OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-15.5 OCTOBER 30, 1978

January 31, 1978

OSHA PROGRAM DIRECTIVE #100-94

TO: REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS/OSHA

THRU: DONALD E. MACKENZIE Field Coordinator

Subject: 29 CFR 1926.604(a)(2)(i) and (ii) and 29 CFR 1910.266(d)(2)(v) and (vi); Use of 1/2-inch Plastic Sheets As A Substitute for Open Mesh Material

1. Purpose

The purpose of this directive is to provide specific clarification on the applicability of 1/2-inch plastic sheets as a substitute for open mesh material.

2. Documentation Affected

This directive supersedes Field Information Memorandum #76-14 dated April 6, 1976.

3. Background

As a result of several petitions for modifications or interpretations of 29 CFR 1910.266(d)(2)(v) and (vi) and 29 CFR 1910.604(a)(2), (i) and (ii), a review of specific test data provided to OSHA has been completed. This information is under consideration for the standards revisions.

4. Clarification

The use of 1/2-inch plastic sheets or other thicknesses of plastic sheets (that have the same physical properties) in lieu of 1 or 1 3/4-inch open mesh material is acceptable providing equivalent protection to the employee is assured. All panels shall be installed in a manner which can withstand the initial impact and maintain the protective barrier integrity. All panels must be labeled or marked to distinguish between acceptable materials and inferior panels.

OSHA INSTRUCTION STD 1-15.5 OCTOBER 30, 1978

5. Action

The foregoing will appear in a proposed revision. Until the standards have been revised, a violation of either referenced standard shall be considered de minimus, providing the preceding requirements are met.

6. Effective Date

This directive is effective immediately and will remain in effect until canceled or superseded.

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