OSHA to Publish Proposed Crane Rule

Public comment period to begin shortly.

On Sept. 19, OSHA indicated that it is ready to issue its proposed rule for cranes and derricks in construction. The public comment period on the proposed rule will begin after it has been formally published in the Federal Register.

The proposed standard addresses various crane safety issues, including:

• Ground conditions
• The assembly and disassembly of cranes
• The operation of cranes near power lines
• The certification and training of crane operators
• The use of safety devices and signals
• Crane inspection
• Special emphasis on tower crane safety

On the topic of crane operator qualification or certification four options are listed:

• Certification through an accredited third-party testing organization
• Qualification through an audited employer testing program
• Qualification issued by the U.S. military
• Qualification by a state or local licensing authority

For further information:
- http://www.osha.gov
- Associated Construction Publications