WSR 13-02-068

PERMANENT RULES

DEPARTMENT OF

LABOR AND INDUSTRIES

[ Filed December 31, 2012, 9:14 a.m. , effective February 1, 2013 ]


     Effective Date of Rule: February 1, 2013.

     Purpose: The department filed expedited proposed rules under WSR 12-12-062 addressing the following issues: Extending the date by which the requirement relating to written and practical testing requirements for qualified riggers is effective; the addition of language to be at-least-as-effective-as the federal rule; and clarification of the scope of the rule to include the following existing requirements: Rigging for all construction activities (WAC 296-155-556); and personnel lifting with attached or suspended platforms using cranes or derricks (WAC 296-155-547). The department received five written objections to the expedited rule process.

     In consideration of the objections received and other feedback from stakeholders, this rule moves the rigging requirements for material handling equipment to a separate part under chapter 296-155 WAC, Part F-1. The rigger qualification requirements for material handling was changed to be more consistent with the previous rigger qualifications for material handling equipment, eliminating the requirement for written and practical testing for riggers to be considered qualified when conducting rigging on material handling equipment. This rule language also includes changes in the expedited rules filed for which no objections were received: Extending the date by which the requirement relating to written and practical testing requirements for qualified riggers is effective under chapter 296-155 WAC, Part L; the addition of language to be at-least-as-effective-as the federal rule; and clarification of the scope of the rule to include personnel lifting with attached or suspended platforms using cranes or derricks (WAC 296-155-547).

     Citation of Existing Rules Affected by this Order:


     NEW SECTIONS:


     Chapter 296-155 WAC, Part F-1 Rigging requirements for material handling.


• Created this new part relating to rigging requirements for material handling.

     WAC 296-155-336 Rigging requirements for material handling.


• There are no requirements in this section.

     WAC 296-155-33600 Scope.

• Created this section explaining what Part F-1 pertains to.

     WAC 296-155-33605 Definitions.


• Added the following applicable definitions to this part: Angle of loading, anti two-block device, basket hitch, below-the-hook lifting device, bird caging, braided wire rope, bridle wire rope sling, cable laid endless sling-mechanical joint, cable laid grommet-hand tucked, center of gravity, choker hitch, come-a-long, competent person, cross rod, design factor, electrical contact, fabric (metal mesh), fall zone, flange points, hitch (hitched), hoist, hoisting, hoisting equipment, hook latch, load, load ratings, master coupling link, master link, mechanical coupling link (alloy steel chain), operational controls, procedures, qualified person, qualified rigger, rated capacity, rotation resistant rope, RPE, RPSE, running wire rope, safety or health standard, section, sling, spiral, standing wire rope, two blocking, vertical hitch, wire rope, working load.

     WAC 296-155-337 Rigging -- General requirements.


• There are no requirements in this section.

     WAC 296-155-33700 Rigger qualifications.


• Created this section outlining the qualifications for riggers who do rigging while doing material handling activities.

     WAC 296-155-33705 General requirements.


• General requirements relating to all rigging are located in this section. These requirements are either in the current federal rule, current state rule or are in an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-338 Slings.


• There are no requirements in this section.

     WAC 296-155-33800 Chain slings.


• Requirements relating to chain slings are located in this section. These requirements are either in the current federal rule, current state rule or are in an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33805 Wire rope slings.


• Requirements relating to wire rope slings are located in this section. These requirements are either in the current federal rule, current state rule or are in an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33810 Metal mesh slings.


• Requirements relating to metal mesh slings are located in this section. These requirements are either in the current federal rule, current state rule or are in an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33815 Synthetic rope slings.


• Requirements relating to synthetic rope slings are located in this section. These requirements are either in current federal rule, current state rule or are in an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33820 Synthetic webbing slings.


• Requirements relating to synthetic webbing slings are located in this section. These requirements are either in current federal rule, current state rule or are in an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33825 Synthetic roundslings.


• Requirements relating to synthetic roundslings are located in this section. These requirements are either in federal rule, current state rule or are in an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-339 Rigging hardware and lifting devices other than slings and rigging hardware.


• There are no requirements in this section.

     WAC 296-155-33900 General requirements.


• General requirements relating to rigging hardware are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33905 Shackles.


• Requirements relating to shackles are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33910 Adjustable hardware.


• Requirements relating to adjustable hardware are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33915 Compression hardware.


• Requirements relating to compression hardware are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33920 Links, rings, and swivels.


• Requirements relating to links, rings, and swivels are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-33925 Rigging blocks.


• Requirements relating to rigging blocks are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-340 Lifting devices other than slings and rigging hardware.


• There are no requirements in this section.

     WAC 296-155-34005 Structural and mechanical lifters.


• Requirements relating to structural and mechanical lifters are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-34010 Vacuum lifters.


• Requirements relating to vacuum lifters are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-34015 Close proximity lifting magnets.


• Requirements relating to close proximity lifting magnets are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-34020 Remotely operated lifting magnets.


• Requirements relating to remotely operated lifting magnets are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     WAC 296-155-34025 Scrap and material handling grapples.


• Requirements relating to scrap and material handling grapples are located in this section. These requirements came from an industry consensus standard.

     AMENDED SECTIONS:


     Chapter 296-155 WAC, Part F Material handling, storage, use and disposal.


• Removed the words "material handling" from the title of this part.

     WAC 296-155-529 Crane certifier accreditation and crane certification.


• Changed the title of this section to scope and definitions. The crane certifier accreditation starts with WAC 296-155-531.

     WAC 296-155-52900 Scope.


• Reformatted this section by breaking out the information and creating new subsections. The first section, subsection (3) provides a list of equipment being exempted from the crane certifier accreditation and operator qualifications and certification portion of the rule. Created a subsection (4) that provides a list of equipment that would be exempted from Part L of this chapter.
o The equipment exempted from the certifier accreditation and operator qualifications:
Cranes having a maximum capacity of one ton or less.
Powered industrial trucks (forklifts) when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load.
Service cranes with booms that rotate manually.
o The equipment exempted from Part L of this chapter:
Equipment included in subsection (1) of this section while it has been converted or adapted for nonhoisting/lifting use. Such conversions/adaptations include, but are not limited to, power shovels, excavators and concrete pumps.
Power shovels, excavators, wheel loaders, backhoes, loader backhoes, track loaders.
Automotive wreckers and tow trucks when used to clear wrecks and haul vehicles.
Equipment originally designed as vehicle-mounted aerial devices (for lifting personnel) and self-propelled elevating work platforms.
Hydraulic jacking systems, including telescopic/hydraulic gantries.
Stacker cranes.
Mechanic's truck with a hoisting device when used in activities related to equipment maintenance and repair.
Equipment that hoists by using a come-a-long or chainfall.
Dedicated drilling rigs.
Gin poles used for the erection of communication towers.
Tree trimming and tree removal work.
Anchor handling or dredge-related operations with a vessel or barge using an affixed A-frame.
Roustabouts.
Machines equipped with a boom that is limited to up and down movement only and does not rotate.
Conveyors.
Pump hoists with booms that do not rotate.
Cranes and their operators used on-site in manufacturing facilities or powerhouses for occasional or routine maintenance and repair work.
Helicopter cranes.
Permanently installed overhead/bridge, gantry cranes, semi-gantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, and others having the same fundamental characteristics.
Digger derricks when used for activities that are covered under chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers, or chapter 296-32 WAC, Safety standards for telecommunications. Cranes other than digger derricks when used for activities that are covered under chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers, or chapter 296-32 WAC, Safety standards for telecommunications, are NOT exempt.
Powered industrial trucks (forklifts) except when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load.
• Added a note for clarity that reads, "Rigging requirements for material handling is located in Part F-1 of this chapter."
• In subsection (1), added the words "the following." The first sentence reads, "Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, this part applies to the following:"
• Created a new subsection (1)(b) for clarity. It reads, "Personnel lifting with attached or suspended platforms using cranes or derricks (WAC 296-155-547)."
• Renumbered subsections (5) through (8).

     WAC 296-155-52902 Definitions.


• In the definition of "attachments" change the word "means" to "mean" and "or" to "of" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Attachments mean any device that expands the range of tasks that can be done by the crane/derrick. Examples include, but are not limited to: An auger, drill, magnet, pile-driver, and boom-attached personnel platform."
• Added a definition for "Jib stop" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Jib stop (also referred to as a jib backstop), is the same type of device as a boom stop but is for a fixed or luffing jib."
• Deleted the last sentence in the definition of "mobile cranes." The federal definition had this sentence in their proposed rule but did not in their adopted rule. The sentence removed reads, "These are referred to in Europe as a crane mounted on a truck carrier."

     WAC 296-155-53300 Operator qualifications and certification.


• In the note after Table 3, added the words "covered under this part" for clarity. It reads, "Cranes and other lifting machines covered under this part that are exempt can be found in WAC 296-155-52900(3)."

     WAC 296-155-53306 Rigger qualifications.


