OSHA Instruction STD 1-1.7 October 30, 1978

Jan 31, 1978

OSHA PROGRAM DIRECTIVE #100-89

TO: REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS/OSHA

THRU: DONALD E. MACKENZIE Field Coordinator

Subject: 29 CFR 1910.23, Guarding Floor and Wall Opening and Holes-- General Industry

1. Purpose

The purpose of this directive is to provide guidance to field personnel when encountering situations where the rules of another Federal agency may be met.

2. Documentation Affected

This directive supersedes Field Information Memorandum #75-40 dated June 8, 1975.

3. Background

The present standard, 29 CFR 1910.23(c)(1), requires platforms and runways four(4) feet or more above adjacent floor or ground level be guarded by a standard railing or the equivalent as specified in 29 CFR 1910.23(e)(3). The proposed changes to Walking-Working Surfaces, 29 CFR 1910.23, states in part that when standard railings are not feasible because it would result in an impairment of the work being performed or because some accommodation is needed so that the rules of another Federal agency may be met, alternative protection may be provided for employees which is as safe as that which would be afforded by 29 CFR 1910.23(c)(1).

4. Action

Pending final approval of the proposed changes in the standards, any violation of the requirement for a standard railing or equivalent in 29 CFR 1910.23(c)(1) shall be considered de minimis provided that the use of guard rails are not feasible and that alternate protection is provided. In some instances alternate protection may include, but is not limited to a tie off system using safety belts and lanyard.

OSHA Instruction STD 1-1.7 October 30, 1978

5. Effective Date

This directive is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until canceled or superseded.

Richard P. Wilson Deputy Director, Federal Compliance and State Programs

DISTRIBUTION:

A-1 E-1 B-2 HEW-1 C-1 NIOSH Regional Directors-1 D-4&5 NACOSH-1 Training Institute-4

(Originator: OCCS)