On Aug. 9, 2010, OSHA published Cranes & Derricks in Construction 1926.1400. The final rule, an update to the OSHA standard on cranes and derricks in construction, is the first revision in almost 40 years.

Why the change?
OSHA estimates that the new rule will help prevent about 22 fatalities and 175 non-fatal injuries each year. Currently, OSHA reports that approximately 90 workers are killed each year in crane-related accidents. The new rule is also expected to save about $55 million per year.

When is the change taking place?
The final rule became effective November 8, 2010.

What is changing?
This new standard will comprehensively address key hazards related to cranes and derricks on construction worksites, including the four main causes of worker death and injury: electrocution, crushed by parts of the equipment, struck-by the equipment/load, and falls. Significant requirements include the use of synthetic slings in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions during assembly/disassembly work; assessment of ground conditions; and procedures for working in the vicinity of power lines.

The following underscore a few of the highlights pertaining to the OSHA Crane and Derrick Final Rule:

Operator - Qualification and Certification - The employer must ensure that, prior to operating any equipment
covered, the person is qualified or certified to operate the equipment under this regulation. Operators have until
November 8, 2014 to become qualified or certified.

Signal Person - The Employer of the signal person must ensure that each signal person meets the qualification
requirements prior to giving any signals. In order to demonstrate that he/she meets the requirement of the new crane
standard, they must pass an oral or written test, and a thorough practical test. Signal Persons have until November 8,
2010 to become qualified.

Rigging - Qualified Riggers must be used for any hooking, unhooking or guiding a load, assembly, disassembly of
equipment, and other tasks. Riggers have until November 8, 2010 to become qualified.

Refresher Training - must be provided by the employer in relevant topics for each employee when, based on the
conduct of the employee’s knowledge, there is an indication that retraining is necessary.

Maintenance and Repair Personnel - The employer must ensure these personnel have been trained and evaluated,
prior to operating equipment in the performance of the assigned duties, when working on equipment.

Assembly/Disassembly of Lattice Boom or Tower Cranes - must be directed by a person, who meets the criteria of
both a competent person and qualified person, or by a competent person, who is assisted by one or more qualified
persons.

Before beginning Multi-Crane/Derrick Operation, in which the operation will be provided by one or more cranes/
derricks, the operation must be planned and directed by a person who meets the criteria for both a competent person and
a qualified person, or by a competent person who is assisted by one or more qualified persons (lift director).

Working around Power Lines requires that the employer must evaluate each employee to confirm that the employee
understands the information provided in the training. In addition, dedicated spotters who are trained in accordance with
safe crane operations around power lines are required in general as spotters when operating near power lines.

The new regulations on Crane Inspections, now requires that Mobile and Tower Cranes require Daily, Monthly and
Annual Inspections. Each shift a Competent Person must visually inspect the crane. Monthly, a Competent Person must
visually inspect the crane and the inspection must be documented. Annually, the equipment must be inspected and
documented by a Qualified Person which is a more stringent requirement than a competent person. Similarly, any
equipment that has been modified or repaired and all equipment post-assembly must be inspected by a qualified
person.

Where can I get more information?
Download the PDF from OSHA.gov here.

We believe the new OSHA Directive is an important step in improving workplace safety. While these new regulations may be complicated, confusing, and costly to implement, you can be assured that every McRay crane operator, signal person, and rigger is trained, qualified, and in compliance with all OSHA regulations.

Call today and a sales representative or safety director will help answer any questions you have.

713.944.2843