• In subsection (1), clarified the language for consistency. It reads, "The rigger must meet the qualification requirements (subsection (3) of this section) prior to performing hoisting activities for assembly and disassembly work (WAC 296-155-53402 (19)(a)). A qualified rigger is required whenever employees are engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding the load, or in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure, and are within the fall zone (WAC 296-155-53400 (43)(c)). This requirement must be met by using either Option (1) or Option (2)."
• In subsection (3)(g), modified the note to allow an additional one hundred eighty days for employers to come into compliance with the requirement relating to having qualified riggers pass a written and practical test. It reads, "The provisions of subsection (3)(g) of this section are not required until February 1, 2013."
• Added a new note for clarity. It reads, "This section does not require that each and every worker associated with the rigging of a component or structure to be a "fully qualified rigger" as defined in this section, the requirement is for at least one of the workers to be a fully qualified rigger. However, all other associated workers must be qualified by training or experience to perform their assigned tasks (WAC 296-155-035(2))."

     WAC 296-155-53400 General requirements.


• In subsection (1), added the words "covered under this part." It reads, "All cranes and derricks covered under this part, except for those exempted in WAC 296-155-52900(3), must be certified annually by an accredited certifier recognized by the department, for detailed information about this certification see WAC 296-155-532."
• In subsection (2), added the words "covered under this part." It reads, "All crane and derrick operators covered under this part, except for those exempted in WAC 296-155-52900(3), must be qualified as required by WAC 296-155-533."
• In subsection (4)(a), replaced the word "provide" with the words "develop and ensure compliance with" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Where the manufacturer procedures are unavailable, the employer must develop and ensure compliance with all procedures necessary for the safe operation of the crane/derrick and attachments."
• In subsection (29), replaced the language to match the federal equivalent. It reads,
"(a) Load hooks (including latched and unlatched types), ball assemblies and load blocks must be of sufficient weight to overhaul the line from the highest hook position for boom or boom and jib lengths and the number of parts of the line in use.
(b) Crane hooks must be equipped with latches or self-locking devices unless a qualified person determines that it is safer to hoist and place the load without latches (or with latches removed/tied back or otherwise disabled) and routes for the loads are preplanned to ensure that no employee is required to work in the fall zone except for employees necessary for the hooking or unhooking of the load.
(c) The latch or self-locking device (when used) must bridge the throat opening of the hook for the purpose of retaining slings or other lifting devices under slack conditions."
• In subsection (43)(a), added the words "to the extent consistent with public safety" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Where available, hoisting routes that minimize the exposure of employees to hoisted loads must be used to the extent consistent with public safety."
• In subsection (43)(c)(ii), added a reference to subsection (29)(b).
• In subsection (54)(d), added language to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "If the competent person determines that there is slack rope condition requiring respooling of the rope, it must be verified (before starting the lift) that the rope is seated on the drum and in the sheaves as the slack is removed."
• In subsection (61), added language to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Except for proof load testing required under WAC 296-155-53202 through 296-155-53212, no crane/derrick is permitted to be loaded beyond the specifications of the load rating chart, unless authorized by the crane manufacturer. The operator must not be required to operate the crane/derrick in a manner that would violate this requirement."
• Added a new subsection (64) to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "The brakes must be adjusted in accordance with manufacturer procedures to prevent unintended movement."
• Renumbered the remaining subsections.

     WAC 296-155-53402 Assembly/disassembly.


• After subsection (1)(b), added a note to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Note: The employer must follow manufacturer procedures when an employer uses synthetic slings during assembly or disassembly of cranes/derricks, see subsection (19) of this section."
• In subsection (18)(b), added language relating to locomotive cranes to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "The outriggers must be set to remove the crane weight from the wheels, except for locomotive cranes (see subsection (18)(f) of this section for use of outriggers or locomotive cranes)."
• Added a subsection (18)(f) relating to locomotive cranes to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "For locomotive cranes, when using outriggers or stabilizers to handle loads, the manufacturer's procedures must be followed. When lifting loads without using outriggers or stabilizers, the manufacturer's procedures must be met regarding truck wedges or screws."

     WAC 296-155-53403 Fall protection.


• In subsection (2)(b), added language relating to boom walkways to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Boom walkway criteria. The walkways must be at least twelve inches wide."
• In subsection (3)(b), added the word "derricks" for consistency.
• After subsection (5)(b), added a note for clarity. It reads, "Note: If the equipment is running and the employee is at or near the draw-works, precautions should be taken to ensure the fall protection gear will not become entangled."
• After subsection (6), added a note for clarity. It reads, "Note: If the equipment is running and the employee is at or near the draw-works, precautions should be taken to ensure the fall protection gear will not become entangled."
• After subsection (9)(a), added a note for clarity. It reads, "Note: If the equipment is running and the employee is at or near the draw-works, precautions should be taken to ensure the fall protection gear will not become entangled."

     WAC 296-155-53404 Wire rope.


• In subsection (2)(c), updated a reference.

     WAC 296-155-53406 Signals.


• After subsection (3)(a), added a reference to the hand signal chart located in the appendices of this part. It reads, "See WAC 296-155-56400 for the hand signal chart."

     WAC 296-155-53408 Power line safety.


• In subsection (1)(b)(iii)(A)(IV), added a note that defines what a dedicated spotter is. Copied this definition from WAC 296-155-52902, it reads, "Note: To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and; the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached."
• In subsection (2)(b)(iv)(B)(IV), added a note that defines what a dedicated spotter is. Copied this definition from WAC 296-155-52902, it reads, "Note: To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and; the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached."
• In subsection (2)(d)(ii)(D), corrected a reference.
• In subsection (4), bolded the word "all."
• In subsection (4)(d)(i), added the language "but are not limited to" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "The power line owner/operator or registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to electrical power transmission and distribution determines the minimum clearance distance that must be maintained to prevent electrical contact in light of the on-site conditions. The factors that must be considered in making this determination include, but are not limited to: Conditions affecting atmospheric conductivity; time necessary to bring the crane/derrick, load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories) to a complete stop; wind conditions; degree of sway in the power line; lighting conditions, and other conditions affecting the ability to prevent electrical contact."
• In subsection (4)(e)(ii)(A), added the language "but are not limited to" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Be equipped with a visual aid to assist in identifying the minimum clearance distance. Examples of a visual aid include, but are not limited to: A clearly visible line painted on the ground; a clearly visible line on stanchions; a set of clearly visible line-of-sight landmarks (such as a fence post behind the dedicated spotter and a building corner ahead of the dedicated spotter)."
• In subsection (4)(e)(ii)(D)[(d)], added a note that defines what a dedicated spotter is. Copied this definition from WAC 296-155-52902, it reads, "Note: To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and; the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached."

     WAC 296-155-53409 Training.


• In subsection (1)(d)(iii), added the words "covered under this part" and update a reference. It reads, "For operators using equipment covered under this part that are exempt in WAC 296-155-52900 (3)(b), the employer must ensure that each operator is trained on the safe operation of the equipment the operator will be using."
• Added a new subsection (1)(e) to match the federal equivalent and renumber. It reads,
"(e) The employer must train each operator of the equipment covered by this part in the following practices:
(i) On friction equipment, whenever moving a boom off a support, first raise the boom a short distance (sufficient to take the load of the boom) to determine if the boom hoist brake needs to be adjusted. On other types of equipment with a boom, the same practice is applicable, except that typically there is no means of adjusting the brake; if the brake does not hold, a repair is necessary. See WAC 296-155-53400 (68) and (69).
(ii) Where available, the manufacturer's emergency procedures for halting unintended equipment movement."
• Added a new subsection (2)(c) to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Whenever the employer is required to provide training under this part, the employer must provide the training at no cost to the employee."

     WAC 296-155-54200 Overhead/bridge and gantry cranes -- General.


• In subsection (2), removed the words "in a manufacturing facility or a powerhouse" to be consistent with the federal equivalent. It reads, "Overhead and gantry cranes that are not permanently installed must follow the applicable requirements in chapter 296-155 WAC, Part L."

     WAC 296-155-54410 Sideboom cranes.


• In subsection (1), updated a reference.

     WAC 296-155-55110 Proof load test platforms and rigging.


• In subsection (1)(a)(ii), added the words "by controlled load lowering, braked," to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "The platform must be lowered by controlled load lowering, braked, and held in a suspended position for a minimum of five minutes with the test load evenly distributed on the platform."

     WAC 296-155-55115 Trial lift.


• In subsection (6)(a), added the words "with the personnel and materials/tools on board" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "The platform must be hoisted a few inches with the personnel and materials/tools on board and inspected by a competent person to ensure that it is secure and properly balanced."

     WAC 296-155-55210 Crane or derrick operation requirements for personnel lifting.


