Falls » Safety Net Systems – Where workers on a construction site are exposed to vertical drops of 6 feet or more, OSHA requires that employers provide fall protection in one of three ways before work begins:

• Placing guardrails around the hazard area.
• Install safety nets.
• Providing personal fall arrest systems for each employee.

Many times the nature and location of the work will dictate the form that fall protection takes. If the employer chooses to use a safety net system, he must comply with the following provisions:

• Safety nets must be installed as close as practicable under the surface on which employees are working, but in no case more than 30 feet below.
• When nets are used on bridges, the potential fall area must be unobstructed.
• Safety nets must extend outward from the outermost projection of the work surface as follows:

ul>

Additional Information:

• 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M, Fall protection. OSHA Standard.
  • 1926.502, Fall protection systems criteria and practices
    • 1926.502(c), Safety net systems
• Worker Deaths by Falls: A Summary of Surveillance Findings and Investigative Case Reports, US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication 2000-116, (September 2000).

Can safety nets be placed anywhere below the work surface?

1. By Standard Number
2. 1926.105 – Safety nets.

• Part Number: 1926
• Part Number Title: Safety and Health Regulations for Construction
• Subpart: 1926 Subpart E
• Subpart Title: Personal Protective and Life Saving Equipment
• Standard Number:
• Title: Safety nets.
• GPO Source:

1926.105(a) Safety nets shall be provided when workplaces are more than 25 feet above the ground or water surface, or other surfaces where the use of ladders, scaffolds, catch platforms, temporary floors, safety lines, or safety belts is impractical.1926.105(b) Where safety net protection is required by this part, operations shall not be undertaken until the net is in place and has been tested.1926.105(c)(1) Nets shall extend 8 feet beyond the edge of the work surface where employees are exposed and shall be installed as close under the work surface as practical but in no case more than 25 feet below such work surface.

1. Nets shall be hung with sufficient clearance to prevent user’s contact with the surfaces or structures below.
2. Such clearances shall be determined by impact load testing.1926.105(c)(2) It is intended that only one level of nets be required for bridge construction.1926.105(d) The mesh size of nets shall not exceed 6 inches by 6 inches.

All new nets shall meet accepted performance standards of 17,500 foot-pounds minimum impact resistance as determined and certified by the manufacturers, and shall bear a label of proof test. Edge ropes shall provide a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds.1926.105(e) Forged steel safety hooks or shackles shall be used to fasten the net to its supports.1926.105(f) Connections between net panels shall develop the full strength of the net.

How far below the walking surface can a safety net be installed?

§ 1926.502 Fall protection systems criteria and practices. – ( a ) General. ( 1 ) Fall protection systems required by this part shall comply with the applicable provisions of this section. ( 2 ) Employers shall provide and install all fall protection systems required by this subpart for an employee, and shall comply with all other pertinent requirements of this subpart before that employee begins the work that necessitates the fall protection.

( b ) Guardrail systems. Guardrail systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: ( 1 ) Top edge height of top rails, or equivalent guardrail system members, shall be 42 inches (1.1 m) plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm) above the walking/working level. When conditions warrant, the height of the top edge may exceed the 45-inch height, provided the guardrail system meets all other criteria of this paragraph.

Note: When employees are using stilts, the top edge height of the top rail, or equivalent member, shall be increased an amount equal to the height of the stilts. ( 2 ) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, or equivalent intermediate structural members shall be installed between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working surface when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches (53 cm) high.

I ) Midrails, when used, shall be installed at a height midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working level. ( ii ) Screens and mesh, when used, shall extend from the top rail to the walking/working level and along the entire opening between top rail supports. ( iii ) Intermediate members (such as balusters), when used between posts, shall be not more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart.

( iv ) Other structural members (such as additional midrails and architectural panels) shall be installed such that there are no openings in the guardrail system that are more than 19 inches (.5 m) wide. ( 3 ) Guardrail systems shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied within 2 inches (5.1 cm) of the top edge, in any outward or downward direction, at any point along the top edge.

1. 4 ) When the 200 pound (890 N) test load specified in paragraph (b)(3) of this section is applied in a downward direction, the top edge of the guardrail shall not deflect to a height less than 39 inches (1.0 m) above the walking/working level.
2. Guardrail system components selected and constructed in accordance with the appendix B to subpart M of this part will be deemed to meet this requirement.

( 5 ) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, and equivalent structural members shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 150 pounds (666 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the midrail or other member.

6 ) Guardrail systems shall be so surfaced as to prevent injury to an employee from punctures or lacerations, and to prevent snagging of clothing. ( 7 ) The ends of all top rails and midrails shall not overhang the terminal posts, except where such overhang does not constitute a projection hazard. ( 8 ) Steel banding and plastic banding shall not be used as top rails or midrails.

( 9 ) Top rails and midrails shall be at least one-quarter inch (0.6 cm) nominal diameter or thickness to prevent cuts and lacerations. If wire rope is used for top rails, it shall be flagged at not more than 6-foot (1.8 m) intervals with high-visibility material.

1. 10 ) When guardrail systems are used at hoisting areas, a chain, gate or removable guardrail section shall be placed across the access opening between guardrail sections when hoisting operations are not taking place.
2. 11 ) When guardrail systems are used at holes, they shall be erected on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole.

( 12 ) When guardrail systems are used around holes used for the passage of materials, the hole shall have not more than two sides provided with removable guardrail sections to allow the passage of materials. When the hole is not in use, it shall be closed over with a cover, or a guardrail system shall be provided along all unprotected sides or edges.

• 13 ) When guardrail systems are used around holes which are used as points of access (such as ladderways), they shall be provided with a gate, or be so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the hole.
• 14 ) Guardrail systems used on ramps and runways shall be erected along each unprotected side or edge.

( 15 ) Manila, plastic or synthetic rope being used for top rails or midrails shall be inspected as frequently as necessary to ensure that it continues to meet the strength requirements of paragraph (b)(3) of this section. ( c ) Safety net systems. Safety net systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: ( 1 ) Safety nets shall be installed as close as practicable under the walking/working surface on which employees are working, but in no case more than 30 feet (9.1 m) below such level.

3 ) Safety nets shall be installed with sufficient clearance under them to prevent contact with the surface or structures below when subjected to an impact force equal to the drop test specified in paragraph (c)(4) of this section. ( 4 ) Safety nets and their installations shall be capable of absorbing an impact force equal to that produced by the drop test specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section.

( i ) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(4)(ii) of this section, safety nets and safety net installations shall be drop-tested at the jobsite after initial installation and before being used as a fall protection system, whenever relocated, after major repair, and at 6-month intervals if left in one place.

The drop-test shall consist of a 400 pound (180 kg) bag of sand 30 ±2 inches (76 ±5 cm) in diameter dropped into the net from the highest walking/working surface at which employees are exposed to fall hazards, but not from less than 42 inches (1.1 m) above that level.

( ii ) When the employer can demonstrate that it is unreasonable to perform the drop-test required by paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section, the employer (or a designated competent person) shall certify that the net and net installation is in compliance with the provisions of paragraphs (c)(3) and (c)(4)(i) of this section by preparing a certification record prior to the net being used as a fall protection system.

The certification record must include an identification of the net and net installation for which the certification record is being prepared; the date that it was determined that the identified net and net installation were in compliance with paragraph (c)(3) of this section and the signature of the person making the determination and certification.

The most recent certification record for each net and net installation shall be available at the jobsite for inspection. ( 5 ) Defective nets shall not be used. Safety nets shall be inspected at least once a week for wear, damage, and other deterioration. Defective components shall be removed from service.

Safety nets shall also be inspected after any occurrence which could affect the integrity of the safety net system. ( 6 ) Materials, scrap pieces, equipment, and tools which have fallen into the safety net shall be removed as soon as possible from the net and at least before the next work shift.

7 ) The maximum size of each safety net mesh opening shall not exceed 36 square inches (230 cm 2 ) nor be longer than 6 inches (15 cm) on any side, and the opening, measured center-to-center of mesh ropes or webbing, shall not be longer than 6 inches (15 cm). All mesh crossings shall be secured to prevent enlargement of the mesh opening.

( 8 ) Each safety net (or section of it) shall have a border rope for webbing with a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN). ( 9 ) Connections between safety net panels shall be as strong as integral net components and shall be spaced not more than 6 inches (15 cm) apart.

D ) Personal fall arrest systems. Personal fall arrest systems and their use shall comply with the provisions set forth below. Effective January 1, 1998, body belts are not acceptable as part of a personal fall arrest system. Note: The use of a body belt in a positioning device system is acceptable and is regulated under paragraph (e) of this section.

( 1 ) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials. ( 2 ) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of the system.

1. 3 ) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN).
2. 4 ) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be proof-tested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600 pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking, or taking permanent deformation.
3. 5 ) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the snaphook keeper by the connected member, or shall be a locking type snaphook designed and used to prevent disengagement of the snaphook by the contact of the snaphook keeper by the connected member.

Effective January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks shall be used. ( 6 ) Unless the snaphook is a locking type and designed for the following connections, snaphooks shall not be engaged: ( i ) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope; ( ii ) to each other; ( iii ) to a Dee-ring to which another snaphook or other connector is attached; ( iv ) to a horizontal lifeline; or ( v ) to any object which is incompatibly shaped or dimensioned in relation to the snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object being able to depress the snaphook keeper and release itself.

( 7 ) On suspended scaffolds or similar work platforms with horizontal lifelines which may become vertical lifelines, the devices used to connect to a horizontal lifeline shall be capable of locking in both directions on the lifeline. ( 8 ) Horizontal lifelines shall be designed, installed, and used, under the supervision of a qualified person, as part of a complete personal fall arrest system, which maintains a safety factor of at least two.

( 9 ) Lanyards and vertical lifelines shall have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN). ( 10 ) ( i ) Except as provided in paragraph (d)(10)(ii) of this section, when vertical lifelines are used, each employee shall be attached to a separate lifeline.

( ii ) During the construction of elevator shafts, two employees may be attached to the same lifeline in the hoistway, provided both employees are working atop a false car that is equipped with guardrails; the strength of the lifeline is 10,000 pounds (44.4 kN); and all other criteria specified in this paragraph for lifelines have been met.

( 11 ) Lifelines shall be protected against being cut or abraded. ( 12 ) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards which automatically limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less shall be capable of sustaining a minimum tensile load of 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN) applied to the device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.

( 13 ) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards which do not limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less, ripstitch lanyards, and tearing and deforming lanyards shall be capable of sustaining a minimum tensile load of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) applied to the device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.

( 14 ) Ropes and straps (webbing) used in lanyards, lifelines, and strength components of body belts and body harnesses shall be made from synthetic fibers. ( 15 ) Anchorages used for attachment of personal fall arrest equipment shall be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) per employee attached, or shall be designed, installed, and used as follows: ( i ) as part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor of at least two; and ( ii ) under the supervision of a qualified person.

( 16 ) Personal fall arrest systems, when stopping a fall, shall: ( i ) limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 900 pounds (4 kN) when used with a body belt; ( ii ) limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 1,800 pounds (8 kN) when used with a body harness; ( iii ) be rigged such that an employee can neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8 m), nor contact any lower level; ( iv ) bring an employee to a complete stop and limit maximum deceleration distance an employee travels to 3.5 feet (1.07 m); and, ( v ) have sufficient strength to withstand twice the potential impact energy of an employee free falling a distance of 6 feet (1.8 m), or the free fall distance permitted by the system, whichever is less.

Note: If the personal fall arrest system meets the criteria and protocols contained in appendix C to subpart M, and if the system is being used by an employee having a combined person and tool weight of less than 310 pounds (140 kg), the system will be considered to be in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (d)(16) of this section.

If the system is used by an employee having a combined tool and body weight of 310 pounds (140 kg) or more, then the employer must appropriately modify the criteria and protocols of the appendix to provide proper protection for such heavier weights, or the system will not be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (d)(16) of this section.

( 17 ) The attachment point of the body belt shall be located in the center of the wearer’s back. The attachment point of the body harness shall be located in the center of the wearer’s back near shoulder level, or above the wearer’s head. ( 18 ) Body belts, harnesses, and components shall be used only for employee protection (as part of a personal fall arrest system or positioning device system) and not to hoist materials.

19 ) Personal fall arrest systems and components subjected to impact loading shall be immediately removed from service and shall not be used again for employee protection until inspected and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable for reuse. ( 20 ) The employer shall provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves.

( 21 ) Personal fall arrest systems shall be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service. ( 22 ) Body belts shall be at least one and five-eighths (1 5 ⁄ 8 ) inches (4.1 cm) wide.

23 ) Personal fall arrest systems shall not be attached to guardrail systems, nor shall they be attached to hoists except as specified in other subparts of this part, ( 24 ) When a personal fall arrest system is used at hoist areas, it shall be rigged to allow the movement of the employee only as far as the edge of the walking/working surface.

( e ) Positioning device systems. Positioning device systems and their use shall conform to the following provisions: ( 1 ) Positioning devices shall be rigged such that an employee cannot free fall more than 2 feet (.6 m). ( 2 ) Positioning devices shall be secured to an anchorage capable of supporting at least twice the potential impact load of an employee’s fall or 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN), whichever is greater.

1. 3 ) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials.
2. 4 ) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of this system.
3. 5 ) Connecting assemblies shall have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) ( 6 ) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be proof-tested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600 pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking, or taking permanent deformation.

( 7 ) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the snaphook keeper by the connected member, or shall be a locking type snaphook designed and used to prevent disengagement of the snaphook by the contact of the snaphook keeper by the connected member.

As of January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks shall be used. ( 8 ) Unless the snaphook is a locking type and designed for the following connections, snaphooks shall not be engaged: ( i ) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope; ( ii ) to each other; ( iii ) to a Dee-ring to which another snaphook or other connector is attached; ( iv ) to a horizontal lifeline; or ( v ) to any object which is incompatibly shaped or dimensioned in relation to the snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object being able to depress the snaphook keeper and release itself.

( 9 ) Positioning device systems shall be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage, and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service. ( 10 ) Body belts, harnesses, and components shall be used only for employee protection (as part of a personal fall arrest system or positioning device system) and not to hoist materials.

• F ) Warning line systems.
• Warning line systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: ( 1 ) The warning line shall be erected around all sides of the roof work area.
• I ) When mechanical equipment is not being used, the warning line shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge.

( ii ) When mechanical equipment is being used, the warning line shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge which is parallel to the direction of mechanical equipment operation, and not less than 10 feet (3.1 m) from the roof edge which is perpendicular to the direction of mechanical equipment operation.

• Iii ) Points of access, materials handling areas, storage areas, and hoisting areas shall be connected to the work area by an access path formed by two warning lines.
• Iv ) When the path to a point of access is not in use, a rope, wire, chain, or other barricade, equivalent in strength and height to the warning line, shall be placed across the path at the point where the path intersects the warning line erected around the work area, or the path shall be offset such that a person cannot walk directly into the work area.

( 2 ) Warning lines shall consist of ropes, wires, or chains, and supporting stanchions erected as follows: ( i ) The rope, wire, or chain shall be flagged at not more than 6-foot (1.8 m) intervals with high-visibility material; ( ii ) The rope, wire, or chain shall be rigged and supported in such a way that its lowest point (including sag) is no less than 34 inches (.9 m) from the walking/working surface and its highest point is no more than 39 inches (1.0 m) from the walking/working surface; ( iii ) After being erected, with the rope, wire, or chain attached, stanchions shall be capable of resisting, without tipping over, a force of at least 16 pounds (71 N) applied horizontally against the stanchion, 30 inches (.8 m) above the walking/working surface, perpendicular to the warning line, and in the direction of the floor, roof, or platform edge; ( iv ) The rope, wire, or chain shall have a minimum tensile strength of 500 pounds (2.22 kN), and after being attached to the stanchions, shall be capable of supporting, without breaking, the loads applied to the stanchions as prescribed in paragraph (f)(2)(iii) of this section; and ( v ) The line shall be attached at each stanchion in such a way that pulling on one section of the line between stanchions will not result in slack being taken up in adjacent sections before the stanchion tips over.

• 3 ) No employee shall be allowed in the area between a roof edge and a warning line unless the employee is performing roofing work in that area.
• 4 ) Mechanical equipment on roofs shall be used or stored only in areas where employees are protected by a warning line system, guardrail system, or personal fall arrest system.

( g ) Controlled access zones. Controlled access zones and their use shall conform to the following provisions. ( 1 ) When used to control access to areas where leading edge and other operations are taking place the controlled access zone shall be defined by a control line or by any other means that restricts access.

1. I ) When control lines are used, they shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor more than 25 feet (7.7 m) from the unprotected or leading edge, except when erecting precast concrete members.
2. Ii ) When erecting precast concrete members, the control line shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor more than 60 feet (18 m) or half the length of the member being erected, whichever is less, from the leading edge.

( iii ) The control line shall extend along the entire length of the unprotected or leading edge and shall be approximately parallel to the unprotected or leading edge. ( iv ) The control line shall be connected on each side to a guardrail system or wall.

1. 2 ) When used to control access to areas where overhand bricklaying and related work are taking place: ( i ) The controlled access zone shall be defined by a control line erected not less than 10 feet (3.1 m) nor more than 15 feet (4.5 m) from the working edge.
2. Ii ) The control line shall extend for a distance sufficient for the controlled access zone to enclose all employees performing overhand bricklaying and related work at the working edge and shall be approximately parallel to the working edge.

( iii ) Additional control lines shall be erected at each end to enclose the controlled access zone. ( iv ) Only employees engaged in overhand bricklaying or related work shall be permitted in the controlled access zone. ( 3 ) Control lines shall consist of ropes, wires, tapes, or equivalent materials, and supporting stanchions as follows: ( i ) Each line shall be flagged or otherwise clearly marked at not more than 6-foot (1.8 m) intervals with high-visibility material.

1. Ii ) Each line shall be rigged and supported in such a way that its lowest point (including sag) is not less than 39 inches (1 m) from the walking/working surface and its highest point is not more than 45 inches (1.3 m) from the walking/working surface.
2. Iii ) Each line shall have a minimum breaking strength of 200 pounds (.88 kN).

( 4 ) On floors and roofs where guardrail systems are not in place prior to the beginning of overhand bricklaying operations, controlled access zones shall be enlarged, as necessary, to enclose all points of access, material handling areas, and storage areas.

( 5 ) On floors and roofs where guardrail systems are in place, but need to be removed to allow overhand bricklaying work or leading edge work to take place, only that portion of the guardrail necessary to accomplish that day’s work shall be removed. ( h ) Safety monitoring systems. Safety monitoring systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: ( 1 ) The employer shall designate a competent person to monitor the safety of other employees and the employer shall ensure that the safety monitor complies with the following requirements: ( i ) The safety monitor shall be competent to recognize fall hazards; ( ii ) The safety monitor shall warn the employee when it appears that the employee is unaware of a fall hazard or is acting in an unsafe manner; ( iii ) The safety monitor shall be on the same walking/working surface and within visual sighting distance of the employee being monitored; ( iv ) The safety monitor shall be close enough to communicate orally with the employee; and ( v ) The safety monitor shall not have other responsibilities which could take the monitor’s attention from the monitoring function.

