concentrate on operating the crane and shall not allow

attention to be diverted while operating the crane(17) activate the warning device, when a device is furnished

(a) before starting the bridge or trolley motion of the crane

(b) intermittently during travel of the crane when ap-proaching persons in the he path of the load

(18) promptly report, to the person responsible for the crane, any malfunction, unusual performance or sound, or dam-age of equipment that could indicate the need for adjustment, repair, or replacement in order to maintain proper operation.

(19) contact runway stops or another crane with caution for the safety of the operator and person on or under the cranes

(20) warn persons on or under a crane when contact is to be made with another crane prior to contact being made

(21) place all controllers or master switches in the off position when power is interrupted during normal operation

(22) check the controllers for correct direction of motion when power is restored after a power outage

(23) follow the directions of the designated person in charge of the operation when two or more cranes are used to lift a load

(24) not leave a suspended load unattended unless provi-sions have been made to provide auxiliary supporting means under the suspended load, or guards or barriers are utilized on the floor to prevent people from entering the area affected by the suspended load

(25) not lower the load below the point where two wraps of rope remain on each anchorage of the hoisting drum unless a lower-limit device is provided, in which case, no less than one wrap shall remain.

(26) stop lowering of the load before the lower limit device, if furnished, is engaged. The lower limit device shall not be used as an operating device during normal operation

(27) properly secure an outdoor overhead or gantry crane when the wind indicating alarm is activated in accordance with the requirements listed in para. 2-1.3.1

(28) use the harness or belt, if provided, for use with the transmitter or place the transmitter in the location intended for its support

(29) not override safety devices on the he transmitter (30) not wear gloves that interfere with the operation of

controls (31) shut off the transmitter when a power failure occurs.(d) After the Lift. Crane operators shall (1) lift the load block and attachments above the highest

moveable obstruction under the crane when the crane is not in use

(2) notify the next operator if required adjustment, repair or replacement has not be made

(3) properly secure an outdoor overhead or gantry crane when the crane is shut down

(4) open the crane main line disconnect device and the magnet disconnect switch (when applicable) before leaving the crane cab

(5) place the controllers in the off position, before leaving the controls of the crane

(6) shut off the power to pendant-operated cranes before leaving the area

(7) shut off and store transmitter in a designated and protected location


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SECTION 2-3.5: HOIST LIMIT DEVICES (SWITCHES)

(a) Prior to the initial use of any hoist during each shift, the operator shall verify operation of the upper limit device under no-load conditions. If more than one upper limit device is present, only the operation of the primary upper limit device need to be verified. Care shall be exercised; the block shall be inched into the limit or run in at slow speed. If device does not operate properly, the operator shall immediately notify the appointed person.

(b) The hoist limit device that controls the upper limit of travel of the load block shall not be used as an operating control in normal operation unless additional means are provided to prevent damage from overtravel.

SECTION 2-3.6: SIGNALS

2-3.6.1 Standard Signals(a) Signals to the operator shall be in accordance with this

Volume, unless voice communication (telephone, radio, or equivalent) is utilized.

(b) Signals should be discernible or audible to the operator.(c) Hands signal shall be posted conspicuously and should

be as illustrated in Fig. 2-3.6.1-1.

2-3.6.2 Special Signals(a) Special operations may require additions to or modifica-

tions of standard signals.(b) Special signals shall be agreed upon and understood by

the signalperson and the operator.(c) Special signals shall not conflict with standard signals.

SECTION 2-3.7: MISCELLANEOUS

2-3.7.3 Fire ExtinguishersOperators shall be familiar with the location, operation,

and care of fire extinguishers provided (see para. 2-1.5.5).

SECTION 2-3.8: CRANE LOCKOUT / TAGOUT

2-3.8.1 General(a) A lockout/tagout policy and procedure shall be devel-

oped, documented, and implemented by the owner or user of overhead cranes.

(b) The lockout/tagout policy and procedure shall comply with the requirements of ANSI Z244.1.

(c) The policy shall give consideration to the following areas: (1) single-crane runways (2) multiple-crane runways (3) cranes on an adjacent runway (4) runway disconnecting means (5) crane disconnecting means (6) work to be done on the crane (7) work to be done other than on a crane but within the

path of a crane where its movement creates hazard.

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ASME B30.16 (2012) - Overhead Hoists (Underhung)Where applicable the following ASME Standards apply to other types of overhead cranes and monorails

Chapter 16-0

Scope, Definitions, and References

Section 16-0.1: Scope of B30.16

Volume B30.16 includes provisions that apply to the construction, installation, operation, inspection, and mainte-nance of hand chain operated chain hoists and electric and air powered chain and wire rope hoists used for, but not limited to, vertical lifting and lowering of freely suspended, unguided, loads which consist of equipment and materials.