• In subsection (1)(f), added the word "cautious" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Perform all movements of the platform or crane/derrick in a slow, controlled, cautious manner to minimize sudden movement of the platform;"
• In subsection (1)(j)(ii), replaced the word "or" with "and must be" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "The crane/derrick operator must be at a set of crane controls that include boom and swing functions of the crane, and must be on-site and in view of the crane/derrick and platform."

     WAC 296-155-55300 Personnel lifting requirements.


• In subsection (2), added the words "sustained or gusts" to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "Personnel platforms cannot be used in winds (sustained or gusts) in excess of twenty mph (32.2 km/hr) or in electric storms, snow, ice, sleet, or other adverse weather conditions which could affect the safety of personnel."

     WAC 296-155-556 Rigging -- General requirements.


• Deleted the words "The rigging requirements in this part apply to all construction activities."

     WAC 296-155-55600 General requirements.


• In subsection (1), added clarifying language for consistency. It reads, "Employers must use at least one qualified rigger as follows:"
• In subsection (1)(a), removed the words "additionally, qualified riggers are required."
• In subsection (1)(b), added clarifying language and a note for consistency. It reads, "Whenever employees are engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding a load, or in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure, and are within the fall zone (WAC 296-155-53400 (43)(c)[)]." The note reads, "Note: See qualified rigger requirements located in WAC 296-155-53306."
• Created a new subsection (9) and add language to match the federal equivalent and renumber. It reads, "Special custom design grabs, hooks, clamps, or other lifting accessories, for such units as modular panels, prefabricated structures and similar materials, must be marked to indicate the safe working loads and must be proof tested prior to use to one hundred and twenty-five percent of their rated load."
• Created a new subsection (12) and add language to match the federal equivalent. It reads, "All rigging hardware must have permanently affixed and legible identification markings as prescribed by the manufacturer that indicate the recommended safe working load."
• Renumbered the subsections in this section.

     WAC 296-155-55805 Wire rope slings.


• In subsection (8), created a new subsection (8)(d) and add language to match the federal equivalent and renumber. It reads, "Protruding ends of strands in splices on slings and bridles must be covered or blunted."
• In subsection (8), create a new subsection (8)(e) and add language to match the federal equivalent and renumber. It reads, "A sling must not be pulled from under a load when the load is resting on the sling."

     WAC 296-155-55820 Synthetic webbing slings.


• In subsection (6)(a), created a new subsection (6)(a)(vi) and add language to match the federal equivalent and renumber. It reads, "Fittings must be of a minimum breaking strength equal to that of the sling."
• In subsection (6), created a new subsection (6)(b) and add language to match the federal equivalent and renumber. It reads, "Webbing. Synthetic webbing must be of uniform thickness and width and selvage edges must not be split from the webbing's width."

     WAC 296-155-56100 General requirements.


• In subsection (3)(c), added the words "at least one of the workers" for clarity. It reads, "At least one of the workers using rigging hardware must meet the requirements of WAC 296-155-53306."

     WAC 296-155-56400 Mobile crane hand signal chart.


• Deleted the illustration in this section and added the following language, "See ASME B30.5 - 2011, Standard hand signals for controlling crane operations."

     WAC 296-155-704 Hoisting and rigging.


• In subsection (3)(b), added language for clarity. It reads, "A qualified rigger (when a crane/derrick is being used as the hoisting machinery) is a rigger that meets the requirements in WAC 296-155-53306 and all rigging gear must be inspected prior to each shift in accordance with WAC 296-155-556 through 296-155-56220. A qualified rigger (when hoisting machinery other than a crane/derrick is being used) must meet the requirements in WAC 296-155-33700 and all rigging gear must be inspected prior to each shift in accordance with WAC 296-155-337 through 296-155-34025."

     REPEALED SECTION:


     WAC 296-155-329 Qualified person -- Rigging.

     Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060.

     Other Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW, 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC, Cranes and Derricks in Construction.

      Adopted under notice filed as WSR 12-20-054 on October 2, 2012.

     Changes Other than Editing from Proposed to Adopted Version: As a result of written and oral comments received or for clarification purposes, the following sections are being changed as indicated below:

     CHANGES TO THE RULES (Proposed rule versus rule actually adopted):


WAC 296-155-33805 Wire rope slings.


• Subsection (8)(e): Added a parenthesis after the words "Figure 8." It now reads, "Decrease the rated load of the sling when D/d ratios (Figure 8) smaller than twenty-five to one. Consult the sling manufacturer for specific data or refer to the wire rope sling user's manual (wire rope technical board)."

WAC 296-155-33815 Synthetic rope slings.


• Subsection (5)(e): In Figure 13, corrected a reference to another figure. It now reads, "The symbols below represent load or support in contact with the rope sling. The contact surface diameter divided by the rope diameter is designated D/d ratio as described in Figure 8."

WAC 296-155-52900 Scope.


• Subsection (1)(a): Added the word "/bridge" after the word ["]overhead." It now reads, "Power-operated cranes and derricks used in construction that can hoist, lower and horizontally move a suspended load (with or without attachments). Such equipment includes, but is not limited to: Articulating boom cranes (such as knuckle-boom cranes); crawler cranes; floating cranes; cranes on barges; locomotive cranes; mobile cranes (such as wheel-mounted, rough-terrain, all-terrain, commercial truck-mounted, and boom truck cranes); multipurpose machines when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load; industrial cranes (such as carry-deck cranes); cranes being used as dedicated pile drivers; service/mechanic trucks with a hoisting device; a crane on a monorail; tower cranes (such as fixed jib ("hammerhead boom"), luffing boom and self-erecting); pedestal cranes; portal cranes; overhead/bridge and gantry cranes; straddle cranes; side-boom tractors; derricks; and variations of such equipment; and ... ."
• Subsection (3)(d): Deleted subdivision (d) to be at-least-as-effective-as OSHA which stated, "Overhead/bridge, gantry cranes, semi-gantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, launching gantry cranes, and similar equipment having the same fundamental characteristics, irrespective of whether it travels on tracks, wheels, or other means, when performing construction activities and not permanently installed."

WAC 296-155-53402 Assembly/disassembly.


• Subsection (18)(e): Corrected a reference. It now reads, "Meet the requirements in subsection (10)(b) and (c) of this section."

WAC 296-155-55600 General requirements.


• Subsection (1)(b): Added the words "of this part" at the end of the note. It now reads, "Note: See qualified rigger requirements located in WAC 296-155-53306 of this part."

WAC 296-155-56400 Mobile crane hand signal chart.


• Added an updated mobile crane hand signal chart. Deleted the language referencing ASME B-30.5-2011.

WAC 296-155-704 Hoisting and rigging.


• Subsection (1): Added clarifying language. It now reads, "All the applicable provisions of Part L of this chapter apply to hoisting and rigging while using a crane/derrick. All applicable provisions of Part F-1 of this chapter apply to material handling hoisting equipment when a crane/derrick is not being used."
• Subsection (3)(b): Modified the language. It now reads, "A qualified rigger (a rigger who is also a qualified person) must inspect the rigging prior to each shift."

     Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 26, Amended 25, Repealed 1; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted at Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's Own Initiative: New 26, Amended 25, Repealed 1.

     Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 26, Amended 25, Repealed 1.

     Number of Sections Adopted Using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0;      Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.

     Date Adopted: December 31, 2012.

Judy Schurke

Director

OTS-4788.7

PART F

((MATERIAL HANDLING,)) STORAGE,

USE, AND DISPOSALPART F-1

     RIGGING REQUIREMENTS FOR MATERIAL HANDLING
NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-336   Rigging requirements for material handling.  

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33600   Scope.   (1) This part applies to material/load handling activities when using slings, rigging hardware, below-the-hook lifting devices when performing construction activities.

     (2) This part does not apply to power-operated cranes and derricks when performing construction activities that fall under the scope of Part L of this chapter.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33605   Definitions.   Angle of loading means the acute angle between horizontal and the leg of the rigging, often referred to as horizontal angle. See Figures 7 and 22.

     Anti two-block device means a device that, when activated, disengages all crane functions whose movement can cause two-blocking.

     Basket hitch means a method of rigging a sling in which the sling is passed around the load and both loop eyes or end fittings are attached to the lifting device.

     Below-the-hook lifting device means a device used for attaching loads to a hoist. The device may contain components such as slings, hooks, rigging hardware, and lifting attachments.

     Bird caging means the twisting of fiber or wire rope in an isolated area of the rope in the opposite direction of the rope lay, thereby causing it to take on the appearance of a bird cage.

     Braided wire rope means a wire rope formed by plaiting component wire ropes.

     Bridle wire rope sling means a sling composed of multiple legs with the top ends gathered in a fitting that goes over the lifting hook.

     Cable laid endless sling-mechanical joint means a wire rope sling made endless from one continuous length of cable laid rope with the ends joined by one or more metallic fittings.

     Cable laid grommet-hand tucked means an endless wire rope sling made from one continuous length of rope formed to make a body composed of six ropes around a rope core. The rope ends are tucked into the body, thus forming the core. No sleeves are used.

