(4) Ladders must be used only on stable and level surfaces unless
secured or stabilized to prevent accidental displacement.
    (5) The use of portable single rail ladders is prohibited.
    (6) Ladders must not be moved, shifted, or extended while occupied
by an employee.
    (7) Ladders placed in any location where they can be displaced by
other activities or by traffic, such as ladders used in passageways,
doorways, or driveways, must be secured to prevent accidental
displacement unless a temporary barricade, such as a row of traffic
cones, is used to keep the activities or traffic away from the ladder.
    (8) The top of a stepladder must not be used as a step.
    (9) A non-self-supporting ladder must not be used on slippery
surfaces unless it is secured and stabilized.
    (10) The top of a non-self-supporting ladder must be placed with
the two rails supported unless it is equipped with a single support
attachment.
    (11) When portable ladders are used to gain access to an upper
landing surface, the ladder siderails must extend at least 3 feet (0.9
m) above that upper landing surface. (See Figure D-1.)
    (12) When work is performed on or near electrical circuits, the
requirements of Sec.  1910.333(c) apply.
    (13) Ladders and ladder sections must not be tied or fastened
together to provide longer length unless they are specifically designed
for such use.
    (14) The reach of ladders and ladder sections must not be increased
by any means unless the equipment is specifically designed for the
application.
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    (d) Fixed ladders. (1) Fixed ladders must be capable of supporting
their maximum intended load.
    (2) Fixed ladders installed on or after (date 90 days after the
effective date of the final rule) must be designed, constructed, and
maintained as follows:
    (i) Fixed ladders must be capable of supporting two live loads of
at least 250 pounds (113 kg) each, concentrated between any two
consecutive attachments, plus anticipated loads caused by ice buildup,
winds, rigging, and impact loads resulting from the use of ladder
safety systems. The number and position of additional concentrated live
loads of 250 pounds (113 kg) each, determined from anticipated usage of
the ladder, must also be included in determining the capabilities of
fixed ladders.
    (ii) Each step or rung must be capable of supporting at least a
single concentrated load of 250 pounds (113 kg) applied in the middle
of the step or rung.
    (3) The minimum perpendicular clearance from the centerline of the
steps and rungs, or grab bars, or both, to the nearest permanent object
in back of the ladder must be 7 inches (18 cm), except in the case of
an elevator pit ladder, for which a minimum perpendicular clearance of
4.5 inches (11 cm) is required. Grab bars must not protrude on the
climbing side beyond the rungs of the ladder which they serve.
    (4) The side rails of through or side-step ladders must extend 42
inches (1.1 m) above the top of the access level or landing platform
served by the ladder. For a parapet ladder, the access level must be
the roof if the parapet is cut to permit passage through the parapet;
if the parapet is continuous, the access level must be the top of the
parapet.
    (5) For through ladder extensions, the steps or rungs must be
omitted from the extension and the extension of the side rails must be
flared to provide not less than 24 inches (61 cm) nor more than 30
inches (76 cm) clearance between side rails. Where ladder safety
systems are provided, the maximum clearance between side rails of the
extensions must not exceed 36 inches (91 cm).
    (6) For side-step ladders, the side rails and the steps or rungs
must be continuous in the extension. (See Figure D-2.)
    (7) Grab bars must extend 42 inches (1.1 m) above the access and
egress levels or landing platforms served by the ladder.
    (8) The minimum size (cross-section) of the grab bars must be the
same as the rungs of the ladder.
    (9) Where a fixed ladder terminates at a hatch (see Figure D-3),
the hatch cover must:
    (i) Open with sufficient clearance for the employee to permit easy
access to or egress from the ladder; and
    (ii) Open at least 70 degrees from the horizontal, if
counterbalanced.
    (10) Fixed individual rung ladders must be constructed to prevent
the employee's feet from sliding off the end. (See Figure D-4.)
    (11) The use of fixed ladders having a pitch greater than 90
degrees from the horizontal is prohibited.
    (12) The step-across distance from the centerline of the steps or
rungs of a fixed ladder must:
    (i) Not be less than 7 inches (18 cm) nor more than 12 inches (30
cm) to the nearest edge of the structure, building, or equipment
accessed from through ladders.
    (ii) Not be less than 15 inches (38 cm) nor more than 20 inches (51
cm) to the access and egress points of the platform edge for side-step
ladders.
    (13) Fixed ladders without cages or wells must have:
    (i) A clear width of at least 15 inches (38 cm) to the nearest
permanent object on each side of the centerline of the ladder. (See
Figure D-2.)
    (ii) A minimum perpendicular distance of 30 inches (76 cm) from the
center line of the steps and rungs to the nearest object on the
climbing side except when unavoidable obstructions are encountered,
then the minimum clearance may be reduced to 24 inches (61 cm) provided
deflector plates are installed. (See Figure D-5.)

    Note to paragraph (d) of this section: The duty to provide fall
protection for employees working on fixed ladders is found at Sec.
1910.28 and the criteria for such fall protection systems is found
at Sec.  1910.29.

BILLING CODE 4510-29-P

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[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24MY10.171

BILLING CODE 4510-29-C
    (e) Mobile ladder stands and mobile ladder stand platforms (Mobile
ladder stands and platforms)--(1) General design requirements. (i)
Mobile ladder stands and platforms must have a step width of at least
16 inches (41 cm).
    (ii) The steps, standing levels, and platforms of mobile ladder
stands and platforms must be provided with a slip resistant surface.
This surface may be an integral part of the surface or be provided by a
secondary process or operation, e.g., dimpling, knurling, shotblasting,
coating, metal spraying, or slip resistant tapes that must be durable
in nature.
    (iii) Wheels or casters, when under load, must be designed to
support their proportional share of four times the rated load, plus the
proportional share of the unit's weight.
    (iv) Mobile ladder stands and platforms that use wheels or casters,
rigid and swivel, must be equipped with a system to impede horizontal
movement.
    (v) The maximum work surface heights of mobile ladder stands and
platforms must not exceed four times the least base dimension without
additional support. When greater heights are needed, outriggers,
counterweights, or comparable means must be used to maintain this
minimum base ratio.
    (vi) Mobile ladder stands and platforms must be capable of
supporting at least four times their intended load.
    (vii) Occupied mobile ladder stands and platforms must not be
moved.
    (2) Design requirements for mobile ladder stands. (i) Steps must be
uniformly spaced and arranged with a rise of not more than 10 inches
(25 cm), and a depth of not less than 7 inches (18 cm). The slope of
the step stringer (inclined side support) to which the steps are
attached must not be more than 60 degrees measured from the horizontal.
    (ii) All ladder stands with a top step height of 4 to 10 feet (1.2
m to 3 m) must be provided with handrails having a vertical height of
29.5 inches (75 cm) to 37 inches (94 cm) measured from the front edge
of a step. The use of removable gates or non-rigid members such as
chains may be permitted for special use applications.
    (iii) All ladder stands with a top step over 10 feet high (3 m)
must have the top step protected on three sides by a handrail with a
vertical height of at least 36 inches (91 cm). The use of removable
gates or non-rigid members such as chains may be permitted for special
use applications. Top steps that are 20 inches (51 cm) or more, front
to back, must be provided with a midrail and toeboard.
    (iv) The standing areas of mobile ladder stands must be within the
base frame.
    (3) Design requirements for mobile ladder stand platforms. (i)
Steps of a ladder stand platform must conform to paragraph (e)(2)(i) of
this section. However, when the employer demonstrates that compliance
with paragraph (e)(3)(i) is not practicable, steeper slopes or vertical
rung ladders may be used, provided the units are stabilized to prevent
overturning.
    (ii) All ladder stand platforms with a platform height of 4 to 10
feet (1.2 m to 3 m) must be provided with handrails having a vertical
height of 29.5 inches (75 cm) to 37 inches (94 cm) measured from the
front edge of a step. Handrails in the platform area above the flat
surface must have a vertical height of at least 36 inches (91 cm) and
include a midrail. The use of removable gates or non-rigid members such
as chains may be permitted for special use applications.
    (iii) All ladder stand platforms with a platform height of over 10
feet (3 m) high must have guardrails and toeboards meeting the
requirements of Sec.  1910.29 on the exposed sides and ends of the
platform. The use of removable gates or non-rigid members such as
chains may be permitted for special use applications.

Sec.  1910.24  Step bolts and manhole steps.

    (a) Step bolts. (1) All step bolts installed on or after (date 90
days after the effective date of the final rule) that are used in
corrosive environments must be constructed of, or coated with, a
material that will retard corrosion of the step bolt.
    (2) Step bolts must be designed to prevent the employee's foot from
slipping or sliding off the end of the step bolt.
    (3) Step bolts must be spaced uniformly, 12 inches (30 cm) minimum
center to center, alternately spaced, 18 inches (46 cm) maximum. (See
Figure D-6.) The spacing from the entry and exit surface to the first
step bolt may be different from the spacing between the other step
bolts.
    (4) The minimum clear width of each step bolt must be 4.5 inches
(11 cm).
    (5) The minimum perpendicular distance between the centerline of
the step bolt to the nearest permanent object in back of the bolt must
be at least 7 inches (18 cm). Where obstructions cannot be avoided, toe
clearances may be reduced to 4.5 inches (11 cm).
    (6) Step bolts installed before (date 90 days after the effective
date of the final

rule) must be capable of supporting their maximum intended load.
    (7) Each step bolt installed on or after (date 90 days after the
effective date of the final rule) must be capable of supporting,
without failure, at least four times its maximum intended load.
    (8) Step bolts must be visually inspected before each use and be
maintained in accordance with Sec.  1910.22.
    (9) Step bolts that are bent more than 15 degrees from the
perpendicular (regardless of direction) must be removed and replaced
with bolts that meet the requirements of this section.
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    (b) Manhole steps. (1) Manhole steps installed before (date 90 days
after the effective date of the final rule) must be capable of
supporting their maximum intended load.
    (2) The employer must ensure that manhole steps installed on or
after (date 90 days after the effective date of the final rule):
    (i) Are provided with slip-resistant surfaces such as, corrugated,
knurled, or dimpled surfaces;
    (ii) Are constructed of, or coated with, a material that will
retard corrosion of the step if used in corrosive environments;
    (iii) Have a minimum clear step width of 10 inches (25 cm);
    (iv) Are spaced uniformly, not more than 16 inches (41 cm) apart;
    Exception to paragraph (b)(2)(iv) of this section: The spacing from
the entry and exit surface to the first manhole step may be different
from the spacing between the other steps.
    (v) Have a minimum perpendicular distance between the centerline of
the manhole step to the nearest permanent object in back of the step of
at least 4.5 inches (11 cm); and
    (vi) Are designed to prevent the employee's foot from slipping or
sliding off the end of the manhole step.
    (3) Manhole steps must be visually inspected before each use and be
maintained in accordance with Sec.  1910.22.

Sec.  1910.25  Stairways.

    (a) General requirements. (1) This section covers all stairs
including standard stairs, spiral stairs, ship stairs, and alternating
tread-type stairs. This section does not cover: Stairs serving floating
roof tanks; stairs on scaffolds; stairs designed into a machine or
piece of equipment; or stairs on self-propelled motorized mobile
equipment.
    (2) Handrails and stair rail systems must be provided as required
in Sec.  1910.28.

    Note to paragraph (a)(2) of this section:  The top rail of a
stair rail system may also serve as a handrail when installed in
accordance with Sec.  1910.29(f).