Requirements for a hoist that is used for a special purpose, such as, but not limited to, tensioning a load, non-vertical lift-ing service, lifting a guided load, lifting personnel, or drawing both the load and the hoist up or down the load chain or rope when the hoist is attached to the load, are not included in this Volume.

Chapter 16-1

Marking, Construction, and Installation

SECTION 16-1.1: MARKING

16-1.1.1 Rated Load The rated load of the hoist shall be marked on the hoist or its load block and shall be legible from the ground or floor.

16-1.1.2 Controls (a) Each control actuator of an electric-powered or air-powered hoist shall be marked to indicate the direction of resultant motion. (b) In locations or areas where multiple electric-pow-ered or air-powered hoists are used, the arrangement of control actuator markings for directions of motion on pen-dant push-button stations and radio-controlled transmitters should be the same for all hoists in that location or area.

Hand Chain OperatedChain Hoist

Electric PoweredWire Rope Hoist

7 5 © 2014 Crane Institute of America, LLC. All rights reserved. ILLEGAL TO REPRODUCE without written permission.

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Chapter 16-2

Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance

SECTION 16-2.1: INSPECTION

16-2.1.2 Preoperation Inspection (a) The preoperation inspection shall be performed be-fore the first use of the hoist each shift by a designated person. (b) A qualified person shall determine whether condi-tions found during the inspection constitute a hazard and whether a more detailed inspection is required. (c) The following items shall be inspected: (1) operating mechanisms for proper operation, proper adjustment, and unusual sounds. (2) hoist limit device(s) of electric- or air-powered hoists without a load on the hook. The load block shall be inched into its limit device or run in at a slow speed on multispeed or variable-speed hoists. When travel-limiting clutches are used as limiting devices, follow the methods for inspecting the travel-limiting clutch in the manual provided with the hoist. (3) hoist braking system for proper operation. (4) lines, valves, and other parts of air systems for leakage. (5) hooks, in accordance with ASME B30.10. (6) hook latches, if used, for proper operation. (7) hoist rope for gross damage, which may be an immediate hazard, such as the following: (a) distortion of the rope such as kinking, crush-ing, unstranding, birdcaging, main strand displacement, or core protrusion. (b) general corrosion (c) broken or cut strands

(d) number, distribution, and type of visible bro-ken wires (8) load chain for gross damage, which may be an immediate hazard, such as the following: (a) Examine visually for gouges, nicks, weld spatter, corrosion, and distorted links (b) Test the hoist under load in lifting and lowering directions and observe the operation of the chain and sprock-ets. The chain should be feed smoothly into and away from the sprockets.

Chapter 16-3

Operator Training and Operation

SECTION 16-3.3: OPERATION

16-3.3.2 General Requirements to be Followed During Equipment Operation All personnel involved with the crane or monorail sys-tem operation shall comply with the following: (a) equipment lockout/tagout procedures, see Section 11-3.7. (b) warning or safety signs, labels, plates, or tags. (c) The crane or monorail system shall not be used to lift, lower, or travel while anyone is on the load or hook. (d) The hoist chain or rope shall be free from kinks or twists and shall not be wrapped around the load. (e) A hook latch shall be used when provided (f) The hook latch (when provided) shall be closed and shall not be used to support any part of the load. (g) The load, sling, or lifting device shall be seated in the bowl of the hook. (h) The hoist chain(s) or rope(s) shall be seated in its chain sprockets or drum and sheave grooves. (i) Persons shall stay clear of a suspended load. (j) Caution shall be exercised when using a crane having a lifting magnet, due to hazards of falling metal. (k) Cranes and monorail systems shall be used to lift loads vertically without side pull expect when specifically authorized by the manufacturer(s) or a qualified person for the equipment and a qualified person for the supporting structure who have determined that (1) the various parts of the equipment, support sys-tem, and supporting structure will not be overstressed (2) the stability of the equipment is not thereby en-dangered (3) such side pulls will not cause the hoist rope to be pulled out of the sheave or across drum grooves (4) such side pulls will not cause damage to the chain hoists

B30.10-1.10.5 (2014) Removal Criteria (of Hooks) Hooks shall be removed from service if damage such as the following is visible and shall only be returned to service when approved by a qualified person: (d) crack, nicks, or gouges (e) wear - any wear exceeding 10% (or as recommended by the manufacturer) of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin. (f) deformation - any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook (g) throat opening - any distortion causing an increase in throat opening exceeding 5%, not to exceed ¼ inch (6 mm) (or as recommended by the manufacturer). (h) inability to lock - any self-locking hook that does not lock. (i) inoperative latch (if required) - any damaged latch or malfunctioning latch that does not close the hook’s throat.