( 2 ) Mechanical equipment shall not be used or stored in areas where safety monitoring systems are being used to monitor employees engaged in roofing operations on low-slope roofs. ( 3 ) No employee, other than an employee engaged in roofing work or an employee covered by a fall protection plan, shall be allowed in an area where an employee is being protected by a safety monitoring system.

• 4 ) Each employee working in a controlled access zone shall be directed to comply promptly with fall hazard warnings from safety monitors.
• I ) Covers.
• Covers for holes in floors, roofs, and other walking/working surfaces shall meet the following requirements: ( 1 ) Covers located in roadways and vehicular aisles shall be capable of supporting, without failure, at least twice the maximum axle load of the largest vehicle expected to cross over the cover.

( 2 ) All other covers shall be capable of supporting, without failure, at least twice the weight of employees, equipment, and materials that may be imposed on the cover at any one time. ( 3 ) All covers shall be secured when installed so as to prevent accidental displacement by the wind, equipment, or employees.

• 4 ) All covers shall be color coded or they shall be marked with the word “HOLE” or “COVER” to provide warning of the hazard.
• Note: This provision does not apply to cast iron manhole covers or steel grates used on streets or roadways.
• J ) Protection from falling objects.
• Falling object protection shall comply with the following provisions: ( 1 ) Toeboards, when used as falling object protection, shall be erected along the edge of the overhead walking/working surface for a distance sufficient to protect employees below.

( 2 ) Toeboards shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 50 pounds (222 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the toeboard. ( 3 ) Toeboards shall be a minimum of 3 1 ⁄ 2 inches (9 cm) in vertical height from their top edge to the level of the walking/working surface.

• They shall have not more than 1 ⁄ 4 inch (0.6 cm) clearance above the walking/working surface.
• They shall be solid or have openings not over 1 inch (2.5 cm) in greatest dimension.
• 4 ) Where tools, equipment, or materials are piled higher than the top edge of a toeboard, paneling or screening shall be erected from the walking/working surface or toeboard to the top of a guardrail system’s top rail or midrail, for a distance sufficient to protect employees below.

( 5 ) Guardrail systems, when used as falling object protection, shall have all openings small enough to prevent passage of potential falling objects. ( 6 ) During the performance of overhand bricklaying and related work: ( i ) No materials or equipment except masonry and mortar shall be stored within 4 feet (1.2 m) of the working edge.

( ii ) Excess mortar, broken or scattered masonry units, and all other materials and debris shall be kept clear from the work area by removal at regular intervals. ( 7 ) During the performance of roofing work: ( i ) Materials and equipment shall not be stored within 6 feet (1.8 m) of a roof edge unless guardrails are erected at the edge.

( ii ) Materials which are piled, grouped, or stacked near a roof edge shall be stable and self-supporting. ( 8 ) Canopies, when used as falling object protection, shall be strong enough to prevent collapse and to prevent penetration by any objects which may fall onto the canopy.

K ) Fall protection plan. This option is available only to employees engaged in leading edge work, precast concrete erection work, or residential construction work (See § 1926.501(b)(2), (b)(12), and (b)(13) ) who can demonstrate that it is infeasible or it creates a greater hazard to use conventional fall protection equipment.

The fall protection plan must conform to the following provisions. ( 1 ) The fall protection plan shall be prepared by a qualified person and developed specifically for the site where the leading edge work, precast concrete work, or residential construction work is being performed and the plan must be maintained up to date.

( 2 ) Any changes to the fall protection plan shall be approved by a qualified person. ( 3 ) A copy of the fall protection plan with all approved changes shall be maintained at the job site. ( 4 ) The implementation of the fall protection plan shall be under the supervision of a competent person. ( 5 ) The fall protection plan shall document the reasons why the use of conventional fall protection systems (guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, or safety nets systems) are infeasible or why their use would create a greater hazard.

( 6 ) The fall protection plan shall include a written discussion of other measures that will be taken to reduce or eliminate the fall hazard for workers who cannot be provided with protection from the conventional fall protection systems. For example, the employer shall discuss the extent to which scaffolds, ladders, or vehicle mounted work platforms can be used to provide a safer working surface and thereby reduce the hazard of falling.

7 ) The fall protection plan shall identify each location where conventional fall protection methods cannot be used. These locations shall then be classified as controlled access zones and the employer must comply with the criteria in paragraph (g) of this section. ( 8 ) Where no other alternative measure has been implemented, the employer shall implement a safety monitoring system in conformance with § 1926.502(h),

( 9 ) The fall protection plan must include a statement which provides the name or other method of identification for each employee who is designated to work in controlled access zones. No other employees may enter controlled access zones. ( 10 ) In the event an employee falls, or some other related, serious incident occurs, (e.g., a near miss) the employer shall investigate the circumstances of the fall or other incident to determine if the fall protection plan needs to be changed (e.g.

What is the maximum permitted gap between a guardrail toeboard and the working surface?

OSHA Toe Board Requirements & Usage – OSHA standard 1910.28 defines toe board requirements for “employers to provide protection for each employee exposed to fall and falling object hazards.” This includes protecting employees from falling objects whether they are underneath a mezzanine, elevated walkway, raised platform, stair rail system, wall opening, ladderway floor hole, scaffold, or platform hole.

There are many other working conditions one might overlook as a presenting a fall hazard for objects. Notice 1910.28(b)(3)(iv) includes toeboards with guardrail system: “Each employee is protected from falling into a ladderway floor opening or ladderway platform hole by a guardrail system and toeboards erected on all exposed sides, except at the entrance to the hole, where a self-closing gate or an offset must be used.” ( source ) Further, OSHA standard 1910.29(k) includes standards for “protection from falling objects”.

In particular, toeboards used for falling object protection are as follows:

Toe Board Height Requirements: 29(k)(1)(ii): “have a vertical minimum height of 3.5 inches (9 cm) as measured from the top edge of the toeboard to the level of the walking-working surface”, Clearance : 29(k)(1)(iii): “do not have more than a 0.25 inch (0.5 cm) clearance or opening above the walking-working surface”, and Force: 29(k)(1)(vi): “should be capable of withstanding a force of at least 50 pounds (222 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the toeboard.”

Navigating each OSHA toeboard requirement can get a bit technical, and therefore confusing. If you have specific questions and wish to understand compliance for your ongoing working environment or special project, feel free to get in touch. We commonly walk our customers through the legalize and red tape to help them obtain both safe working conditions and peace of mind from a compliance standpoint.

Where should a safety net be rigged?

Safety nets – Nets are a complex energy-absorbing system, which must only be installed (referred to as ‘rigged’ in the industry), maintained, modified and removed (referred to as ‘de-rigged’) by trained and competent people. Consideration should always be given to rigging the net from ground level using remote attachment devices.

Only if this is not possible should an alternative method be considered. For example, using a to gain access at height to net attachment points. The same should also be considered for any work when modifying and de-rigging the net. The way in which a safety net system is rigged and maintained is critical and therefore must only be undertaken by trained and competent people.

Nets should be positioned as close as possible to the working level to minimise the height of a fall. Safety net systems must be inspected by a competent person after installation and a handover certificate prepared to confirm their safety. They must then be inspected on a weekly basis to ensure they are still fixed correctly and will arrest a fall.

1. When a person falls into a net, the material deforms as it absorbs the load and it is therefore essential to provide adequate clearance below the net to allow deformation to occur without the person striking the ground or another object.
2. The net installer should be informed immediately if a net has arrested a fall as it will almost certainly require replacing.

Work above a net which has been subjected to a fall should stop until the net has been inspected. The net inspection should be carried out by a competent person, usually the manufacturer, to ensure it is safe for subsequent use. It is essential that your risk assessment covers your procedures for rescuing someone from a rigged net and for providing first aid while in the net.

Can safety nets be located more than 30 feet below the walking working surface?

1. By Standard Number
2. 1926.502 – Fall protection systems criteria and practices.

• Part Number: 1926
• Part Number Title: Safety and Health Regulations for Construction
• Subpart: 1926 Subpart M
• Subpart Title: Fall Protection
• Standard Number:
• Title: Fall protection systems criteria and practices.
• GPO Source:

1926.502(a)(1) Fall protection systems required by this part shall comply with the applicable provisions of this section.1926.502(a)(2) Employers shall provide and install all fall protection systems required by this subpart for an employee, and shall comply with all other pertinent requirements of this subpart before that employee begins the work that necessitates the fall protection.1926.502(b) Guardrail systems,

Guardrail systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: 1926.502(b)(1) Top edge height of top rails, or equivalent guardrail system members, shall be 42 inches (1.1 m) plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm) above the walking/working level. When conditions warrant, the height of the top edge may exceed the 45-inch height, provided the guardrail system meets all other criteria of this paragraph.

Note: When employees are using stilts, the top edge height of the top rail, or equivalent member, shall be increased an amount equal to the height of the stilts.1926.502(b)(2) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, or equivalent intermediate structural members shall be installed between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working surface when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches (53 cm) high.1926.502(b)(2)(i) Midrails, when used, shall be installed at a height midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking/working level.1926.502(b)(2)(ii) Screens and mesh, when used, shall extend from the top rail to the walking/working level and along the entire opening between top rail supports.1926.502(b)(2)(iii) Intermediate members (such as balusters), when used between posts, shall be not more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart.1926.502(b)(2)(iv) Other structural members (such as additional midrails and architectural panels) shall be installed such that there are no openings in the guardrail system that are more than 19 inches (.5 m) wide.1926.502(b)(3) Guardrail systems shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied within 2 inches (5.1 cm) of the top edge, in any outward or downward direction, at any point along the top edge.1926.502(b)(4) When the 200 pound (890 N) test load specified in paragraph (b)(3) of this section is applied in a downward direction, the top edge of the guardrail shall not deflect to a height less than 39 inches (1.0 m) above the walking/working level.

Guardrail system components selected and constructed in accordance with the appendix B to subpart M of this part will be deemed to meet this requirement.1926.502(b)(5) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, and equivalent structural members shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 150 pounds (666 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the midrail or other member.1926.502(b)(6) Guardrail systems shall be so surfaced as to prevent injury to an employee from punctures or lacerations, and to prevent snagging of clothing.1926.502(b)(7) The ends of all top rails and midrails shall not overhang the terminal posts, except where such overhang does not constitute a projection hazard.1926.502(b)(8) Steel banding and plastic banding shall not be used as top rails or midrails.1926.502(b)(9) Top rails and midrails shall be at least one-quarter inch (0.6 cm) nominal diameter or thickness to prevent cuts and lacerations.

If wire rope is used for top rails, it shall be flagged at not more than 6-foot (1.8 m) intervals with high-visibility material.1926.502(b)(10) When guardrail systems are used at hoisting areas, a chain, gate or removable guardrail section shall be placed across the access opening between guardrail sections when hoisting operations are not taking place.1926.502(b)(11) When guardrail systems are used at holes, they shall be erected on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole.1926.502(b)(12) When guardrail systems are used around holes used for the passage of materials, the hole shall have not more than two sides provided with removable guardrail sections to allow the passage of materials.

When the hole is not in use, it shall be closed over with a cover, or a guardrail system shall be provided along all unprotected sides or edges.1926.502(b)(13) When guardrail systems are used around holes which are used as points of access (such as ladderways), they shall be provided with a gate, or be so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the hole.1926.502(b)(14) Guardrail systems used on ramps and runways shall be erected along each unprotected side or edge.1926.502(b)(15) Manila, plastic or synthetic rope being used for top rails or midrails shall be inspected as frequently as necessary to ensure that it continues to meet the strength requirements of paragraph (b)(3) of this section.1926.502(c) Safety net systems,

Safety net systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: 1926.502(c)(1) Safety nets shall be installed as close as practicable under the walking/working surface on which employees are working, but in no case more than 30 feet (9.1 m) below such level.

1926.502(c)(3) Safety nets shall be installed with sufficient clearance under them to prevent contact with the surface or structures below when subjected to an impact force equal to the drop test specified in paragraph (c)(4) of this section.1926.502(c)(4) Safety nets and their installations shall be capable of absorbing an impact force equal to that produced by the drop test specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section.1926.502(c)(4)(i) Except as provided in paragraph (c)(4)(ii) of this section, safety nets and safety net installations shall be drop-tested at the jobsite after initial installation and before being used as a fall protection system, whenever relocated, after major repair, and at 6-month intervals if left in one place.

The drop-test shall consist of a 400 pound (180 kg) bag of sand 30 ±2 inches (76 ±5 cm) in diameter dropped into the net from the highest walking/working surface at which employees are exposed to fall hazards, but not from less than 42 inches (1.1 m) above that level.1926.502(c)(4)(ii) When the employer can demonstrate that it is unreasonable to perform the drop-test required by paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section, the employer (or a designated competent person) shall certify that the net and net installation is in compliance with the provisions of paragraphs (c)(3) and (c)(4)(i) of this section by preparing a certification record prior to the net being used as a fall protection system.

The certification record must include an identification of the net and net installation for which the certification record is being prepared; the date that it was determined that the identified net and net installation were in compliance with paragraph (c)(3) of this section and the signature of the person making the determination and certification.

• The most recent certification record for each net and net installation shall be available at the jobsite for inspection.1926.502(c)(5) Defective nets shall not be used.
• Safety nets shall be inspected at least once a week for wear, damage, and other deterioration.
• Defective components shall be removed from service.

Safety nets shall also be inspected after any occurrence which could affect the integrity of the safety net system.1926.502(c)(6) Materials, scrap pieces, equipment, and tools which have fallen into the safety net shall be removed as soon as possible from the net and at least before the next work shift.1926.502(c)(7) The maximum size of each safety net mesh opening shall not exceed 36 square inches (230 cm 2 ) nor be longer than 6 inches (15 cm) on any side, and the opening, measured center-to-center of mesh ropes or webbing, shall not be longer than 6 inches (15 cm).

All mesh crossings shall be secured to prevent enlargement of the mesh opening.1926.502(c)(8) Each safety net (or section of it) shall have a border rope for webbing with a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN).1926.502(c)(9) Connections between safety net panels shall be as strong as integral net components and shall be spaced not more than 6 inches (15 cm) apart.1926.502(d) Personal fall arrest systems,

Personal fall arrest systems and their use shall comply with the provisions set forth below. Effective January 1, 1998, body belts are not acceptable as part of a personal fall arrest system. Note: The use of a body belt in a positioning device system is acceptable and is regulated under paragraph (e) of this section.1926.502(d)(1) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials.1926.502(d)(2) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of the system.1926.502(d)(3) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN).1926.502(d)(4) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be proof-tested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600 pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking, or taking permanent deformation.1926.502(d)(5) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the snaphook keeper by the connected member, or shall be a locking type snaphook designed and used to prevent disengagement of the snaphook by the contact of the snaphook keeper by the connected member.

Effective January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks shall be used.1926.502(d)(6) Unless the snaphook is a locking type and designed for the following connections, snaphooks shall not be engaged: 1926.502(d)(6)(i) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope; 1926.502(d)(6)(ii) to each other; 1926.502(d)(6)(iii) to a Dee-ring to which another snaphook or other connector is attached; 1926.502(d)(6)(iv) to a horizontal lifeline; or 1926.502(d)(6)(v) to any object which is incompatibly shaped or dimensioned in relation to the snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object being able to depress the snaphook keeper and release itself.1926.502(d)(7) On suspended scaffolds or similar work platforms with horizontal lifelines which may become vertical lifelines, the devices used to connect to a horizontal lifeline shall be capable of locking in both directions on the lifeline.1926.502(d)(8) Horizontal lifelines shall be designed, installed, and used, under the supervision of a qualified person, as part of a complete personal fall arrest system, which maintains a safety factor of at least two.1926.502(d)(9) Lanyards and vertical lifelines shall have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN).1926.502(d)(10)(i) Except as provided in paragraph (d)(10)(ii) of this section, when vertical lifelines are used, each employee shall be attached to a separate lifeline.1926.502(d)(10)(ii) During the construction of elevator shafts, two employees may be attached to the same lifeline in the hoistway, provided both employees are working atop a false car that is equipped with guardrails; the strength of the lifeline is 10,000 pounds (44.4 kN); and all other criteria specified in this paragraph for lifelines have been met.1926.502(d)(11) Lifelines shall be protected against being cut or abraded.1926.502(d)(12) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards which automatically limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less shall be capable of sustaining a minimum tensile load of 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN) applied to the device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.1926.502(d)(13) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards which do not limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less, ripstitch lanyards, and tearing and deforming lanyards shall be capable of sustaining a minimum tensile load of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) applied to the device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.1926.502(d)(14) Ropes and straps (webbing) used in lanyards, lifelines, and strength components of body belts and body harnesses shall be made from synthetic fibers.1926.502(d)(15) Anchorages used for attachment of personal fall arrest equipment shall be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) per employee attached, or shall be designed, installed, and used as follows: 1926.502(d)(15)(i) as part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor of at least two; and 1926.502(d)(16)(i) limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 900 pounds (4 kN) when used with a body belt; 1926.502(d)(16)(ii) limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 1,800 pounds (8 kN) when used with a body harness; 1926.502(d)(16)(iii) be rigged such that an employee can neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8 m), nor contact any lower level; 1926.502(d)(16)(iv) bring an employee to a complete stop and limit maximum deceleration distance an employee travels to 3.5 feet (1.07 m); and, 1926.502(d)(16)(v) have sufficient strength to withstand twice the potential impact energy of an employee free falling a distance of 6 feet (1.8 m), or the free fall distance permitted by the system, whichever is less.

Note: If the personal fall arrest system meets the criteria and protocols contained in appendix C to subpart M, and if the system is being used by an employee having a combined person and tool weight of less than 310 pounds (140 kg), the system will be considered to be in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (d)(16) of this section.

If the system is used by an employee having a combined tool and body weight of 310 pounds (140 kg) or more, then the employer must appropriately modify the criteria and protocols of the appendix to provide proper protection for such heavier weights, or the system will not be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of paragraph (d)(16) of this section.1926.502(d)(17) The attachment point of the body belt shall be located in the center of the wearer’s back.

The attachment point of the body harness shall be located in the center of the wearer’s back near shoulder level, or above the wearer’s head.1926.502(d)(18) Body belts, harnesses, and components shall be used only for employee protection (as part of a personal fall arrest system or positioning device system) and not to hoist materials.1926.502(d)(19) Personal fall arrest systems and components subjected to impact loading shall be immediately removed from service and shall not be used again for employee protection until inspected and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable for reuse.1926.502(d)(20) The employer shall provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves.1926.502(d)(21) Personal fall arrest systems shall be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service.1926.502(d)(22) Body belts shall be at least one and five-eighths (1 5⁄8) inches (4.1 cm) wide.1926.502(d)(23) Personal fall arrest systems shall not be attached to guardrail systems, nor shall they be attached to hoists except as specified in other subparts of this part.1926.502(d)(24) When a personal fall arrest system is used at hoist areas, it shall be rigged to allow the movement of the employee only as far as the edge of the walking/working surface.1926.502(e) Positioning device systems,

Positioning device systems and their use shall conform to the following provisions: 1926.502(e)(1) Positioning devices shall be rigged such that an employee cannot free fall more than 2 feet (.6 m).1926.502(e)(2) Positioning devices shall be secured to an anchorage capable of supporting at least twice the potential impact load of an employee’s fall or 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN), whichever is greater.1926.502(e)(3) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials.1926.502(e)(4) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of this system.1926.502(e)(5) Connecting assemblies shall have a minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) 1926.502(e)(6) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be proof-tested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600 pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking, or taking permanent deformation.1926.502(e)(7) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the snaphook keeper by the connected member, or shall be a locking type snaphook designed and used to prevent disengagement of the snaphook by the contact of the snaphook keeper by the connected member.

