(1) You must ensure that the appropriate fall protection system is provided, installed, and implemented according to the requirements in this part when employees are exposed to fall hazards of 10 feet or more to the ground or lower level, while:

(a) Engaged in roofing work on a low pitched roof;

(b) Constructing a leading edge;

Note:

Employees not directly involved with constructing the leading edge, or are not performing roofing work must comply with WAC 296-155-24609, Fall protection required at four feet or more.

(c) Working on any surface that does not meet the definition of a walking/working surface not already covered in WAC 296-155-24609;

(d) Engaged in excavation and trenching operations.

(i) Exceptions. Fall protection is not required at excavations when employees are:

(A) Directly involved with the excavation process and on the ground at the top edge of the excavation; or

(B) Working at an excavation site where appropriate sloping of side walls has been implemented as the excavation protective system.

(ii) Fall protection is required for employees standing in or working in the affected area of a trench or excavation exposed to a fall hazard of 10 feet or more and:

(A) The employees are not directly involved with the excavation process; or

(B) The employees are on the protective system or any other structure in the excavation.

Note:	Persons considered directly involved in the excavation process include:
	• Foreman of the crew.
	• Signal person.
	• Employee hooking on pipe or other materials.
	• Grade person.
	• State, county, or city inspectors inspecting the excavation or trench.
	• An engineer or other professional conducting a quality-assurance inspection.

(2) Fall protection work plan. You must develop and implement a written fall protection work plan including each area of the work place where the employees are assigned and where fall hazards of 10 feet or more exist.

(a) The fall protection work plan must:

(i) Identify all fall hazards in the work area;

(ii) Describe the method of fall arrest or fall restraint to be provided;

(iii) Describe the proper procedures for the assembly, maintenance, inspection, and disassembly of the fall protection system to be used;

(iv) Describe the proper procedures for the handling, storage, and securing of tools and materials;

(v) Describe the method of providing overhead protection for workers who may be in, or pass through the area below the worksite;

(vi) Describe the method for prompt, safe removal of injured workers; and

(vii) Be available on the job site for inspection by the department.

(b) Prior to permitting employees into areas where fall hazards exist you must ensure employees are trained and instructed in the items described in (a)(i) through (vii) of this subsection.

PDFWAC 296-155-24611

Fall protection required at ten feet or more.