     Center of gravity means the center of gravity of any object is the point in the object around which its weight is evenly distributed. If you could put a support under that point, you could balance the object on the support.

     Choker hitch means a method of rigging a sling in which the sling is passed around the load, then through one loop eye, end fitting, or other device, with the other loop eye or end fitting attached to the lifting device. This hitch can be done with a sliding choker hook or similar device.

     Come-a-long means a mechanical device typically consisting of a chain or cable attached at each end that is used to facilitate movement of materials through leverage.

     Competent person means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

     Cross rod means a wire used to join spirals of metal mesh to form a complete fabric. See Figure 11.

     Design factor means the ratio between nominal or minimum breaking strength and rated load.

     Electrical contact means when a person, object, or equipment makes contact or comes close in proximity with an energized conductor or equipment that allows the passage of current.

     Fabric (metal mesh) means the flexible portion of the sling exclusive of end fittings consisting of a series of transverse spirals and cross rods.

     Fall zone means the area (including, but not limited to, the area directly beneath the load) in which it is reasonably foreseeable that partially or completely suspended materials could fall in the event of an accident.

     Flange points means a point of contact between rope and drum flange where the rope changes layers.

     Hitch (hitched) means a method of rigging (attaching) a sling temporarily to a load or object for the purpose of lifting.

     Hoist means a mechanical device for lifting and lowering loads by winding rope onto or off a drum.

     Hoisting means the act of raising, lowering or otherwise moving a load in the air with equipment covered by this standard. As used in this standard, "hoisting" can be done by means other than wire rope/hoist drum equipment.

     Hoisting equipment means a machine for lifting and lowering a load and moving it horizontally. The machine may be fixed or mobile and be driven manually, by power, or by a combination of both.

     Hook latch means a mechanical device used to close the throat opening of a hook.

     Load is the weight of the object being lifted or lowered, including the weight of the load-attaching equipment such as the load block, ropes, slings, shackles, and any other auxiliary attachment.

     Load ratings means a set of rated loads for stipulated hoisting equipment configurations and operating conditions.

     Master coupling link means an alloy steel welded coupling link used as an intermediate link to join alloy steel chain to master links.

     Master link means forged or welded steel link used to support all members (legs) of an alloy steel chain sling or wire rope sling.

     Mechanical coupling link (alloy steel chain) means a nonwelded, mechanically closed link used primarily to attach fittings to alloy steel chain.

     Operational controls means levers, switches, pedals and other devices for controlling equipment operation.

     Procedures include, but are not limited to: Instructions, diagrams, recommendations, warnings, specifications, protocols, and limitations.

     Qualified person means a person who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience, successfully demonstrated the ability to solve/resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

     Qualified rigger is a rigger who meets the requirements in WAC 296-155-33700.

     Rated capacity means the maximum working load permitted by the manufacturer under specified working conditions. Such working conditions typically include a specific combination of factors such as equipment configuration, radii, boom length, and other parameters of use.

     Rotation resistant rope means a type of wire rope construction which reduces the tendency of a rope to rotate about its axis under load. Usually, this consists of an inner system of core strands laid in one direction covered by an outer system of strands laid in the opposite direction.

     RPE means a registered professional engineer licensed under RCW 18.43.040(1).

     RPSE means a registered professional structural engineer licensed under RCW 18.43.040(1).

     Running wire rope is a wire rope that moves over sheaves or drums.

     Safety or health standard means a standard adopted under this chapter.

     Section means a section of this part, unless otherwise specified.

     Sling means an assembly to be used for lifting when connected to a lifting mechanism. The upper portion of the sling is connected to the lifting mechanism and the lower supports the load, as described in this part.

     Spiral means a single transverse coil that is the basic element from which metal mesh is fabricated.

     Standing wire rope means a supporting wire rope which maintains a constant distance between the points of attachment to the two components connected by the wire rope.

     Two blocking means a condition in which a component that is uppermost on the hoist line such as the load block, hook block, overhaul ball, or similar component, comes in contact with the boom tip, fixed upper block or similar component. This binds the system and continued application of power can cause failure of the hoist rope or other component.

     Vertical hitch means a method of rigging a sling in which the load is attached to the loop eye or end fitting at one end of the sling and the loop eye or end fitting at the other end is attached to the lifting device. Any hitch less than five degrees from the vertical may be considered a vertical hitch.

     Wire rope means a flexible rope constructed by laying steel wires into various patterns of multiwired strands around a core system to produce a helically wound rope.

     Working load means the external load applied to the hoisting equipment, including the personnel lifting platform, its contents, and the load attaching equipment, such as lowered load block, shackles, and slings.

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NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-337   Rigging -- General requirements.  

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NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33700   Rigger qualifications.   Riggers must be a qualified person who, by possession of a recognized degree or certificate of professional standing, or who, by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating the subject matter. Also has the authorization or authority by the nature of their position to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. The person must be knowledgeable in the requirements of this part as applicable to the tasks assigned, including but not limited to:

     • "Know and understand of the requirements for slings, rigging hardware, and below-the-hook lifting devices, including their limitations, rigging practices, associated hazards, and inspection requirements;

     • "Know and understand the application of the type of hitches used;

     • "Know and understand load weight estimation, center of gravity, effect of angle on rigging components, and load turning.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33705   General requirements.   (1) Employers must ensure all rigging activities covered under this part are performed by a qualified rigger or performed under the direction and supervision of a qualified rigger.

     (2) All slings in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.9-2010.

     (3) All rigging hardware in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.26-2010.

     (4) All rigging gear must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations or a qualified person.

     (5) All below-the-hook lifting devices in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.20-2010.

     (6) All hooks in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.10-2009.

     (7) Repair of hooks must be approved by the manufacturer or qualified person and as follows:

     (a) Cracks, nicks, and gouges may be repaired by a competent person, all other repairs are done by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (b) Grind longitudinally, following the contour of the hook;

     (c) Do not reduce the dimension of the hook more than ten percent from the original.

     (8) Hooks must not be modified by welding and/or drilling unless written approval by the manufacturer has been received.

     (9) A qualified person must inspect the rigging equipment before each day or shift and:

     (a) Consider the application the equipment will be used for, and determine if it's safe for use;

     (b) Remove the equipment from service if using it will create a hazard or meets any of the removal criteria listed in this chapter.

     (10) The rated load of the rigging equipment must not be exceeded.

     (11) All rigging hardware must be inspected in accordance with Table 1, each day before using. If a daily inspection is not feasible because the hardware is in a semipermanent or inaccessible location, a periodic inspection is allowed instead of daily.

     (12) Rigging hardware must be removed from service when it shows any conditions listed in Table 1, or any other hazardous condition.

Table 1

Rigging Hardware Inspection/Removal Criteria


For all hardware, inspect for the following:
Missing or illegible identification.
Indications of heat damage, including weld spatter or arc strikes.
Excessive pitting or corrosion.
Load bearing components that are:
• Bent;
• Twisted;
• Distorted;
• Stretched;
• Elongated;
• Cracked;
• Broken.
Excessive nicks or gouges.
10% reduction of the original or catalog dimension at any point.
Excessive thread damage or wear, where applicable.
Evidence of unauthorized welding or modification.
Any other conditions that cause doubt as to the safety of continued use.
On shackles, also inspect for incomplete pin engagement.
On swivels and swivel hoist rings, check for lack of ability to freely rotate or pivot.
On compression hardware, also check for:
Unauthorized replacement components;
Insufficient number of wire rope clips;
Improperly tightened wire rope clips;
Damaged wire rope;
Indications of wire rope slippage;
Improper assembly.
On swivels, check for loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices.
On blocks check for:
– Loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices;
– Misalignment or wobble in sheaves;
– Excessive sheave groove corrugation or wear.

     (13) Any alteration or modification of rigging hardware must be in accordance with the hardware manufacturer or a qualified person and proof load tested to one hundred twenty-five percent. This test must be documented and available upon request.

     (14) Welding of rigging hardware is prohibited unless authorized by the manufacturer or an RPE.

     (15) Replacement parts must meet or exceed the original rigging hardware manufacturer's specifications.

     (16) Rigging hardware selection must have the characteristics suitable for the application and environment where it will be used.

     (17) Workers must keep all parts of their body from between the load and any rigging during the lift.

     (18) If handling intermodal shipping containers at a construction site, the employer must follow the requirements in chapter 296-56 WAC, longshore, stevedore and waterfront related operations, Part F, Specialized terminals and the guidelines found in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 3874 - Series 1 Freight Containers, fifth edition - Handling and Securing.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-338   Slings.  

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33800   Chain slings.   (1) Only use chain slings that are made from grade eighty or higher alloy steel chain.

     (2) The following requirements must be met if manufacturing your own chain slings:

     (a) Have a design factor of four;

     (b) Meet the rated load requirements in subsection (9) of this section.

     (3) Rate chain slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if you use fittings that are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower rated capacity.