    (3) Except as required in paragraph (c)(3) of this section,
vertical clearance above any stair tread to an overhead obstruction
must be at least 6 feet, 8 inches (2.1 m) measured from the leading
edge of the tread.
    (4) Stairs must be installed with uniform riser heights and tread
depths between landings.
    (5) Stairway landings and platforms must be no less than the width
of the stair and not less than 30 inches (76 cm) in length as measured
in the direction of travel.
    (6) When a door or a gate opens directly on a stairway, a platform
must be provided, and the swing of the door or gate must not reduce the
effective usable depth to less than 20 inches (51 cm) for platforms
installed before (date 90 days after the effective date of the final
rule) and 22 inches (56 cm) for platforms installed on or after (date
90 days after the effective date of the final rule). (See Figure D-7.)
    (7) Stairs must be designed and constructed to carry five times the
normal anticipated live load, but never less than a concentrated load
of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) applied at any point.
    (8) Standard stairs must be provided for access from one walking-
working surface to another where operations necessitate regular and
routine travel between levels and for access to operating platforms for
equipment. However, winding stairways may be installed on tanks and
similar round structures when the diameter of the structure is five (5)
feet (1.5 m) or more.
    (9) Spiral stairs, ship stairs, or alternating tread-type stairs
are not permitted except for special limited usage and secondary access
situations when the employer can demonstrate it is not practical to
provide a standard stairway.

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24MY10.173

    (b) Standard stairs. In addition to paragraph (a) of this section,
standard stairs must:
    (1) Be installed at angles between 30 and 50 degrees from the
horizontal;
    (2) Have a maximum riser height of 9.5 inches (24 cm);
    (3) Have a minimum tread depth of 9.5 inches (24 cm), except when
open risers are used; and
    (4) Have a minimum width of 22 inches (56 cm) between vertical
barriers.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24MY10.174

    (c) Spiral stairways. In addition to paragraph (a) of this section,
spiral stairways must have:
    (1) A clear width not less than 26 inches (66 cm);
    (2) Risers with a maximum height of 9.5 inches (24 cm);
    (3) A minimum headroom above the spiral stairway of 6 feet, 6
inches (2 m) measured vertically from the center of the leading edge of
the tread;
    (4) Treads with a minimum depth of 7.5 inches (19 cm) at a point 12
inches (30 cm) from the narrowest edge; and
    (5) Uniform size treads.
    (d) Ship stairs. In addition to paragraph (a) of this section, ship
stairs must:
    (1) Be installed at a slope of 50 to 70 degrees from the
horizontal;
    (2) Have open risers; and
    (3) Have treads with a minimum depth of 4 inches (10 cm), a minimum
width of 18 inches (46 cm), and a vertical rise between tread surfaces
in the range of 6.5 to 12 inches (17 to 30 cm).

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24MY10.175

    (e) Alternating tread-type stairs. In addition to paragraph (a) of
this section, alternating tread-type stairs must have:
    (1) A series of steps installed at a slope between 50 and 70
degrees from the horizontal;
    (2) A distance of 20 to 24 inches (51 to 61 cm) between the
handrails;
    (3) Treads with a minimum depth of 8.5 inches (22 cm);
    (4) Open risers if the depth is less than 9.5 (24 cm) inches; and
    (5) Treads that are a minimum of 7 inches (18 cm) wide at the
nosing (i.e., leading edge of a tread).

Sec.  1910.26  Dockboards (bridge plates).

    (a) Portable and powered dockboards must be capable of supporting
their maximum intended load.
    (b) Dockboards put into service on or after (date 90 days after the
effective date of the final rule) must be designed, constructed, and
maintained to prevent equipment from running off the edge.
    (c) Portable dockboards must be secured in position by anchoring or
equipping them with devices which will prevent their slipping. Where
this is infeasible, the employer must ensure there is substantial
contact between the portable dockboard and the unattached surface or
surfaces.
    (d) Vehicles onto which a dockboard has been placed must be
prevented from moving (e.g., using wheel chocks or sand shoes) while
the dockboard is being used by employees.
    (e) Portable dockboards must be equipped with handholds or other
means to permit safe handling.

Sec.  1910.27  Scaffolds (including rope descent systems).

    (a) Scaffolds. Scaffolds, other than rope descent systems, used in
general industry must meet the requirements for scaffolds in part 1926
(Safety and Health Regulations for Construction) of this chapter.
    (b) Rope descent systems. (1) The use of a rope descent system is
prohibited for heights greater than 300 feet (91 m) above grade unless
the employer can demonstrate that access cannot otherwise be attained
safely and practicably.
    (2) When rope descent systems are used, employers must:
    (i) Use equipment in accordance with the instructions, warnings,
and design limitations set by manufacturers and distributors.
    (ii) Train employees in accordance with Sec.  1910.30;
    (iii) Inspect all equipment used in rope descent systems each day
before use and remove damaged equipment from service;
    (iv) Use proper rigging, including sound anchorages and tiebacks,
with particular emphasis on providing tiebacks when counterweights,
cornice hooks, or similar non-permanent anchorages are used;
    (v) Use a separate, independent personal fall arrest system meeting
the requirements of subpart I of this part;
    (vi) Ensure that all lines are capable of sustaining a minimum
tensile load of 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg);
    (vii) Provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a
fall;
    (viii) Ensure ropes are effectively padded where they contact edges
of the building, anchorage, obstructions, or other surfaces which might
cut or weaken the rope;
    (ix) Provide for stabilization at the specific work location when
descents are greater than 130 feet (39.6 m);
    (x) Secure equipment, such as tools, squeegees, or buckets by a
tool lanyard or similar method to prevent equipment from falling; and,
    (xi) Protect suspension ropes from exposure to open flames, hot
work, corrosive chemicals, or other destructive conditions.

Sec.  1910.28  Duty to have fall protection.

    (a) General. (1) This section sets requirements for employers to
provide fall protection. All fall protection required by this section
must conform to the criteria set forth in Sec.  1910.29, except that
personal fall protection systems (for example, personal fall arrest
systems, restraint systems, and positioning device systems) must
conform to the criteria set forth in subpart I of this part. This
section does not apply to: Fall hazards presented by the exposed
perimeters of entertainment stages or rail station platforms.
Additionally, this section does not apply to powered platforms covered
by Sec.  1910.66(j), aerial lifts covered by Sec.  1910.67(c)(2)(v),
the portion of telecommunications work covered by Sec.  1910.268(n)(7)
and (n)(8), or the portion of electric power generation, transmission,
and distribution work covered by Sec.  1910.269(g)(2)(v).
    (2) The employer must ensure that the walking-working surfaces used
by its employees have the strength and structural integrity to support
them safely, before allowing employees to work on those surfaces.

    (b) Protection from fall hazards--(1) Unprotected sides and edges.
The employer shall ensure that each employee on a walking-working
surface (horizontal and vertical) with an unprotected side or edge
which is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above a lower level is protected from
falling by the use of one or more of the following:
    (i) Guardrail systems meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (ii) Designated area meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (iii) Safety net systems meeting the requirements part 1926 of this
chapter;
    (iv) Travel restraint systems meeting the requirements of subpart I
of this part; or,
    (v) Personal fall arrest systems meeting the requirements of
subpart I of this part.
    (vi) When the employer demonstrates that use of guardrails on the
``working side'' of platforms used in slaughtering facilities, or at
loading racks, loading docks, or teeming platforms, is infeasible, the
work may be done without guardrails provided:
    (A) The work operation for which guardrails are infeasible is in
process;
    (B) Access to the platform is limited to authorized employees; and,
    (C) The authorized employees have been trained in accordance with
Sec.  1910.30.
    (2) Hoist areas. (i) Each employee in a hoist area must be
protected from falling 4 feet (1.2 m) or more to lower levels by a
guardrail system meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of this
subpart; or a personal fall arrest system or a travel restraint system
meeting the requirements of subpart I of this part.
    (ii) If guardrail systems, chains, gates, or portions thereof, are
removed to facilitate the hoisting operation (e.g., during landing of
materials), and an employee must lean through the access opening or out
over the edge of the access opening (for example, to receive or guide
equipment and materials), that employee must be protected from fall
hazards by a personal fall arrest system meeting the requirements of
subpart I of this part. In addition, a grab handle must be provided on
each side of the opening.
    (3) Holes. (i) Each employee on walking-working surfaces must be
protected from falling through holes (including skylights) more than 4
feet (1.2 m) above lower levels by:
    (A) Covers meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of this
subpart;
    (B) A guardrail system meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (C) A travel restraint system meeting the requirements of subpart I
of this part; or,
    (D) A personal fall arrest system meeting the requirements of
subpart I of this part.
    (ii) Each employee on a walking-working surface must be protected
from tripping in or stepping into or through holes by covers meeting
the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of this subpart.
    (iii) Each employee on a walking-working surface must be protected
from objects falling through overhead holes by covers meeting the
requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of this subpart.
    (4) Dockboards (bridge plates). (i) Each employee on a dockboard
must be protected from falling 4 feet (1.2 m) or more to lower levels
by a guardrail or handrail system, except as provided by (b)(4)(ii) of
this section.
    (ii) Fall protection (guardrail or handrail systems) is not
required when:
    (A) Dockboards are being used solely for materials handling
operations with motorized equipment;
    (B) Employees engaged in those operations are exposed to fall
hazards of 10 feet (3 m) or less; and
    (C) Those employees have been trained, in accordance with Sec.
1910.30, to recognize and avoid the hazards associated with this work.
Training must include instruction in the proper placement and securing
of dockboards, securing of vehicles, and the proper use of materials
handling equipment.
    (5) Runways and similar walkways. (i) Each employee on a runway or
similar walkway must be protected from falling 4 feet (1.2 m) or more
to lower levels by a guardrail system. Wherever tools, machine parts or
objects are likely to be used on the runway, a toeboard must also be
provided along each exposed side.
    (ii) Runways used exclusively for special purposes may have the
railing on one side omitted when the employer demonstrates that
operating conditions necessitate such an omission, provided the
employer minimizes the fall hazard by providing a runway that is at
least 18 inches (46 cm) wide, and providing employees with, and
ensuring the proper use of, personal fall arrest systems or travel
restraint systems meeting the requirements of subpart I of this part.
    (6) Dangerous equipment. (i) Each employee less than 4 feet (1.2 m)
above dangerous equipment must be protected from falling into or onto
the dangerous equipment by a guardrail or a travel restraint system
unless the equipment is covered or guarded to eliminate the hazard.
    (ii) Each employee 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above dangerous equipment
must be protected from fall hazards by:
    (A) A guardrail system meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (B) A safety net system meeting the requirements part 1926 of this
chapter;
    (C) A travel restraint system meeting the requirements of subpart I
of this part; or
    (D) A personal fall arrest system meeting the requirements of
subpart I of this part.
    (7) Wall openings. Each employee working on, at, above, or near
wall openings (including those with chutes attached) where the outside
bottom edge of the wall opening is 4 feet (1.2 m) or more above lower
levels and the inside bottom edge of the wall opening is less than 39
inches (99 cm) above the walking-working surface, must be protected
from falling by the use of:
    (i) A guardrail system meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (ii) A designated area meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (iii) A safety net system meeting the requirements of part 1926 of
this chapter;
    (iv) A travel restraint system meeting the requirements of subpart
I of this part; or,
    (v) A personal fall arrest systems meeting the requirements of
subpart I of this part.
    (8) Repair, service, and assembly pits (pits) less than 10 feet in
depth. Repair, service, and assembly pits less than 10 feet (3 m) deep
need not be protected by a fall protection system provided that the
following requirements are met:
    (i) Access to any area within 6 feet (1.8 m) of the edge of the pit
is limited to trained, authorized employees;
    (ii) Floor markings in colors contrasting to that of the
surrounding area are applied, or rope, wire, or chain with support
stanchions meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29(d), or a
combination of these are placed at a distance of at least 6 feet (1.8
m) from the edge of the pit; and,
    (iii) Caution signs stating, ``Caution--Open Floor,'' or a similar
legend, are posted so that they are readily visible to employees
entering the pit area.

