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.

June 6, 2024

Claudio Urdampilleta
Konecranes Training Institute
6104 Elm Tree Circle
Tamarac, Florida 33319

Dear Mr. Urdampilleta:

Thank you for your inquiry to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding cranes and the use of protective helmets. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation only of the requirements discussed and may not be applicable to any questions not delineated within your original correspondence. Your paraphrased question and OSHA's response are below:

Question: Does 29 CFR 1910.135(a)(1) apply when employees are operating cranes that fall under 29 CFR 1910.179, Overhead and Gantry Cranes, and/or using jib cranes, monorail cranes or fix hoists, for lifting loads indoors and outdoors?

Response: OSHA's Head protection standard at 29 CFR 1910.135(a)(1) requires employers to ensure that each affected employee wears a protective helmet when working in areas where there is a potential for injury to the head from falling objects. If an employee(s) has the potential to be in the vicinity of an overhead hazard that could fall and strike them, such as but not limited to lifting a load with a crane or a hoist, then 29 CFR 1910.135(a)(1) would apply and head protection would be required. Please note, in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.179(n)(3)(vi), the employer shall require that the operator avoid carrying loads over people.

Question: What type of protective helmet is acceptable?

Response: 29 CFR 1910.135(b)(1) requires head protection to comply with any of the following consensus standards, that are incorporated by reference in 29 CFR 1910.6: American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z89.1-2009, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z89.1-2003, or American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z89.1-1997.

Question: Does the crane operator have to wear a protective helmet, or is it at the discretion of the employer?

Response: The employer is required to assess the workplace to determine if hazards are present, or likely to be present in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.132(d)(1). If the employer determines there is an overhead hazard to the crane operator that would necessitate the use of a head protection, the employer must provide and require the use of the head protection. The employer may choose to always require the wearing of head protection by certain employees or in certain activities as a precautionary measure.

Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. We hope you find this information helpful. OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards, and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to 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 http://www.osha.gov. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Office of General Industry and Agricultural Enforcement at (202) 693-1850.

Sincerely,

Scott C. Ketcham, Acting Director
Directorate of Enforcement Programs