     (4) Makeshift fittings, such as hooks or links formed from bolts, rods, or other parts are prohibited.

     (5) All chain slings must have legible identification information attached to the sling which includes the following information:

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer;

     (b) Grade;

     (c) Nominal chain size;

     (d) Number of legs;

     (e) Rated loads for the vertical hitch and bridle hitch and the angle upon which it is based;

     (f) Length (reach);

     (g) Individual sling identification (e.g., serial numbers);

     (h) Repairing agency, if the sling was ever repaired.

     (6) Inspections.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect chain slings before their initial use, according to Table 2, both:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the chain sling is used. Immediately remove from service any sling damaged beyond the criteria in Table 2.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on chain slings according to Table 2.

     (i) Each link and component must be examined individually, taking care to expose and examine all surfaces including the inner link surfaces.

     (ii) Remove slings from use:

     • If any of the conditions in Table 2 are found;

     • When they have been exposed to temperatures above one thousand degrees Fahrenheit.

     (d) A written record of the most recent periodic inspection must be kept, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.

Table 2

Chain Sling Inspection/Removal Criteria


Inspect alloy steel chain slings for the following conditions: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification.
• Cracks or breaks.
• Excessive nicks, gouges, or wear beyond that allowed in Table 3, Minimum Allowable Thickness at Any Point on a Link. • At least once a year for slings in normal service, which means use within the rated load.
• Stretched chain links or components. • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service, which involves abnormal operating conditions.
• Bent, twisted or deformed chain links or components. • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service, which is anything other than normal or severe.
• Evidence of heat damage.
• Excessive pitting or corrosion.
• Inability of chain or components to hinge (articulate) freely.
• Weld spatter.
• Hooks that have any of the following conditions:
– Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook;
– Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening of five percent, not to exceed one-quarter inch, or as otherwise recommended by the manufacturer;
– Wear exceeding ten percent of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin, or as otherwise recommended by the manufacturer;
– A self-locking mechanism that does not lock (if applicable);
– Any latch that does not close the hook's throat (if applicable).
• Other visible damage that raises doubt about the safety of the sling.

Table 3

     Minimum Allowable Thickness at Any Point on a Link


Nominal chain or coupling link size Minimum allowable thickness at any point on the link
Inches Millimeters Inches Millimeters
7/32 5.5 0.189 4.80
9/32 7 0.239 6.07
5/16 8 0.273 6.93
3/8 10 0.342 8.69
1/2 13 0.443 11.26
5/8 16 0.546 13.87
3/4 20 0.687 17.45
7/8 22 0.750 19.05
1 26 0.887 22.53
1 1/4 32 1.091 27.71

     (7) Repair, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Chain slings must be repaired as follows:

     (i) Slings must only be repaired by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (ii) Chain used for sling repair must be alloy steel chain manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM A 391/A 391M for Grade 80 chain and ASTM A 973/A 973M for Grade 100 chain;

     (iii) Components for alloy steel chain slings must be manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM A 952/A 952M;

     (iv) The use of mechanical coupling links within the body of a chain sling to connect two pieces of chain is prohibited;

     (v) Replace cracked, broken, or bent chain links or components instead of repairing them.

     (b) The sling must be marked to show the repairing agency.

     (c) Repaired slings must be proof tested according to the requirements in subsection (8) of this section. If only replacing components of the sling, and the components were individually proof tested, the sling does not have to be tested as a whole.


Note: For additional requirements relating to repair and modification see WAC 296-155-33705(9).

     (8) Proof test chain slings. Prior to initial use, all new and repaired chain and components of an alloy steel chain sling, either individually or as an assembly must be proof tested by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person. Follow the requirements in Table 4, Chain Sling Proof Load Requirements.


Table 4

     Chain Sling Proof Load Requirements


When proof testing this type of equipment: Then proof load:
• Single or multiple leg slings. Each leg and component to at least two times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Components attached to single legs.
• Master links for double leg bridle slings.
• Single basket slings. To at least four times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Master coupling links connected to two legs.
• Master links for triple and quadruple leg bridle slings. To at least six times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Double basket bridle sling.

     (9) Chain slings rated loads, the term "working load limit" is commonly used to describe rated load.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of sling materials;
• Design factor;
• Type of hitch;
• Angle of loading.

     (a) Chain slings must be used within the rated loads shown in Tables 1 through 4 of ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, either use the rated load for the next lower angle or one calculated by a qualified person.

     (b) The use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees are prohibited, unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person. See Figure 1, Multiple-Leg Bridle Sling Hitch.

     (c) Rated loads must be verified for slings used in a choker meet the values shown in the above referenced tables provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater. See Figure 2, Single-Leg Choker Hitch.

     (d) Rated loads for angles of choke less than one hundred twenty degrees must be determined by the manufacturer or a qualified person.


Figure 1

Multiple-Leg Bridle Sling Hitch


Figure 2

Single-Leg Choker Hitch


     (10) Use of chain slings.

     (a) Shorten or adjust slings using only methods approved by the manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (b) Slings must not be shortened or lengthened by knotting or twisting.

     (c) Twisting and kinking must be avoided.

     (d) Hitch slings in a way that provides control of the load.

     (e) Balance the load in slings used in a basket hitch to prevent it from slipping.

     (f) Slings must be protected from sharp edges of the load. See Figure 3.

     (g) The sling must be prevented from snagging anything during the lift, with or without load.


Softeners can be made from split pipe, padding or blocking
Figure 3

Softeners

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NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33805   Wire rope slings.   (1) Manufacturing wire rope slings.

     (a) Wire rope slings must be made from new or unused regular lay wire rope. The wire rope must be manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM A 1023-02 and ASTM A 586.

     (b) The following fabrication methods must be used to make wire rope slings:

     (i) Hand splicing;

     (ii) Turnback eye;

     (iii) Return loop;

     (iv) Flemish eye mechanical splicing;

     (v) Poured or swaged socketing.

     (c) Wire rope slings must have a design factor of five.

     (d) Wire rope slings must meet the requirements in Table 6.

     (e) Using any of the following when making wire rope slings is prohibited:

     (i) Rotation resistant wire rope;

     (ii) Malleable cast iron clips;

     (iii) Knots;

     (iv) Wire rope clips, unless:

     • The application of the sling prevents using prefabricated slings;

     • The specific application is designed by a qualified person.

     (f) Wire rope clips, if used, must be installed and maintained in accordance with the recommendations of the clip manufacturer or a qualified person, or in accordance with the provisions of ASME B30.26-2010.

     (g) Slings made with wire rope clips must not be used as a choker hitch.


Note: If using wire rope clips under these conditions, follow the guidance given in Table 5.

Table 5

Number, Torque Values, and Turn Back Requirements for U-Bolt Wire Rope Clips Number, Torque Values, and Turn Back Requirements for Double Saddle (Fist Grip) Wire Rope Clips
Clip & Wire Rope Size (inches) Min. No. of Clips Amount of Rope Turn Back in Inches *Torque in

     Ft. Lbs.

Clip & Wire Rope Size (inches) Min. No. of Clips Amount of Rope Turn Back in Inches *Torque in

     Ft. Lbs.

1/8 2 3-1/4 4.5 3/16-1/4 2 4 30
3/16 2 3-3/4 7.5 5/16 2 5 30
1/4 2 4-3/4 15 3/8 2 5-1/4 45
5/16 2 5-1/4 30 7/16 2 6-1/2 65
3/8 2 6-1/2 45 1/2 3 11 65
7/16 2 7 65 9/16 3 12-3/4 130
1/2 3 11-1/2 65 5/8 3 13-1/2 130
9/16 3 12 95 3/4 4 16 225
5/8 3 12 95 7/8 4 26 225
3/4 4 18 130 1 5 37 225
7/8 4 19 225 1-1/8 5 41 360
1 5 26 225 1-1/4 6 55 360
1-1/8 6 34 225 1-3/8 6 62 500
1-1/4 7 44 360 1-1/2 7 78 500
1-3/8 7 44 360
1-1/2 8 54 360
1-5/8 8 58 430
1-3/4 8 61 590
2 8 71 750
2-1/4 8 73 750
2-1/2 9 84 750
2-3/4 10 100 750
3 10 106 1200
3-1/2 12 149 1200

* The tightening torque values shown are based upon the threads being clean, dry, and free of lubrication.

Table 6

     Wire Rope Sling Configuration Requirements


If you have: Then you need:
• Slings made of rope with 6x19 and 6x36 classification. A minimum clear length of rope ten times the rope diameter between splices, sleeves, or end fittings (see Figure 4, Minimum Sling Length) unless approved by a qualified person.
• Cable laid slings.
• Braided slings. A minimum clear length of rope forty times the component rope diameter between the loops or end fittings (see Figure 5, Minimum Braided Sling Length) unless approved by a qualified person.
• Grommets and endless slings. A minimum circumferential length of ninety-six times the body diameter of the grommet or endless sling unless approved by a qualified person.
• Other configurations. Specific limitation data provided by a qualified person. These slings must meet all other requirements of ASME B30.9-2010.