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(l) The crane or monorail system shall not be used to lift loads in excess of the rated load of the system except during properly authorized tests or planned engineered lifts in ac-cordance with Section 11-3.4.NOTE: When multiple hoists, trolleys, bridges, or other devices are installed, the total load shall not exceed the capacity of the system.

(m) A load-limiting device shall not be used to measure the weight of the load. (n) The hoist rope or chain shall be protected from dam-aging weld spatter or contaminants. (o) The harness or belt, when provided, shall be used with the transmitter or the transmitter shall be placed in the location intended for its support. (p) The safety devices on the transmitter shall not be overridden. (q) Gloves that interfere with the operation of the con-trols shall not be worn. (r) The transmitter shall be stored in a designated and protected location. (s) The transmitter shall be shut off when a power failure occurs. (t) When two or more pieces of equipment are used to lift a single load, one designated person shall be in charge of the operation. This person shall analyze the operation and instruct all personnel involved in the proper positioning and rigging of the load and the movements to be made. (u) The operator shall check the hoist brake(s) at least once each shift if a load approaching the rated load is to be handled. This shall be done by lifting the load a few inches (cm) and applying the brake(s). (v) The load shall not be lowered below the point where less than two wraps of rope shall remain on each anchorage of the hoisting drum, unless a lower limit device is provided, in which case, no less than one wrap shall remain. (w) No one, other than the operator, shall enter a crane cab or pulpit, with the exception of persons such as oilers and supervisors whose duties require them to do so, and then only in the performance of their duties and with the knowl-edge of the operator or other appointed person.

16-3.3.4 Responsibilities of Operators (a) Lifting and moving the load. (1) three phases of lifting and moving the load shall be addressed (a) before the lift (b) during the lift (c) after the lift

(2) Rigging the load, attaching the load to the hook and other tasks related to moving the load may be performed by persons other than the equipment operator.

(3) Equipment operation may require the use of a signal person or other personnel who have responsibility for directing the lift and move functions and shall be assigned prior to the lift.

(b) Before the lift, operators shall(1) be familiar with the applicable provisions of the

equipment safety standards and the instructions listed in manual(s) provided with the equipment.

(2) be familiar with controls, instructions and warn-ings located on the lifting equipment.

(3) operate the equipment only when physically and otherwise fit

(4) not energize the main switch (equipment discon-nect) if a warning sign,lock, or tag is on the device until the sign, lock or tad is removed by the person who placed it on the device, or by an authorized person.

(5) not remove a warning sign, lock or tag that is on any switch that control power to the equipment, such as, but not limited to the equipment disconnect, motion disconnect, or runway disconnect, if the sign, lock or tag was placed on the device by another person

(6) place all controllers in the off position before closing the main line disconnect device

(7) verify that no worker is on or adjacent to the equipment before closing the equipment’s main disconnect switch

(8) perform a functional test inspection and test in accordance with para. 11-2.1.3

(9) not remove or obscure the warning or safety la-bels, plates, or tags furnished on the lifting equipment

(10) be familiar with and understand hand signals (see Section 11-3.5)

(11) verify that the hook, bridge, and carrier travel in the same direction as shown on the controls.

(12)verify that chains or wire ropes are not kinked or twisted or that multiple part chain or wire ropes are not twisted about each other

(13) verify that the hoist chain or wire rope is not wrapped around the load

(14) attach the load to the hook or have the load at-tached to the hook by means of slings or other lifting devices

(15) verify that the load, sling, or lifting device is seated in the bowl of the hook

(16) use a hook latch when provided(17) verify that the hook latch (when provided) is

closed and not supporting any part of the load

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(18) verify that the hoist load chain or rope is seated in the sprockets or drum grooves and in the sheave(s) sprock-ets or grooves if there is or has been a slack rope condition

(19) board or leave the crane (cab) only at autho-rized locations and designated boarding entrances

(20) verify that the transmitter selected is the correct transmitter for the crane to be operated

(21) verify that the hoist unit is centered over the load’s center of gravity, except when authorized by a quali-fied person [see para. 11-3.3.2(k)]

(22) verify that the weight of the total load to be lifted does not exceed the rated load of the crane or monorail system, or the rigging [see para. 11-3.3.2(l)]

(23) activate the warning device, when a device is furnished, before starting the bridge or carrier motion of the crane

(e) During the lift, operator’s shall(1) respond to signals from the person directing the

lift or a designated signal person.(2) be responsible for the lift when a signal person is

not used.(3) obey any stop signal regardless of who gives it.(4) verify multiple part chains or lines are not twist-

ing around each other when the lift is made.(5) take up slack load chain or rope carefully, lift

the load a few inches (cm) to check the hoist operation and verify that the load is secured, balanced, and positioned on the hook and in the sling or lifting device.