As of January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks shall be used.1926.502(e)(8) Unless the snaphook is a locking type and designed for the following connections, snaphooks shall not be engaged: 1926.502(e)(8)(i) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope; 1926.502(e)(8)(ii) to each other; 1926.502(e)(8)(iii) to a Dee-ring to which another snaphook or other connector is attached; 1926.502(e)(8)(iv) to a horizontal lifeline; or 1926.502(e)(8)(v) to any object which is incompatibly shaped or dimensioned in relation to the snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object being able to depress the snaphook keeper and release itself.1926.502(e)(9) Positioning device systems shall be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage, and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service.1926.502(e)(10) Body belts, harnesses, and components shall be used only for employee protection (as part of a personal fall arrest system or positioning device system) and not to hoist materials.1926.502(f) Warning line systems,

Warning line systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: 1926.502(f)(1) The warning line shall be erected around all sides of the roof work area.1926.502(f)(1)(i) When mechanical equipment is not being used, the warning line shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge.1926.502(f)(1)(ii) When mechanical equipment is being used, the warning line shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge which is parallel to the direction of mechanical equipment operation, and not less than 10 feet (3.1 m) from the roof edge which is perpendicular to the direction of mechanical equipment operation.1926.502(f)(1)(iii) Points of access, materials handling areas, storage areas, and hoisting areas shall be connected to the work area by an access path formed by two warning lines.1926.502(f)(1)(iv) When the path to a point of access is not in use, a rope, wire, chain, or other barricade, equivalent in strength and height to the warning line, shall be placed across the path at the point where the path intersects the warning line erected around the work area, or the path shall be offset such that a person cannot walk directly into the work area.1926.502(f)(2) Warning lines shall consist of ropes, wires, or chains, and supporting stanchions erected as follows: 1926.502(f)(2)(i) The rope, wire, or chain shall be flagged at not more than 6-foot (1.8 m) intervals with high-visibility material; 1926.502(f)(2)(ii) The rope, wire, or chain shall be rigged and supported in such a way that its lowest point (including sag) is no less than 34 inches (.9 m) from the walking/working surface and its highest point is no more than 39 inches (1.0 m) from the walking/working surface; 1926.502(f)(2)(iii) After being erected, with the rope, wire, or chain attached, stanchions shall be capable of resisting, without tipping over, a force of at least 16 pounds (71 N) applied horizontally against the stanchion, 30 inches (.8 m) above the walking/working surface, perpendicular to the warning line, and in the direction of the floor, roof, or platform edge; 1926.502(f)(2)(iv) The rope, wire, or chain shall have a minimum tensile strength of 500 pounds (2.22 kN), and after being attached to the stanchions, shall be capable of supporting, without breaking, the loads applied to the stanchions as prescribed in paragraph (f)(2)(iii) of this section; and 1926.502(f)(2)(v) The line shall be attached at each stanchion in such a way that pulling on one section of the line between stanchions will not result in slack being taken up in adjacent sections before the stanchion tips over.1926.502(f)(3) No employee shall be allowed in the area between a roof edge and a warning line unless the employee is performing roofing work in that area.1926.502(f)(4) Mechanical equipment on roofs shall be used or stored only in areas where employees are protected by a warning line system, guardrail system, or personal fall arrest system.1926.502(g) Controlled access zones,

Controlled access zones and their use shall conform to the following provisions.1926.502(g)(1) When used to control access to areas where leading edge and other operations are taking place the controlled access zone shall be defined by a control line or by any other means that restricts access.1926.502(g)(1)(i) When control lines are used, they shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor more than 25 feet (7.7 m) from the unprotected or leading edge, except when erecting precast concrete members.1926.502(g)(1)(ii) When erecting precast concrete members, the control line shall be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor more than 60 feet (18 m) or half the length of the member being erected, whichever is less, from the leading edge.1926.502(g)(1)(iii) The control line shall extend along the entire length of the unprotected or leading edge and shall be approximately parallel to the unprotected or leading edge.1926.502(g)(1)(iv) The control line shall be connected on each side to a guardrail system or wall.1926.502(g)(2) When used to control access to areas where overhand bricklaying and related work are taking place: 1926.502(g)(2)(i) The controlled access zone shall be defined by a control line erected not less than 10 feet (3.1 m) nor more than 15 feet (4.5 m) from the working edge.1926.502(g)(2)(ii) The control line shall extend for a distance sufficient for the controlled access zone to enclose all employees performing overhand bricklaying and related work at the working edge and shall be approximately parallel to the working edge.1926.502(g)(2)(iii) Additional control lines shall be erected at each end to enclose the controlled access zone.1926.502(g)(2)(iv) Only employees engaged in overhand bricklaying or related work shall be permitted in the controlled access zone.1926.502(g)(3) Control lines shall consist of ropes, wires, tapes, or equivalent materials, and supporting stanchions as follows: 1926.502(g)(3)(i) Each line shall be flagged or otherwise clearly marked at not more than 6-foot (1.8 m) intervals with high-visibility material.1926.502(g)(3)(ii) Each line shall be rigged and supported in such a way that its lowest point (including sag) is not less than 39 inches (1 m) from the walking/working surface and its highest point is not more than 45 inches (1.3 m) from the walking/working surface.1926.502(g)(3)(iii) Each line shall have a minimum breaking strength of 200 pounds (.88 kN).1926.502(g)(4) On floors and roofs where guardrail systems are not in place prior to the beginning of overhand bricklaying operations, controlled access zones shall be enlarged, as necessary, to enclose all points of access, material handling areas, and storage areas.1926.502(g)(5) On floors and roofs where guardrail systems are in place, but need to be removed to allow overhand bricklaying work or leading edge work to take place, only that portion of the guardrail necessary to accomplish that day’s work shall be removed.1926.502(h) Safety monitoring systems,

Safety monitoring systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions: 1926.502(h)(1) The employer shall designate a competent person to monitor the safety of other employees and the employer shall ensure that the safety monitor complies with the following requirements: 1926.502(h)(1)(ii) The safety monitor shall warn the employee when it appears that the employee is unaware of a fall hazard or is acting in an unsafe manner; 1926.502(h)(1)(iii) The safety monitor shall be on the same walking/working surface and within visual sighting distance of the employee being monitored; 1926.502(h)(1)(iv) The safety monitor shall be close enough to communicate orally with the employee; and 1926.502(h)(1)(v) The safety monitor shall not have other responsibilities which could take the monitor’s attention from the monitoring function.1926.502(h)(2) Mechanical equipment shall not be used or stored in areas where safety monitoring systems are being used to monitor employees engaged in roofing operations on low-slope roofs.1926.502(h)(3) No employee, other than an employee engaged in roofing work or an employee covered by a fall protection plan, shall be allowed in an area where an employee is being protected by a safety monitoring system.1926.502(h)(4) Each employee working in a controlled access zone shall be directed to comply promptly with fall hazard warnings from safety monitors.1926.502(i) Covers,

Covers for holes in floors, roofs, and other walking/working surfaces shall meet the following requirements: 1926.502(i)(1) Covers located in roadways and vehicular aisles shall be capable of supporting, without failure, at least twice the maximum axle load of the largest vehicle expected to cross over the cover.1926.502(i)(2) All other covers shall be capable of supporting, without failure, at least twice the weight of employees, equipment, and materials that may be imposed on the cover at any one time.1926.502(i)(3) All covers shall be secured when installed so as to prevent accidental displacement by the wind, equipment, or employees.1926.502(i)(4) All covers shall be color coded or they shall be marked with the word “HOLE” or “COVER” to provide warning of the hazard.

1. Note: This provision does not apply to cast iron manhole covers or steel grates used on streets or roadways.1926.502(j) Protection from falling objects,
2. Falling object protection shall comply with the following provisions: 1926.502(j)(1) Toeboards, when used as falling object protection, shall be erected along the edge of the overhead walking/working surface for a distance sufficient to protect employees below.1926.502(j)(2) Toeboards shall be capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 50 pounds (222 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the toeboard.1926.502(j)(3) Toeboards shall be a minimum of 3½ inches (9 cm) in vertical height from their top edge to the level of the walking/working surface.

They shall have not more than ¼ inch (0.6 cm) clearance above the walking/working surface. They shall be solid or have openings not over 1 inch (2.5 cm) in greatest dimension.1926.502(j)(4) Where tools, equipment, or materials are piled higher than the top edge of a toeboard, paneling or screening shall be erected from the walking/working surface or toeboard to the top of a guardrail system’s top rail or midrail, for a distance sufficient to protect employees below.1926.502(j)(5) Guardrail systems, when used as falling object protection, shall have all openings small enough to prevent passage of potential falling objects.1926.502(j)(6) During the performance of overhand bricklaying and related work: 1926.502(j)(6)(i) No materials or equipment except masonry and mortar shall be stored within 4 feet (1.2 m) of the working edge.1926.502(j)(6)(ii) Excess mortar, broken or scattered masonry units, and all other materials and debris shall be kept clear from the work area by removal at regular intervals.1926.502(j)(7) During the performance of roofing work: 1926.502(j)(7)(i) Materials and equipment shall not be stored within 6 feet (1.8 m) of a roof edge unless guardrails are erected at the edge.1926.502(j)(7)(ii) Materials which are piled, grouped, or stacked near a roof edge shall be stable and self-supporting.1926.502(j)(8) Canopies, when used as falling object protection, shall be strong enough to prevent collapse and to prevent penetration by any objects which may fall onto the canopy.1926.502(k) Fall protection plan,

This option is available only to employees engaged in leading edge work, precast concrete erection work, or residential construction work (See § 1926.501(b)(2), (b)(12), and (b)(13)) who can demonstrate that it is infeasible or it creates a greater hazard to use conventional fall protection equipment.

The fall protection plan must conform to the following provisions.1926.502(k)(1) The fall protection plan shall be prepared by a qualified person and developed specifically for the site where the leading edge work, precast concrete work, or residential construction work is being performed and the plan must be maintained up to date.1926.502(k)(2) Any changes to the fall protection plan shall be approved by a qualified person.1926.502(k)(3) A copy of the fall protection plan with all approved changes shall be maintained at the job site.1926.502(k)(4) The implementation of the fall protection plan shall be under the supervision of a competent person.1926.502(k)(5) The fall protection plan shall document the reasons why the use of conventional fall protection systems (guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, or safety nets systems) are infeasible or why their use would create a greater hazard.1926.502(k)(6) The fall protection plan shall include a written discussion of other measures that will be taken to reduce or eliminate the fall hazard for workers who cannot be provided with protection from the conventional fall protection systems.

For example, the employer shall discuss the extent to which scaffolds, ladders, or vehicle mounted work platforms can be used to provide a safer working surface and thereby reduce the hazard of falling.1926.502(k)(7) The fall protection plan shall identify each location where conventional fall protection methods cannot be used.

These locations shall then be classified as controlled access zones and the employer must comply with the criteria in paragraph (g) of this section.1926.502(k)(8) Where no other alternative measure has been implemented, the employer shall implement a safety monitoring system in conformance with § 1926.502(h).1926.502(k)(9) The fall protection plan must include a statement which provides the name or other method of identification for each employee who is designated to work in controlled access zones.

No other employees may enter controlled access zones.1926.502(k)(10) In the event an employee falls, or some other related, serious incident occurs, (e.g., a near miss) the employer shall investigate the circumstances of the fall or other incident to determine if the fall protection plan needs to be changed (e.g.

new practices, procedures, or training) and shall implement those changes to prevent similar types of falls or incidents.

What is the minimum distance that must be kept clear in front of electrical equipment?

Terms You Should Know:

• Working space: The front clearance, side clearance, and height clearance requirements for electrical equipment that provide a safe area for maintenance, inspections, and other work.
• Dedicated space: The space equal to the width and depth of electrical equipment in addition to the space extending from the floor to 6 feet above the equipment or structural ceiling.

The International Standards of Practice for Inspecting Commercial Properties (ComSOP) states that the inspector should report on the lack of accessibility or working space for electrical panels and gear that would hamper their safe operation, maintenance, and inspection.

Many jurisdictional and code requirements also outline requirements for adequate access due to their importance for safety. Note that sufficient working space is relative to the clear space in front, between, and above electrical equipment. There are different requirements for a single row of equipment, electrical rooms, rack rows, and foreign systems.

In some cases, there will be a name plate on the electrical equipment that states the clear space requirements. The following clearances are specific to a single row of equipment located anywhere in a commercial building, including public spaces such as hallways, corridors and open rooms.

1. Front clearance: There should be a minimum of 3 feet of clearance at the front of all electrical equipment, including panelboards, switches, breakers, starters, transformers, etc. Note that all panel doors and access doors must be able to open a minimum of 90 degrees.
2. Side clearance: There should be a minimum of 30 inches of clearance from the sides of all electrical equipment, but in no case less than the width of the equipment itself. This is referred to as the side-to-side working space.
3. Height clearance: The minimum headroom in front of the equipment is 6½ feet, or the height of the equipment itself, whichever is greater. At no point can this be less than the height of the equipment.

In all cases, these rules were established as requirements so that an electrician would be able to jump clear or fall away from a piece of equipment in the event of a mishap, instead of being trapped.

At what distance above the floor or working surface is guarding not required for moving parts?

1. By Standard Number
2. 1910.219 – Mechanical power-transmission apparatus.

• Part Number: 1910
• Part Number Title: Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• Subpart: 1910 Subpart O
• Subpart Title: Machinery and Machine Guarding
• Standard Number:
• Title: Mechanical power-transmission apparatus.
• GPO Source:

1910.219(a) General requirements,1910.219(a)(1) This section covers all types and shapes of power-transmission belts, except the following when operating at two hundred and fifty (250) feet per minute or less: 1910.219(a)(1)(i) Flat belts one (1) inch or less in width, 1910.219(a)(1)(ii) flat belts two (2) inches or less in width which are free from metal lacings or fasteners, 1910.219(a)(1)(iii) round belts one-half (1⁄2) inch or less in diameter; and 1910.219(a)(1)(iv) single strand V-belts, the width of which is thirteen thirty-seconds (13⁄32) inch or less.1910.219(a)(2) Vertical and inclined belts (paragraphs (e) (3) and (4) of this section) if not more than two and one-half (2 1⁄2) inches wide and running at a speed of less than one thousand (1,000) feet per minute, and if free from metal lacings or fastenings may be guarded with a nip-point belt and pulley guard.1910.219(a)(3) For the Textile Industry, because of the presence of excessive deposits of lint, which constitute a serious fire hazard, the sides and face sections only of nip-point belt and pulley guards are required, provided the guard shall extend at least six (6) inches beyond the rim of the pulley on the in-running and off-running sides of the belt and at least two (2) inches away from the rim and face of the pulley in all other directions.1910.219(a)(4) This section covers the principal features with which power transmission safeguards shall comply.1910.219(b) Prime-mover guards – 1910.219(b)(1) Flywheels,

Flywheels located so that any part is seven (7) feet or less above floor or platform shall be guarded in accordance with the requirements of this subparagraph: 1910.219(b)(1)(i) With an enclosure of sheet, perforated, or expanded metal, or woven wire; 1910.219(b)(1)(ii) With guard rails placed not less than fifteen (15) inches nor more than twenty (20) inches from rim.

When flywheel extends into pit or is within 12 inches of floor, a standard toeboard shall also be provided; 1910.219(b)(1)(iii) When the upper rim of flywheel protrudes through a working floor, it shall be entirely enclosed or surrounded by a guardrail and toeboard.1910.219(b)(1)(iv) For flywheels with smooth rims five (5) feet or less in diameter, where the preceding methods cannot be applied, the following may be used: A disk attached to the flywheel in such manner as to cover the spokes of the wheel on the exposed side and present a smooth surface and edge, at the same time providing means for periodic inspection.

1. An open space, not exceeding four (4) inches in width, may be left between the outside edge of the disk and the rim of the wheel if desired, to facilitate turning the wheel over.
2. Where a disk is used, the keys or other dangerous projections not covered by disk shall be cut off or covered.
3. This subdivision does not apply to flywheels with solid web centers.1910.219(b)(1)(v) Adjustable guard to be used for starting engine or for running adjustment may be provided at the flywheel of gas or oil engines.

A slot opening for jack bar will be permitted.1910.219(b)(1)(vi) Wherever flywheels are above working areas, guards shall be installed having sufficient strength to hold the weight of the flywheel in the event of a shaft or wheel mounting failure.1910.219(b)(2) Cranks and connecting rods,

Cranks and connecting rods, when exposed to contact, shall be guarded in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (n) of this section, or by a guardrail as described in paragraph (o)(5) of this section.1910.219(b)(3) Tail rods or extension piston rods, Tail rods or extension piston rods shall be guarded in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section, or by a guardrail on sides and end, with a clearance of not less than fifteen (15) nor more than twenty (20) inches when rod is fully extended.1910.219(c)(1) Installation,1910.219(c)(1)(i) Each continuous line of shafting shall be secured in position against excessive endwise movement.1910.219(c)(1)(ii) Inclined and vertical shafts, particularly inclined idler shafts, shall be securely held in position against endwise thrust.1910.219(c)(2) Guarding horizontal shafting,1910.219(c)(2)(i) All exposed parts of horizontal shafting seven (7) feet or less from floor or working platform, excepting runways used exclusively for oiling, or running adjustments, shall be protected by a stationary casing enclosing shafting completely or by a trough enclosing sides and top or sides and bottom of shafting as location requires.1910.219(c)(2)(ii) Shafting under bench machines shall be enclosed by a stationary casing, or by a trough at sides and top or sides and bottom, as location requires.