Figure 4 Minimum Sling Length

For rope with 6x19 and 6x36 classification or Cable Laid Slings


Figure 5

Minimum Braided Sling Length


     (2) Wire rope sling fittings.

     (a) Fittings must be used according to the fitting manufacturer's directions.

     (b) Rate slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if you use fittings that are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower rated capacity.

     (c) Weld any end attachments, except covers to thimbles, before assembling the sling.

     (3) Identification information. All wire rope slings must have legible identification information attached to the sling which includes the information below, see sample tag in Figure 6. For slings in use that are manufactured before the effective date of this rule, the information below must be added before use or at the time the periodic inspection is completed.

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer.

     (b) Diameter or size.

     (c) Rated loads for the types of hitches used and the angle that the load is based on.

     (d) Number of legs, if more than one.

     (e) Repairing agency, if the sling is ever repaired.


Figure 6

Sample Wire Rope Sling ID Tag


Note: Sample tag for a 1/2" single-leg sling 6x19 or 6x36 classification, extra improved plow steel (EIPS) grade fiber core (FC) wire rope with a mechanical splice (ton = 2,000 lb).

     (4) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect wire rope slings before their initial use, according to Table 7, both:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the wire rope sling is used:

     (i) Include all fastenings and attachments;

     (ii) Immediately remove any sling from service that is damaged beyond the criteria listed in Table 7; or

     (iii) Remove fiber core wire rope slings that have been exposed to temperatures higher than one hundred eighty degrees Fahrenheit.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on wire rope slings according to Table 7.

     (5) Repair, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Repair wire rope slings as follows:

     (i) Make sure slings are only repaired by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (ii) Mark the sling to show the repairing agency;

     (iii) Do not repair wire rope used in slings, wire rope must be replaced. Only end attachments and fittings can be repaired on a wire rope sling.

     (b) Modification or alterations to end attachments or fittings must be considered as repairs and must conform to all other provisions of this part.

     (c) Proof load test repaired slings according to the requirements in subsection (6) of this section.

     (6) Proof load tests. Make sure the sling manufacturer or a qualified person proof load tests the following slings before initial use, according to Table 8:

     (a) All repaired slings;

     (b) All slings incorporating previously used or welded fittings;

     (c) For single- or multiple-leg slings and endless slings, each leg must be proof loaded according to the requirements listed in Table 8 based on fabrication method. The proof load test must not exceed fifty percent of the component ropes' or structural strands' minimum breaking strength;


Table 7

     Wire Rope Sling Inspection and Removal Criteria


Inspect wire rope slings for the following conditions: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification.
• Severe localized abrasion or scraping.
• Kinking, crushing, birdcaging, or any other condition resulting in damage to the rope structure. • At least once a year for slings in normal service.
• Evidence of heat damage. • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service.
• Severe corrosion of the rope, end attachments, or fittings. • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service.
• End attachments that are cracked, deformed, or worn to the extent that the strength of the sling is substantially affected.
• Broken wires:
– For strand-laid and single-part slings, ten randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay, or five broken wires in one strand in one rope lay;
– For cable-laid slings, twenty broken wires per lay;
– For six-part braided slings, twenty broken wires per braid;
– For eight-part braided slings, forty broken wires per braid.
• Hooks that have any of the following conditions:
– Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook;
– Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening five percent, not to exceed one-quarter inch, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Wear exceeding ten percent, of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Self-locking mechanism that does not lock.
• Other visible damage that raises doubt about the safety of the sling.

Table 8

Wire Rope Sling Proof Load Test Requirements


Type of equipment: Proof load test:
• Mechanical splice slings. Each leg to at least two times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Swaged socket and poured socket slings. Each leg to at least two times, but not more than two and one-half times, the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.
Note: For mechanical splice, swaged socket and poured socket slings follow the rope manufacturer's recommendations for proof load testing provided that it is within the above-specified proof load range, including (c) of this subsection.
• Hand tucked slings, if proof load tested. To at least one, but not more than one and one-quarter, times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (d) The proof load test for components (fittings) attached to single legs must meet the requirements in (c) of this subsection;

     (e) Proof load testing for master links must be in accordance with Table 9.


Table 9

     Proof Load Test for Master Links on Wire Rope Slings


• Master links for two-leg bridle slings. To at least four times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Master links for three-leg bridle slings. To at least six times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Master links for four-leg bridle slings. To at least eight times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (7) Rated load. The term "rated capacity" is commonly used to describe rated load.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of sling material;
• Design factor;
• Type of hitch;
• Angle of loading (see Figure 7, Angle of Loading);
• Diameter of curvature over which the sling is used (D/d) (see Figure 8, D/d ratio);
• Fabrication efficiency.

     (a) Wire rope slings must be used within the rated loads shown in Tables 7 through 15 in ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, either use the rated load for the next lower angle or have a qualified person calculate the rated load.

     (b) Prohibit the use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person. See Figure 7.

     (c) Rated loads for slings used in a choker hitch must conform to the values shown in the above referenced tables, provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater. See Figure 9 and Table 10, Angle of Choke.

     (d) Use either Figure 9 and Table 10, the manufacturer, or a qualified person to determine the rated load if the angle of choke in a choker hitch is less than one hundred twenty degrees.

     (i) Inspect the entire length of the sling including splices, end attachments, and fittings.

     (ii) Remove slings from use if any of the conditions in Table 7 are found.

     (iii) Keep a record of the most recent periodic inspection available, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.


Figure 7

Angle of Loading


Figure 8

D/d Ratio


Note: When D is 25 times the component rope diameter (d) the D/d ratio is expressed as 25/1.


Figure 9

Angle of Choke


Table 10

Angle of Choke


Angle of Choke, deg. Rated Capacity, %
Over 120 100
90 - 120 87
60 - 89 74
30 - 59 62
0 - 29 49
Note: Percent of sling rated capacity in a choker hitch.

     (8) Use of wire rope slings.

     (a) Hitch the slings in a way that provides control of the load.

     (b) Shorten or adjust slings using only the methods approved by the manufacturer or qualified person.

     • Do not shorten or lengthen by knotting, twisting, or by wire rope clips.

     (c) Keep all parts of the human body from between the sling and the load, crane, or hoist hook.

     (d) Prohibit all of the following:

     (i) Intentional shock loading;

     (ii) Avoid twisting and kinking.

     (e) Decrease the rated load of the sling when D/d ratios (Figure 8) smaller than twenty-five to one. Consult the sling manufacturer for specific data or refer to the Wire Rope Sling User's Manual (wire rope technical board).

     (f) Follow Table 11, Use of Wire Rope Slings or Clips, when using any of the identified wire rope slings or clips.

     (g) Slings in contact with edges, corners, or protrusions must be protected with a material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage to the sling. See Figure 3.


Table 11

Use of Wire Rope Slings or Clips


If you are using: Then:
Single leg slings used with multiple-leg slings. Make sure the rating shown is not exceeded in any leg of the multiple-leg sling.
Hand tucked slings are used in a single leg vertical lift. Do not allow the sling or load to rotate.
Slings made with wire rope clips. Must not be used as a choker hitch.
Use only U-bolt wire rope clips that are made of drop-forged steel.
U-bolt wire rope clips. Follow Table 5 for the number and spacing of the clips.
Apply the U-bolt so the "U" section is in contact with the dead end of the rope (see Figure 10, Installation and Loading).


Figure 10

Installation and Loading
Proper Installation Requires
• Correct number of clips for wire rope size
• Correct spacing of clips
• Correct turnback length
• Correct torque on nuts
• Correct orientation of saddle on live end

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33810   Metal mesh slings.   (1) Identification information on metal mesh slings. Make sure all slings have legible identification information permanently attached to the sling which includes all of the following information:

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer;

     (b) Rated loads for the types of hitches used, and the angle they're based on;

     (c) Width and gauge;

     (d) Number of legs, if more than one;

     (e) Individual sling identification (e.g., serial numbers);

     (f) Repairing agency, if the sling has ever been repaired.

     (2) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect metal mesh slings before their initial use, according to Table 12, both:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the metal mesh sling is used. Immediately remove from service any sling damaged beyond the criteria in Table 12.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on metal mesh slings according to Table 12.

     (i) Inspect the entire length, including splices, end attachments, and fittings.

     (ii) Remove slings from use if any of the conditions in Table 12 are found.

     (iii) Keep a record of the most recent periodic inspection available, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.