(6) minimise swinging the load or load block.(7) maintain firm footing when operating lifting

equipment.(8) avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration of

the load.(9) use the crane or monorail system to lift verti-

cally, without side pull, except when specifically authorized by a qualified person [see para. 11-3.3.2(k)]

(10) verify that the load and rigging are free to move and will clear all obstructions

(11) check the hoist brake(s), if a load approach-ing the rated load is to be handled, by lifting the load a few inches (cm) and applying the brake(s). (12) stop the lifting of the load before the upper limit device is engaged. The hoist limit device that controls the upper limit travel of the load block shall not be used as an operating control in normal operation unless additional means are provided to prevent damage from overtravel. (13) avoid carrying loads over people. (14) concentrate on operating the crane and not al-low attention to be diverted while operating the equipment.

(15) activate the warning device, when a device is furnished, intermittently during travel of the crane when ap-proaching persons in the path of the load. (16) avoid exposure of the load chain or rope from damaging elements such as weld spatter or contaminants. (17) promptly report, to the person responsible for the equipment, any malfunction, unusual performance or sound, or damage of equipment. (18) contact stops, other cranes, or carriers with cau-tion for the safety of persons on or below the equipment. (19) place all controllers or mater switches in the off position when power is interrupted during operation. (20) check the controllers for correct direction of motion when power is restored after a power outage. (21) follow the directions of the designated person in charge of the operation when two or more pieces of equip-ment are used to lift a single load. (22) not leave a suspended load unattended unless provisions have been made to provide auxiliary supporting means under the suspended load, or guards or barriers are utilized on the floor to prevent people from entering the area affected by the suspended load. (23) not lower the load below the point where two wraps of rope remain on each anchorage of the hoisting drum unless a lower-limit device is provide, in which case, no less than one wrap shall remain. (24) stop the lowering of the load before the lower limit device is engaged, when furnished, and not use it as an operating control in normal operation. (25) properly secure an outdoor underhung crane when the wind indicating alarm is activated. (26) use the harness belt, if provided, for use with the transmitter or place the transmitter in the location intend-ed for its support. (27) not override safety devices on the transmitter. (28) not wear gloves that interfere with the opera-tion of the controls. (29) shut off the transmitter when a power failure occurs. (30) stop the crane or monorail system functions in a controlled manner when the operator has doubt as to the safety of the crane and monorail system’s operation. Lift op-erations shall resume only after safety concerns have been addressed. (f) After the lift, operator’s shall (1) lift the load block above the highest moveable obstruction under the equipment when the equipment is not in use (2) notify the next operator of adjustment, repair, or replacement that needs to be made

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(3) properly secure an outdoor underhung crane when the crane is shut down

(4) open the equipment main line disconnect de-vice before leaving the crane cab

(5) place the controllers in the off position before leaving the control of the equipment

(6) shut off the power to pendant-operated cranes before leaving area

(7) shut off and store transmitter in a designated and protected location

(8) do not use the crane or monorail system to re-move slings from under a landed load.

SECTION 16-3.5: SIGNALS

16-3.5.1 Standard Signals Signals to the operator should be in accordance with the standards prescribed in Fig. 11-3.3.4-1, unless voice com-munication equipment (telephone, radio, or equivalent) is utilized. Signals should be discernible or audible at all times. Some special operations may require additions to, or modifi-cations of, the basic signals.

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Chapter 17-0Scope, Defi nitions, and References

SECTION 17-0.1: SCOPE OF B30.17

Volume B30.17 includes provisions that apply to the construction, installation, operation, inspection, testing, and maintenance of hand-operated and power-operated overhead cranes and monorail systems with an underhung trolley and/or bridge. These cranes and monorail systems shall support one or more hoists used for vertical lifting and lowering of freely suspended, unguided loads, and include top running and underhung bridge cranes, gantry cranes, traveling wall cranes, jib cranes, polar gantry cranes, portable gantries, other cranes having the same fundamental characteristics, and monorail systems and their support systems for monorail systems, runways and their support systems for underhung cranes, and runway rails for top running cranes are also within the scope of this Volume.

Provisions for similar equipment used for a special pur-pose, such as, but not limited to, nonvertical lifting service, lifting a guided load, or lifting personnel, are not included in this Volume.