The sides of the trough shall come within at least six (6) inches of the underside of table, or if shafting is located near floor within six (6) inches of floor. In every case the sides of trough shall extend at least two (2) inches beyond the shafting or protuberance.1910.219(c)(3) Guarding vertical and inclined shafting,

Vertical and inclined shafting seven (7) feet or less from floor or working platform, excepting maintenance runways, shall be enclosed with a stationary casing in accordance with requirements of paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.1910.219(c)(4) Projecting shaft ends,1910.219(c)(4)(i) Projecting shaft ends shall present a smooth edge and end and shall not project more than one-half the diameter of the shaft unless guarded by nonrotating caps or safety sleeves.1910.219(c)(4)(ii) Unused keyways shall be filled up or covered.1910.219(c)(5) Power-transmission apparatus located in basements,

All mechanical power transmission apparatus located in basements, towers, and rooms used exclusively for power transmission equipment shall be guarded in accordance with this section, except that the requirements for safeguarding belts, pulleys, and shafting need not be complied with when the following requirements are met: 1910.219(c)(5)(i) The basement, tower, or room occupied by transmission equipment is locked against unauthorized entrance.1910.219(c)(5)(ii) The vertical clearance in passageways between the floor and power transmission beams, ceiling, or any other objects, is not less than five feet six inches (5 ft.6 in.).1910.219(c)(5)(iii) The intensity of illumination conforms to the requirements of ANSI A11.1-1965 (R-1970), which is incorporated by reference as specified in § 1910.6.1910.219(c)(5)(iv) 1910.219(c)(5)(v) The route followed by the oiler is protected in such manner as to prevent accident.1910.219(d)(1) Guarding,

1. Pulleys, any parts of which are seven (7) feet or less from the floor or working platform, shall be guarded in accordance with the standards specified in paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.
2. Pulleys serving as balance wheels (e.g., punch presses) on which the point of contact between belt and pulley is more than six feet six inches (6 ft.6 in.) from the floor or platform may be guarded with a disk covering the spokes.1910.219(d)(2) Location of pulleys,1910.219(d)(2)(i) Unless the distance to the nearest fixed pulley, clutch, or hanger exceeds the width of the belt used, a guide shall be provided to prevent the belt from leaving the pulley on the side where insufficient clearance exists.1910.219(d)(2)(ii) 1910.219(d)(3) Broken pulleys,

Pulleys with cracks, or pieces broken out of rims, shall not be used.1910.219(d)(4) Pulley speeds. Pulleys intended to operate at rim speed in excess of manufacturers normal recommendations shall be specially designed and carefully balanced for the speed at which they are to operate.1910.219(e)(1) Horizontal belts and ropes,1910.219(e)(1)(i) Where both runs of horizontal belts are seven (7) feet or less from the floor level, the guard shall extend to at least fifteen (15) inches above the belt or to a standard height except that where both runs of a horizontal belt are 42 inches or less from the floor, the belt shall be fully enclosed in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.1910.219(e)(1)(ii) In powerplants or power-development rooms, a guardrail may be used in lieu of the guard required by subdivision (i) of this subparagraph.1910.219(e)(2) Overhead horizontal belts,1910.219(e)(2)(i) Overhead horizontal belts, with lower parts seven (7) feet or less from the floor or platform, shall be guarded on sides and bottom in accordance with paragraph (o)(3) of this section.1910.219(e)(2)(ii) Horizontal overhead belts more than seven (7) feet above floor or platform shall be guarded for their entire length under the following conditions: 1910.219(e)(2)(ii)(a) If located over passageways or work places and traveling 1,800 feet or more per minute.1910.219(e)(2)(ii)(b) If center to center distance between pulleys is ten (10) feet or more.1910.219(e)(2)(ii)(c) If belt is eight (8) inches or more in width.1910.219(e)(2)(iii) Where the upper and lower runs of horizontal belts are so located that passage of persons between them would be possible, the passage shall be either: 1910.219(e)(2)(iii)(a) Completely barred by a guardrail or other barrier in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section; or 1910.219(e)(2)(iii)(b) Where passage is regarded as necessary, there shall be a platform over the lower run guarded on either side by a railing completely filled in with wire mesh or other filler, or by a solid barrier.

The upper run shall be so guarded as to prevent contact therewith either by the worker or by objects carried by him. In powerplants only the lower run of the belt need be guarded.1910.219(e)(2)(iv) Overhead chain and link belt drives are governed by the same rules as overhead horizontal belts and shall be guarded in the same manner as belts.1910.219(e)(3)(i) Vertical and inclined belts shall be enclosed by a guard conforming to standards in paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.1910.219(e)(3)(ii) All guards for inclined belts shall be arranged in such a manner that a minimum clearance of seven (7) feet is maintained between belt and floor at any point outside of guard.1910.219(e)(4) Vertical belts,

Vertical belts running over a lower pulley more than seven (7) feet above floor or platform shall be guarded at the bottom in the same manner as horizontal overhead belts, if conditions are as stated in paragraphs (e)(2)(ii) (a) and (c) of this section.1910.219(e)(5) Cone-pulley belts,1910.219(e)(5)(i) The cone belt and pulley shall be equipped with a belt shifter so constructed as to adequately guard the nip point of the belt and pulley.

If the frame of the belt shifter does not adequately guard the nip point of the belt and pulley, the nip point shall be further protected by means of a vertical guard placed in front of the pulley and extending at least to the top of the largest step of the cone.1910.219(e)(5)(ii) If the belt is of the endless type or laced with rawhide laces, and a belt shifter is not desired, the belt will be considered guarded if the nip point of the belt and pulley is protected by a nip point guard located in front of the cone extending at least to the top of the largest step of the cone, and formed to show the contour of the cone in order to give the nip point of the belt and pulley the maximum protection.1910.219(e)(5)(iii) If the cone is located less than 3 feet from the floor or working platform, the cone pulley and belt shall be guarded to a height of 3 feet regardless of whether the belt is endless or laced with rawhide.1910.219(e)(6) Belt tighteners,1910.219(e)(6)(i) Suspended counterbalanced tighteners and all parts thereof shall be of substantial construction and securely fastened; the bearings shall be securely capped.

Means must be provided to prevent tightener from falling, in case the belt breaks.1910.219(e)(6)(ii) Where suspended counterweights are used and not guarded by location, they shall be so encased as to prevent accident.1910.219(f) Gears, sprockets, and chains – 1910.219(f)(1) Gears,

Gears shall be guarded in accordance with one of the following methods: 1910.219(f)(1)(i) By a complete enclosure; or 1910.219(f)(1)(ii) By a standard guard as described in paragraph (o) of this section, at least seven (7) feet high extending six (6) inches above the mesh point of the gears; or 1910.219(f)(1)(iii) By a band guard covering the face of gear and having flanges extended inward beyond the root of the teeth on the exposed side or sides.

Where any portion of the train of gears guarded by a band guard is less than six (6) feet from the floor a disk guard or a complete enclosure to the height of six (6) feet shall be required.1910.219(f)(2) Hand-operated gears, Paragraph (f)(1) of this section does not apply to hand-operated gears used only to adjust machine parts and which do not continue to move after hand power is removed.

1. However, the guarding of these gears is highly recommended.1910.219(f)(3) Sprockets and chains,
2. All sprocket wheels and chains shall be enclosed unless they are more than seven (7) feet above the floor or platform.
3. Where the drive extends over other machine or working areas, protection against falling shall be provided.

This subparagraph does not apply to manually operated sprockets.1910.219(f)(4) Openings for oiling, When frequent oiling must be done, openings with hinged or sliding self-closing covers shall be provided. All points not readily accessible shall have oil feed tubes if lubricant is to be added while machinery is in motion.1910.219(g) Guarding friction drives,

The driving point of all friction drives when exposed to contact shall be guarded, all arm or spoke friction drives and all web friction drives with holes in the web shall be entirely enclosed, and all projecting belts on friction drives where exposed to contact shall be guarded.1910.219(h) Keys, setscrews, and other projections,1910.219(h)(1) All projecting keys, setscrews, and other projections in revolving parts shall be removed or made flush or guarded by metal cover.

This subparagraph does not apply to keys or setscrews within gear or sprocket casings or other enclosures, nor to keys, setscrews, or oilcups in hubs of pulleys less than twenty (20) inches in diameter where they are within the plane of the rim of the pulley.1910.219(h)(2) It is recommended, however, that no projecting setscrews or oilcups be used in any revolving pulley or part of machinery.1910.219(i) Collars and couplings – 1910.219(i)(1) Collars,

1. All revolving collars, including split collars, shall be cylindrical, and screws or bolts used in collars shall not project beyond the largest periphery of the collar.1910.219(i)(2) Couplings,
2. Shaft couplings shall be so constructed as to present no hazard from bolts, nuts, setscrews, or revolving surfaces.

Bolts, nuts, and setscrews will, however, be permitted where they are covered with safety sleeves or where they are used parallel with the shafting and are countersunk or else do not extend beyond the flange of the coupling.1910.219(j) Bearings and facilities for oiling,

All drip cups and pans shall be securely fastened.1910.219(k) Guarding of clutches, cutoff couplings, and clutch pulleys – 1910.219(k)(1) Guards, Clutches, cutoff couplings, or clutch pulleys having projecting parts, where such clutches are located seven (7) feet or less above the floor or working platform, shall be enclosed by a stationary guard constructed in accordance with this section.

A “U” type guard is permissible.1910.219(k)(2) Engine rooms, In engine rooms a guardrail, preferably with toeboard, may be used instead of the guard required by paragraph (k)(1) of this section, provided such a room is occupied only by engine room attendants.1910.219(l) Belt shifters, clutches, shippers, poles, perches, and fasteners – 1910.219(l)(1) Belt shifters,1910.219(l)(1)(i) Tight and loose pulleys on all new installations made on or after August 31, 1971, shall be equipped with a permanent belt shifter provided with mechanical means to prevent belt from creeping from loose to tight pulley.

1. It is recommended that old installations be changed to conform to this rule.1910.219(l)(1)(ii) Belt shifter and clutch handles shall be rounded and be located as far as possible from danger of accidental contact, but within easy reach of the operator.
2. Where belt shifters are not directly located over a machine or bench, the handles shall be cut off six feet six inches (6 ft.6 in.) above floor level.1910.219(l)(2) Belt shippers and shipper poles,

The use of belt poles as substitutes for mechanical shifters is not recommended.1910.219(l)(3) Belt perches, Where loose pulleys or idlers are not practicable, belt perches in form of brackets, rollers, etc., shall be used to keep idle belts away from the shafts.1910.219(l)(4) Belt fasteners,

Belts which of necessity must be shifted by hand and belts within seven (7) feet of the floor or working platform which are not guarded in accordance with this section shall not be fastened with metal in any case, nor with any other fastening which by construction or wear will constitute an accident hazard.1910.219(m)(1)(i) Standard conditions shall be secured by the use of the following materials.

Expanded metal, perforated or solid sheet metal, wire mesh on a frame of angle iron, or iron pipe securely fastened to floor or to frame of machine.1910.219(m)(1)(ii) All metal should be free from burrs and sharp edges.1910.219(m)(2) Methods of manufacture,1910.219(m)(2)(i) Expanded metal, sheet or perforated metal, and wire mesh shall be securely fastened to frame.1910.219(m)(2)(ii) 1910.219(o) Approved materials – 1910.219(o)(1) Minimum requirements,

The materials and dimensions specified in this paragraph shall apply to all guards, except horizontal overhead belts, rope, cable, or chain guards more than seven (7) feet above floor, or platform.1910.219(o)(1)(i) 1910.219(o)(1)(i)(a) All guards shall be rigidly braced every three (3) feet or fractional part of their height to some fixed part of machinery or building structure.

Where guard is exposed to contact with moving equipment additional strength may be necessary.1910.219(o)(1)(i)(b) 1910.219(o)(1)(ii) 1910.219(o)(2) Wood guards,1910.219(o)(2)(i) Wood guards may be used in the woodworking and chemical industries, in industries where the presence of fumes or where manufacturing conditions would cause the rapid deterioration of metal guards; also in construction work and in locations outdoors where extreme cold or extreme heat make metal guards and railings undesirable.

In all other industries, wood guards shall not be used.1910.219(o)(2)(ii) 1910.219(o)(3) Guards for horizontal overhead belts,1910.219(o)(3)(i) Guards for horizontal overhead belts shall run the entire length of the belt and follow the line of the pulley to the ceiling or be carried to the nearest wall, thus enclosing the belt effectively.

Where belts are so located as to make it impracticable to carry the guard to wall or ceiling, construction of guard shall be such as to enclose completely the top and bottom runs of belt and the face of pulleys.1910.219(o)(3)(ii) 1910.219(o)(3)(iii) Suitable reinforcement shall be provided for the ceiling rafters or overhead floor beams, where such is necessary, to sustain safely the weight and stress likely to be imposed by the guard.

1. The interior surface of all guards, by which is meant the surface of the guard with which a belt will come in contact, shall be smooth and free from all projections of any character, except where construction demands it; protruding shallow roundhead rivets may be used.
2. Overhead belt guards shall be at least one-quarter wider than belt which they protect, except that this clearance need not in any case exceed six (6) inches on each side.

Overhead rope drive and block and roller-chain-drive guards shall be not less than six (6) inches wider than the drive on each side. In overhead silent chain-drive guards where the chain is held from lateral displacement on the sprockets, the side clearances required on drives of twenty (20) inch centers or under shall be not less than one-fourth inch from the nearest moving chain part, and on drives of over twenty (20) inch centers a minimum of one-half inch from the nearest moving chain part.1910.219(o)(4) Guards for horizontal overhead rope and chain drives,

Overhead-rope and chain-drive guard construction shall conform to the rules for overhead-belt guard.1910.219(o)(5) Guardrails and toeboards,1910.219(o)(5)(i) Guardrail shall be forty-two (42) inches in height, with midrail between top rail and floor.1910.219(o)(5)(ii) Posts shall be not more than eight (8) feet apart; they are to be permanent and substantial, smooth, and free from protruding nails, bolts, and splinters.

If made of pipe, the post shall be one and one-fourth (1 1 ⁄ 4 ) inches inside diameter, or larger. If made of metal shapes or bars, their section shall be equal in strength to that of one and one-half (1 1 ⁄ 2 ) by one and one-half (1 1 ⁄ 2 ) by three-sixteenths ( 3 ⁄ 16 ) inch angle iron.

If made of wood, the posts shall be two by four (2 x 4) inches or larger. The upper rail shall be two by four (2 x 4) inches, or two one by four (1 x 4) strips, one at the top and one at the side of posts. The midrail may be one by four (1 x 4) inches or more. Where panels are fitted with expanded metal or wire mesh the middle rails may be omitted.

Where guard is exposed to contact with moving equipment, additional strength may be necessary.1910.219(o)(5)(iii) Toeboards shall be four (4) inches or more in height, of wood, metal, or of metal grill not exceeding one (1) inch mesh.1910.219(p) Care of equipment – 1910.219(p)(1) General,

All power-transmission equipment shall be inspected at intervals not exceeding 60 days and be kept in good working condition at all times.1910.219(p)(2)(i) Shafting shall be kept in alignment, free from rust and excess oil or grease.1910.219(p)(2)(ii) Where explosives, explosive dusts, flammable vapors or flammable liquids exist, the hazard of static sparks from shafting shall be carefully considered.1910.219(p)(3) Bearings,

Bearings shall be kept in alignment and properly adjusted.1910.219(p)(4) Hangers, Hangers shall be inspected to make certain that all supporting bolts and screws are tight and that supports of hanger boxes are adjusted properly.1910.219(p)(5)(i) Pulleys shall be kept in proper alignment to prevent belts from running off.1910.219(p)(5)(ii) 1910.219(p)(6)(i) 1910.219(p)(6)(ii) Inspection shall be made of belts, lacings, and fasteners and such equipment kept in good repair.1910.219(p)(7) Lubrication,

What is the minimum safe clearance distance that must be maintained when operating equipment near energized power lines that are rated at 50 kilovolts?

Working on or near exposed energized parts. – (1) Application. This section applies to work performed on exposed live parts (involving either direct contact or contact by means of tools or materials) or near enough to them for employees to be exposed to any hazard they present.

• 2) Work on energized equipment.
• Only qualified persons must work on electric circuit parts or equipment that have not been deenergized under the procedures of WAC 296-24-975 (2).
• Such persons must be capable of working safely on energized circuits and must be familiar with the proper use of special precautionary techniques, personal protective equipment, insulating and shielding materials, and insulated tools.

(3) General requirements – High voltage lines. (a) Minimum clearance. (i) You must not perform any work, you must not pile, store, or otherwise handle any material, you must not erect or dismantle any scaffolding, commercial signs, or structures, nor must you operate any tools, machinery or equipment within the specified minimum distances from any energized high voltage electrical conductor capable of energizing the material or equipment; except where the electrical distribution and transmission lines have been deenergized and visibly grounded at point of work, or where insulating barriers not a part of or an attachment to the equipment have been erected, to prevent physical contact with the lines, you must operate equipment proximate to, under, over, by, or near powerlines only in accordance with the following: (ii) For lines rated 50 kv.

1. Or below, minimum clearance between the lines and any part of the equipment or load must be 10 feet.
2. Iii) For lines rated over 50 kv.
3. Minimum, clearance between the lines and any part of the equipment or load must be 10 feet plus 0.4 inch for each 1 kv.
4. Over 50 kv., or twice the length of the line insulator but never less than 10 feet.

(b) Overhead electric lines. Where overhead electric conductors are encountered in proximity to a work area, you must be responsible for: (i) Ascertaining the voltage and minimum clearance distance required, and (ii) Maintaining the minimum clearance distance, and (iii) Ensuring that the requirements of subsection (3) of this section are complied with.

• C) Not covered: Employees working under chapters 296-32 and 296-45 WAC.
• 4) Low voltage lines.
• When work is being carried out in proximity to energized electrical service conductors operating at 750 volts or less, you must perform such work in a manner to prevent contact by any worker with the energized conductors.

(5) Overhead lines. If work is to be performed near overhead lines, you must deenergize and ground the lines, or provide other protective measures before work is started. If the lines are to be deenergized, you must make arrangements with the person or organization that operates or controls the electric circuits involved to deenergize and ground them.

If protective measures, such as guarding, isolating, or insulating, these precautions must prevent employees from contacting such lines directly with any part of their body or indirectly through conductive materials, tools, or equipment. (6) Unqualified persons. When an unqualified person is working in an elevated position, or on the ground, near overhead lines, the location must be such that the person and the longest conductive object he or she may contact cannot come closer to any unguarded, energized overhead line than the following distances: (a) For voltages to ground 50kV or below—10 ft.; (b) For voltages to ground over 50kV—10 ft.

plus 0.4 inch for every 1 kV over 50 kV. (7) Qualified persons. When a qualified person is working in the vicinity of overhead lines, whether in an elevated position or on the ground, the person must not approach or take any conductive object without an approved insulating handle closer to exposed energized parts than shown in subsections (3) and (4) of this section unless: (a) The person is insulated from the energized part (gloves, with sleeves if necessary, rated for the voltage involved are considered to be insulation of the person from the energized part on which work is performed); or (b) The energized part is insulated both from all other conductive objects at a different potential and from the person; or (c) The person is insulated from all conductive objects at a potential different from that of the energized part.

8) Vehicular and mechanical equipment. (a) You must operate any vehicle or mechanical equipment capable of having parts of its structure elevated near energized overhead lines so that a clearance of 10 ft. is maintained. If the voltage is higher than 50kV, you must increase the clearance 0.4 inch for every 1kV over that voltage.

However, under any of the following conditions, the clearance may be reduced: (i) If the vehicle is in transit with its structure lowered, the clearance may be reduced to 4 ft. If the voltage is higher than 50kV, you must increase the clearance 0.4 inch for every 1kV over that voltage.

(ii) If insulating barriers are installed to prevent contact with the lines, and if the barriers are rated for the voltage of the line being guarded and are not a part of or an attachment to the vehicle or its raised structure, the clearance may be reduced to a distance within the designed working dimensions of the insulating barrier.

(b) If the equipment is an aerial lift insulated for the voltage involved, and if the work is performed by a qualified person, the clearance (between the uninsulated portion of the aerial lift and the power line) may be reduced to the distance given in subsections (3) and (4) of this section.

(c) Employees standing on the ground must not contact the vehicle or mechanical equipment or any of its attachments, unless: (i) The employee is using protective equipment rated for the voltage; or (ii) The equipment is located so that no uninsulated part of its structure (that portion of the structure that provides a conductive path to employees on the ground) can come closer to the line than permitted in this section.