Table 12

Metal Mesh Sling Inspection Table


Inspect metal mesh slings for conditions such as the following: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification; • At least once a year for slings in normal service;
• Broken welds along the sling edge; • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service;
• Broken brazed joints along the sling edge; • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service.
• Broken wire in any part of the mesh;
• Reduction in wire diameter of:
– Twenty-five percent due to abrasion;
– Fifteen percent due to corrosion;
• Lack of flexibility due to the distortion of the mesh;
• Distortion of the choker fitting so the depth of the slot is increased by more than ten percent;
• Distortion of either end fitting so the width of the eye opening is decreased by more than ten percent;
• A fifteen percent reduction of the original cross-sectional area of any point around the hook opening of the end fitting;
• Visible distortion of either end fitting out of its plane;
• Cracked end fitting;
• Slings in which the spirals are locked or without free articulation;
• Fittings that are pitted, corroded, cracked, bent, twisted, gouged, or broken;
• Other visible damage that raises doubt about the safety of the sling.

     (3) Repair, alteration, or modifications. Repair metal mesh slings as follows:

     (a) Make sure slings are only repaired by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (b) Straightening of spiral or cross rods, or forcing a spiral into position is prohibited (see Figure 11);

     (c) Mark the sling to show the repairing agency;

     (d) Replace cracked, broken, bent or damaged metal mesh or components instead of repairing them;

     (e) Proof load test repaired slings according to subsection (4) of this section.

     (4) Proof load testing.

     (a) Make sure the sling manufacturer or a qualified person proof load tests all new and repaired metal mesh slings before initial use;

     (b) Use a proof load test that is a minimum of two times the vertical hitch rated load.

     (5) Rated load.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of sling material;
• Design factor;
• Type of hitch;
• Angle of loading.

     (a) Metal mesh slings must be used within the rated loads shown in Table 7 in ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, use either the rated load for the next lower angle or one calculated by a qualified person.

     (b) Rate slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if fittings are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower rated capacity.

     (c) The use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees is prohibited, unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (d) Rated loads for slings used in a choker hitch must conform to the values shown in the above referenced table, provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater.

     (e) Have the manufacturer or a qualified person determine the rated load if the angle of choke in a choker hitch is less than one hundred twenty degrees.


Figure 11

Metal Mesh Sling


     (6) Use of metal mesh slings.

     (a) Use metal mesh slings safely by doing all of the following:

     (i) Shorten or adjust slings using only the methods approved by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (ii) Sling legs must not be kinked;

     (iii) Hitch slings in a way that provides control of the load.

     (b) Keep all parts of the human body from between the sling and the load, crane, or hoist hook.

     (c) Prohibit the following:

     (i) The use of metal mesh slings as bridles on suspended personnel platforms;

     (ii) Intentional shock loading;

     (iii) Straightening a spiral or cross rod or forcing a spiral into position;

     (iv) Avoid twisting and kinking.


Note: Slings in contact with edges, corners, or protrusions should be protected with a material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage. See Figure 3.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33815   Synthetic rope slings.   (1) Identification. Verify all slings have legible identification information attached to the sling which includes the following information:

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer;

     (b) Manufacturer's code or stock number;

     (c) Type of fiber material;

     (d) Rated loads for the types of hitches used, and the angle that the load is based on;

     (e) Number of legs, if more than one;

     (f) Repairing agency, if the sling has ever been repaired.


Figure 12

Synthetic Fiber Rope Slings


     (2) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect synthetic fiber rope slings before their initial use, according to Table 13, both:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the synthetic fiber rope sling is used. Immediately remove any sling from service that is damaged beyond the criteria listed in Table 13.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on synthetic fiber rope slings, according to Table 13.

     (i) Examine each sling and component individually, taking care to expose and examine all surfaces.

     (ii) Inspect the entire length including splices, end attachments, and fittings.

     (iii) Remove slings from use if any of the conditions in Table 13 are found.

     (iv) Keep a record of the most recent periodic inspection available, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.

Table 13

     Synthetic Rope Sling Inspection and Removal Criteria


Inspect synthetic rope slings for the following conditions: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification;
• Cuts, gouges, or areas of extensive fiber breakage along the length;
• Abraded areas on the rope; • At least once a year for slings in normal service;
• Damage that is estimated to have reduced the effective diameter of the rope by more than ten percent; • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service;
• Uniform fiber breakage along the major part of the length of the rope in the sling such that the entire rope appears covered with fuzz or whiskers; • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service.
• Inside the rope, fiber breakage, fused or melted fiber (observed by prying or twisting to open the strands) involving damage estimated at ten percent of the fiber in any strand or the rope as a whole;
• Discoloration, brittle fibers, and hard or stiff areas that may indicate chemical, ultraviolet or heat damage;
• Dirt and grit in the interior of the rope structure that is deemed excessive;
• Foreign matter that has permeated the rope, making it difficult to handle and attracting and holding grit;
• Kinks or distortion in the rope structure, particularly if caused by forcibly pulling on loops (known as hockles);
• Melted, hard, or charred areas that affect more than ten percent of the diameter of the rope or affect several adjacent strands along the length that affect more than ten percent of strand diameters;
• Poor condition of thimbles or other components manifested by corrosion, cracks, distortion, sharp edges, or localized wear;
• Hooks that have any of the following conditions:
– Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook;
– Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening five percent, not to exceed one-quarter inch, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Wear exceeding ten percent, of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Self-locking mechanism that does not lock.
• Other visible damage that raises doubt about the safety of the sling.

     (3) Repair, alteration, or modifications. Meet the following requirements when repairing synthetic rope slings:

     (a) Synthetic rope slings must only be repaired by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (b) Mark the sling to show the repairing agency;

     (c) Use components that meet the requirements of this part for sling repair;

     (d) Do not repair slings by knotting or resplicing existing sling ropes;

     (e) Proof load test repaired slings according to the requirements in subsection (4) of this section.

     (4) Proof load test. The sling manufacturer or a qualified person must proof load test repaired slings and slings incorporating previously used or welded fittings before initial use, according to Table 14:


Table 14

     Synthetic Rope Sling Proof Load Requirements


Type of equipment: Proof load test:
• Single leg slings;
• Multiple leg slings; To a minimum of two times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Endless slings;
• Fittings attached to single legs.
Master links for two-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of four times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for three-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of six times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for four-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of eight times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (5) Rated load.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of the sling material;
• Design factor;
• Type of hitch (see Figure 13, Hitch Types for Synthetic Rope Slings);
• Angle of loading (see Figure 7, Angle of Loading);
• Diameter of curvature over which the sling is used (see Figure 8, D/d Ratio).

     (a) Synthetic rope slings must be used within the rated loads shown in Tables 18 and 19 in ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, either use the rated load for the next lower angle or one calculated by a qualified person.

     (b) Rate slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if you use fittings that are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower-rated capacity.

     (c) The use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees is prohibited, unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person. (See Figure 7.)

     (d) Rated loads for slings used in a choker hitch must conform to the values shown in the above referenced tables, provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater.

     (e) Use Figure 9, the manufacturer, or a qualified person to determine the rated load if the angle of choke in a choker hitch is less than one hundred twenty degrees.


Figure 13

Hitch Types for Synthetic Rope

The symbols below represent load or support in contact with the rope sling. The contact surface diameter divided by the rope diameter is designated D/d ratio as described in Figure 8.
Represents a contact surface which must have a diameter of curvature at least double the diameter of the rope from which the sling is made.
Represents a contact surface which must have a diameter of curvature at least eight times the diameter of the rope.
Represents a load in choker hitch and illustrates the rotary force on the load and/or the slippage of the rope in contact with the load. Diameter of curvature of load surface must be at least double the diameter of the rope.


Note: Legs five degrees or less from vertical may be considered vertical. For slings more than five degrees vertical, the actual angle must be used.

     (6) Use of synthetic ropes.

     (a) Use synthetic rope slings safely by doing all of the following:

     (i) Shorten or adjust slings only with methods approved by the manufacturer or qualified person;

     (ii) Slings must not be shortened or lengthened by knotting or twisting;

     (iii) Hitch slings in a way that provides control of the load;

     (iv) Slings in contact with edges, corners, protrusions, or abrasive surfaces must be protected with a material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage, see Figure 3;

     (v) Do not allow the sling or load to rotate when hand -tucked slings are used in a single leg vertical lift application; and

     (vi) Keep all parts of the human body from between the sling and the load, crane, or hoist hook.

     (b) All of the following is prohibited:

     (i) Intentional shock loading; and

     (ii) Twisting or kinking.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33820   Synthetic webbing slings.   (1) Identification. Make sure all slings have legible identification information permanently attached to the sling which includes the following information:

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer;

     (b) Manufacturer's code or stock number;

     (c) Rated loads for the types of hitches used, and the angle that the load is based on;

     (d) Type of synthetic web material;

     (e) Number of legs, if more than one;

     (f) Repairing agency, if the sling is ever repaired.


Figure 14

Synthetic Webbing Slings


     (2) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect synthetic webbing slings before their initial use, according to Table 14:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the synthetic webbing sling is used. Immediately remove from service any sling that is damaged beyond the criteria listed in Table 15.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on synthetic webbing slings, according to Table 15.

     (i) Examine each sling and component individually, taking care to expose and examine all surfaces.