    Note to paragraph (b)(8)(iii) of this section:  Caution signs
must meet the requirements of Sec.  1910.145.

    (9) Fixed ladders. The following requirements apply to all fixed
ladders except those used in outdoor advertising. Requirements for
fixed ladders used in outdoor advertising are found in Sec.
1910.28(b)(10).

    (i) Fixed ladders must be provided with cages, wells, ladder safety
systems, or personal fall protection systems when the length of the
climb is less than 24 feet (7.3 m), but the top of the ladder is at a
distance greater than 24 feet (7.3 m) above lower levels.
    (ii) Where the total length of a climb equals or exceeds 24 feet
(7.3 m), fixed ladders must be equipped with one of the following:
    (A) Ladder safety system meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29
of this subpart;
    (B) Personal fall protection system meeting the requirements of
subpart I of this part, and rest platforms at intervals not to exceed
150 ft (45.7 m); or
    (C) A cage or well, and multiple ladder sections, with each ladder
section not to exceed 50 feet (15.2 m) in length. Ladder sections must
be offset from adjacent sections, and landing platforms must be
provided at maximum intervals of 50 feet (15.2 m).

    Note to paragraph (b)(9) of this section:  Total length of climb
is the total vertical distance that an employee could climb when
traveling between the start of a climb to the finished height of the
climb. This total distance includes all ladder segments of a climb,
as well as any vertical distance in between ladder segments.

    (10) Outdoor advertising (billboards). The employer must ensure
that: (i) For climbs on the fixed ladder of up to 50 feet (15.2 m), or
heights of up to 65 feet (19.8 m) from grade, each employee who climbs
a combination of a portable and a fixed ladder wears a body belt or
body harness equipped with an appropriate 18 inch (46 cm) rest lanyard
as a means to tie off to the fixed ladder as required by subpart I of
this part.
    (ii) Each employee who climbs a combination of a portable and a
fixed ladder where the length of the fixed ladder climb exceeds 50 feet
(15.2 m), or where the ladder ascends to heights exceeding 65 feet
(19.8 m) from grade is protected through the installation of an
appropriate ladder safety system for the entire length of the fixed
ladder climb.
    (iii) Each employee who climbs fixed ladders equipped with ladder
safety systems uses the systems properly, and follows appropriate
procedures for inspection and maintenance of the systems.
    (iv) All ladder safety systems installed on fixed ladders are
properly maintained and used.
    (v) Each employee who routinely climbs fixed ladders undergoes
training and demonstrates the physical capability to perform the
necessary climbs safely. Each employee must satisfy the criteria for
qualified climber found in Sec.  1910.29(h).
    (vi) Each employee keeps both hands free of tools or material when
ascending or descending a ladder.
    (vii) Each employee is protected by an appropriate fall protection
system upon reaching his or her work position.
    (11) Stairways. (i) Each employee exposed to a fall of 4 feet (1.2
m) or more to lower levels from an unprotected side or edge of a
stairway landing must be protected by a guardrail or stair rail system.
    (ii) Every flight of stairs having 3 treads and 4 or more risers
must be equipped with stair railing systems and hand rails as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                With earth built
          Stair width               Enclosed          One open side          Two open sides     up on both sides
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than 44 inches (1.1 m)...  At least one      One stair rail system  One stair rail system
                                 handrail.         with handrail on       with handrail on
                                                   open side.             each open side.
44 inches (1.1 m) through 88    One handrail on   One stair rail system  One stair rail system
 inches (2.2 m).                 each enclosed     with handrail on       with handrail on
                                 side.             open side.             each open side.
Greater than 88 inches (2.2 m)  One handrail on   One stair rail system  One stair rail system
                                 each enclosed     with handrail on       with handrail on
                                 side and one      open side and one      each open side and
                                 intermediate      intermediate           one intermediate
                                 handrail          handrail located in    handrail located in
                                 located in the    the middle of the      the middle of the
                                 middle of the     stair.                 stair.
                                 stair.
Exterior stairs less than 44    ................  .....................  .....................  One handrail on
 inches (1.1 m).                                                                                at least one
                                                                                side.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note to table: The width of the stair must be clear of all obstructions except handrails.

    (iii) Notwithstanding the table above, where ship stairs or
alternating tread type stairs are installed, they must be equipped with
handrails on both sides.
    (12) Scaffolds (inlcuding rope descent systems). (i) Each employee
on a scaffold must be protected from falls in accordance with part 1926
of this chapter.
    (ii) Each employee using a rope descent system must be protected
from falling 4 feet (1.2 m) or more to lower levels by a personal fall
arrest system meeting the requirements of subpart I of this part.
    (13) Walking-working surfaces not otherwise addressed. Except as
provided in this section or by fall protection provisions of other
subparts of part 1910, each employee on a walking-working surface 4
feet (1.2 m) or more above lower levels must be protected from falling
by:
    (i) A guardrail system meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (ii) A designated area meeting the requirements of Sec.  1910.29 of
this subpart;
    (iii) A safety net system meeting the requirements of part 1926 of
this chapter;
    (iv) A travel restraint system meeting the requirements of subpart
I of this part; or,
    (v) A personal fall arrest system meeting the requirements of
subpart I of this part.
    (14) Protection for floor holes. (i) Every stairway floor hole
shall be guarded by a guardrail system constructed in accordance with
paragraph Sec.  1910.29(b) of this subpart. The guardrail system shall
be provided on all exposed sides (except at the entrance to the
stairway). For infrequently used stairways where traffic across the
opening prevents the use of a fixed guardrail system (as when located
in aisle spaces), employers have the option of using a guard that
consists of a hinged floor-opening cover of standard strength and
construction, and a removable guardrail system on all exposed sides
(except at the entrance to stairway).

    Note to paragraph Sec.  1910.28(b)(14)(i):  For the purpose of
this provision, the term ``infrequently'' means use of the stairway
on less than a daily basis.

    (ii) Every ladderway floor hole or platform shall be guarded by a
guardrail system with toeboards on all exposed sides (except at
entrance to the hole), with the passage through the guardrail system
provided by a swinging gate or offset such that an employee cannot walk
directly into the ladderway floor hole.
    (iii) Every hatchway and chute-floor hole shall be guarded by one
of the following:
    (A) A hinged floor-hole cover of standard strength and construction
equipped with a guardrail system permanently attached so as to leave
only one exposed side. When the hole is not in use, the cover shall be
closed or the exposed side shall be guarded by a removable guardrail
system with top and mid rails;
    (B) A removable guardrail system with toeboard on not more than two
sides of the hole and fixed guardrail system with toeboards on all
other exposed sides. The removable guardrail system shall remain in
place when the hole is not in use; or
    (C) When operating conditions require feeding material through a
hatchway or chute hole, each employee shall be protected from falling
through the hole by a guardrail system or a travel-restraint system.
    (c) Protection from falling objects. When an employee is exposed to
falling objects, the employer must ensure that each employee wear head
protection meeting the requirements of subpart I of this part, and must
implement one or more of the following measures:
    (1) Erect toeboards, screens, or guardrail systems to prevent
objects from falling from higher levels;
    (2) Erect a canopy structure and keep potential falling objects far
enough from the edge of the higher level so that those objects would
not go over the edge if they were accidentally displaced; or
    (3) Barricade the area to which objects could fall, prohibit
employees from entering the barricaded area, and keep objects far
enough from the edge so those objects do not go over the edge.

Sec.  1910.29  Fall protection systems criteria and practices.

    (a) General. (1) Fall protection systems required by this part must
comply with the applicable provisions of this section except that
personal fall protection systems, including all body belts and body
harnesses, must meet the applicable requirements of subpart I of this
part.
    (2) Employers must provide and install all fall protection systems
required by this subpart and must comply with all other pertinent
requirements (including training) of this subpart before any employee
begins work that necessitates fall protection.
    (b) Guardrail systems. Except as provided in paragraph (b)(16) of
this section, guardrail systems, and their use must comply with the
following provisions:
    (1) Top edge height of top rails, or equivalent guardrail system
members, must be 42 inches (107 cm) plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm) above
the walking-working level. When conditions warrant, the height of the
top edge may exceed the 45-inch (114 cm) height, provided the guardrail
system meets all other criteria of paragraph (b) of this section.
    (2) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, or
equivalent intermediate structural members must be installed between
the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking-working surface
when there is no wall or parapet wall at least 21 inches (53 cm) high.
    (i) Midrails, when used, must be installed at a height midway
between the top edge of the guardrail system and the walking-working
level.
    (ii) Screens and mesh, when used, must extend from the top rail to
the walking-working level and along the entire opening between top rail
supports.
    (iii) Intermediate members (such as balusters), when used between
posts, must be not more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart.
    (iv) Other structural members (such as additional midrails and
architectural panels) must be installed such that there are no openings
in the guardrail system that are more than 19 inches (48 cm) wide.
    (3) Guardrail systems must be capable of withstanding, without
failure, a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied within 2 inches
(5 cm) of the top edge, in any outward or downward direction, at any
point along the top edge.
    (4) When the 200-pound (890-N) test load specified in paragraph
(b)(3) of this section is applied in a downward direction, the top edge
of the guardrail must not deflect to a height less than 39 inches (99
cm) above the walking-working level.
    (5) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid
panels, and equivalent structural members must be capable of
withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 150 pounds (667 N)
applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along the
midrail or other member.
    (6) Guardrail systems must be surfaced to prevent injury to an
employee from punctures or lacerations, and to prevent snagging of
clothing.
    (7) The ends of all top rails and midrails must not overhang the
terminal posts, except where such overhang does not constitute a
projection hazard.
    (8) Steel banding and plastic banding must not be used as top rails
or midrails.
    (9) Top rails and midrails must be at least 0.25-inches (0.6 cm) in
diameter or thickness.
    (10) When guardrail systems are used at hoisting areas, a chain
gate or removable guardrail section must be placed across the access
opening between guardrail sections when hoisting operations are not
taking place.
    (11) When guardrail systems are used at holes, they must be erected
on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole.
    (12) When guardrail systems are used around holes used for the
passage of materials, the hole must have not more than two sides
provided with removable guardrail sections to allow the passage of
materials. When the hole is not in use, it must either be closed over
with a cover or a guardrail system must be provided along all
unprotected sides or edges.
    (13) When guardrail systems are used around holes used as points of
access (such as ladderways), they must either be provided with a gate,
or be so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the hole.
    (14) Guardrail systems used on ramps and runways must be erected
along each unprotected side or edge.
    (15) Manila, plastic, or synthetic rope being used for top rails or
midrails must be inspected as frequently as necessary to ensure that it
continues to meet the strength requirements of paragraph (b)(3) of this
section.
    (16) Criteria for guardrail systems on scaffolds must meet the
applicable requirements set forth in part 1926 of this chapter.

