OSHA Releases Revised Directive to Improve Marine Cargo Handling Safety

Aug. 24, 2012
With updated requirements surrounding PPE and vertical tandem lift operation, a new OSHA directive strives to eliminate workplace hazards in the marine cargo handling industry.

A newly revised OSHA directive aims to improve safety in the marine cargo handling industry by clarifying PPE requirements, providing information on vertical tandem lifts, responding to frequently asked questions and more.

In 2010, seven workers died and more than 2,900 were injured performing marine cargo handling operations, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The revised directive provides enforcement guidance for inspections of longshoring operations and at marine terminals and also ensure consistent enforcement of OSHA’s marine cargo handling industry standards (29 CFR Parts 1917 and 1918).

The revised directive:

  • Clarifies PPE that employers must provide at no cost to their workers, when employers must pay for replacement PPE, and when employers are not required to pay for PPE;
  • Provides information and guidance on vertical tandem lifts, both on the regulations and the recent court ruling on a challenge by industry to those regulations;
  • Includes changes to the Marine Terminals and Safety and Health Regulations for Longshoring provisions based on Phase III of the Standards Improvement Project;
  • Incorporates the settlement agreement between the National Grain and Feed Association Inc. and OSHA;
  • Updates answers to commonly asked maritime cargo handling questions; and
  • Delivers marine cargo handling safety and health information in a Web-based format with electronic links.

Download the directive as a PDF.

Sponsored Recommendations

3 Essential Elements for a Strong Safety Culture

March 13, 2024
Organizations globally have increased their attention on safety culture: trying to figure out what it really is and the aspects that are necessary to develop and sustain it. And...

Making the Case for Occupational Health Software

March 13, 2024
Deciding to invest in Occupational Health (OH) software can be a challenging leap for many organizations. This article will equip businesses with insightful strategies for effectively...

Fighting the Flu: Solutions for the Workplace

March 13, 2024
Seasonal flu continues to wreak considerable havoc both on individual wellness, as well as on our business continuity and productivity. Explore these solutions for protecting ...

Preventing SIFs with Digitization: Reduce Serious Injuries and Fatalities with Technology

March 13, 2024
This eBook discusses the origins of SIF prevention, outlines principles, models and tools available to EHS leaders to better detect and address SIF potential in their business...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!