(d) If any vehicle or mechanical equipment capable of having parts of its structure elevated near energized overhead lines is intentionally grounded, employees working on the ground near the point of grounding must not stand at the grounding location whenever there is a possibility of overhead line contact.

You must take additional precautions, such as the use of barricades or insulation, to protect employees from hazardous ground potentials, depending on earth resistivity and fault currents, which can develop within the first few feet or more outward from the grounding point. (9) Illumination. (a) Employees must not enter spaces containing exposed energized parts, unless illumination is provided that enables the employees to perform the work safely.

(b) Where lack of illumination or an obstruction precludes observation of the work to be performed, employees must not perform tasks near exposed energized parts. Employees must not reach blindly into areas which may contain energized parts. (10) Confined or enclosed work spaces.

When an employee works in a confined or enclosed space (such as a manhole or vault) that contains exposed energized parts, you must provide, and the employee must use, protective shields, protective barriers, or insulating materials as necessary to avoid inadvertent contact with these parts. Doors, hinged panels, and the like must be secured to prevent their swinging into an employee and causing the employee to contact exposed energized parts.

(11) Conductive materials and equipment. You must handle materials and equipment that are in contact with any part of an employee’s body in a manner that will prevent them from contacting exposed energized conductors or circuit parts. If an employee must handle long dimensional conductive objects (such as ducts and pipes) in areas with exposed live parts, you must institute work practices (such as the use of insulation, guarding, and material handling techniques) which will minimize the hazard.

(12) Portable ladders. Portable ladders must have nonconductive siderails if they are used where the employee or the ladder could contact exposed energized parts. (13) Conductive apparel. You must not wear conductive articles of jewelry and clothing (such as watch bands, bracelets, rings, key chains, necklaces, metalized aprons, cloth with conductive thread, or metal headgear) if they might contact exposed energized parts.

(14) Housekeeping duties. (a) Where live parts present an electrical contact hazard, employees must not perform housekeeping duties at such close distances to the parts that there is a possibility of contact, unless adequate safeguards (such as insulating equipment or barriers) are provided.

1. B) You must not use electrically conductive cleaning materials (including conductive solids such as steel wool, metalized cloth, and silicon carbide, as well as conductive liquid solutions) in proximity to energized parts unless procedures are followed which will prevent electrical contact.
2. 15) Interlocks.

Only a qualified person following the requirements of this section may defeat an electrical safety interlock, and then only temporarily while he or she is working on the equipment. You must return the interlock system to its operable condition when this work is completed.

How high should a safety net be?

A safety net, also known as a fall-arrest net, fall safety net or construction net, is a horizontally tensioned protective net with an edge rope drawn into the edge meshes. The nets are used to catch people when working under hall roofs and in bridge construction, among other things.

• Fall safety nets are used when direct prevention of a fall is unavoidable.
• In contrast to rope anchors, the freedom of movement remains fully intact.
• It is a collective safety device for all work and transport operations in the secured area.
• Falling persons are caught more softly than in the case of roping devices.

The standardised designation for a horizontally tensioned safety net with edge rope is “Safety Net EN 1263-1 System S”, Within this category, a further distinction is made between 4 net classes depending on the minimum breaking energy, which must meet the following requirements:

When testing static energy absorption, a test net with a size of 3.00 x 3.00 m must cover at least the aging of one year with a safety factor of 1.5. The safety nets available from us have a larger reserve than required and therefore offer the greatest possible safety (see table).

Fall protection is mandatory for work where there is a risk of falling. The legal framework for occupational safety is provided by the Occupational Safety Act. This in turn is governed by accident prevention regulations. The use of safety nets is specified in DGUV regulation no.101-011,

1. The product standard for safety nets is EN 1263-1,
2. Only safety nets that comply with this standard are approved products within the meaning of DGUV regulation 101-011 and thus also approved for fall protection within the meaning of the Occupational Safety and Health Act and accident prevention regulations.

Each safety net must be marked in accordance with EN 1263-1. The following information must be clearly and permanently affixed to the safety net:

Manufacturer, supplier or importerDesignation according to EN 1263-1Article designation (incl. net class, mesh direction, mesh size and net size)Month and year of manufactureMinimum energy absorption capacity of the test mesh. This already takes into account a loss of strength due to aging over a period of 12 months, as well as a general safety factor.Test number of the testing institution that certified the net

For the installation of safety nets, the executing force must have the manufacturer’s instructions for use and the contractor’s installation instructions available according to DGUV regulation/nbsp;101-011. The requirements and measures described under the following points “Authorized Persons and Responsibilities”, “Assembly Instructions” and “Repair, Maintenance and Replacement” apply as instructions for the use of safety nets in accordance with DGUV regulation 101-011.

In addition, the responsible contractor must prepare written assembly instructions tailored to the respective application. The written form can be dispensed with if no special safety-related information is required for the respective installation. The instructions for use and, if applicable, the written installation instructions must be available at the point of use and must be observed.

The documents should contain information on the net size, the required accessories, the selection of suspension points and the installation procedure. With the links below you will find a leaflet of the BG Bau, the published regulation of the DGUV as well as further downloads on the subject of safety nets:

The installation of safety nets must be directed by a technically suitable supervisor and supervised by a competent person. The responsible persons must ensure that the work is carried out in accordance with the regulations. A person is considered “competent” if, for example, he or she has successfully participated in the seminar “Training of net fitters for the installation of protective and work platform nets” in accordance with DGUV principle 301-004.

Basic knowledge of legal regulations and occupational safety regulations of the accident insurance institutions,sufficient practical work experience in the installation of safety nets,knowledge of safety nets and their interaction with the supporting structures,Knowledge of potential hazards and how to eliminate them (e.g., falling, falling objects, lifting, carrying and transporting loads, hazardous materials), andKnowledge of the plan for assembly, disassembly and use and the assembly and use instructions for the respective safety net.

A plan must be drawn up for the installation, modification, dismantling and use of the safety net. These instructions for use can be used for this purpose. If necessary, it should be supplemented with special instructions for use. If special safety-related information is required for installation work with protective netting, the contractor must prepare written installation instructions containing all the necessary safety-related information, including the specifications made by the planner and the coordinator in accordance with the Construction Site Ordinance.

net sizesthe necessary accessoriesthe choice of suspension pointsthe installation procedureaccessibility of componentsrequired devices and installation aidsopeningsinstallation pointsset-up and use of workplaces and traffic routes for installation of the safety netsfall protection devicessuitable anchor points when using PPE against falls from a height.

Every contractor who uses a safety net to protect his own employees or temporary workers against falls from a height is responsible for ensuring that the safety net is in proper working order. Before the safety net is put into operation for the first time, it must be checked to ensure that it is functioning safely.

This check can be facilitated by the company’s own risk assessment, plan for use or instructions for use. Objects that have fallen into the net must be removed immediately if persons can be injured by them when they hit the net or if the load-bearing capacity of the net is impaired. If safety nets or net accessories are stressed by catching a person or an object, they may only be used again with the approval of a competent person.

Ropes must be secured against untwisting. Damage during handling, especially from sharp edges, should be avoided. The dimensions of a safety net may only be changed by the manufacturer. It must be re-marked in the event of a change by the manufacturer. A safety net whose dimensions have not been changed by the manufacturer automatically loses its approval according to EN 1263-1.

If the installation width is less than 5.00 m, a maximum fall height of 1.50 m must be maintained.If the installation width is less than 3.00 m, a maximum fall height of 1.00 m must be maintained.If the installation width is less than 2.00 m, a maximum fall height of 0.50 m must be maintained. In addition, the mesh size of this net must not exceed 60 mm.

The area of a small-format safety net in accordance with DGUV regulation 101-011 must be at least 2.00 m², The length of the shorter side must be at least 1.00 m, The width of the net must exceed the distance between the opposite suspension points by at least 10 cm, so that the net is installed with a sag (slack installation). Construction nets must be attached to load-bearing points. Each suspension point shall have been designed for a characteristic load of at least 6 kN at an angle of 45°. Three characteristic loads of 4 kN, 6 kN and 4 kN at the most unfavorable point shall be considered for the design of the structural members. The suspension points must not be more than 2.50 m apart. The forces that occur must be able to be safely absorbed and transmitted by the suspension points and structural parts. Safety nets are suspended using suspension ropes, safety snap hooks, shackles, net thimble loops or safety net thimble hooks. In the case of single-strand suspension with ropes, the breaking force of the suspension rope must be at least 30 kN, in the case of double-strand suspension, the breaking force must be at least 15 kN, The distance between the attachment points must not exceed 2.50 m, For small-format safety nets, the maximum distance between the attachment points is reduced analogously to the net size (see table below).

table>

table>

If several construction nets are connected to each other, coupling ropes must be used in such a way that there are no gaps of more than 100 mm at the connection point and the safety nets cannot shift more than 100 mm against each other. The coupling rope is threaded through the edge meshes of the two safety nets to be connected. Safety nets can also be connected without a coupling rope by overlapping the nets. In this case, the overlap of the net edges must be at least 2.00 m in accordance with EN 1263. The net composite is to be regarded as one continuous net surface when coupled. As soon as coupling ropes are used or a safety net area is created by means of overlapping, it must be ensured that the clearance under the safety net and the specified fall height of the coupled or overlapped net areas comply with the requirements.

The horizontal distance between the net and the edge of the fall must not exceed 0.30 m, This also applies, for example, to the suspension of nets from central or intermediate girders in hall construction. A safety net must be suspended as close as possible below the workplace to be secured. The fall height must not exceed 6.00 m,

In the peripheral area, up to a horizontal distance of 2.00 m from the suspension point, the permissible fall height must not exceed 3.00 m, The fall height is the difference between the edge of the fall and the height of impact on the net. In the case of small-format safety nets smaller than 35 m², lower values must be observed for the fall height, the distance between the suspension points and the clearance under the safety net, depending on the width of the net, in accordance with DGUV regulation 101-011 (see table below).

table>

A fall safety net must be suspended in such a way that persons cannot touch the ground, hit fixed or moving objects or injure other persons in traffic areas during the fall arrest process. When calculating the clearance, not only the deformation under load but also the sag in the unloaded state must be taken into account. In addition, a safety clearance of s > 0 must be kept free for any traffic routes or fixtures.

The net deformations due to dead load and dynamic load may be determined approximately according to the curves shown below.

The net sag can be reduced by installing supporting ropes. Truss ropes are pulled into a safety net parallel to the edge to reduce the net sag and must be connected to the edge ropes. An additional reduction of the sag can be achieved by fastening with suspension ropes of the truss rope towards the top. By reducing the net sag compared to the requirements from the previous values, fall-arrest nets can already be used with a clearance height of more than 3.00 m if

the length of the shortest side of the safety net does not exceed 7.50 mthe net sag in the middle of the unloaded safety net is no more than 3.5% of the shortest side (approx.0.26 m for a net width of 7.50 m) of the safety net andthe fall height from the fall edge of the respective workplace to the possible impact surface of the safety net is not more than 2.50 m perpendicular.

After the installation of a safetny net, the responsible contractor must arrange for an inspection to determine its proper condition. The inspection may only be carried out by a competent person (e.g. the supervisor). The results of the test must be documented in the form of a test report and should be kept for at least three months beyond the service life of the safety net.

Once the safety net manufacturer has satisfied himself of the proper condition of the safety net, he may hand it over to the user. Defects in work equipment, facilities, work procedures or work processes that could result in hazards for the employee must be reported immediately to the supervisor and may not be used further without approval.

If defects are found in safety nets or net accessories, these parts may only continue to be used if it has been determined by a competent person that safety is not impaired by the defects. Examples of safety-related defects are:

damaged edge ropetorn mesh (if more than 2 adjacent mesh legs in the net are damaged, the net must be replaced or repaired immediately)damage to the supporting structuredamaged fasteners

Damaged safety nets and net accessories may only be repaired by the manufacturer or persons designated by him. Only material with the same properties as the original material may be used. Safety nets and net accessories must be stored appropriately between two periods of use. Appropriate storage is given if they are

in a dry environment,protected from UV radiation,protected from heat, andnot stored in contact with aggressive substances (e.g. acids, alkalis, solvents, oils).

As supplied, safety nets are approved in accordance with EN 1263-1 for a maximum of 12 months from the date of manufacture, This approval can be extended three times for a net with an aging test for a further 12 months in each case. The time of the last test or the date of the next test is indicated on the type plate attached to the net.

There are test meshes on each construction net that can be clearly assigned to the net. For testing, one of these test meshes is detached from the net and sent to a suitable test center or the manufacturer. There, a tensile strength test is carried out. If this so-called test does not fall below the minimum energy absorption capacity specified by the manufacturer, the test is deemed to have been passed.

The approval is then extended for a further 12 months. Proof of this is provided by the testing body by supplying a new nameplate for the network and issuing a test report. The test of the minimum energy absorption capacity must be carried out in accordance with EN 1263-1 and must not date back more than 12 months.

How high must a guardrail be above the working surface?

Railing height for guard rail – According to OSHA, the top edge height of top rails (or equivalent guardrail system members) must be 42 inches (107 cm), plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm), above the walking-working surface. The top edge height may exceed 45 inches (114 cm), as long as the guardrail system meets all other criteria.

What is the maximum toe board gap?

Looking at the dimensions – Top guardrail (handrail) height – at least 950mm The WAH guidance specifies the top guardrail (often referred to as the handrail) to be at least 950mm high. There’s a minor exception in that handrails already in place before 2005 could be at least 910mm high but this is obviously an increasingly unlikely scenario.

If you handrails aren’t meeting the 950mm rule you are risking falls from height and breaking the law. In the construction industry, falls of this nature can easily be fatal and certainly traumatic, attracting HSE scrutiny and hefty financial penalties. The regulations require the top guardrail to be at least 950mm but you can choose to go much higher, for example person height.

However in this case you would need intermediate rails to stop falls through the gap below the top guardrail/handrail. Intermediate rail height – at least 470mm Intermediate rails are required to fill in the gaps. A person could potentially fall through a 950mm gap, especially if they are crouched down to carry out work or to pick up a tool.

Intermediate rails are required at least every 470mm, that doesn’t mean they has to be installed at exactly 470mm but no vertical gap in your edge protection should be larger than 470mm. Bear in mind that if you’ve installed your top guard rail higher than 950mm, you may need multiple intermediate rails to make sure no gaps are exceeding the 470mm limit.

Toeboard height – suitable and sufficient Toeboards the are solid barriers installed at a right angle with no gap the bottom of your edge protection. There purpose is to stop things from falling or rolling off the platform. Unlike the top and intermediate rail guidance, there’s no prescriptive minimum heights for toeboards.

Instead, toeboards must be suitable and sufficient to prevent falls or people and objects. Standard toeboards are usually around 150mm in thickness which would be suitable and sufficient in most circumstances. However, you would need to take into account what objects are being used on the scaffolding – are they unstable and especially likely to fall.

An additional concern would be whether there are many people present below the scaffolding, especially members of the public who won’t be wearing safety hats. : Scaffold Guard Rail Guidance

What is the gap for guardrail OSHA?

1. By Standard Number
2. 1910.29 – Fall protection systems and falling object protection – criteria and practices.

• Part Number: 1910
• Part Number Title: Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• Subpart: 1910 Subpart D
• Subpart Title: Walking-Working Surfaces
• Standard Number:
• Title: Fall protection systems and falling object protection – criteria and practices.
• GPO Source:

1910.29(a) General requirements, The employer must: 1910.29(a)(1) Ensure each fall protection system and falling object protection, other than personal fall protection systems, that this part requires meets the requirements in this section. The employer must ensure each personal fall protection system meets the requirements in subpart I of this part; and 1910.29(a)(2) Provide and install all fall protection systems and falling object protection this subpart requires, and comply with the other requirements in this subpart before any employee begins work that necessitates fall or falling object protection.1910.29(b) Guardrail systems,

The employer must ensure guardrail systems meet the following requirements: 1910.29(b)(1) The top edge height of top rails, or equivalent guardrail system members, are 42 inches (107 cm), plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm), above the walking-working surface. The top edge height may exceed 45 inches (114 cm), provided the guardrail system meets all other criteria of paragraph (b) of this section (see Figure D-11 of this section).1910.29(b)(2) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, or equivalent intermediate members are installed between the walking-working surface and the top edge of the guardrail system as follows when there is not a wall or parapet that is at least 21 inches (53 cm) high: 1910.29(b)(2)(i) Midrails are installed at a height midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking-working surface; 1910.29(b)(2)(ii) Screens and mesh extend from the walking-working surface to the top rail and along the entire opening between top rail supports; 1910.29(b)(2)(iii) Intermediate vertical members (such as balusters) are installed no more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart; and 1910.29(b)(2)(iv) Other equivalent intermediate members (such as additional midrails and architectural panels) are installed so that the openings are not more than 19 inches (48 cm) wide.1910.29(b)(3) Guardrail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied in a downward or outward direction within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge, at any point along the top rail.1910.29(b)(4) When the 200-pound (890-N) test load is applied in a downward direction, the top rail of the guardrail system must not deflect to a height of less than 39 inches (99 cm) above the walking-working surface.1910.29(b)(5) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, and other equivalent intermediate members are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 150 pounds (667 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the intermediate member.1910.29(b)(6) Guardrail systems are smooth-surfaced to protect employees from injury, such as punctures or lacerations, and to prevent catching or snagging of clothing.1910.29(b)(7) The ends of top rails and midrails do not overhang the terminal posts, except where the overhang does not pose a projection hazard for employees.1910.29(b)(8) Steel banding and plastic banding are not used for top rails or midrails.1910.29(b)(9) Top rails and midrails are at least 0.25-inches (0.6 cm) in diameter or in thickness.1910.29(b)(10) When guardrail systems are used at hoist areas, a removable guardrail section, consisting of a top rail and midrail, are placed across the access opening between guardrail sections when employees are not performing hoisting operations.

The employer may use chains or gates instead of a removable guardrail section at hoist areas if the employer demonstrates the chains or gates provide a level of safety equivalent to guardrails.1910.29(b)(11) When guardrail systems are used around holes, they are installed on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole.1910.29(b)(12) For guardrail systems used around holes through which materials may be passed: 1910.29(b)(12)(i) When materials are being passed through the hole, not more than two sides of the guardrail system are removed; and 1910.29(b)(12)(ii) When materials are not being passed through the hole, the hole must be guarded by a guardrail system along all unprotected sides or edges or closed over with a cover.1910.29(b)(13) When guardrail systems are used around holes that serve as points of access (such as ladderways), the guardrail system opening: 1910.29(b)(13)(i) Has a self-closing gate that slides or swings away from the hole, and is equipped with a top rail and midrail or equivalent intermediate member that meets the requirements in paragraph (b) of this section; or 1910.29(b)(13)(ii) Is offset to prevent an employee from walking or falling into the hole; 1910.29(b)(14) Guardrail systems on ramps and runways are installed along each unprotected side or edge.1910.29(b)(15) Manila or synthetic rope used for top rails or midrails are inspected as necessary to ensure that the rope continues to meet the strength requirements in paragraphs (b)(3) and (5) of this section. Figure D-11 – Guard Rail Systems. Depicts two figures showing two types of Guard Rail Systems. The first shows the walking-working surface, posts, and mid rail for guard system. Total height measurement 42 IN (±3 IN) (107 CM ±8 CM). The second shows a different guard rail system with several more posts, Top Rail, and intermediate vertical member.