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24MY10.176

    (c) Safety net systems. Criteria for safety net systems must meet
the applicable requirements set forth in part 1926 of this chapter.
    (d) Designated areas. (1) Where designated areas are permitted by
Sec.  1910.28 (see Sec.  1910.28(b)(1)), the employer must ensure that:
    (i) Employees remain within the designated area while work
operations are underway;
    (ii) The work be of a temporary nature, such as maintenance on
roof-top equipment;
    (iii) Designated areas be established only on surfaces that have a
slope from the horizontal of 10 degrees or less (or slope of 4 in 12 or
less); and
    (iv) The perimeter of the designated area be delineated with a line
consisting of a rope, wire, or chain in accordance with the criteria in
paragraphs (d)(2) through (d)(4) of this section.
    (2) After being erected with the line (such as rope, wire, or
chain) attached:
    (i) Stanchions must be capable of resisting, without tipping over,
a force of at least 16 pounds (71 N) applied horizontally against the
stanchion. The force must be applied 30 inches (76 cm) above the work
surface and perpendicular to the designated area perimeter, and in the
direction of the unprotected side or edge;
    (ii) The line must have a minimum breaking or tensile strength of
500 pounds (2.2 kN). After being attached to the stanchions, the line
must be capable of supporting, without breaking, the loads applied to
the stanchions as prescribed in paragraph (d)(2)(i) of this section;
    (iii) The line must be attached at each stanchion in such a way
that pulling on one section of the line between stanchions will not
result in slack being taken up in adjacent sections before the
stanchion tips over;
    (iv) The line must be installed in such a manner that its lowest
point (including sag) is no less than 34 inches (86 cm) or more than 39
inches (99 cm) from the walking-working surface; and
    (v) The line forming the designated area must be clearly visible
from any unobstructed location within the designated area up to 25 feet
(7.6 m) away, or at the maximum distance a worker may be positioned
away from the line, whichever is less.
    (3)(i) Stanchions must be erected as close to the work area as is
permitted by the task.
    (ii) The perimeter of the designated area must be erected at least
6 feet (1.8 m) from the unprotected side or edge.
    (iii) When mobile mechanical equipment is being used, the line must
be erected not less than 6 feet (1.8 m) from the unprotected side or
edge which is parallel to the direction of mechanical equipment
operation, and not less than 10 feet (3 m) from the unprotected side or
edge which is perpendicular to the direction of mechanical equipment
operation.
    (4) Access to the designated area must be by a clear path, formed
by two lines, attached to stanchions that meet the strength, height,
and visibility requirements of this paragraph.
    (e) Covers. Covers for holes in floors, roofs, and other walking-
working surfaces must meet the following requirements:
    (1) Covers located in roadways and vehicular aisles must be capable
of supporting, without failure, at least twice the maximum axle load of
the largest vehicle expected to cross over the cover.
    (2) All other covers must be capable of supporting, without
failure, at least twice the weight of employees, equipment, and
materials that may be imposed on the cover at any one time.
    (3) All covers must be secured when installed so as to prevent
accidental displacement, e.g., displacement by wind, equipment, or
employees.
    (4) All covers must be color-coded or marked with the word ``HOLE''
or ``COVER'' to provide warning of the hazard.
    (5) The requirement of paragraph (e)(4) does not apply to cast iron
manhole covers or steel grates, such as those used on streets or
roadways.
    (f) Handrail and stair rail systems. (1) Height criteria. (i)
Handrails may not be less than 30 inches (76 cm) or more than 37 inches
(94 cm) from the upper surface of the tread.
    (ii) The height of stair rail systems installed before (date 90
days after the effective date of the final rule) must not be less than
30 inches (76 cm) from the upper surface of the tread. The height of
stair rail systems installed on or after (date 90 days after the
effective date of the final rule) must be not less than 36 inches (91
cm).

    Note to paragraphs (f)(1)(i) and (f)(1)(ii) of this section:
The height of a handrail or a stair rail system must be measured
from the upper surface of the top rail to the surface of the tread
in line with the face of the riser at the forward edge of the tread.

    (iii) A stair rail may serve as a handrail when the height of the
top edge is not more than 37 inches (94 cm) nor less than 36 inches (91
cm) when measured at the forward edge of the tread surface.
    (2) Finger clearance. The minimum clearance between handrails,
including the top edge of stair rail systems serving as handrails, and
any obstructions must be 3 inches (8 cm).
    (3) Surfaces. Handrail and stair rail systems must be surfaced to
prevent

injury to employees from punctures or lacerations, and to prevent
snagging of clothing.
    (4) Openings in stair rails. Openings in a stair rail system must
be a maximum of 19 inches (48 cm) in their least dimension.
    (5) Handhold. Handrails must have the shape and dimension necessary
to provide a firm handhold for employees.
    (6) Projection hazards. Ends of stair rail systems and handrails
must not present a projection hazard.
    (7) Strength criteria. Handrails and the top rails of stair rail
systems must be capable of withstanding, without permanent deformation
or a loss of support, a force in any downward or outward direction at
any point along the top edge, of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied
within 2 inches (5 cm) of the top edge of the rail.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24MY10.177

    (g) Cages, wells, and platforms used with fixed ladders. (1) Cages
and wells installed on fixed ladders must be designed to permit easy
access to or egress from the ladder that they enclose. The cages and
wells must be continuous throughout the length of the fixed ladder
except for access, egress, and other transfer points. Cages and wells
must be designed and constructed to contain employees in the event of a
fall and to direct them to a lower landing.
    (2) Platforms used with fixed ladders must provide a horizontal
surface of at least 24 inches by 30 inches (61 cm by 76 cm).

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP24MY10.178

    (h) Qualified Climbers. This option is available only to employees
engaged in outdoor advertising operations, as established by Sec.
1910.28(b)(10).
    (1) A qualified climber must be physically capable, as demonstrated
through observations of actual climbing activities or by a physical
examination, of performing the duties that may be assigned.
    (2) A qualified climber must have successfully completed a training
or apprenticeship program that included hands-on training for the safe
climbing of ladders and must be retrained as necessary to ensure the
necessary skills are maintained.
    (3) The employer must ensure through performance observations and
formal classroom or on-the-job training that the qualified climber has
the skill to safely perform the climb.
    (4) A qualified climber must perform climbing duties as a routine
work activity.
    (i) Ladder safety systems. (1) Design criteria for systems
components. Ladder safety systems must permit the employee using the
system to ascend or descend without continually having to hold, push,
or pull any part of the system, leaving both hands free for climbing.
    (2) The connection between the carrier or lifeline and the point of
attachment to the body belt or harness must not exceed 9 inches (23 cm)
in length.
    (3) Mountings for rigid carriers must be attached at each end of
the carrier, with intermediate mountings, as necessary, spaced along
the entire length of the carrier to provide strength necessary to stop
employee falls.
    (4) Mountings for flexible carriers must be attached at each end of
the carrier. Cable guides utilized with a flexible carrier must be
installed at a minimum spacing of 25 feet (7.6 m) and a maximum spacing
of 40 feet (12.2 m) along the entire length of the carrier.
    (5) The design and installation of mountings and cable guides must
not reduce the design strength of the ladder.
    (6) Ladder safety systems and their support systems must be capable
of withstanding without failure a drop test consisting of an 18-inch
(41-cm) drop of a 500-pound (227-kg) weight.
    (j) Personal fall protection systems. Body belts, harnesses, and
other components used in personal fall arrest systems, work positioning
systems, and travel restraint systems must meet the applicable
requirements of subpart I of this part.
    (k) Protection from falling objects. Toeboards, guardrails, and
canopies, when used as falling object protection, must comply with the
following provisions:
    (1) Toeboards must be erected along the edge of the overhead
walking-working surface for a distance sufficient to protect employees
below.
    (2) Toeboards must be: (i) A minimum of 3.5 inches (9 cm) in
vertical height from their top edge to the level of the walking-working
surface. They must have not more than a 0.25-inch (0.5-cm) clearance
above the walking-working surface. They must be solid or have openings
not over 1 inch (3 cm) in the greatest dimension;
    (ii) At least 2.5 inches (6 cm) high where toeboards are used
around repair, service, and assembly pits, except that toeboards may be
omitted at sections around the pits where the toeboard would prevent
access to vehicles over pits.
    (3) Where tools, equipment, or materials are piled higher than the
top

edge of a toeboard, paneling or screening must be erected from the
walking-working surface or toeboard to the top of a guardrail system's
top rail or midrail for a distance sufficient to protect employees.
    (4) Toeboards must be capable of withstanding, without failure, a
force of at least 50 pounds (222 N) applied in any downward or outward
direction at any point along the toeboard.
    (5) All openings on guardrail systems must be small enough to
prevent passage of potential falling objects.
    (6) Canopies must be strong enough to prevent collapse and to
prevent penetration by any falling objects.
    (l) Grab handles. Each grab handle must be no less than 12 inches
(30 cm) in length, be mounted to give at least 3 inches (8 cm) of
clearance from the framing or opening, and be capable of withstanding a
maximum horizontal pull-out force equal to two times the intended load
or 200 pounds (890 N), whichever is greater.

Sec.  1910.30  Training requirements.

    (a) Fall Hazards. (1) The employer must provide training for each
employee who uses personal fall protection equipment and those required
to be trained as indicated elsewhere in this subpart. The training must
enable each employee to recognize the hazards of falling and the
procedures to be followed to minimize these hazards.
    (2) The employer must ensure that each employee is trained by a
qualified person. The employee must be trained in the following areas:
    (i) The nature of fall hazards in the work area;
    (ii) The correct procedures for erecting, maintaining,
disassembling, and inspecting the fall protection systems to be used;
    (iii) The use and operation of guardrail systems, safety net
systems, warning lines used in designated areas, and other protection;
and
    (iv) The use, operation, and limitations of personal fall
protection systems including proper hook-up, anchoring and tie-off
techniques, methods of use, and proper methods of equipment inspection
and storage as recommended by the manufacturer.
    (b) Equipment hazards. (1) The employer must ensure that each
employee is trained in the proper care, use, and inspection of
equipment covered by this subpart before they use the equipment.
    (2) The employer must ensure that each employee is instructed in
the proper placing and securing of dockboards to prevent unintentional
movement.
    (3) The employer must ensure that each employee who uses rope
descent systems is trained and retrained as necessary in the proper
rigging and safe use of the equipment in accordance with Sec.  1910.27.
    (c) Retraining. When the employer has reason to believe that any
employee who has already been trained does not have the understanding
and skill required by paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the
employer must retrain that employee. Situations where retraining is
required include, but are not limited to, the following:
    (1) Changes in the workplace render previous training invalid;
    (2) Changes in the types of fall protection systems or equipment to
be used render previous training invalid; or
    (3) Inadequacies in an affected employee's knowledge or use of fall
protection systems or equipment indicate that the employee has not
retained the requisite understanding or skill.
    (d) Training must be understandable. The employer must provide
information and training to each employee in a manner that is
understandable to that employee.
    2. Revise the authority citation for subpart F of part 1910 to read
as follows:

    Authority:  Secs. 4, 6, 8, Occupational Safety and Health Act of
1970 (29 U.S.C. 653, 655, 657); Secretary of Labor's Order No. 12-71
(36 FR 8754), 8-76 (41 FR 25059) 9-83 (48 FR 35736), 1-90 (55 FR
9033), 6-96 (62 FR 111), 3-2000 (65 FR 50017), 5-2002 (67 FR 65008),
or 5-2007 (72 FR 31159), as applicable; and 29 CFR part 1911.

Subpart F--Powered Platforms, Manlifts, and Vehicle-Mounted Work
Platforms

    3-4. In Sec.  1910.66:
    A. Revise paragraphs (f)(5)(ii)(L) and (M), (f)(5)(iii)(B), and
(j);
    B. Remove and reserve Appendix C; and
    C. Amend Appendix D by revising paragraph (c)(4) to read as
follows:

Sec.  1910.66  Powered platforms for building maintenance.

* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (5) * * *
    (ii) * * *
    (L) The platform shall be provided with a secondary wire rope
suspension system if the platform contains overhead structures which
restrict the emergency egress of employees. A horizontal lifeline or a
direct connection anchorage shall be provided, as part of a personal
fall arrest system which meets the requirements of subpart I of this
part, for each employee on such a platform.
    (M) A vertical lifeline shall be provided as part of a personal
fall arrest system which meets the requirements of subpart I of this
part, for each employee on a working platform suspended by two or more
wire ropes, if the failure of one wire rope or suspension attachment
will cause the platform to upset. If a secondary wire rope suspension
is used, vertical lifelines are not required for the personal fall
arrest system, provided that each employee is attached to a horizontal
lifeline anchored to the platform.
    (iii) * * *
    (B) Each single point suspended working platform shall be provided
with a secondary wire rope suspension system which will prevent the
working platform from falling should there be a failure of the primary
means of support, or if the platform contains overhead structures which
restrict the egress of the employees. A horizontal lifeline or a direct
connection anchorage shall be provided, as part of a personal fall
arrest system which meets the requirements of subpart I of this part,
for each employee on the platform.
* * * * *
    (j) Personal fall protection. Employees on working platforms shall
be protected by a personal fall arrest system meeting the requirements
of subpart I of this part and as otherwise provided by this standard.
* * * * *

Appendix C to Sec.  1910.66 [Reserved]

Appendix D to Sec.  1910.66--Existing Installations (Mandatory)

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (4) Access to the roof car. Safe access to the roof car and from
the roof car to the working platform shall be provided. If the
access to the roof car at any point of its travel is not over the
roof area or where otherwise necessary for safety, then self-
closing, self-locking gates shall be provided. Applicable provisions
of subpart D, Walking-Working Surfaces, apply.
* * * * *
    5. In Sec.  1910.67, revise paragraph (c)(2)(v) to read as follows:

Sec.  1910.67  Vehicle-mounted elevating and platforms.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (v) A positioning system or a personal fall arrest system which
complies with subpart I of this part shall be worn and attached to the
boom or basket when working from an aerial lift.
* * * * *

    6. In Sec.  1910.68, revise paragraphs (b)(8)(ii) and (b)(12) to
read as follows:

Sec.  1910.68  Manlifts.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (8) * * *
    (ii) Construction. The rails shall be standard guardrails with
toeboards meeting the provisions in subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    (12) Emergency exit ladder. A fixed metal ladder accessible from
both the ``up'' and ``down'' run of the manlift shall be provided for
the entire travel of the manlift. Such escape ladders shall comply with
subpart D of this part.
* * * * *

Subpart I--[Amended]

    7. The authority citation for subpart I is revised to read as
follows:

    Authority: Sections 4, 6, and 8 of the Occupational Safety and
Health Act of 1970 (29 U.S.C. 653, 655, 657); Secretary of Labor's
Order No. 12-71 (36 FR 8754), 8-76 (41 FR 25059), 9-83 (48 FR
35736), 1-90 (55 FR 9033), 5-2002 (67 FR 65008), or 5-2007 (72 FR
31159) as applicable, and 29 CFR part 1911.
    Sections 29 CFR 1910.133, 1910.135, and 1910.136 also issued
under 5 U.S.C. 553.

    8. Paragraph (g) of Sec.  1910.132 is revised to read as follows:

Sec.  1910.132  General requirements.

* * * * *
    (g) Paragraphs (d) and (f) of this section apply only to Sec. Sec.
1910.133, 1910.135, 1910.136, 1910.138, and 1910.140. Paragraphs (d)
and (f) of this section do not apply to Sec. Sec.  1910.134 and
1910.137.

Sec.  1910.139  [Reserved]

    9. Section 1910.139 is reserved.
    10. Add new Sec.  1910.140 to read as follows:

Sec.  1910.140  Personal fall protection systems.

    (a) Scope and application. Personal fall protection systems
required by part 1910 must comply with the applicable provisions of
this section. This section establishes performance, care, and use
criteria for all personal fall protection systems covered by this
section. Additional requirements for specific types of personal fall
protection systems are contained in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this
section.
    (b) Definitions.
    Anchorage means a secure point of attachment for lifelines,
lanyards, or deceleration devices.
    Belt terminal means an end attachment of a window cleaner's
positioning system used for securing the belt or harness to a window
cleaner's belt anchor.
    Body belt means a strap with means both for securing about the
waist and for attaching to other components such as a lanyard or
lifeline, used with positioning systems, travel restraint systems, or
ladder safety systems.
    Body harness means straps which may be secured about the employee
in a manner to distribute the fall arrest forces over at least the
thighs, pelvis, waist, chest, and shoulders with means for attaching it
to other components of a personal fall arrest system.
    Buckle means any device for holding the body belt or body harness
closed around the employee's body.
    Carrier means the track of a ladder safety system consisting of a
flexible cable or rigid rail which is secured to the ladder or
structure by mountings.
    Competent person means a person who is capable of identifying
hazardous or dangerous conditions in any personal fall protection
system or any component thereof, as well as in their application and
uses with related equipment.
    Connector means a device that is used to couple (connect) parts of
the fall protection system together.
    D-ring means a connector used integrally in a harness as an
attachment element or fall arrest attachment; in a lanyard, energy
absorber, lifeline, or anchorage connector as an integral connector; or
in a positioning or travel restraint system as an attachment element.
    Deceleration device means any mechanism that serves to dissipate
energy during a fall.
    Deceleration distance means the vertical distance a falling
employee travels before stopping, from the point at which the
deceleration device begins to operate, excluding lifeline elongation
and free fall distance. It is measured as the distance between the
location of an employee's body harness attachment point at the moment
of activation (at the onset of fall arrest forces) of the deceleration
device during a fall, and location of that attachment point after the
employee comes to a full stop.
    Equivalent means alternative designs, materials or methods to
protect against a hazard, which the employer can demonstrate will
provide an equal or greater degree of safety for employees compared to
the methods, materials, or designs specified in the standard.
    Free fall means the act of falling before the personal fall arrest
system begins to apply force to arrest the fall.
    Free fall distance means the vertical displacement of the fall
arrest attachment point on the employee's body belt or body harness
between onset of the fall and just before the system begins to apply
force to arrest the fall. This distance excludes deceleration distance,
lifeline and lanyard elongation, but includes any deceleration device
slide distance or self-retracting lifeline/lanyard extension before the
devices operate and fall arrest forces occur.
    Lanyard means a flexible line of rope, wire rope, or strap which
generally has a connector at each end for connecting the body belt or
body harness to a deceleration device, lifeline, or anchorage.
    Lifeline means a component consisting of a flexible line for
connection to an anchorage at one end to hang vertically (vertical
lifeline) or for connection to anchorages at both ends to stretch
horizontally (horizontal lifeline), and which serves as a means for
connecting other components of a personal fall protection system to the
anchorage.
    Personal fall arrest system means a system used to arrest an
employee in a fall from a working level. It consists of an anchorage,
connector, and a body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration
device, lifeline, or suitable combinations of these.
    Personal fall protection system means a system used to protect an
employee from falling, or to safely arrest an employee's fall, should a
fall occur. Examples include: A personal fall arrest system, a
positioning system, or a travel restraint system.
    Positioning system (sometimes called a work positioning system)
means a system of equipment and connectors which, when used with its
body belt or body harness, allows an employee to be supported on an
elevated vertical surface, such as a wall or windowsill, and work with
both hands free.
    Qualified means a person who, by possession of a recognized degree,
certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge,
training, and experience has successfully demonstrated the ability to
solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or
the project.
    Rope grab means a deceleration device that travels on a lifeline
and automatically, by friction, engages the lifeline and locks so as to
arrest the fall of an employee. A rope grab usually employs the
principle of inertial locking, cam/lever locking, or both.
    Self-retracting lifeline/lanyard means a deceleration device
containing a drum-wound line which can be slowly extracted from, or
retracted onto, the drum under slight tension during normal movement by
the employee, and

after onset of a fall, automatically locks the drum and arrests the
fall.
    Snaphook means a connector comprised of a hook-shaped body with a
normally closed gate or similar arrangement that may be manually opened
to permit the hook to receive an object and when released,
automatically closes and locks to retain the object. Opening requires
two separate actions. Snaphooks are generally one of two types, namely:
    (1) Automatic-locking type (permitted) with a self-closing and
self-locking gate which remains closed and locked until intentionally
unlocked and opened for connection or disconnection; and
    (2) Non-locking type (prohibited) with a self-closing gate which
remains closed, but not locked, until intentionally opened for
connection or disconnection.
    Travel restraint (tether) line means a rope or wire rope used to
transfer forces from a body support to an anchorage or anchorage
connector in a travel restraint system.
    Travel restraint system means a combination of an anchorage,
anchorage connector, lanyard (or other means of connection), and body
support intended to be used by an employee to limit travel to prevent
exposure to a fall hazard. A travel restraint system is used such that
it does not support any portion of the employee's weight; otherwise the
system would be a positioning system or a personal fall arrest system.
    Window cleaner's belt means a belt that consists of a waist-belt,
an integral terminal runner or strap, and belt terminals.
    Window cleaner's belt anchor (window anchor) means specifically
designed fall-preventing attachment points, permanently affixed to a
window frame or to a building part immediately adjacent to the window
frame, for direct attachment of the terminal portion of a window
cleaner's belt.
    Window cleaner's positioning system means a system which consists
of a window cleaner's belt secured to window anchors.
    Work positioning system (see ``Positioning system'' above).
    (c) General requirements. The following requirements apply to all
personal fall protection systems.
    (1) Connectors must be drop forged, pressed or formed steel, or
made of equivalent materials.
    (2) Connectors must have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all
surfaces and edges must be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing
parts of the system.
    (3) When vertical lifelines are used, each employee must be
attached to a separate lifeline.
    (4) Lanyards and vertical lifelines must have a minimum breaking
strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN).

    Note to paragraph (c)(4) of this section:  The use of knots in
lanyards and vertical lifelines may significantly reduce the
breaking strength.

    (5) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards that automatically limit
free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less must have components
capable of sustaining a minimum tensile load of 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN)
applied to the device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully
extended position.
    (6) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards that do not limit free
fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less, ripstitch lanyards, and
tearing and deforming lanyards must be capable of sustaining a minimum
tensile load of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) applied to the device with the
lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.
    (7) D-rings and snaphooks must be capable of sustaining a minimum
tensile load of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN).
    (8) D-rings and snaphooks must be proof tested to a minimum tensile
load of 3,600 pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking, or incurring
permanent deformation.
    (9) Snaphooks must be the locking type, which require two separate,
consecutive movements to open.
    (10) Unless designed for the following connections, snaphooks must
not be connected:
    (i) Directly to webbing, rope, or wire rope;
    (ii) To each other;
    (iii) To a D-ring to which another snaphook or connector is
attached;
    (iv) To a horizontal life line; or
    (v) To any object that is incompatibly shaped or dimensioned in
relation to the snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could
occur when the connected object depresses the snaphook gate, allowing
the components to separate.
    (11) Horizontal lifelines:
    (i) Must be designed, installed, and used under the supervision of
a qualified person; and
    (ii) Must be part of a complete personal fall arrest system that
maintains a safety factor of at least two.
    (12) Anchorages used for attachment to personal fall protection
equipment must be independent of any anchorage being used to support or
suspend platforms on which employees work.
    (13) Except for window cleaner's belt anchors, which are covered
under paragraph (e) of this section, anchorages must be capable of
supporting at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) for each employee attached,
or must be designed, installed, and used under the supervision of
qualified person as part of a complete personal fall protection system
that maintains a safety factor of at least two.
    (14) Travel restraint lines must be capable of sustaining a tensile
load of at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN).
    (15) Lifelines and carriers must not be made of natural fiber rope.
When polypropylene ropes are used, they must contain an ultraviolet
(UV) light inhibitor.
    (16) Personal fall protection systems and their components must be
used exclusively for employee fall protection and not for any other
purpose, such as hoisting equipment or materials.
    (17) A personal fall protection system or its components subjected
to impact loading must be immediately removed from service and must not
be used again for employee protection until a competent person inspects
it and determines that it is undamaged and suitable for re-use.
    (18) Personal fall protection systems must be inspected before each
use for mildew, wear, damage, and other deterioration, and defective
components must be removed from service.
    (19) Ropes, belts, lanyards, and harnesses used for personal fall
protection must be compatible with all connectors used.
    (20) Ropes, belts, lanyards, lifelines, and harnesses used for
personal fall protection must be protected from being cut, abraded,
melted, or otherwise damaged.
    (21) The employer must provide for prompt rescue of employees in
the event of a fall.
    (22) Personal fall protection systems must be worn with the
attachment point of the body harness located in the center of the
wearer's back near shoulder level, or above the wearer's head, except
that the attachment point may be located in the pre-sternal position if
the free fall distance is limited to 2 feet (0.6 m) or less and the
maximum arresting forces are limited to 900 lbs (4 kN).
    (d) Personal fall arrest systems--(1) System performance criteria.
In addition to the general requirements in paragraph (c) of this
section, personal fall arrest systems must, when stopping a fall:
    (i) Limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 1,800 pounds (8
kN);
    (ii) Bring an employee to a complete stop and limit the maximum

deceleration distance an employee travels to 3.5 feet (1.1 m); and
    (iii) Have sufficient strength to withstand twice the potential
impact energy of an employee free falling a distance of 6 feet (1.8 m),
or the free fall distance permitted by the system, whichever is less.

