Miscellaneous Log and Lumber Processing » Stationary Tramways/Trestles

Without adequate clearance or signs that warn of possible hazards, workers may be injured when working on or near tramways and trestles. OSHA requires that these hazards be adequately marked and that tramways and trestles be kept in good repair. Appropriate safety devices also must be in place.

Stationary tramways and trestles

Hazards/Solutions

Workers may be injured to due unsafe foundations or walkways. Workers may also be injured if tramways and trestles do not have adequate clearance, or if signs and signals are not installed.

  • Tramways and trestles must have substantial mud sills or foundations that are frequently inspected and kept in repair. Control foot traffic when sharing the tramways and trestles with vehicles. Provide a walkway with standard handrails at the outer edge and shear timber on the inner edge. This walkway must allow adequate clearance to vehicles. When walkways cross over other thoroughfares, they must be solidly fenced at the outer edge to a height of 42 inches. 1910.265(c)(19)(i)

  • Stationary tramways and trestles must have a vertical clearance of 22 feet over railroad rails. When constructed over carrier docks or roads, they must have a clearance of 6 feet above the driver's foot rest on the carrier, and no less than 12 feet from the roadway. In existing operations where it is impractical to obtain such clearance, telltales, electric signals, signs or other precautionary measures need to be installed. 1910.265(c)(19)(ii)