1. Spaces between each post and intermediate vertical member is 19 IN (48 CM) MAX.
2. Height of Guard rail is 42 IN (±3 IN) (107 CM ±8 CM).1910.29(c) Safety net systems,
3. The employer must ensure each safety net system meets the requirements in 29 CFR part 1926, subpart M.1910.29(d)(1) When the employer uses a designated area, the employer must ensure: 1910.29(d)(1)(i) Employees remain within the designated area while work operations are underway; and 1910.29(d)(1)(ii) The perimeter of the designated area is delineated with a warning line consisting of a rope, wire, tape, or chain that meets the requirements of paragraphs (d)(2) and (3) of this section.1910.29(d)(2) The employer must ensure each warning line: 1910.29(d)(2)(i) Has a minimum breaking strength of 200 pounds (0.89 kN); 1910.29(d)(2)(ii) Is installed so its lowest point, including sag, is not less than 34 inches (86 cm) and not more than 39 inches (99 cm) above the walking-working surface; 1910.29(d)(2)(iii) Is supported in such a manner that pulling on one section of the line will not result in slack being taken up in adjacent sections causing the line to fall below the limits specified in paragraph (d)(2)(ii) of this section; 1910.29(d)(2)(iv) Is clearly visible from a distance of 25 feet (7.6 m) away, and anywhere within the designated area; 1910.29(d)(2)(v) Is erected as close to the work area as the task permits; and 1910.29(d)(2)(vi) Is erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the roof edge for work that is both temporary and infrequent, or not less than 15 feet (4.6 m) for other work.1910.29(d)(3) When mobile mechanical equipment is used to perform work that is both temporary and infrequent in a designated area, the employer must ensure the warning line is erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the unprotected side or edge that is parallel to the direction in which the mechanical equipment is operated, and not less than 10 feet (3 m) from the unprotected side or edge that is perpendicular to the direction in which the mechanical equipment is operated.1910.29(e) Covers,

The employer must ensure each cover for a hole in a walking-working surface: 1910.29(e)(1) Is capable of supporting without failure, at least twice the maximum intended load that may be imposed on the cover at any one time; and 1910.29(e)(2) Is secured to prevent accidental displacement.1910.29(f) Handrails and stair rail systems,

The employer must ensure: 1910.29(f)(1)(i) Handrails are not less than 30 inches (76 cm) and not more than 38 inches (97 cm), as measured from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the handrail (see Figure D-12 of this section).1910.29(f)(1)(ii) The height of stair rail systems meets the following: 1910.29(f)(1)(ii)(A) The height of stair rail systems installed before January 17, 2017 is not less than 30 inches (76 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail; and 1910.29(f)(1)(ii)(B) The height of stair rail systems installed on or after January 17, 2017 is not less than 42 inches (107 cm) from the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail.1910.29(f)(1)(iii) The top rail of a stair rail system may serve as a handrail only when: 1910.29(f)(1)(iii)(A) The height of the stair rail system is not less than 36 inches (91 cm) and not more than 38 inches (97 cm) as measured at the leading edge of the stair tread to the top surface of the top rail (see Figure D-13 of this section); and 1910.29(f)(1)(iii)(B) The top rail of the stair rail system meets the other handrail requirements in paragraph (f) of this section.1910.29(f)(2) Finger clearance,

The minimum clearance between handrails and any other object is 2.25 inches (5.7 cm).1910.29(f)(3) Surfaces, Handrails and stair rail systems are smooth-surfaced to protect employees from injury, such as punctures or lacerations, and to prevent catching or snagging of clothing.1910.29(f)(4) Openings in stair rails,

No opening in a stair rail system exceeds 19 inches (48 cm) at its least dimension.1910.29(f)(5) Handhold, Handrails have the shape and dimension necessary so that employees can grasp the handrail firmly.1910.29(f)(6) Projection hazards, The ends of handrails and stair rail systems do not present any projection hazards.1910.29(f)(7) Strength criteria,

Handrails and the top rails of stair rail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied in any downward or outward direction within 2 inches (5 cm) of any point along the top edge of the rail. Figure D-13 – Combination Handrail and Stair Rail. Depicts a set of stairs and combination handrail and stair rail installed. Measurement 36 IN – 38 IN (91 CM – 97 CM) between stair and top of handrail. Figure D-13 – Combination Handrail and Stair Rail.1910.29(g) Cages, wells, and platforms used with fixed ladders,

The employer must ensure: 1910.29(g)(1) Cages and wells installed on fixed ladders are designed, constructed, and maintained to permit easy access to, and egress from, the ladder that they enclose (see Figures D-14 and D-15 of this section); 1910.29(g)(2) Cages and wells are continuous throughout the length of the fixed ladder, except for access, egress, and other transfer points; 1910.29(g)(3) Cages and wells are designed, constructed, and maintained to contain employees in the event of a fall, and to direct them to a lower landing; and 1910.29(g)(4) Platforms used with fixed ladders provide a horizontal surface of at least 24 inches by 30 inches (61 cm by 76 cm).

Note to paragraph (g): Section 1910.28 establishes the requirements that employers must follow on the use of cages and wells as a means of fall protection. Figure D-14 – Clearances for Fixed Ladders in Wells. Depicts a well squared off. The ladder should be placed 7 IN (18 CM) Min on Center and 15 IN (38 CM) MIN from either left or right side with a total space of 27 IN-30 IN (69 CM-76 CM) for well opening Figure D-15 – Example of General Construction of Cages. Depicts Five diagrams. The first is Access to Landing Platform through Ladder. The second is side-step Ladder, Access lateral from Ladder. The third is Hoop and See. The fourth is the cross section of a Basket Guard Hoop showing Bar measurments.

• The fifth is Basked Guard Hoop showing Angle from Ladder 1910.29(h) Outdoor advertising,
• This paragraph (h) applies only to employers engaged in outdoor advertising operations (see § 1910.28(b)(10)).
• Employers must ensure that each employee who climbs a fixed ladder without fall protection: 1910.29(h)(1) Is physically capable, as demonstrated through observations of actual climbing activities or by a physical examination, to perform the duties that may be assigned, including climbing fixed ladders without fall protection; 1910.29(h)(2) Has successfully completed a training or apprenticeship program that includes hands-on training on the safe climbing of ladders and is retrained as necessary to maintain the necessary skills; 1910.29(h)(3) Has the skill to climb ladders safely, as demonstrated through formal classroom training or on-the-job training, and performance observation; and 1910.29(h)(4) Performs climbing duties as a part of routine work activity.1910.29(i) Ladder safety systems,

The employer must ensure: 1910.29(i)(1) Each ladder safety system allows the employee to climb up and down using both hands and does not require that the employee continuously hold, push, or pull any part of the system while climbing; 1910.29(i)(2) The connection between the carrier or lifeline and the point of attachment to the body harness or belt does not exceed 9 inches (23 cm); 1910.29(i)(3) Mountings for rigid carriers are attached at each end of the carrier, with intermediate mountings spaced, as necessary, along the entire length of the carrier so the system has the strength to stop employee falls; 1910.29(i)(4) Mountings for flexible carriers are attached at each end of the carrier and cable guides for flexible carriers are installed at least 25 feet (7.6 m) apart but not more than 40 feet (12.2 m) apart along the entire length of the carrier; 1910.29(i)(5) The design and installation of mountings and cable guides does not reduce the design strength of the ladder; and 1910.29(i)(6) Ladder safety systems and their support systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a drop test consisting of an 18-inch (41-cm) drop of a 500-pound (227-kg) weight.1910.29(j) Personal fall protection systems,

Body belts, harnesses, and other components used in personal fall arrest systems, work positioning systems, and travel restraint systems must meet the requirements of § 1910.140.1910.29(k) Protection from falling objects,1910.29(k)(1) The employers must ensure toeboards used for falling object protection: 1910.29(k)(1)(i) Are erected along the exposed edge of the overhead walking-working surface for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below.1910.29(k)(1)(ii) Have a minimum vertical height of 3.5 inches (9 cm) as measured from the top edge of the toeboard to the level of the walking-working surface.1910.29(k)(1)(iii) Do not have more than a 0.25-inch (0.5-cm) clearance or opening above the walking-working surface.1910.29(k)(1)(iv) Are solid or do not have any opening that exceeds 1 inch (3 cm) at its greatest dimension.1910.29(k)(1)(v) Have a minimum height of 2.5 inches (6 cm) when used around vehicle repair, service, or assembly pits.

Toeboards may be omitted around vehicle repair, service, or assembly pits when the employer can demonstrate that a toeboard would prevent access to a vehicle that is over the pit.1910.29(k)(1)(vi) Are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 50 pounds (222 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the toeboard.1910.29(k)(2) The employer must ensure: 1910.29(k)(2)(i) Where tools, equipment, or materials are piled higher than the top of the toeboard, paneling or screening is installed from the toeboard to the midrail of the guardrail system and for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below.

If the items are piled higher than the midrail, the employer also must install paneling or screening to the top rail and for a length that is sufficient to protect employees below; and 1910.29(k)(2)(ii) All openings in guardrail systems are small enough to prevent objects from falling through the opening.1910.29(k)(3) The employer must ensure canopies used for falling object protection are strong enough to prevent collapse and to prevent penetration by falling objects.1910.29(l) Grab handles,

The employer must ensure each grab handle: 1910.29(l)(1) Is not less than 12 inches (30 cm) long; 1910.29(l)(2) Is mounted to provide at least 3 inches (8 cm) of clearance from the framing or opening; and 1910.29(l)(3) Is capable of withstanding a maximum horizontal pull-out force equal to two times the maximum intended load or 200 pounds (890 N), whichever is greater.

What are the rules for safety nets?

Falls » Safety Net Systems – Where workers on a construction site are exposed to vertical drops of 6 feet or more, OSHA requires that employers provide fall protection in one of three ways before work begins:

• Placing guardrails around the hazard area.
• Install safety nets.
• Providing personal fall arrest systems for each employee.

Many times the nature and location of the work will dictate the form that fall protection takes. If the employer chooses to use a safety net system, he must comply with the following provisions:

• Safety nets must be installed as close as practicable under the surface on which employees are working, but in no case more than 30 feet below.
• When nets are used on bridges, the potential fall area must be unobstructed.
• Safety nets must extend outward from the outermost projection of the work surface as follows:

ul>

Additional Information:

• 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M, Fall protection. OSHA Standard.
  • 1926.502, Fall protection systems criteria and practices
    • 1926.502(c), Safety net systems
• Worker Deaths by Falls: A Summary of Surveillance Findings and Investigative Case Reports, US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication 2000-116, (September 2000).

Which fall protection must be in place when working at heights over 4 feet?

1. By Standard Number
2. 1910.28 – Duty to have fall protection and falling object protection.

• Part Number: 1910
• Part Number Title: Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• Subpart: 1910 Subpart D
• Subpart Title: Walking-Working Surfaces
• Standard Number:
• Title: Duty to have fall protection and falling object protection.
• GPO Source:

1910.28(a)(1) This section requires employers to provide protection for each employee exposed to fall and falling object hazards. Unless stated otherwise, the employer must ensure that all fall protection and falling object protection required by this section meet the criteria in § 1910.29, except that personal fall protection systems required by this section meet the criteria of § 1910.140.1910.28(a)(2)(i) To portable ladders; 1910.28(a)(2)(ii) When employers are inspecting, investigating, or assessing workplace conditions or work to be performed prior to the start of work or after all work has been completed.

This exemption does not apply when fall protection systems or equipment meeting the requirements of § 1910.29 have been installed and are available for workers to use for pre-work and post-work inspections, investigations, or assessments; 1910.28(a)(2)(iii) To fall hazards presented by the exposed perimeters of entertainment stages and the exposed perimeters of rail-station platforms; 1910.28(a)(2)(iv) To powered platforms covered by § 1910.66(j); 1910.28(a)(2)(v) To aerial lifts covered by § 1910.67(c)(2)(v); 1910.28(a)(2)(vi) To telecommunications work covered by § 1910.268(n)(7) and (8); and 1910.28(a)(2)(vii) To electric power generation, transmission, and distribution work covered by § 1910.269(g)(2)(i).1910.28(b)(1)(i) Except as provided elsewhere in this section, the employer must ensure that each employee on a walking-working surface with an unprotected side or edge that is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected from falling by one or more of the following: 1910.28(b)(1)(i)(A) Guardrail systems; 1910.28(b)(1)(i)(B) Safety net systems; or 1910.28(b)(1)(i)(C) Personal fall protection systems, such as personal fall arrest, travel restraint, or positioning systems.1910.28(b)(1)(ii) When the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible or creates a greater hazard to use guardrail, safety net, or personal fall protection systems on residential roofs, the employer must develop and implement a fall protection plan that meets the requirements of 29 CFR 1926.502(k) and training that meets the requirements of 29 CFR 1926.503(a) and (c).

Note to paragraph (b)(1)(ii) of this section: There is a presumption that it is feasible and will not create a greater hazard to use at least one of the above-listed fall protection systems specified in paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section. Accordingly, the employer has the burden of establishing that it is not feasible or creates a greater hazard to provide the fall protection systems specified in paragraph (b)(1)(i) and that it is necessary to implement a fall protection plan that complies with § 1926.502(k) in the particular work operation, in lieu of implementing any of those systems.1910.28(b)(1)(iii) When the employer can demonstrate that the use of fall protection systems is not feasible on the working side of a platform used at a loading rack, loading dock, or teeming platform, the work may be done without a fall protection system, provided: 1910.28(b)(1)(iii)(A) The work operation for which fall protection is infeasible is in process; 1910.28(b)(1)(iii)(B) Access to the platform is limited to authorized employees; and, 1910.28(b)(1)(iii)(C) The authorized employees are trained in accordance with § 1910.30.1910.28(b)(2) Hoist areas,

The employer must ensure: 1910.28(b)(2)(i) Each employee in a hoist area is protected from falling 4 feet (1.2 m) or more to a lower level by: 1910.28(b)(2)(i)(A) A guardrail system; 1910.28(b)(2)(i)(B) A personal fall arrest system; or 1910.28(b)(2)(i)(C) A travel restraint system.1910.28(b)(2)(ii) When any portion of a guardrail system, gate, or chains is removed, and an employee must lean through or over the edge of the access opening to facilitate hoisting, the employee is protected from falling by a personal fall arrest system.1910.28(b)(2)(iii) If grab handles are installed at hoist areas, they meet the requirements of § 1910.29(l).1910.28(b)(3) Holes,

The employer must ensure: 1910.28(b)(3)(i) Each employee is protected from falling through any hole (including skylights) that is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level by one or more of the following: 1910.28(b)(3)(i)(A) Covers; 1910.28(b)(3)(i)(B) Guardrail systems; 1910.28(b)(3)(i)(C) Travel restraint systems; or 1910.28(b)(3)(i)(D) Personal fall arrest systems.1910.28(b)(3)(ii) Each employee is protected from tripping into or stepping into or through any hole that is less than 4 feet (1.2 m) above a lower level by covers or guardrail systems.1910.28(b)(3)(iii) Each employee is protected from falling into a stairway floor hole by a fixed guardrail system on all exposed sides, except at the stairway entrance.

However, for any stairway used less than once per day where traffic across the stairway floor hole prevents the use of a fixed guardrail system ( e.g., holes located in aisle spaces), the employer may protect employees from falling into the hole by using a hinged floor hole cover that meets the criteria in § 1910.29 and a removable guardrail system on all exposed sides, except at the entrance to the stairway.1910.28(b)(3)(iv) Each employee is protected from falling into a ladderway floor hole or ladderway platform hole by a guardrail system and toeboards erected on all exposed sides, except at the entrance to the hole, where a self-closing gate or an offset must be used.1910.28(b)(3)(v) Each employee is protected from falling through a hatchway and chute-floor hole by: 1910.28(b)(3)(v)(A) A hinged floor-hole cover that meets the criteria in § 1910.29 and a fixed guardrail system that leaves only one exposed side.

When the hole is not in use, the employer must ensure the cover is closed or a removable guardrail system is provided on the exposed sides; 1910.28(b)(3)(v)(B) A removable guardrail system and toeboards on not more than two sides of the hole and a fixed guardrail system on all other exposed sides.

The employer must ensure the removable guardrail system is kept in place when the hole is not in use; or 1910.28(b)(3)(v)(C) A guardrail system or a travel restraint system when a work operation necessitates passing material through a hatchway or chute floor hole.1910.28(b)(4) Dockboards,1910.28(b)(4)(i) The employer must ensure that each employee on a dockboard is protected from falling 4 feet (1.2 m) or more to a lower level by a guardrail system or handrails.1910.28(b)(4)(ii) A guardrail system or handrails are not required when: 1910.28(b)(4)(ii)(A) Dockboards are being used solely for materials-handling operations using motorized equipment; 1910.28(b)(4)(ii)(B) Employees engaged in these operations are not exposed to fall hazards greater than 10 feet (3 m); and 1910.28(b)(4)(ii)(C) Those employees have been trained in accordance with § 1910.30.1910.28(b)(5) Runways and similar walkways,1910.28(b)(5)(i) The employer must ensure each employee on a runway or similar walkway is protected from falling 4 feet (1.2 m) or more to a lower level by a guardrail system.1910.28(b)(5)(ii) When the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible to have guardrails on both sides of a runway used exclusively for a special purpose, the employer may omit the guardrail on one side of the runway, provided the employer ensures: 1910.28(b)(5)(ii)(A) The runway is at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide; and 1910.28(b)(5)(ii)(B) Each employee is provided with and uses a personal fall arrest system or travel restraint system.1910.28(b)(6) Dangerous equipment,

The employer must ensure: 1910.28(b)(6)(i) Each employee less than 4 feet (1.2 m) above dangerous equipment is protected from falling into or onto the dangerous equipment by a guardrail system or a travel restraint system, unless the equipment is covered or guarded to eliminate the hazard.1910.28(b)(6)(ii) Each employee 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above dangerous equipment must be protected from falling by: 1910.28(b)(6)(ii)(A) Guardrail systems; 1910.28(b)(6)(ii)(B) Safety net systems; 1910.28(b)(6)(ii)(C) Travel restraint systems; or 1910.28(b)(6)(ii)(D) Personal fall arrest systems.1910.28(b)(7) Openings,

The employer must ensure that each employee on a walking-working surface near an opening, including one with a chute attached, where the inside bottom edge of the opening is less than 39 inches (99 cm) above that walking-working surface and the outside bottom edge of the opening is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected from falling by the use of: 1910.28(b)(7)(i) Guardrail systems; 1910.28(b)(7)(ii) Safety net systems; 1910.28(b)(7)(iii) Travel restraint systems; or, 1910.28(b)(7)(iv) Personal fall arrest systems.1910.28(b)(8) Repair pits, service pits, and assembly pits less than 10 feet in depth,

The use of a fall protection system is not required for a repair pit, service pit, or assembly pit that is less than 10 feet (3 m) deep, provided the employer: 1910.28(b)(8)(i) Limits access within 6 feet (1.8 m) of the edge of the pit to authorized employees trained in accordance with § 1910.30; 1910.28(b)(8)(ii) Applies floor markings at least 6 feet (1.8 m) from the edge of the pit in colors that contrast with the surrounding area; or places a warning line at least 6 feet (1.8 m) from the edge of the pit as well as stanchions that are capable of resisting, without tipping over, a force of at least 16 pounds (71 N) applied horizontally against the stanchion at a height of 30 inches (76 cm); or places a combination of floor markings and warning lines at least 6 feet (1.8 m) from the edge of the pit.

