(1) All loading devices must be designed, constructed and maintained so as to have a five to one safety factor for the rated load capacity.

(2) Loaders must be high and wide enough so they can safely load the maximum-sized trailers they are expected to handle without hanging up or striking the equipment.

(3) Electric-powered trailer loading devices must be equipped with a switch or device that will safely limit the upper direction of travel of the load line.

(4) Electric motors used for hoisting must be equipped with approved overload switches or breakers.

(5) Electrical switch controls must not exceed twenty-four volts. All control switches must be the momentary-contact type that require continuous manual pressure for the hoist to operate.

(6) Pendent control switches must be suspended by a chain or other suitable device that will prevent placing a strain on the electrical cable.

(7) Pendents must be installed so that the control switch does not touch the ground when retracted.

(8) All electrical equipment must be weatherproof-type or adequately protected from the weather, and must meet or exceed the requirements of the National Electrical Code as promulgated by the director of the department of labor and industries pursuant to RCW 19.28.060.

(9) Trailer loaders, except A-frames or bridge crane, must be equipped with reach guides or devices that will keep the reach in proper alignment. A tag rope or other safe guidance device must be used to guide trailers being loaded by an A-frame loader.

(10) Access roads and the area around the trailer loading devices must be kept free of standing water and debris and maintained in good repair.

(11) The maximum capacity load to be lifted must be posted in a conspicuous location where it can be easily seen by any person operating the hoist.

(12) Trailer loading equipment must be periodically inspected at least every thirty days and must be maintained in good repair. A written report must be made and signed by the person making the inspection and kept on file by the company for twelve months.

(13) You must conduct an annual lifting test on each loading device and maintain a written record of the test.

(a) The written record must contain:

(i) The date of the test;

(ii) The name of person conducting the test;

(iii) The amount of weight lifted; and

(iv) The results kept in the office of the employer or at the site.

(b) The test weight must be at least one hundred twenty-five percent of the maximum rated load and a maximum of one hundred thirty percent of the maximum rated load.

(14) Each drum must be designed and arranged in such a manner that the line will maintain lead and spool evenly without chafing, crossing, or kinking.

(15) A braking system must be installed that has the ability to safely brake and hold one and one-half times weight of the full rated load.

(16) When trailers are to be loaded after dark, sufficient lights must be provided for a safe operation.

PDFWAC 296-54-591

Stationary log truck trailer loading.