A new OSHA final rule published in the Federal Register extends the August 2010 cranes and derricks in construction standard to include demolition work and underground construction. The final rule goes into effect on May 23.
According to OSHA, the rule will protect construction workers from hazards associated with hoisting equipment. It applies the same crane rules to underground construction and demolition that already are being used by other construction sectors.
Additionally, the final rule streamlines OSHA’s standards by eliminating the separate cranes and derricks standard currently used for underground and demolition work. The rule also corrects errors made to the underground construction and demolition standards in the 2010 rulemaking.
“It is important that construction workers in these sectors receive the same safety protections as other construction workers,” said OSHA Administrator Dr. David Michaels. “Extending this rule to demolition and underground construction work will help save lives and prevent injuries.”
OSHA’s cranes and derricks in construction rule was published in August 2010 to update the previous, outdated rule issued in 1971. Among other requirements, the standard requires crane operators to be certified. Michaels said at the time that he was “very proud” of the cranes and derricks standard, adding, “On behalf of OSHA, we think it’s a big step forward in protecting workers.”
For additional information, visit OSHA's cranes and derricks in construction page.