ASME B30.17 (2015) - Crane and Monorails (With Underhung Trolley or Bridge)Where applicable the following ASME Standards apply to other types of overhead cranes and monorails

Chapter 17-1Construction and Installation

SECTION 11-1.1 MARKINGS

11-1.1.1 Cranes(a) The rated load of the crane shall be marked on each

side of the crane, and if the crane has more than one hoist-ing unit, each hoist shall have its rated load marked on the hoist or its load block so that the rated load marking shall be legible from the ground or fl oor. (b) The crane shall be marked with manufacturer’s identifi cation information on a plate or label attached to the crane, as follows: (1) name and address of manufacturer (2) manufacturer’s unique identifi er such as serial number

11-1.1.2 MonorailsThe rated load of the monorail should be marked on the

monorail and, if marked, shall be legible from the ground or fl oor.

11-1.1.3 Hoists(a) The rated load of each hoist shall be marked in ac-

cordance with ASME B30.16. (b) If there is more than one hoisting unit, each hoist shall have an identifi cation marking on the hoist or trolley unit or its load bock (e.g. #1 and # 2, A and B, North and South, etc.) and shall be legible from the ground or fl oor. These marking shall also appear on the controllers that op-erate each hoist.

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Floor-Operated Crane(Hand-Held Push Button)

Wall SupportedJib Crane


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17-1.1.4 General MarkingsDirectional marking (i.e North, South, East, and West;

Forward and Reverse; or Left and Right) shall be provided on the equipment or facility. These markings shall be legible to the operator and consistent with the direction of move-ment markings on the controllers.

17-1.1.5 TrolleysThe rated load, the equipment manufacturer’s name, and

the model number or serial number shall be marked on each trolley.

17-1.1.7 Controls(a) Each control actuator shall be legibly marked to indi-

cate the function and direction of movement.(b) In locations or areas where multiple systems are

used, the arrangement of control markings for function and directions should be the same for all crane and monorail sys-tems in that location or area.

Chapter 17-2 Inspection and Testing

SECTION 17-2.1 INSPECTION

17·2.1.3 Functional Test Inspection(a) A functional test inspection is a visual and audible

operational examination of the equipment, and shall be con-ducted at the beginning of each shift or before the equipment is first used during each shift. In special applications, when the handling of a suspended load is transferred from opera-tor to operator at shift change, the functional test inspection shall be performed when that lift is completed.

(b) As a minimum, the following items shall be inspect-ed during performance of the functional test inspection:

(1) operational controls(2) upper limit device(s) in accordance with ASME

B30.16(3) chain or wire rope in accordance with ASME

B30.16(c) Deficiencies discovered during this inspection shall

be reported immediately to the supervisor or a designated person.

(d) Adjustments, repairs, or replacements shall be made in accordance with para. 17-4.2.4 prior to initial use.


Chapter 17-3Operator Training and Operation

SECTION 17-3.1 OPERATOR TRAINING

17-3.1.2 Operator Training - General (a) Training shall include those items that apply to the equipment and the particular application of the crane or monorail system. Refer to para. 17-3.1.3 as a guide for sources of training material. (b) Training programs and their contents shall be based upon, but not limited to, the following: (1) physical characteristics of the workplace (2) performance characteristics and complexity of the equipment (3) types of load to be handled (4) responsibilities of the crane or monorail system operator and other persons involved in the movement of the load. (see paras. 17-3.3.2 and 17-3.3.4) (c) Trainees under the supervision of a designated per-son, the number of trainees permitted to be supervised by a single designated person, the physical location of the desig-nated person while supervising, and the type of communica-tion required between the designated person and the trainee shall be determined by a qualified person.

SECTION 17-3.2 TRAINING FOR PERSONS OTHER THAN CRANE AND MONORAIL SYSTEM OPERATORS

Other persons, such as, but not limited to, maintenance personnel, test personnel, and inspectors, shall be trained in accordance with the training requirements of this Volume when it is necessary to operate a crane or monorail system in the performance of their duties.

SECTION 17-3.3 OPERATION

17-3.3.2 General Requirements To Be Followed During Equipment OperationAll personnel involved with the crane or monorail system operation shall comply with the following: (a) equipment lockout / tagout procedures (see Section 17-3.7). (b) warnings, signs, labels, plates, or tags. (c) the crane or monorail system shall not be used to lift, lower, or travel while anyone is on the load or hook. (d) the hoist chain or rope shall be free from kinks or twists and shall not be wrapped around the load. (e) a hook latch shall be used when provided. (f) the hook latch (when provided) shall be closed and shall not be used to support any part of the load.

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(g) the load, sling, or lifting device shall be seated in the bowl of the hook.