When two or more pits in a common area are not more than 15 feet (4.5m) apart, the employer may comply by placing contrasting floor markings at least 6 feet (1.8 m) from the pit edge around the entire area of the pits; and 1910.28(b)(8)(iii) Posts readily visible caution signs that meet the requirements of § 1910.145 and state “Caution – Open Pit.” 1910.28(b)(9) Fixed ladders (that extend more than 24 feet (7.3 m) above a lower level).1910.28(b)(9)(i) For fixed ladders that extend more than 24 feet (7.3 m) above a lower level, the employer must ensure: 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(A) Existing fixed ladders,

Each fixed ladder installed before November 19, 2018 is equipped with a personal fall arrest system, ladder safety system, cage, or well; 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(B) New fixed ladders, Each fixed ladder installed on and after November 19, 2018, is equipped with a personal fall arrest system or a ladder safety system; 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(C) Replacement,

1910.28(b)(11)(iii) Each ship stairs and alternating tread type stairs is equipped with handrails on both sides.1910.28(b)(12) Scaffolds and rope descent systems, The employer must ensure: 1910.28(b)(12)(i) Each employee on a scaffold is protected from falling in accordance 29 CFR part 1926, subpart L; and 1910.28(b)(12)(ii) Each employee using a rope descent system 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected from falling by a personal fall arrest system.1910.28(b)(13) Work on low-slope roofs,1910.28(b)(13)(i) When work is performed less than 6 feet (1.6 m) from the roof edge, the employer must ensure each employee is protected from falling by a guardrail system, safety net system, travel restraint system, or personal fall arrest system.1910.28(b)(13)(ii) When work is performed at least 6 feet (1.6 m) but less than 15 feet (4.6 m) from the roof edge, the employer must ensure each employee is protected from falling by using a guardrail system, safety net system, travel restraint system, or personal fall arrest system.

The employer may use a designated area when performing work that is both infrequent and temporary.1910.28(b)(13)(iii) When work is performed 15 feet (4.6 m) or more from the roof edge, the employer must: 1910.28(b)(13)(iii)(A) Protect each employee from falling by a guardrail system, safety net system, travel restraint system, or personal fall arrest system or a designated area.

The employer is not required to provide any fall protection, provided the work is both infrequent and temporary; and 1910.28(b)(13)(iii)(B) Implement and enforce a work rule prohibiting employees from going within 15 feet (4.6 m) of the roof edge without using fall protection in accordance with paragraphs (b)(13)(i) and (ii) of this section.1910.28(b)(14) Slaughtering facility platforms,1910.28(b)(14)(i) The employer must protect each employee on the unprotected working side of a slaughtering facility platform that is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level from falling by using: 1910.28(b)(14)(i)(A) Guardrail systems; or 1910.28(b)(14)(i)(B) Travel restraint systems.1910.28(b)(14)(ii) When the employer can demonstrate the use of a guardrail or travel restraint system is not feasible, the work may be done without those systems provided: 1910.28(b)(14)(ii)(A) The work operation for which fall protection is infeasible is in process; 1910.28(b)(14)(ii)(B) Access to the platform is limited to authorized employees; and 1910.28(b)(14)(ii)(C) The authorized employees are trained in accordance with § 1910.30.1910.28(b)(15) Walking-working surfaces not otherwise addressed.

Except as provided elsewhere in this section or by other subparts of this part, the employer must ensure each employee on a walking-working surface 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected from falling by: 1910.28(b)(15)(i) Guardrail systems; 1910.28(b)(15)(ii) Safety net systems; or 1910.28(b)(15)(iii) Personal fall protection systems, such as personal fall arrest, travel restraint, or positioning systems.1910.28(c) Protection from falling objects,

When an employee is exposed to falling objects, the employer must ensure that each employee wears head protection that meets the requirements of subpart I of this part. In addition, the employer must protect employees from falling objects by implementing one or more of the following: 1910.28(c)(1) Erecting toeboards, screens, or guardrail systems to prevent objects from falling to a lower level; 1910.28(c)(2) Erecting canopy structures and keeping potential falling objects far enough from an edge, hole, or opening to prevent them from falling to a lower level; or 1910.28(c)(3) Barricading the area into which objects could fall, prohibiting employees from entering the barricaded area, and keeping objects far enough from an edge or opening to prevent them from falling to a lower level.

What is the maximum height on a walking working surface with an unprotected side where fall protection must be used?

1. By Standard Number
2. 1926.501 – Duty to have fall protection.

• Part Number: 1926
• Part Number Title: Safety and Health Regulations for Construction
• Subpart: 1926 Subpart M
• Subpart Title: Fall Protection
• Standard Number:
• Title: Duty to have fall protection.
• GPO Source:

1926.501(a)(1) This section sets forth requirements for employers to provide fall protection systems. All fall protection required by this section shall conform to the criteria set forth in § 1926.502 of this subpart.1926.501(a)(2) The employer shall determine if the walking/working surfaces on which its employees are to work have the strength and structural integrity to support employees safely.

Employees shall be allowed to work on those surfaces only when the surfaces have the requisite strength and structural integrity.1926.501(b)(1) Unprotected sides and edges. Each employee on a walking/working surface (horizontal and vertical surface) with an unprotected side or edge which is 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above a lower level shall be protected from falling by the use of guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems.1926.501(b)(2)(i) Each employee who is constructing a leading edge 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems.

Exception: When the employer can demonstrate that it is infeasible or creates a greater hazard to use these systems, the employer shall develop and implement a fall protection plan which meets the requirements of paragraph (k) of § 1926.502. Note: There is a presumption that it is feasible and will not create a greater hazard to implement at least one of the above-listed fall protection systems.

Accordingly, the employer has the burden of establishing that it is appropriate to implement a fall protection plan which complies with § 1926.502(k) for a particular workplace situation, in lieu of implementing any of those systems.1926.501(b)(2)(ii) Each employee on a walking/working surface 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above a lower level where leading edges are under construction, but who is not engaged in the leading edge work, shall be protected from falling by a guardrail system, safety net system, or personal fall arrest system.

If a guardrail system is chosen to provide the fall protection, and a controlled access zone has already been established for leading edge work, the control line may be used in lieu of a guardrail along the edge that parallels the leading edge.1926.501(b)(3) Hoist areas.

1. Each employee in a hoist area shall be protected from falling 6 feet (1.8 m) or more to lower levels by guardrail systems or personal fall arrest systems.
2. If guardrail systems, or portions thereof, are removed to facilitate the hoisting operation (e.g., during landing of materials), and an employee must lean through the access opening or out over the edge of the access opening (to receive or guide equipment and materials, for example), that employee shall be protected from fall hazards by a personal fall arrest system.1926.501(b)(4)(i) Each employee on walking/working surfaces shall be protected from falling through holes (including skylights) more than 6 feet (1.8 m) above lower levels, by personal fall arrest systems, covers, or guardrail systems erected around such holes.1926.501(b)(4)(ii) Each employee on a walking/working surface shall be protected from tripping in or stepping into or through holes (including skylights) by covers.1926.501(b)(4)(iii) Each employee on a walking/working surface shall be protected from objects falling through holes (including skylights) by covers.1926.501(b)(5) Formwork and reinforcing steel.

Each employee on the face of formwork or reinforcing steel shall be protected from falling 6 feet (1.8 m) or more to lower levels by personal fall arrest systems, safety net systems, or positioning device systems.1926.501(b)(6) Ramps, runways, and other walkways.

Each employee on ramps, runways, and other walkways shall be protected from falling 6 feet (1.8 m) or more to lower levels by guardrail systems.1926.501(b)(7)(i) Each employee at the edge of an excavation 6 feet (1.8 m) or more in depth shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems, fences, or barricades when the excavations are not readily seen because of plant growth or other visual barrier; 1926.501(b)(7)(ii) Each employee at the edge of a well, pit, shaft, and similar excavation 6 feet (1.8 m) or more in depth shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems, fences, barricades, or covers.1926.501(b)(8) Dangerous equipment.1926.501(b)(8)(i) Each employee less than 6 feet (1.8 m) above dangerous equipment shall be protected from falling into or onto the dangerous equipment by guardrail systems or by equipment guards.1926.501(b)(8)(ii) Each employee 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above dangerous equipment shall be protected from fall hazards by guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, or safety net systems.1926.501(b)(9)(i) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (b) of this section, each employee performing overhand bricklaying and related work 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels, shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, or shall work in a controlled access zone.1926.501(b)(9)(ii) Each employee reaching more than 10 inches (25 cm) below the level of the walking/working surface on which they are working, shall be protected from falling by a guardrail system, safety net system, or personal fall arrest system.

Note: Bricklaying operations performed on scaffolds are regulated by subpart L – Scaffolds of this part.1926.501(b)(10) Roofing work on Low-slope roofs. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (b) of this section, each employee engaged in roofing activities on low-slope roofs, with unprotected sides and edges 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, or a combination of warning line system and guardrail system, warning line system and safety net system, or warning line system and personal fall arrest system, or warning line system and safety monitoring system.

• Or, on roofs 50-feet (15.25 m) or less in width (see Appendix A to subpart M of this part), the use of a safety monitoring system alone is permitted.1926.501(b)(11) Steep roofs.
• Each employee on a steep roof with unprotected sides and edges 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems with toeboards, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems.1926.501(b)(12) Precast concrete erection.

Each employee engaged in the erection of precast concrete members (including, but not limited to the erection of wall panels, columns, beams, and floor and roof “tees”) and related operations such as grouting of precast concrete members, who is 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels shall be protected from falling by guardrail systems, safety net systems, or personal fall arrest systems, unless another provision in paragraph (b) of this section provides for an alternative fall protection measure.

Exception: When the employer can demonstrate that it is infeasible or creates a greater hazard to use these systems, the employer shall develop and implement a fall protection plan which meets the requirements of paragraph (k) of § 1926.502. Note: There is a presumption that it is feasible and will not create a greater hazard to implement at least one of the above-listed fall protection systems.

Accordingly, the employer has the burden of establishing that it is appropriate to implement a fall protection plan which complies with § 1926.502(k) for a particular workplace situation, in lieu of implementing any of those systems.1926.501(b)(13) Residential construction,

Each employee engaged in residential construction activities 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels shall be protected by guardrail systems, safety net system, or personal fall arrest system unless another provision in paragraph (b) of this section provides for an alternative fall protection measure.

Exception: When the employer can demonstrate that it is infeasible or creates a greater hazard to use these systems, the employer shall develop and implement a fall protection plan which meets the requirements of paragraph (k) of § 1926.502. Note: There is a presumption that it is feasible and will not create a greater hazard to implement at least one of the above-listed fall protection systems.

Accordingly, the employer has the burden of establishing that it is appropriate to implement a fall protection plan which complies with § 1926.502(k) for a particular workplace situation, in lieu of implementing any of those systems.1926.501(b)(14) Wall openings. Each employee working on, at, above, or near wall openings (including those with chutes attached) where the outside bottom edge of the wall opening is 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels and the inside bottom edge of the wall opening is less than 39 inches (1.0 m) above the walking/working surface, shall be protected from falling by the use of a guardrail system, a safety net system, or a personal fall arrest system.1926.501(b)(15) Walking/working surfaces not otherwise addressed.

Except as provided in § 1926.500(a)(2) or in § 1926.501 (b)(1) through (b)(14), each employee on a walking/working surface 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels shall be protected from falling by a guardrail system, safety net system, or personal fall arrest system.1926.501(c) Protection from falling objects.

What are the minimum clearance distances for working near power lines?

§5003.1. Power Line Safety (Up to and Including 350kV) – Equipment Operations.

What is the NEC code for working space?

NEC Requirements for Working Clearances For the safe operation and maintenance of equipment, access to and egress from working space must exist around all electrical equipment, Spaces around electrical equipment (width, depth, and height) consist of working space for worker protection and dedicated space to provide access to, and protection of, equipment,

• Equipment that may need examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized must have working space provided per Sec.110.26(A)(1), (2), (3), and (4).
• NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, guides us in determining the severity of potential exposure, planning safe work practices including establishing an electrically safe work condition, arc flash labeling, and selecting personal protective equipment.

The depth of working space, which you measure from the enclosure front (not the live parts), cannot be less than the distances in Table 110.26(A)(1). These distances are determined by voltage-to-ground and three different conditions:

Condition 1, Exposed live parts on one side of the working space and no live or grounded parts (including concrete, brick, or tile walls) on the other side of the working space. Concrete, brick, tile, and similar surfaces are considered grounded. Condition 2, Exposed live parts on one side of the working space and grounded parts on the other. Condition 3, Exposed live parts on both sides of the working space.

If the working space is a platform, size it to the working space requirements. Working space is not required at the back or sides of equipment where all connections and all renewable, adjustable, or serviceable parts are accessible from the front (dead-front equipment),

Sections of equipment that require rear or side access to make field connections must be marked by the manufacturer on the front of the equipment, If electrical equipment is being replaced, Condition 2 working space is permitted between dead-front switchboards, switchgear, panelboards, or motor control centers located across the aisle from each other.

But only where conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that written procedures have been adopted to prohibit equipment on each side of the aisle from being open at the same time, and only authorized, qualified persons will service the installation,

1. The width of the working space must be at least 30 in., but in no case less than the width of the equipment,
2. The width of the working space can be measured from left to right, from right to left, or simply centered on the equipment.
3. It can overlap the working space for other electrical equipment.
4. The working space must be of sufficient width, depth, and height to permit equipment doors to open at least 90 degrees ( Fig.1 ).

The height of the working space must be clear and extend from the grade, floor, or platform to a height of 6½ ft or the height of the equipment, whichever is greater, Other equipment, such as raceways, cables, wireways, transformers, or support structures (such as concrete pads) can extend no more than 6 in.

beyond the front of the electrical equipment. Exception No.2: The minimum height of working space does not apply to a service disconnect or panelboards rated 200A or less located in an existing dwelling unit. Exception No.3: Meters can be installed in the required working space. Where equipment likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized is above a suspended ceiling or crawl space, all the following conditions apply : (1) Equipment installed above a suspended ceiling must have an access opening at least 22 in.

× 22 in., and equipment installed in a crawl space must have an accessible opening at least 22 in. × 30 in. (2) The width of the working space must be at least 30 in., but in no case less than the width of the equipment. (3) The working space must permit equipment doors to open 90 degrees.

What is the minimum safe working distance from exposed electrical?

Safety Rules – Always follow these Safety 6 rules to prevent the most common mistakes near power lines. This is the most important rule: Work at a safe distance from all power lines. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that equipment be kept at least 10 feet away from power lines with voltages up to 50kV.

For lines with voltages higher than 50kV, the required distance is even greater (see below). When uncertain of a power line’s voltage, stay 20 feet away for voltages up to 350 kV and 50 feet away for voltages greater than 350kV. Cranes and derricks are required to take additional steps before beginning work (see OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1926.1400 effective Nov.8, 2010).

Call FPL at 1-800-375-4375 or your local electric utility to identify the voltage of power lines before you begin working. If you witness a violation of this rule, stay away from the equipment and warn the operator to move away from the power line.

Minimum distance for travel under power lines must comply with OSHA Rules.

Before you begin working, look up and note the location of power lines. You can be seriously hurt or killed if the object you are holding or standing on contacts a power line.

Before raising or extending any equipment capable of reaching a power line, check in all directions for power lines. Keep a safe distance from any power line, measuring from the end or tip of your own extended reach and including the end or tip of any object you are holding or carrying. Remember to allow even greater distance for safety near higher voltage lines such as transmission lines. Even nonmetallic ladders and equipment can conduct electricity.

One easy call to 811 starts the process of getting underground utility lines marked for free.

Utility company locators will mark the approximate location and type of underground utilities with paint and flags. To avoid costly repairs and construction delays, be sure to contact Sunshine State One Call of Florida at 811 or 1-800-432-4770 at least two full business days in advance of any excavation work.* Visit www.sunshine811.com for more information.

*In accordance with the Underground Facility Damage Prevention and Safety Act, Chapter 556, Florida Statutes. Look up when working around overhead power lines, especially when trees are nearby. Branches can hide power lines from view.

Look up for power lines when using tools of any kind. Even nonmetallic tools can conduct electricity. Cranes and derricks that approach working distance within 20 feet of power lines with operating voltages up to 350 kV, or within 50 feet of power lines with voltages greater than 350 kv, are mandated to take “encroachment prevention measures.” See OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1926.1400. Look up for power lines when putting up scaffolding, framing a building, painting, pruning trees or picking fruit. Trees can conduct electric current. Before moving a tree under a power line, look up and determine the overhead clearance from the top of the tree. Keep a safe distance away as required by OSHA. Look up for power lines when working on top of buildings. Before transporting large boats or large objects, identify a safe route that avoids power lines. If you cannot avoid power lines, please call 1-800-375-4375 to coordinate transport and temporary removal* or de-energizing of FPL power lines.

* Charges may apply for temporary removal or relocation of power lines. You may need to coordinate transportation of oversized objects with local authorities. Always assume that any downed power line is energized, and stay away.

Do not touch or attempt to move any power line. Call 911 and 1-800-4OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243) or your local electric utility immediately. If a fellow worker touches a downed line or is handling equipment that contacts a power line, remember that any rescue attempt places you in danger. If you must rescue a person in contact with a power line, never use your hands. Use a dry, nonconductive object to move the person to safety.

Important contact information Call 911 for any emergency. Call 1-800-4 OUTAGE (1-800-468-8243) to report contact with power lines, downed power lines or an outage. Call 811 before you dig. Call 1-800-375-4375 for identification of power line voltage or help with safe transportation of large boats or other large objects.

At what distance above the floor or working surface is guarding not required for moving parts?

1. By Standard Number
2. 1910.219 – Mechanical power-transmission apparatus.

• Part Number: 1910
• Part Number Title: Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• Subpart: 1910 Subpart O
• Subpart Title: Machinery and Machine Guarding
• Standard Number:
• Title: Mechanical power-transmission apparatus.
• GPO Source:

1910.219(a) General requirements,1910.219(a)(1) This section covers all types and shapes of power-transmission belts, except the following when operating at two hundred and fifty (250) feet per minute or less: 1910.219(a)(1)(i) Flat belts one (1) inch or less in width, 1910.219(a)(1)(ii) flat belts two (2) inches or less in width which are free from metal lacings or fasteners, 1910.219(a)(1)(iii) round belts one-half (1⁄2) inch or less in diameter; and 1910.219(a)(1)(iv) single strand V-belts, the width of which is thirteen thirty-seconds (13⁄32) inch or less.1910.219(a)(2) Vertical and inclined belts (paragraphs (e) (3) and (4) of this section) if not more than two and one-half (2 1⁄2) inches wide and running at a speed of less than one thousand (1,000) feet per minute, and if free from metal lacings or fastenings may be guarded with a nip-point belt and pulley guard.1910.219(a)(3) For the Textile Industry, because of the presence of excessive deposits of lint, which constitute a serious fire hazard, the sides and face sections only of nip-point belt and pulley guards are required, provided the guard shall extend at least six (6) inches beyond the rim of the pulley on the in-running and off-running sides of the belt and at least two (2) inches away from the rim and face of the pulley in all other directions.1910.219(a)(4) This section covers the principal features with which power transmission safeguards shall comply.1910.219(b) Prime-mover guards – 1910.219(b)(1) Flywheels,

Flywheels located so that any part is seven (7) feet or less above floor or platform shall be guarded in accordance with the requirements of this subparagraph: 1910.219(b)(1)(i) With an enclosure of sheet, perforated, or expanded metal, or woven wire; 1910.219(b)(1)(ii) With guard rails placed not less than fifteen (15) inches nor more than twenty (20) inches from rim.