    Note to paragraph (d)(1) of this section:  If the personal fall
arrest system meets the criteria and protocols contained in Appendix
D to Sec.  1910.140, and if the system is being used by an employee
having a combined tool and body weight of less than 310 pounds (140
kg), the system will be considered to be in compliance with the
provisions of paragraphs (d)(1)(i) through (d)(1)(iii) of this
section. If the system is used by an employee having a combined tool
and body weight of 310 pounds (140 kg) or more, then the employer
must appropriately modify the criteria and protocols of the appendix
to provide proper protection for such heavier weights, or the system
will not be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of
paragraphs (d)(1)(i) through (d)(1)(iii) of this section.

    (2) System use criteria.
    (i) On suspended scaffolds or similar work platforms with
horizontal lifelines that may become vertical lifelines, the devices
used to connect to the horizontal lifeline must be capable of locking
in both directions on the lifeline.
    (ii) Personal fall arrest systems must be rigged in such a manner
that an employee can neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor
contact any lower level.
    (3) Body belts. Body belts are prohibited as part of a personal
fall arrest system.
    (e) Positioning systems. In addition to the general requirements in
paragraph (c) of this section, positioning systems must meet the
following requirements.
    (1) System performance requirements. (i) General. All positioning
systems, except window cleaner's positioning systems, must be capable
of withstanding, without failure, a drop test consisting of a 4-foot
(1.2-m) drop of a 250-pound (113-kg) weight.

    Note to paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section:  Positioning
systems meeting the tests contained in Appendix D to 1910.140 are
considered to be in compliance with these paragraphs.

    (ii) Window cleaner's positioning systems. All window cleaner's
positioning systems must:
    (A) Be capable of withstanding without failure a drop test
consisting of a 6-foot (1.8-m) drop of a 250-pound (113-kg) weight;
and,
    (B) Limit the initial arresting force to not more than 2,000 pounds
(8.9 kN), with a duration not to exceed 2 milliseconds, and must limit
any subsequent arresting forces imposed on the falling employee to not
more than 1,000 pounds (4.5 kN).

    Note to paragraph (e)(1)(ii) of this section:  Positioning
systems meeting the tests contained in Appendix D to 1910.140 are
considered to be in compliance with these paragraphs.

    (iii) Lineman's body belt and pole strap systems. The following
additional test provisions apply to lineman's body belt and pole strap
systems:
    (A) A dielectric test of 819.7 volts, AC, per centimeter (25,000
volts per foot) for 3 minutes without visible deterioration;

    Note to paragraph (e)(1)(iii)(A) of this section: Positioning
straps that pass direct current tests at equivalent voltages are
considered as meeting this requirement.

    (B) A leakage test of 98.4 volts, AC, per centimeter (3,000 volts
per foot) with a leakage current of no more than 1 mA;

    Note to paragraph (e)(1)(iii)(B) of this section:  Positioning
straps that pass direct current tests at equivalent voltages are
considered as meeting this requirement.

    (2) System use criteria for window cleaners positions systems.
    (i) Window cleaner's belts must be designed and constructed so
that:
    (A) Belt terminals will not pass through their fastenings on the
belt or harness should one terminal become loosened from its window
anchor; and
    (B) The length of the runner from terminal tip to terminal tip is 8
feet (2.44 m) or less.
    (ii) The anchors on a building to which the belt is to be fastened
must be installed in the side frames of the window or in the mullions
at a point not less than 42 inches (106.7 cm) or more than 51 inches
(129.5 cm) above the window sill.
    (iii) Each anchor, and the structure to which it is attached, must
be capable of supporting a minimum load of 6,000 pounds (26.5 kN).
    (iv) Rope that has sustained wear or deterioration materially
affecting its strength must not be used.
    (v) An anchor whose fastenings or supports are damaged or
deteriorated must be removed or rendered unusable by detachment of its
anchor head.
    (vi) The use of an installed window cleaner's belt anchor for any
purpose other than attachment of a window cleaner's belt is prohibited.
    (vii) Both belt terminals must be attached to separate window
cleaner's belt anchors during the cleaning operation.
    (viii) Cleaning work is not permitted on a sill or ledge on which
there is snow, ice, or any other slippery condition, or on a weakened
or rotted sill or ledge.
    (ix) A window cleaner may work from a windowsill only if a minimum
standing room in relation to slope is provided as follows:
    (A) When the sill width is at least 4 inches (10.1 cm), work is
permitted with a slope of the sill from horizontal up to 15 degrees;
    (B) For slopes between 15 and 30 degrees from horizontal, but in no
case greater than 30, the minimum acceptable sill width is four inches
(10.1 cm), plus 0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for every degree of slope greater
than 15 degrees.
    (x) The employer must ensure that the window cleaner attach at
least one belt terminal to a window anchor before climbing through the
window opening. The belt must not be completely disconnected from both
anchors until the employee is back inside the window opening.
    (xi)(A) The employer must ensure the window cleaner does not pass
from one window to another while outside the building, but must return
inside and repeat the belt terminal attachment procedure for each
window as described in paragraph (e)(13) of this section.
    (B) Traveling on the outside of the building is permitted if at
least one window cleaner's belt terminal is attached at all times and
the distance between anchors does not exceed 4 feet (1.2 m)
horizontally, unless the sill or ledge is at least 1 foot (0.31 m) wide
and the slope is less than 5 degrees, in which case the distance
between anchors may be as much as 6 feet (1.8 m). However, this method
of traveling shall not be permitted if the sill or ledge is not
continuous with at least 6 inches (0.15 m) in front of the mullions or
if each window unit is not readily accessible.
    11. Add new Appendices C and D to subpart I of part 1910 to read as
follows:

Appendix C to Subpart I of Part 1910--Personal Fall Protection Systems
Non-Mandatory Guidelines

    The following information generally applies to all personal fall
protection systems and is intended to assist employers and employees
comply with the requirements of Sec.  1910.140 for personal fall
protection systems.
    (a) Planning considerations. It is important for employers to
plan prior to using personal fall protection systems. Probably the
most overlooked component of planning is locating suitable anchorage
points. Such planning should ideally be done before the structure or
building is constructed so that anchorage points can be used later
for window cleaning or other building maintenance.

    (b) Selection and use considerations. (1) The kind of personal
fall protection system selected should be appropriate for the
employee's specific work situation. Free fall distances should
always be kept to a minimum. Many systems are designed for
particular work applications, such as climbing ladders and poles;
maintaining and servicing equipment; and window cleaning.
Consideration should be given to the environment in which the work
will be performed. For example, the presence of acids, dirt,
moisture, oil, grease, or other substances, and their potential
effects on the system selected, should be evaluated. Hot or cold
environments may also affect fall protection systems. Wire rope
should not be used where electrical hazards are anticipated. As
required by Sec.  1910.140(c)(21), the employer must provide a means
for promptly rescuing an employee should a fall occur.
    (2) Where lanyards, connectors, and lifelines are subject to
damage by work operations, such as welding, chemical cleaning, and
sandblasting, the component should be protected, or other securing
systems should be used. Unless designed for use in a personal fall
protection system, equipment such as linemen's pole straps should
not be used as lanyards because such equipment may not meet the
strength and performance criteria necessary for a personal fall
arrest system. The employer should fully evaluate the work
conditions and environment (including seasonal weather changes)
before selecting the appropriate personal fall protection system.
Once in use, the system's effectiveness should be monitored. A
program for cleaning and maintaining the system may be necessary.
    (c) Testing considerations. Before purchasing a personal fall
protection system, an employer should insist that the supplier
provide information about its test performance (using recognized
test methods) so the employer will know that the system meets the
criteria in Sec.  1910.140. Otherwise, the employer should test the
equipment to ensure that it is in compliance. Appendix D to this
subpart contains test methods which are recommended for evaluating
the performance of any system. There are some circumstances in which
an employer can evaluate a system based on data and calculations
derived from the testing of similar systems. Enough information must
be available for the employer to demonstrate that its system and the
tested system(s) are similar in both function and design.
    (d) Component compatibility considerations. Ideally, a personal
fall protection system is designed, tested, and supplied as a
complete system. However, it is common practice for lanyards,
connectors, lifelines, deceleration devices, body belts, and body
harnesses to be interchanged since some components wear out before
others. Employers and employees should realize that not all
components are interchangeable. For instance, a lanyard should not
be connected between a body harness and a deceleration device of the
self-retracting type (unless specifically allowed by the
manufacturer) since this can result in additional free fall for
which the system was not designed. In addition, positioning
components, such as pole straps, ladder hooks and rebar hooks,
should not be used in personal fall arrest systems unless they meet
the appropriate requirements of part 1910 (e.g., Sec. Sec.
1910.140, .268 and .269). Any substitution or change to a personal
fall protection system should be fully evaluated or tested by a
competent person to determine that it meets applicable OSHA
standards before the modified system is put in use.
    (e) Employee training considerations. As required by Sec.
1910.30, before an employee uses a fall protection system, the
employer must ensure that he or she is trained in the proper use of
the system. This may include the following: The limits of the
system; proper anchoring and tie-off techniques; estimating freefall
distance, including determining elongation and deceleration
distance; methods of use; and inspection and storage. Careless or
improper use of fall protection equipment can result in serious
injury or death. Employers and employees should become familiar with
the material in this standard and appendix, as well as
manufacturers' recommendations, before a system is used. It is
important for employees to be aware that certain tie-offs (such as
using knots and tying around sharp edges) can reduce the overall
strength of a system. Employees also need to know the maximum
permitted free fall distance. Training should stress the importance
of inspections prior to use, the limitations of the equipment to be
used, and unique conditions at the worksite that may be important.
Also, OSHA suggests that rope be used according to manufacturer's
recommendations, especially if polypropylene rope is used.
    (f) Instruction considerations. Employers should obtain
comprehensive instructions from the supplier or a qualified person
as to the system's proper use and application, including, where
applicable:
    1. The force measured during the sample force test;
    2. The maximum elongation measured for lanyards during the force
test;
    3. The deceleration distance measured for deceleration devices
during the force test;
    4. Caution statements on critical use limitations;
    5. Limits of the system;
    6. Proper hook-up, anchoring and tie-off techniques, including
the proper D-ring or other attachment point to use on the body
harness;
    7. Proper climbing techniques;
    8. Methods of inspection, use, cleaning, and storage; and
    9. Specific lifelines that may be used.
    (g) Inspection considerations. Personal fall protection systems
must be regularly inspected before each use. Any component with a
significant defect, such as a cut, tear, abrasion, mold, or evidence
of undue stretching, an alteration or addition that might affect its
efficiency, damage due to deterioration, fire, acid, or other
corrosive damage, distorted hooks or faulty hook springs, tongues
that are unfitted to the shoulder of buckles, loose or damaged
mountings, non-functioning parts, or wear, or internal deterioration
must be removed from service immediately, and should be tagged or
marked as unusable, or destroyed.
    (h) Rescue considerations. As required by Sec.  1910.140(c)(21),
when personal fall arrest systems are used, special consideration
must be given to rescuing an employee should a fall occur. The
availability of rescue personnel, ladders or other rescue equipment
should be evaluated. In some situations, equipment allowing
employees to rescue themselves after the fall has been arrested may
be desirable, such as devices that have descent capability.
    (i) Tie-off considerations. Employers and employees should at
all times be aware that the strength of a personal fall arrest
system is based on its being attached to an anchoring system that
does not significantly reduce the strength of the system (such as an
eye-bolt/snaphook anchorage). Therefore, if a means of attachment is
used that will reduce the strength of the system, that component
should be replaced by a stronger one that will also maintain the
appropriate maximum deceleration characteristics. The following is a
listing of some situations in which employers and employees should
be especially cautious.
    1. Tie-off using a knot in the lanyard or lifeline (at any
location). The strength of the line can be reduced by 50 percent or
more if a knot is used. Therefore, a stronger lanyard or lifeline
should be used to compensate for the knot, or the lanyard length
should be reduced (or the tie-off location raised) to minimize free
fall distance, or the lanyard or lifeline should be replaced by one
which has an appropriately incorporated connector to eliminate the
need for a knot.
    2. Tie-off around rough or sharp (e.g. ``H'' or ``I'' beams)
surfaces. This practice reduces strength drastically. Such tie-offs
should be avoided whenever possible. An alternate means should be
used such as a snaphook/D-ring connection, a tie-off apparatus
(steel cable tie-off), an effective padding of the surfaces, or an
abrasion-resistant strap around the supporting member. If these
alternative means of tie-off are not available, the employer should
try to minimize the potential free fall distance.
    3. Knots. Sliding hitch knots should not be used except in
emergency situations. The one-and-one sliding hitch knot should
never be used because it is unreliable in stopping a fall. The two-
and-two, or three-and-three knots (preferable) may be used in
emergency situations; however, care should be taken to limit free
fall distances because of reduced lifeline/lanyard strength. OSHA
recommends that a competent or qualified person oversee the use of
knots.
    (j) Horizontal lifelines. Horizontal lifelines, depending on
their geometry and angle of sag, may be subjected to greater loads
than the impact load imposed by an attached component. When the
angle of horizontal lifeline sag is less than 30 degrees, the impact
force imparted to the lifeline by an attached lanyard is greatly
amplified. For example, with a sag angle of 15 degrees the force
amplification is about 2:1, and at 5 degrees sag it is about 6:1.
Depending on the angle of sag, and the line's elasticity, the
strength of the horizontal lifeline, and the anchorages to which it
is attached should be increased a number of times over that of the
lanyard.