(h) the hoist chain(s) or rope(s) shall be seated in its chain sprockets or drum and sheave grooves.

(i) persons shall stay clear of a suspended load.(j) caution shall be exercised when using a crane having

a lifting magnet, due to hazards of falling metal.(k) equipment shall be used to lift loads vertically

without side pull except when specifically authorized by the manufacturer(s) or a qualified person who have determined that

(1) the various parts of the crane will not be overstressed

(2) the stability of the crane is not thereby endangered(3) such side pulls will not cause the hoist rope to be

pulled out of the sheave or across drum grooves(4) such side pulls will not result in excessive

swinging of the load block or load, or damage to the chain hoist

(l) the crane or monorail system shall not be used to lift loads in excess of the rated load of the system except during load tests or planned engineered lifts in accordance with Section 17-3.4.

(m) When multiple hoists, trolleys, bridges, or other devices are installed, the total load shall not exceed the capacity of the system nor shall any individual component be loaded in excess of its rated load.

(n) A load-limiting device shall not be used to measure the weight of the load.

(o) The hoist rope shall be protected so far as is practical from weld spatter or other damaging contaminants.

(p) when two or more pieces of equipment are used to lift a single load, one designated person shall be in charge of the operation. This person shall analyze the operation and instruct all personnel involved in the proper positioning and rigging of the load and the movements to be made.

(q) no one, other than the operator, shall enter a crane cab or pulpit, with the exception of persons such as oilers and supervisors whose duties require them to do so, and then only in the performance of their duties and with the knowledge of the operator.

17-3.3.3 Responsibilities of Management (Owners/Users)

Management (owners/users) shall (a) identify, document, and assign responsibilities of the

equipment operator and other persons involved in the move-ment of the load(s) (see paras. 17-3.3.2 and 17-3.3. 4).

(b) provide or verify that persons who will operate the equipment have been trained.

(c) provide a written and practical examination that veri-fies that the person has acquired the knowledge and skill to operate the specific type of equipment that will be operated. The examinations shall be defined by the owner/user and in accordance with any local, state, and federal provisions that may apply. (d) issue a certificate, or formal record, that verifies the person has been trained and has passed the examination re-quired in para. 17-3.3.3(c), or confirm the person has a valid certificate or formal record that satisfies the requirements of para. 17-3.3.3(c).

17·3.3.4 Responsibilities of Operators (a) Lifting and moving the load (1) The following three phases of lifting and moving the load shall be addressed: (a) before the lift (b) during the lift (c) after the lift (2) Rigging the load, attaching the load to the hook and other tasks related to moving the load may be performed by persons other than the equipment operator. (3) Equipment operation may require the use of a signalperson or other personnel who have responsibility for directing the lift and move functions. This signalperson or personnel and shall be assigned prior to the lift. (b) Before the lift, operators shall (1) be familiar with the equipment safety procedures and the instructions listed in manual(s) provided with the equipment (2) be familiar with controls, instructions, and warn-ings located on the lifting equipment (3) operate the equipment only when physically and otherwise fit (4) not energize any switch that controls power to the crane or monorail system, such as, but not limited to, the equipment disconnect, motion disconnect, or runway dis-connect, if a warning sign, lock, or tag is on the device until the sign, lock, or tag is removed by the person who placed it on the device, or by an authorized person (5) not remove a warning sign, lock, or tag that is on any switch that controls power to the crane, such as, but not limited to, the equipment disconnect, motion disconnect, or runway disconnect, if the sign, lock, or tag was placed on the device by another person (6) place all controllers in the OFF position before energizing the crane or monorail system (7) verify that no worker is on or adjacent to the equipment in a hazardous location potentially caused by en-ergizing the crane or monorail system

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(8) avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration of the load.

(9) use the crane or monorail system to lift verti-cally, without side pull, except when specifically authorized by a qualified person [see para. 17-3.3.2(k)].

(10) verify that the load and rigging are free to move and will clear all obstructions.

(11) check the hoist brake(s) if a load approaching the rated load is to be handled, by lifting the load a few inch-es (centimeters) and applying the brake(s).

(12) stop the lifting of the load before the upper limit device is engaged. The hoist limit device that controls the upper limit of travel of the load block shall not be used as an operating control in normal operation unless additional means are provided to prevent damage from overtravel.

(13) avoid carrying loads over people.(14) concentrate on operating the crane and not al-

low attention to be diverted while operating the equipment.(15) activate the warning device intermittently when

a device is furnished during travel of the crane when ap-proaching persons in the path of the load.

(16) promptly report to the person responsible for the crane, any malfunction, unusual performance or sound, or damage of equipment.