When flywheel extends into pit or is within 12 inches of floor, a standard toeboard shall also be provided; 1910.219(b)(1)(iii) When the upper rim of flywheel protrudes through a working floor, it shall be entirely enclosed or surrounded by a guardrail and toeboard.1910.219(b)(1)(iv) For flywheels with smooth rims five (5) feet or less in diameter, where the preceding methods cannot be applied, the following may be used: A disk attached to the flywheel in such manner as to cover the spokes of the wheel on the exposed side and present a smooth surface and edge, at the same time providing means for periodic inspection.

• An open space, not exceeding four (4) inches in width, may be left between the outside edge of the disk and the rim of the wheel if desired, to facilitate turning the wheel over.
• Where a disk is used, the keys or other dangerous projections not covered by disk shall be cut off or covered.
• This subdivision does not apply to flywheels with solid web centers.1910.219(b)(1)(v) Adjustable guard to be used for starting engine or for running adjustment may be provided at the flywheel of gas or oil engines.

A slot opening for jack bar will be permitted.1910.219(b)(1)(vi) Wherever flywheels are above working areas, guards shall be installed having sufficient strength to hold the weight of the flywheel in the event of a shaft or wheel mounting failure.1910.219(b)(2) Cranks and connecting rods,

1. Cranks and connecting rods, when exposed to contact, shall be guarded in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (n) of this section, or by a guardrail as described in paragraph (o)(5) of this section.1910.219(b)(3) Tail rods or extension piston rods,
2. Tail rods or extension piston rods shall be guarded in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section, or by a guardrail on sides and end, with a clearance of not less than fifteen (15) nor more than twenty (20) inches when rod is fully extended.1910.219(c)(1) Installation,1910.219(c)(1)(i) Each continuous line of shafting shall be secured in position against excessive endwise movement.1910.219(c)(1)(ii) Inclined and vertical shafts, particularly inclined idler shafts, shall be securely held in position against endwise thrust.1910.219(c)(2) Guarding horizontal shafting,1910.219(c)(2)(i) All exposed parts of horizontal shafting seven (7) feet or less from floor or working platform, excepting runways used exclusively for oiling, or running adjustments, shall be protected by a stationary casing enclosing shafting completely or by a trough enclosing sides and top or sides and bottom of shafting as location requires.1910.219(c)(2)(ii) Shafting under bench machines shall be enclosed by a stationary casing, or by a trough at sides and top or sides and bottom, as location requires.

The sides of the trough shall come within at least six (6) inches of the underside of table, or if shafting is located near floor within six (6) inches of floor. In every case the sides of trough shall extend at least two (2) inches beyond the shafting or protuberance.1910.219(c)(3) Guarding vertical and inclined shafting,

Vertical and inclined shafting seven (7) feet or less from floor or working platform, excepting maintenance runways, shall be enclosed with a stationary casing in accordance with requirements of paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.1910.219(c)(4) Projecting shaft ends,1910.219(c)(4)(i) Projecting shaft ends shall present a smooth edge and end and shall not project more than one-half the diameter of the shaft unless guarded by nonrotating caps or safety sleeves.1910.219(c)(4)(ii) Unused keyways shall be filled up or covered.1910.219(c)(5) Power-transmission apparatus located in basements,

All mechanical power transmission apparatus located in basements, towers, and rooms used exclusively for power transmission equipment shall be guarded in accordance with this section, except that the requirements for safeguarding belts, pulleys, and shafting need not be complied with when the following requirements are met: 1910.219(c)(5)(i) The basement, tower, or room occupied by transmission equipment is locked against unauthorized entrance.1910.219(c)(5)(ii) The vertical clearance in passageways between the floor and power transmission beams, ceiling, or any other objects, is not less than five feet six inches (5 ft.6 in.).1910.219(c)(5)(iii) The intensity of illumination conforms to the requirements of ANSI A11.1-1965 (R-1970), which is incorporated by reference as specified in § 1910.6.1910.219(c)(5)(iv) 1910.219(c)(5)(v) The route followed by the oiler is protected in such manner as to prevent accident.1910.219(d)(1) Guarding,

• Pulleys, any parts of which are seven (7) feet or less from the floor or working platform, shall be guarded in accordance with the standards specified in paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.
• Pulleys serving as balance wheels (e.g., punch presses) on which the point of contact between belt and pulley is more than six feet six inches (6 ft.6 in.) from the floor or platform may be guarded with a disk covering the spokes.1910.219(d)(2) Location of pulleys,1910.219(d)(2)(i) Unless the distance to the nearest fixed pulley, clutch, or hanger exceeds the width of the belt used, a guide shall be provided to prevent the belt from leaving the pulley on the side where insufficient clearance exists.1910.219(d)(2)(ii) 1910.219(d)(3) Broken pulleys,

Pulleys with cracks, or pieces broken out of rims, shall not be used.1910.219(d)(4) Pulley speeds. Pulleys intended to operate at rim speed in excess of manufacturers normal recommendations shall be specially designed and carefully balanced for the speed at which they are to operate.1910.219(e)(1) Horizontal belts and ropes,1910.219(e)(1)(i) Where both runs of horizontal belts are seven (7) feet or less from the floor level, the guard shall extend to at least fifteen (15) inches above the belt or to a standard height except that where both runs of a horizontal belt are 42 inches or less from the floor, the belt shall be fully enclosed in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.1910.219(e)(1)(ii) In powerplants or power-development rooms, a guardrail may be used in lieu of the guard required by subdivision (i) of this subparagraph.1910.219(e)(2) Overhead horizontal belts,1910.219(e)(2)(i) Overhead horizontal belts, with lower parts seven (7) feet or less from the floor or platform, shall be guarded on sides and bottom in accordance with paragraph (o)(3) of this section.1910.219(e)(2)(ii) Horizontal overhead belts more than seven (7) feet above floor or platform shall be guarded for their entire length under the following conditions: 1910.219(e)(2)(ii)(a) If located over passageways or work places and traveling 1,800 feet or more per minute.1910.219(e)(2)(ii)(b) If center to center distance between pulleys is ten (10) feet or more.1910.219(e)(2)(ii)(c) If belt is eight (8) inches or more in width.1910.219(e)(2)(iii) Where the upper and lower runs of horizontal belts are so located that passage of persons between them would be possible, the passage shall be either: 1910.219(e)(2)(iii)(a) Completely barred by a guardrail or other barrier in accordance with paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section; or 1910.219(e)(2)(iii)(b) Where passage is regarded as necessary, there shall be a platform over the lower run guarded on either side by a railing completely filled in with wire mesh or other filler, or by a solid barrier.

The upper run shall be so guarded as to prevent contact therewith either by the worker or by objects carried by him. In powerplants only the lower run of the belt need be guarded.1910.219(e)(2)(iv) Overhead chain and link belt drives are governed by the same rules as overhead horizontal belts and shall be guarded in the same manner as belts.1910.219(e)(3)(i) Vertical and inclined belts shall be enclosed by a guard conforming to standards in paragraphs (m) and (o) of this section.1910.219(e)(3)(ii) All guards for inclined belts shall be arranged in such a manner that a minimum clearance of seven (7) feet is maintained between belt and floor at any point outside of guard.1910.219(e)(4) Vertical belts,

Vertical belts running over a lower pulley more than seven (7) feet above floor or platform shall be guarded at the bottom in the same manner as horizontal overhead belts, if conditions are as stated in paragraphs (e)(2)(ii) (a) and (c) of this section.1910.219(e)(5) Cone-pulley belts,1910.219(e)(5)(i) The cone belt and pulley shall be equipped with a belt shifter so constructed as to adequately guard the nip point of the belt and pulley.

If the frame of the belt shifter does not adequately guard the nip point of the belt and pulley, the nip point shall be further protected by means of a vertical guard placed in front of the pulley and extending at least to the top of the largest step of the cone.1910.219(e)(5)(ii) If the belt is of the endless type or laced with rawhide laces, and a belt shifter is not desired, the belt will be considered guarded if the nip point of the belt and pulley is protected by a nip point guard located in front of the cone extending at least to the top of the largest step of the cone, and formed to show the contour of the cone in order to give the nip point of the belt and pulley the maximum protection.1910.219(e)(5)(iii) If the cone is located less than 3 feet from the floor or working platform, the cone pulley and belt shall be guarded to a height of 3 feet regardless of whether the belt is endless or laced with rawhide.1910.219(e)(6) Belt tighteners,1910.219(e)(6)(i) Suspended counterbalanced tighteners and all parts thereof shall be of substantial construction and securely fastened; the bearings shall be securely capped.

Means must be provided to prevent tightener from falling, in case the belt breaks.1910.219(e)(6)(ii) Where suspended counterweights are used and not guarded by location, they shall be so encased as to prevent accident.1910.219(f) Gears, sprockets, and chains – 1910.219(f)(1) Gears,

Gears shall be guarded in accordance with one of the following methods: 1910.219(f)(1)(i) By a complete enclosure; or 1910.219(f)(1)(ii) By a standard guard as described in paragraph (o) of this section, at least seven (7) feet high extending six (6) inches above the mesh point of the gears; or 1910.219(f)(1)(iii) By a band guard covering the face of gear and having flanges extended inward beyond the root of the teeth on the exposed side or sides.

Where any portion of the train of gears guarded by a band guard is less than six (6) feet from the floor a disk guard or a complete enclosure to the height of six (6) feet shall be required.1910.219(f)(2) Hand-operated gears, Paragraph (f)(1) of this section does not apply to hand-operated gears used only to adjust machine parts and which do not continue to move after hand power is removed.

• However, the guarding of these gears is highly recommended.1910.219(f)(3) Sprockets and chains,
• All sprocket wheels and chains shall be enclosed unless they are more than seven (7) feet above the floor or platform.
• Where the drive extends over other machine or working areas, protection against falling shall be provided.

This subparagraph does not apply to manually operated sprockets.1910.219(f)(4) Openings for oiling, When frequent oiling must be done, openings with hinged or sliding self-closing covers shall be provided. All points not readily accessible shall have oil feed tubes if lubricant is to be added while machinery is in motion.1910.219(g) Guarding friction drives,

The driving point of all friction drives when exposed to contact shall be guarded, all arm or spoke friction drives and all web friction drives with holes in the web shall be entirely enclosed, and all projecting belts on friction drives where exposed to contact shall be guarded.1910.219(h) Keys, setscrews, and other projections,1910.219(h)(1) All projecting keys, setscrews, and other projections in revolving parts shall be removed or made flush or guarded by metal cover.

This subparagraph does not apply to keys or setscrews within gear or sprocket casings or other enclosures, nor to keys, setscrews, or oilcups in hubs of pulleys less than twenty (20) inches in diameter where they are within the plane of the rim of the pulley.1910.219(h)(2) It is recommended, however, that no projecting setscrews or oilcups be used in any revolving pulley or part of machinery.1910.219(i) Collars and couplings – 1910.219(i)(1) Collars,

1. All revolving collars, including split collars, shall be cylindrical, and screws or bolts used in collars shall not project beyond the largest periphery of the collar.1910.219(i)(2) Couplings,
2. Shaft couplings shall be so constructed as to present no hazard from bolts, nuts, setscrews, or revolving surfaces.

Bolts, nuts, and setscrews will, however, be permitted where they are covered with safety sleeves or where they are used parallel with the shafting and are countersunk or else do not extend beyond the flange of the coupling.1910.219(j) Bearings and facilities for oiling,

All drip cups and pans shall be securely fastened.1910.219(k) Guarding of clutches, cutoff couplings, and clutch pulleys – 1910.219(k)(1) Guards, Clutches, cutoff couplings, or clutch pulleys having projecting parts, where such clutches are located seven (7) feet or less above the floor or working platform, shall be enclosed by a stationary guard constructed in accordance with this section.

A “U” type guard is permissible.1910.219(k)(2) Engine rooms, In engine rooms a guardrail, preferably with toeboard, may be used instead of the guard required by paragraph (k)(1) of this section, provided such a room is occupied only by engine room attendants.1910.219(l) Belt shifters, clutches, shippers, poles, perches, and fasteners – 1910.219(l)(1) Belt shifters,1910.219(l)(1)(i) Tight and loose pulleys on all new installations made on or after August 31, 1971, shall be equipped with a permanent belt shifter provided with mechanical means to prevent belt from creeping from loose to tight pulley.

1. It is recommended that old installations be changed to conform to this rule.1910.219(l)(1)(ii) Belt shifter and clutch handles shall be rounded and be located as far as possible from danger of accidental contact, but within easy reach of the operator.
2. Where belt shifters are not directly located over a machine or bench, the handles shall be cut off six feet six inches (6 ft.6 in.) above floor level.1910.219(l)(2) Belt shippers and shipper poles,

The use of belt poles as substitutes for mechanical shifters is not recommended.1910.219(l)(3) Belt perches, Where loose pulleys or idlers are not practicable, belt perches in form of brackets, rollers, etc., shall be used to keep idle belts away from the shafts.1910.219(l)(4) Belt fasteners,

Belts which of necessity must be shifted by hand and belts within seven (7) feet of the floor or working platform which are not guarded in accordance with this section shall not be fastened with metal in any case, nor with any other fastening which by construction or wear will constitute an accident hazard.1910.219(m)(1)(i) Standard conditions shall be secured by the use of the following materials.

Expanded metal, perforated or solid sheet metal, wire mesh on a frame of angle iron, or iron pipe securely fastened to floor or to frame of machine.1910.219(m)(1)(ii) All metal should be free from burrs and sharp edges.1910.219(m)(2) Methods of manufacture,1910.219(m)(2)(i) Expanded metal, sheet or perforated metal, and wire mesh shall be securely fastened to frame.1910.219(m)(2)(ii) 1910.219(o) Approved materials – 1910.219(o)(1) Minimum requirements,

The materials and dimensions specified in this paragraph shall apply to all guards, except horizontal overhead belts, rope, cable, or chain guards more than seven (7) feet above floor, or platform.1910.219(o)(1)(i) 1910.219(o)(1)(i)(a) All guards shall be rigidly braced every three (3) feet or fractional part of their height to some fixed part of machinery or building structure.

Where guard is exposed to contact with moving equipment additional strength may be necessary.1910.219(o)(1)(i)(b) 1910.219(o)(1)(ii) 1910.219(o)(2) Wood guards,1910.219(o)(2)(i) Wood guards may be used in the woodworking and chemical industries, in industries where the presence of fumes or where manufacturing conditions would cause the rapid deterioration of metal guards; also in construction work and in locations outdoors where extreme cold or extreme heat make metal guards and railings undesirable.

In all other industries, wood guards shall not be used.1910.219(o)(2)(ii) 1910.219(o)(3) Guards for horizontal overhead belts,1910.219(o)(3)(i) Guards for horizontal overhead belts shall run the entire length of the belt and follow the line of the pulley to the ceiling or be carried to the nearest wall, thus enclosing the belt effectively.

Where belts are so located as to make it impracticable to carry the guard to wall or ceiling, construction of guard shall be such as to enclose completely the top and bottom runs of belt and the face of pulleys.1910.219(o)(3)(ii) 1910.219(o)(3)(iii) Suitable reinforcement shall be provided for the ceiling rafters or overhead floor beams, where such is necessary, to sustain safely the weight and stress likely to be imposed by the guard.

1. The interior surface of all guards, by which is meant the surface of the guard with which a belt will come in contact, shall be smooth and free from all projections of any character, except where construction demands it; protruding shallow roundhead rivets may be used.
2. Overhead belt guards shall be at least one-quarter wider than belt which they protect, except that this clearance need not in any case exceed six (6) inches on each side.

Overhead rope drive and block and roller-chain-drive guards shall be not less than six (6) inches wider than the drive on each side. In overhead silent chain-drive guards where the chain is held from lateral displacement on the sprockets, the side clearances required on drives of twenty (20) inch centers or under shall be not less than one-fourth inch from the nearest moving chain part, and on drives of over twenty (20) inch centers a minimum of one-half inch from the nearest moving chain part.1910.219(o)(4) Guards for horizontal overhead rope and chain drives,

Overhead-rope and chain-drive guard construction shall conform to the rules for overhead-belt guard.1910.219(o)(5) Guardrails and toeboards,1910.219(o)(5)(i) Guardrail shall be forty-two (42) inches in height, with midrail between top rail and floor.1910.219(o)(5)(ii) Posts shall be not more than eight (8) feet apart; they are to be permanent and substantial, smooth, and free from protruding nails, bolts, and splinters.

If made of pipe, the post shall be one and one-fourth (1 1 ⁄ 4 ) inches inside diameter, or larger. If made of metal shapes or bars, their section shall be equal in strength to that of one and one-half (1 1 ⁄ 2 ) by one and one-half (1 1 ⁄ 2 ) by three-sixteenths ( 3 ⁄ 16 ) inch angle iron.

If made of wood, the posts shall be two by four (2 x 4) inches or larger. The upper rail shall be two by four (2 x 4) inches, or two one by four (1 x 4) strips, one at the top and one at the side of posts. The midrail may be one by four (1 x 4) inches or more. Where panels are fitted with expanded metal or wire mesh the middle rails may be omitted.

Where guard is exposed to contact with moving equipment, additional strength may be necessary.1910.219(o)(5)(iii) Toeboards shall be four (4) inches or more in height, of wood, metal, or of metal grill not exceeding one (1) inch mesh.1910.219(p) Care of equipment – 1910.219(p)(1) General,

All power-transmission equipment shall be inspected at intervals not exceeding 60 days and be kept in good working condition at all times.1910.219(p)(2)(i) Shafting shall be kept in alignment, free from rust and excess oil or grease.1910.219(p)(2)(ii) Where explosives, explosive dusts, flammable vapors or flammable liquids exist, the hazard of static sparks from shafting shall be carefully considered.1910.219(p)(3) Bearings,

Bearings shall be kept in alignment and properly adjusted.1910.219(p)(4) Hangers, Hangers shall be inspected to make certain that all supporting bolts and screws are tight and that supports of hanger boxes are adjusted properly.1910.219(p)(5)(i) Pulleys shall be kept in proper alignment to prevent belts from running off.1910.219(p)(5)(ii) 1910.219(p)(6)(i) 1910.219(p)(6)(ii) Inspection shall be made of belts, lacings, and fasteners and such equipment kept in good repair.1910.219(p)(7) Lubrication,

When the safety net is installed 5 to 10 feet below the walking working level?

-If the net is not vertically more than between 5 feet and 10 feet from the working level, the safety net must extend outward from the outermost projection of the work by 10 feet.

Jack Gloop