Extreme care should be taken in considering a horizontal lifeline
for multiple tie-offs. If there are multiple tie-offs to a
horizontal lifeline, and one employee falls, the movement of the
falling employee and the horizontal lifeline during arrest of the
fall may cause other employees to fall. Horizontal lifeline and
anchorage strength should be increased for each additional employee
to be tied-off. For these and other reasons, the systems using
horizontal lifelines must be designed only by qualified persons.
OSHA recommends testing installed lifelines and anchors prior to
use.
    (k) Eye-bolts. It must be recognized that the strength of an
eye-bolt is rated along the axis of the bolt, and that its strength
is greatly reduced if the force is applied at right angles to this
axis (in the direction of its shear strength). Care should also be
exercised in selecting the proper diameter of the eye to avoid
creating a roll-out hazard (accidental disengagement of the snaphook
from the eye-bolt).
    (l) Vertical lifeline considerations. As required by Sec.
1910.140(c)(3), each employee must have a separate lifeline when the
lifeline is vertical. If multiple tie-offs to a single lifeline are
used, and one employee falls, the movement of the lifeline during
the arrest of the fall may pull other employees' lanyards, causing
them to fall as well.
    (m) Snaphook considerations. As required by Sec.
1910.140(c)(10), the following connections must be avoided unless
the locking snaphook has been designed for them because they are
conditions that can result in rollout:
    (1) Direct connection of a snaphook to a horizontal lifeline;
    (2) Two (or more) snaphooks connected to one D-ring;
    (3) Two snaphooks connected to each other;
    (4) Snaphooks connected directly to webbing, rope, or wire rope;
and
    (5) Improper dimensions of the D-ring, rebar, or other
connection point in relation to the snaphook dimensions which would
allow the snaphook gate to be depressed by a turning motion of the
snaphook.
    (n) Free fall considerations. Employers and employees should
always be aware that a system's maximum arresting force is evaluated
under normal use conditions established by the manufacturer, and in
no case using free fall distance in excess of 6 feet (1.8 m). Even a
few additional feet of free fall can significantly increase the
arresting force on the employee, possibly to the point of causing
injury and possibly exceeding the strength of the system. Because of
this, the free fall distance should be kept to a minimum, and, as
required by Sec.  1910.140(d)(2), must never be greater than 6 feet
(1.8 m). To assure this, the tie-off attachment point to the
lifeline or anchor should be located at or above the connection
point of the fall arrest equipment to the harness. (Otherwise,
additional free fall distance is added to the length of the
connecting means (i.e., lanyard)). Tying off to the walking-working
surface will often result in a free fall greater than 6 feet (1.8
m). For instance, if a 6-foot (1.8-m) lanyard is used, the total
free fall distance will be the distance from the walking-working
level to the harness connection plus the 6 feet (1.8 m) of lanyard.
    (o) Elongation and deceleration distance considerations. During
fall arrest, a lanyard will stretch or elongate, whereas activation
of a deceleration device will result in a certain stopping distance.
These distances should be available with the lanyard or device's
instructions and must be added to the free fall distance to arrive
at the total fall distance before an employee is fully stopped. The
additional stopping distance may be significant if the lanyard or
deceleration device is attached near or at the end of a long
lifeline, which may itself add considerable distance due to its own
elongation. As required by Sec.  1910.140(d)(2), sufficient distance
to allow for all of these factors must also be maintained between
the employee and obstructions below, to prevent an injury due to
impact before the system fully arrests the fall. In addition, a
minimum of 12 feet (3.7 m) of lifeline should be allowed below the
securing point of a rope-grab-type deceleration device, and the end
terminated to prevent the device from sliding off the lifeline.
Alternatively, the lifeline should extend to the ground or the next
working level below. These measures are suggested to prevent the
employee from inadvertently moving past the end of the lifeline and
having the rope grab become disengaged from the lifeline.
    (p) Obstruction considerations. In selecting a location for tie-
off, employers and employees should consider obstructions in the
potential fall path of the employee. Tie-offs that minimize the
possibilities of exaggerated swinging should be considered.

Appendix D to Subpart I--Test Methods and Procedures for Personal Fall
Protection Systems Non-Mandatory Guidelines

    This appendix contains test methods for personal fall protection
systems which may be used to determine if they meet the system
performance criteria specified in paragraphs (d) and (e) of Sec.
1910.140.

Test Methods for Personal Fall Arrest Systems (Paragraph (d))

    (a) General. The following sets forth test procedures for
personal fall arrest systems as defined in paragraph (d) of Sec.
1910.140.
    (b) General test conditions.
    (1) Lifelines, lanyards and deceleration devices should be
attached to an anchorage and connected to the body harness in the
same manner as they would be when used to protect employees.
    (2) The fixed anchorage should be rigid, and should not have a
deflection greater than 0.04 inches (1 mm) when a force of 2,250
pounds (10 kN) is applied.
    (3) The frequency response of the load measuring instrumentation
should be 120 Hz.
    (4) The test weight used in the strength and force tests should
be a rigid, metal cylindrical or torso-shaped object with a girth of
38 inches plus or minus 4 inches (96 cm plus or minus 10 cm).
    (5) The lanyard or lifeline used to create the free fall
distance should be supplied with the system, or in its absence, the
least elastic lanyard or lifeline available should be used with the
system.
    (6) The test weight for each test should be hoisted to the
required level and should be quickly released without having any
appreciable motion imparted to it.
    (7) The system's performance should be evaluated, taking into
account the range of environmental conditions for which it is
designed to be used.
    (8) Following the test, the system need not be capable of
further operation.
    (c) Strength test.
    (1) During the testing of all systems, a test weight of 300
pounds plus or minus 3 pounds (136.4 kg plus or minus 1.4 kg) should
be used. (See item number 4 of paragraph (b)of this appendix.)
    (2) The test consists of dropping the test weight once. A new
unused system should be used for each test.
    (3) For lanyard systems, the lanyard length should be 6 feet
plus or minus 2 inches (1.83 plus or minus 5 cm) as measured from
the fixed anchorage to the attachment on the body harness.
    (4) For rope-grab-type deceleration systems, the length of the
lifeline above the centerline of the grabbing mechanism to the
lifeline's anchorage point should not exceed 2 feet (0.61 m).
    (5) For lanyard systems, for systems with deceleration devices
which do not automatically limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61
m) or less, and for systems with deceleration devices which have a
connection distance in excess of 1 foot (0.3 m) (measured between
the centerline of the lifeline and the attachment point to the body
harness), the test weight should be rigged to free fall a distance
of 7.5 feet (2.3 m) from a point that is 1.5 feet (46 cm) above the
anchorage point, to its hanging location (6 feet below the
anchorage). The test weight should fall without interference,
obstruction, or hitting the floor or ground during the test. In some
cases a non-elastic wire lanyard of sufficient length may need to be
added to the system (for test purposes) to create the necessary free
fall distance.
    (6) For deceleration device systems with integral lifelines or
lanyards that automatically limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61
m) or less, the test weight should be rigged to free fall a distance
of 4 feet (1.22 m).
    (7) Any weight that detaches from the harness should constitute
failure for the strength test.
    (d) Force test--(1) General. The test consists of dropping the
respective test weight specified in (d)(2)(i) or (d)(3)(i) once. A
new, unused system should be used for each test.
    (2) For lanyard systems. (i) A test weight of 220 pounds plus or
minus three pounds (100 kg plus or minus 1.6 kg) should be used.
(See item number 4 of paragraph (b) above.)
    (ii) Lanyard length should be 6 feet plus or minus 2 inches
(1.83 m plus or minus 5 cm) as measured from the fixed anchorage to
the attachment on the body harness.
    (iii) The test weight should fall free from the anchorage level
to its hanging location (a total of 6 feet (1.83 m) free fall
distance) without interference, obstruction, or hitting the floor or
ground during the test.

    (3) For all other systems. (i) A test weight of 220 pounds plus
or minus 2 pounds (100 kg plus or minus 1.0 kg) should be used. (See
item number 4 of paragraph (b) of this appendix.)
    (ii) The free fall distance to be used in the test should be the
maximum fall distance physically permitted by the system during
normal use conditions, up to a maximum free fall distance for the
test weight of 6 feet (1.83 m), except as follows:
    (A) For deceleration systems having a connection link or
lanyard, the test weight should free fall a distance equal to the
connection distance (measured between the centerline of the lifeline
and the attachment point to the body harness).
    (B) For deceleration device systems with integral lifelines or
lanyards that automatically limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61
m) or less, the test weight should free fall a distance equal to
that permitted by the system in normal use. (For example, to test a
system with a self-retracting lifeline or lanyard, the test weight
should be supported and the system allowed to retract the lifeline
or lanyard as it would in normal use. The test weight would then be
released and the force and deceleration distance measured).
    (4) Failure. A system fails the force test when the recorded
maximum arresting force exceeds 2,520 pounds (11.2 kN) when using a
body harness.
    (5) Distances. The maximum elongation and deceleration distance
should be recorded during the force test.
    (e) Deceleration device tests--(1) General. The device should be
evaluated or tested under the environmental conditions (such as
rain, ice, grease, dirt, and type of lifeline) for which the device
is designed.
    (2) Rope-grab-type deceleration devices. (i) Devices should be
moved on a lifeline 1,000 times over the same length of line a
distance of not less than 1 foot (30.5 cm), and the mechanism should
lock each time.
    (ii) Unless the device is permanently marked to indicate the
type of lifelines that must be used, several types (different
diameters and different materials), of lifelines should be used to
test the device.
    (3) Other self-activating-type deceleration devices. The locking
mechanisms of other self-activating-type deceleration devices
designed for more than one arrest should lock each of 1,000 times as
they would in normal service.