(17) contact stops, other cranes, or trolleys with cau-tion for the safety of persons on or below the equipment.

(18) place all controllers or master switches in the OFF or neutral position when power is interrupted during operation.

(19) check the controllers for correct direction of motion when power is restored after a power outage.

(20) follow the directions of the designated person in charge of the operation when two or more pieces of equip-ment are used to lift a single load.

(21) not leave a suspended load unattended, unless provisions have been made to provide auxiliary supporting means under the suspended load, or guards or barriers are utilized on the floor to prevent people from entering the area affected by the suspended load.

(22) not lower the load below the point where two wraps of rope remain on each anchorage of the hoisting drum unless a lower-limit device is provided, in which case, no less than one wrap shall remain.

(23) stop the lowering of the load before the lower limit device is engaged, when furnished, and not use it as an operating control in normal operation.

(24) properly secure an outdoor crane when the wind indicating alarm is activated.

(25) shut off the controller when a power failure oc-curs.

(8) perform a functional test inspection and test in accordance with para. 17-2.1.3 (9) not remove or obscure the warning, labels, plates, or tags furnished on the lifting equipment (10) be familiar with and understand hand signals (see Section 17-3.5 and Fig. 17-3.5.3-1) (11) verify that the hook, bridge, and trolley travel in the same direction as shown on the controls (12) verify that chains or wire ropes are not kinked or twisted or that multiple part chain or wire ropes are not twisted about each other (13) verify that the hoist chain or wire rope is not wrapped around the load (14) attach the load to the hook or have the load at-tached to the hook by means of slings or other lifting devices (15) verify that the load, sling, or lifting device is seated in the bowl of the hook (16) use a hook latch when provided (17) verify that the hook latch (when provided) is closed and not supporting any part of the load (18) verify that the hoist load chain or rope is seated in the sprockets or drum grooves and in the sheave(s) sprock-ets or grooves if there is or has been a slack rope condition (19) board or leave the crane (cab) only at autho-rized locations and designated boarding entrances (20) verify that the transmitter selected is the correct transmitter for the crane to be operated (21) verify that the hoist unit is centered over the load’s center of gravity, except when authorized by a quali-fied person [see para. 17-3.3.2(k)] (22) verify that the weight of the total load to be lifted does not exceed the rated load of the crane or monorail system, or the rigging [see para. 17-3.3.2(1)] (23) activate the warning device when a device is furnished, before starting the bridge or trolley motion of the crane (c) During the lift, operator’s shall (1) respond to signals from the person directing the lift or a designated signalperson. (2) be responsible for the lift when a signalperson is not used. (3) obey any stop signal regardless of who gives it. (4) verify multiple-part chains or ropes are not twist-ing around each other when the lift is made. (5) take up slack load chain or rope carefully, and lift the load a few inches (centimeters) to check the hoist operation and verify that the load is secured, balanced, and positioned on the hook and in the sling or lifting device. (6) minimize swinging the load or load hook. (7) maintain firm footing when operating lifting equipment.

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(26) stop the crane or monorail system functions in a controlled manner when the operator has doubt as to the safety of the crane and monorail system’s operations. Lift operations shall resume only after safety concerns have been addressed.

(d) After the lift, operators shall(1) lift the load block above the highest movable ob-

struction under the equipment when the equipment is not in use

(2) notify the next operator of adjustment, repair, or replacement that needs to be made

(3) properly secure an outdoor crane or monorail system when shutting down

(4) place the controllers in the OFF or neutral posi-tion before leaving the controls of the equipment

(5) shut off the power to cranes or monorail systems before leaving area

(6) not use the crane or monorail system to remove slings from under a landed load.

SECTION 17-3.4 PLANNED ENGINEERED LIFTS

Lifts in excess of the rated load may be required from time to time on a limited basis for specific purposes such as new construction or major repairs. Every planned engineered lift exceeding the rated load shall be treated as a special and separate event. Limitations and planned requirements shall be applicable as follows:

(a) Hoist(s) used to perform planned engineered lifts shall be powered.

(b) When planned engineered lifts are made, the load shall not exceed 125% of the equipment load rating, except as provided in para. 17-3.4(c).

(c) Planned engineered lifts shall be limited to two oc-currences on any crane or monorail system within any con-tinuous 12-month period, except as provided in para. 17-3.4(d). If greater lift frequency is desired, consideration shall be given to rerating or replacing the equipment.

(d) The equipment manufacturer shall be consulted if the planned engineered lift exceeds 125% of rated load or if the frequency of planned engineered lifts exceeds two during a continuous 12-month period.

