Compliance for crane hoisted personnel platforms. | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Standard Number:

1910.179

1926.550(g)

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

July 22, 1996

Mr. James E. Vaughan
President
Today's Resources, Incorporated
1021 East Street - Rear Building Columbus, Ohio 43205

Dear Mr. Vaughan:

This is in response to your letter of June 10, 1996, concerning the use of crane or derrick suspended personnel platforms. I apologize for the delay in our response.

Your letter indicates that your client uses overhead or gantry cranes (covered by 29 CFR 1910.179) to hoist personnel to inspect steel structures for structural failure on a daily basis. Further, your letter indicates that conventional means of access are not feasible due to the height and configuration of the structures.

As you know, 29 CFR 1926.550(g) (Crane or Derrick Suspended Personnel Platforms) applies to construction industry worksites. There are no corresponding general industry (29 CFR part 1910) regulations addressing this topic. However, compliance with §1926.550(g) in its entirety, at general industry worksites would be considered appropriate protection for employees being hoisted to perform these inspections. Compliance with the requirements of §1910.179, or other crane regulations, as appropriate, is also, required for your client to meet the obligations of the OSH Act.

If we can be of further assistance, please contact Ron Davies, of the Office of General Industry Compliance Assistance. Mr. Davies can be reached at (202) 219-8031.

Thank you for your interest in this matter.

Sincerely,

Russell B. Swanson, Director
Directorate of Construction