Test Methods for Positioning Systems (Paragraph (e))

    (a) General. The following sets forth test procedures for
positioning systems as defined in paragraph (e) of Sec.  1910.140.
The requirements in this appendix for personal fall arrest systems
set forth procedures that may be used, along with the procedures
listed below, to determine compliance with the requirements for
positioning systems.
    (b) Test conditions.
    (1) The fixed anchorage should be rigid and should not have a
deflection greater than 0.04 inches (1 mm) when a force of 2,250
pounds (10 kN) is applied.
    (2) For window cleaner's belts, the complete belt should
withstand a drop test consisting of a 250 pound (113 kg) weight
falling free for a distance of 6 feet (1.83 m). The weight should be
a rigid object with a girth of 38 inches plus or minus 4 inches (96
cm plus or minus 10 cm). The weight should be placed in the
waistband with the belt buckle drawn firmly against the weight, as
when the belt is worn by a window cleaner. One belt terminal should
be attached to a rigid anchor and the other terminal should hang
free. The terminals should be adjusted to their maximum span. The
weight fastened in the freely suspended belt should then be lifted
exactly 6 feet (1.83 m) above its ``at rest'' position and released
so as to permit a free fall of 6 feet (1.83 m) vertically below the
point of attachment of the terminal anchor. The belt system should
be equipped with devices and instrumentation capable of measuring
the duration and magnitude of the arrest forces. Failure of the test
should consist of any breakage or slippage sufficient to permit the
weight to fall free of the system. In addition, the initial and
subsequent arresting forces should be measured and should not exceed
2,000 pounds (8.5 kN) for more than 2 milliseconds for the initial
impact, or exceed 1,000 pounds (4.5 kN) for the remainder of the
arrest time.
    3. All other positioning systems (except for restraint line
systems) should withstand a drop test consisting of a 250 pound (113
kg) weight free falling a distance of 4 feet (1.2 m). The weight
shall be a rigid object with a girth of 38 inches plus or minus 4
inches (96 cm plus or minus 10 cm). The body belt or harness should
be affixed to the test weight as it would be to an employee. The
system should be connected to the rigid anchor in the manner that
the system would be connected in normal use. The weight should be
lifted exactly 4 feet (1.2 m) above its ``at rest'' position and
released so as to permit a vertical free fall of 4 feet (1.2 m).
Failure of the system should be indicated by any breakage or
slippage sufficient to permit the weight to fall free to the ground.

Subpart N--[Amended]

    12. Revise the authority citation for subpart N of part 1910 to
read as follows:

    Authority:  Secs. 4, 6, 8, Occupational Safety and Health Act of
1970 (29 U.S.C. 653, 655, 657); Secretary of Labor's Order No. 12-71
(36 FR 8754), 8-76 (41 FR 25059) 9-83 (48 FR 35736), 1-90 (55 FR
9033), 6-96 (62 FR 111), 3-2000 (65 FR 50017), 5-2002 (67 FR 65008),
or 5-2007 (72 FR 31159), as applicable.
    Section 1910.178 also amended under section 4 of the
Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 653).
    Sections 1910.176, 1910.177, 1910.178, 1910.179, 1910.180,
1910.181, and 1910.184 also issued under 29 CFR part 1911.

    13. In Sec.  1910.178, revise paragraph (j) to read as follows:

Sec.  1910.178   Powered industrial trucks.

* * * * *
    (j) Dockboards (bridge plates). See subpart D of this part.
    14. In Sec.  1910.179, revise paragraphs (c)(2), (d)(3), and
(d)(4)(iii) to read as follows:

Sec.  1910.179   Overhead and gantry cranes.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (2) Access to crane. Access to the car and/or bridge walkway shall
be by a conveniently placed fixed ladder, stairs, or platform requiring
no step over any gap exceeding 12 inches (30 cm). Fixed ladders shall
be in conformance with subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (3) Toeboards and handrails for footwalks. Toeboards and handrails
shall be in compliance with subpart D of this part.
    (4) * * *
    (iii) Ladders shall be permanently and securely fastened in place
and shall be constructed in compliance with subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    15. Revise the authority citation for subpart R of part 1910 to
read as follows:

    Authority: Secs. 4, 6, 8, Occupational Safety and Health Act of
1970 (29 U.S.C. 653, 655, 657); Secretary of Labor's Order No. 12-71
(36 FR 8754), 8-76 (41 FR 25059) 9-83 (48 FR 35736), 1-90 (55 FR
9033), 6-96 (62 FR 111), 3-2000 (65 FR 50017), 5-2002 (67 FR 65008),
or 5-2007 (72 FR 31159), as applicable; and 29 CFR part 1911.

    16. In Sec.  1910.261, revise paragraphs (c)(15)(ii), (e)(4),
(g)(2)(ii), (g)(13)(i), (h)(1), (j)(4)(iii), (j)(5)(i), (k)(6),
(k)(13)(i) and (k)(15) to read as follows:

Sec.  1910.261  Pulp, paper and paperboard mills.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (15) * * *
    (ii) Where conveyors cross passageways or roadways, a horizontal
platform shall be provided under the conveyor, extended out from the
sides of the conveyor a distance equal to 1\1/2\ times the length of
the wood handled. The platform shall extend the width of the road plus
2 feet (61 cm) on each side, and shall be kept free of wood and
rubbish. The edges of the platform shall be provided with toeboards or
other protection to prevent wood from falling, in accordance with
subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (4) Runway to the jack ladder. The runway from the pond or
unloading dock to the table shall be protected with standard handrails
and toeboards. Inclined portions shall have cleats or equivalent
nonslip surfacing in

accordance with subpart D of this part. Protective equipment shall be
provided for persons working over water.
* * * * *
    (g) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (ii) The worker shall be provided with eye protection, a supplied
air respirator and a personal fall protection system meeting the
requirements of subpart I of this part during inspection, repairs or
maintenance of acid towers. The line shall be extended to an attendant
stationed outside the tower opening.
* * * * *
    (13) * * *
    (i) Blow-pit openings preferably shall be on the side of the pit
instead of on the top. Openings shall be as small as possible when
located on top, and shall be protected in accordance with subpart D of
this part.
* * * * *
    (h) * * *
    (1) Bleaching engines. Bleaching engines, except the Bellmer type,
shall be completely covered on the top, with the exception of one small
opening large enough to allow filling, but too small to admit an
employee. Platforms leading from one engine to another shall have
standard guardrails in accordance with subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    (j) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (iii) When beaters are fed from the floor above, the chute opening,
if less than 42 inches (1.06 m) from the floor, shall be provided with
a guardrail system meeting the requirements of subpart D of this part,
or other equivalent enclosures. Openings for manual feeding shall be
sufficient only for entry of stock, and shall be provided with at least
two permanently secured crossrails or other fall protection system that
meet the requirements of subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    (5) * * *
    (i) All pulpers having the top or any other opening of a vessel
less than 42 inches (107 cm) from the floor or work platform shall have
such openings guarded by guardrail systems meeting the requirements of
subpart D of this part, or other equivalent enclosures. For manual
changing, openings shall be sufficient only to permit the entry of
stock, and shall be provided with at least two permanently secured
crossrails, or other fall protection systems meeting the requirements
of subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    (k) * * *
    (6) Steps. Steps of uniform rise and tread with nonslip surfaces
conforming to subpart D of this part shall be provided at each press.
* * * * *
    (13) * * *
    (i) A guardrail complying with subpart D of this part shall be
provided at broke holes.
    (15) Steps. Steps or ladders complying with subpart D of this part
and tread with nonslip surfaces shall be provided at each calendar
stack. Handrails and hand grips complying with subpart D of this part
shall be provided at each calendar stack.
* * * * *

Sec.  1910.262   [Amended]

    17. In paragraph (r) of Sec.  1910.262 remove the term ``Sec.
1910.23'' and replace it with the term ``subpart D to this part''.

Sec.  1910.265   [Amended]

    18. In paragraph (c)(5)(i) of Sec.  1910.265, remove the term
``Sec.  1910.24'' and replace it with the term ``subpart D to this
part''.
    19. Revise paragraphs (c)(4)(v) and (f)(6) of Sec.  1910.265 to
read as follows:

Sec.  1910.265   Sawmills.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (v) Elevated platforms. Where elevated platforms are used routinely
on a daily basis, they shall be equipped with stairways or fixed
ladders, conforming to subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (6) Ladders. A fixed ladder complying with the requirements of
subpart D of this part, or other adequate means, shall be provided to
permit access to the roof. Where controls and machinery are mounted on
the roof, a permanent stairway with standard handrail shall be
installed in accordance with the requirements of subpart D of this
part.
* * * * *
    20. In Sec.  1910.268:
    A. Revise paragraphs (g)(1);
    B. Remove paragraph (g)(2);
    C. Redesignate (g)(3) as (g)(2); and
    D. Revise paragraph (h).

Sec.  1910.268   Telecommunications.

* * * * *
    (g) Personal climbing equipment--(1) General. A positioning system
or a personal fall arrest system shall be provided and the employer
shall ensure their use when work is performed at positions more than 4
feet (1.2 m) above the ground, on poles, and on towers, except as
provided in paragraph (n)(7) and (n)(8) of this section. These systems
shall meet the applicable requirements set forth in subpart I of this
part. The employer shall ensure that all climbing equipment is
inspected before each day's use to determine that it is in safe working
condition.
* * * * *
    (h) Ladders. Ladders, step bolts, and manhole steps shall meet the
applicable requirements of subpart D of this part.
* * * * *
    21. In Sec.  1910.269, revise paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) to read
as follows:

Sec.  1910.269   Electric power generation, transmission, and
distribution.

* * * * *
    (g) Personal protective equipment (1) Personal fall arrest
equipment, work positioning equipment, or travel restricting equipment
shall be used by employees working at elevated locations more than 4
feet (1.2 m) above the ground on poles, towers, or similar structures
if other fall protection has not been provided. Fall protection
equipment is not required to be used by a qualified employee climbing
or changing location on poles, towers, or similar structures, unless
conditions, such as, but not limited to, ice, high winds, the design of
the structure (for example, no provision for holding on with hands), or
the presence of contaminants on the structure, could cause the employee
to lose his or her grip or footing.

    Note 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this section: This paragraph
applies to structures that support overhead electric power
generation, transmission, and distribution lines and equipment. It
does not apply to portions of buildings, such as loading docks, to
electric equipment, such as transformers and capacitors, nor to
aerial lifts. Requirements for fall protection associated with
walking and working surfaces are contained in subpart D of this
part; requirements for fall protection associated with aerial lifts
are contained in 1910.67 of this part.

    Note 2 to paragraph (g)(1) of this section: Employees undergoing
training are not considered ``qualified employees'' for the purposes
of this provision. Unqualified employees (including trainees) are
required to use fall protection any time they are more than 4 feet
(1.2 m) above the ground.

    (2) Personal protective equipment shall meet the requirements of
subpart I of this part.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2010-10418 Filed 5-21-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4510-29-P