(e) Each planned engineered lift shall comply with the following requirements:

(1) A written review of the equipment service histo-ry shall be prepared, including reference to previous planned engineered lifts, structural repairs, and modifications of original design.

(2) The design of the structural, mechanical, electri-cal, pneumatic, and hydraulic components of the equipment shall be reviewed by means of applicable calculations for the

load to be lifted and approved by the equipment manufac-turer or a qualified person according to accepted crane and monorail system design standards. (3) The design of the equipment’s supporting struc-ture shall be reviewed and approved by a qualified person for conformance to applicable design criteria. The supporting structure shall be inspected, and any deterioration or damage shall be taken into consideration in design calculations for the load to be lifted. (4) The equipment shall be inspected in accordance with para. 17-2.1.5 just prior to making the lift. (5) The lift shall be made under controlled condi-tions under the direction of a designated person in accor-dance with a previously prepared lift plan. All persons in the area of the equipment shall be alerted that the lift is being made. (6) The operator shall test the equipment at the planned engineered load by lifting the load a few inches (centimeters) and setting the brakes. The lift shall only be continued if the brake stops and holds the load. Any failure to hold the load shall be corrected before proceeding with the lift. (7) The equipment shall be inspected in accordance with para. 17-2.1.5 after the lift is completed and prior to be-ing used for the lifting of any other load. (8) A record of the planned engineered lift, includ-ing calculations, inspections, and all distances moved, shall be maintained. (f) The load test specified in para. 17-2.2.2 is not appli-cable to planned engineered lift provisions.

SECTION 17-3.5 SIGNALS

17-3.5.2 General Instructions (a) When the need for using signals exists, communi-cation between the operator and the signalperson shall be maintained continuously during all equipment movements. If at any time communication is disrupted, the operator shall stop all equipment movements until communication is re-stored and a proper signal is given and understood. (b) If the operator has any concerns regarding the re-quested movement of the equipment or needs to communi-cate with the signalperson, the operator shall stop all equip-ment movements. Equipment movement shall not resume until the operator and the signalperson agree the issue at hand has been resolved. (c) If it is desired to give instructions to the operator other those provided by the established signal system, equip-ment movements shall be stopped.

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17-3.5.3 Hand SignalsWhen hand signals are used, they should be posted con-

spicuously and should be as illustrated in Fig. 17-3.5.3-1.

17-3.5.4 Standard Voice SignalsPrior to beginning lifting operations using voice signals,

the signals shall be discussed and agreed upon by the person directing lifting operations, the operator and the appointed signalperson.

(a) Telephones, radios, or equivalent, if used, shall be tested before lifting operations begin. If the system is battery powered, extra batteries should be available at the job site.

(b) Prior to commencing a lift, the operator and signalp-erson shall be given from the operator’s direction perspec-tive (e.g., travel forward).

(d) Each series of voice signals shall contain three ele-ments stated in the following order:

(1) function and direction(2) distance and/or speed(3) function stop

For lifting operations using voice signals, the person direct-ing lifting operations shall consider the complexity of the lift, the capabilities of the particular crane, the experience and skill of the operator and signalperson, and the ability to communicate neces-sary signals before permitting multiple simultaneous crane func-tion signals.

17-3.5.5 Special SignalsFor cranes with separately operated hoists, special oper-

ations, or crane attachments not covered by para. 17-3.5.3 or 17-3.5.4, additions to or modifications of the standard signal procedures may be required. In all such cases, the required special signals shall be agreed upon in advance by the crane operator and the signalperson. These special signals should not be in conflict with the standard signals.


SECTION 17-3.6 MISCELLANEOUS

17-3.6.1 Cabs (n) Personal belongings shall be stored in such a manner as to not interfere with access or operation. (b) Tools, oil cans, rags, and other necessary articles shall be stored in a fire-resistant container and shall not be permitted to lie loose in or about the cab. (c) Materials stored in cabs shall be limited to necessary items.

17-3.6.2 Fire ExtinguishersOperators shall be familiar with the location, operation and care of fire extinguisher(s) provided.

SECTION 17-3.7 EQUIPMENT LOCKOUT/TAGOUT (a) A lockout/tagout policy and procedure shall be de-veloped, documented, and implemented by the owner or user of crane and monorail systems. (b) The lockout/tagout policy and procedure shall com-ply with the requirements of ASSE Z244.1. (c) The policy shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) single-crane runways (2) multiple-crane runways (3) monorail systems (4) cranes on an adjacent runway (5) runway disconnecting means (6) crane disconnecting means (7) work to be done on the crane (8) work to be done other than on a crane, but within the path of a crane where its movement creates a hazard

Documents

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