     (ii) Remove slings from use if any of the conditions in Table 15 are found.

     (iii) Keep a written record of the most recent periodic inspection available, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.

Table 15

     Synthetic Webbing Sling Inspection


Inspect synthetic webbing slings for the following conditions: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification;
• Acid or caustic burns; • At least once a year for slings in normal service;
• Melting or charring on any part of the sling; • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service;
• Holes, tears, cuts or snags; • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service.
• Broken or worn stitching in load bearing splices;
• Excessive abrasive wear;
• Knots in any part of the sling;
• Discoloration, brittle fibers, and hard or stiff areas that may indicate chemical or ultraviolet/sunlight damage;
• Fittings that are pitted, corroded, cracked, bent, twisted, gouged or broken;
• Hooks that have any of the following conditions:
– Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook;
– Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening five percent, not to exceed one-quarter inch, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Wear exceeding ten percent, of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Self-locking mechanism that does not lock.
• Other visible damage that causes doubt about the safety of continued use of the sling.

     (3) Repair, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Meet the following requirements when repairing synthetic webbing slings:

     (i) Slings are only to be repaired by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (ii) Temporary repairs are prohibited;

     (iii) Mark the sling to show the repairing agency;

     (iv) Components used for sling repair must meet the requirements of this part;

     (v) Cracked, broken, melted, or otherwise damaged webbing material or fittings other than hooks must not be repaired;

     (vi) Load bearing splices must not be repaired;

     (b) Proof load test repaired slings according to the requirements in subsection (4) of this section.

     (4) Proof load test. The sling manufacturer or a qualified person must proof load test repaired slings and slings that have been altered or modified before initial use according to Table 16:


Table 16

     Synthetic Webbing Sling Proof Test Requirements


Type of equipment: Proof load test:
•

•

•

•

Single leg slings;

Multiple leg slings;

Endless slings;

Fittings attached to single legs.

To a minimum of two times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for two-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of four times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for three-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of six times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for four-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of eight times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (5) Rated loads.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of the material;
• Design factor;
• Type of hitch;
• Angle of loading (see Figure 7, Angle of Loading);
• Fabrication efficiency;
• Diameter of curvature over which the sling is used.

     (a) Synthetic web slings must be used within the rated loads shown in Tables 20 through 24 in ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, use either the rated load for the next lower angle or one calculated by a qualified person.

     (b) Rate slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if you use fittings that are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower-rated capacity.

     (c) The use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees is prohibited, unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person. (See Figure 7.)

     (d) Use Figure 9, Angle of Choke, the manufacturer, or a qualified person to determine the rated load if the angle of choke in a choker hitch is less than one hundred twenty degrees.

     (e) Rated loads for slings used in a choker hitch must conform to the values shown in the above referenced tables, provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater. (See Figure 9.)

     (6) Use of synthetic webbing slings.

     (a) Use synthetic webbing slings safely by meeting all of the following requirements:

     (i) Shorten or adjust slings only with methods approved by the manufacturer or qualified person;

     (ii) Slings must not be shortened or lengthened by knotting or twisting;

     (iii) Hitch slings in a way that provides control of the load;

     (iv) Protect slings with material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage from sharp edges, corners, protrusions, or abrasive surfaces. See Figure 3;

     (v) Keep all parts of the human body from between the sling and the load, crane, or hoist hook.

     (b) Intentional shock loading is prohibited.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33825   Synthetic roundslings.   (1) Identification. All synthetic roundslings must be marked with the following information:

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer;

     (b) Manufacturer's code or stock number;

     (c) Core material;

     (d) Cover material if different from core material;

     (e) Rated loads for the types of hitches used, and the angle that the load is based on;

     (f) Number of legs, if more than one;

     (g) Repairing agency, if the sling is ever repaired.


Figure 15

Synthetic Roundslings


     (2) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect synthetic roundslings before their initial use, according to Table 17, both:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the synthetic roundsling is used. Immediately remove from service any sling that is damaged beyond the criteria listed in Table 17.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on synthetic roundslings, according to Table 17.

     (i) Examine each sling and component individually, taking care to expose and examine all surfaces.

     (ii) Remove slings from use if any of the conditions in Table 17 are found.

     (iii) Keep a written record of the most recent periodic inspection available, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.

Table 17

Synthetic Roundsling Inspection and Removal Criteria


Inspect synthetic roundslings for conditions such as the following: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification.
• Acid or caustic burns.
• Evidence of heat damage.
• Holes, tears, cuts, abrasive wear or snags that expose the core yarns.
• Broken or damaged core yarns.
• Weld spatter that exposes core yarns.
• Roundslings that are knotted. • At least once a year for slings in normal service.
• Fittings that are pitted, corroded, cracked, bent, twisted, gouged or broken. • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service.
• Hooks that have any of the following conditions: • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service.
– Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook.
– Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening five percent, not to exceed one-quarter inch, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
– Wear exceeding ten percent, of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
– Self-locking mechanism that does not lock.
• Other visible damage that causes doubt about the safety of continued use of the sling.

     (3) Repair, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Meet the following requirements when repairing synthetic roundslings:

     (i) Only the manufacturer or a qualified person can repair slings;

     (ii) Mark the sling to show the repairing agency;

     (iii) Only use components that meet the requirements of this rule to repair slings;

     (iv) Replace cracked, broken, or bent fittings other than hooks; do not repair them.

     (b) Both of the following are prohibited:

     (i) Temporary repairs of roundslings or fittings; and

     (ii) The repair of load bearing yarns.

     Proof load test repaired slings according to the requirements in subsection (4) of this section.

     (4) Proof load tests. The sling manufacturer or a qualified person must proof load test repaired slings and slings that have been altered or modified before initial use, according to Table 18:


Table 18

     Synthetic Roundslings Proof Test Requirements


Type of equipment: Proof load test:
•

•

•

•

Single leg slings.

Multiple leg slings.

Endless slings.

Fittings attached to single legs.

To a minimum of two times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for two-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of four times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for three-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of six times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for four-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of eight times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (5) Rated loads.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of the material.
• Design factor.
• Type of hitch.
• Angle of loading. (See Figure 7, Angle of Loading.)
• Diameter of curvature over which the sling is used.

     (a) Synthetic roundslings must be used within the rated loads shown in Table 25 in ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, either use the rated load for the next lower angle or one calculated by a qualified person.

     (b) Rate slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if you use fittings that are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower rated capacity.

     (c) Prohibit the use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (d) Use Figure 7, Angle of Choke, the manufacturer, or a qualified person to determine the rated load if the angle of choke in a choker hitch is less than one hundred twenty degrees.

     (e) Rated loads for slings used in a choker hitch must conform to the values shown in the above referenced Table 10 provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater. (See Figure 7.)

     (6) Use of synthetic roundslings.

     (a) Use methods approved by the manufacturer or qualified person to shorten or adjust slings. Slings must not be shortened or lengthened by knotting or twisting.

     (b) Hitch slings in a way that provides control of the load.

     (c) Protect slings with material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage from sharp edges, corners, protrusions, or abrasive surfaces. (See Figure 3.)

     (d) Keep all parts of the human body from between the sling and the load, crane, or hoist hook.

     (e) Intentional shock loading is prohibited.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-339   Rigging hardware and lifting devices other than slings and rigging hardware.  

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33900   General requirements.   (1) Inspections.

     (a) A qualified person must perform an inspection on all hardware according to Table 19, each day before using. If a daily inspection is not feasible because the hardware is in a semipermanent or inaccessible location, a periodic inspection is allowed instead of daily.

     (b) Hardware must be removed from service when it shows any conditions listed in Table 19, or any other hazardous condition.


Table 19

Hardware Inspection


For all hardware, inspect for the following:
• Missing or illegible identification.
• For shackles, missing or illegible manufacturer's name or trademark and/or rated load identification.
• Indications of heat damage, including weld spatter or arc strikes.
• Excessive pitting or corrosion.
• Load bearing components that are:
– Bent.
– Twisted.
– Distorted.
– Stretched.
– Elongated.
– Cracked.
– Broken.
• Excessive nicks or gouges. For riggings blocks, excessive nicks, gouges and wear.
• Ten percent reduction of the original or catalog dimension at any point. For shackles, this includes at any point around the body or pin.
• Excessive thread damage or wear, where applicable.
• Evidence of unauthorized welding or modification.
• Any other conditions that cause doubt as to the safety of continued use.
• On shackles, also inspect for incomplete pin engagement.
• On swivels and swivel hoist rings, check for lack of ability to freely rotate or pivot.
• On compression hardware, also check for:
– Unauthorized replacement components.
– Insufficient number of wire rope clips.
– Improperly tightened wire rope clips.
– Damaged wire rope.
– Indications of wire rope slippage.
– Improper assembly.
• On swivels, check for loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices.
• On blocks check for:
– Loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices.
– Misalignment or wobble in sheaves.
– Excessive sheave groove corrugation or wear.

     (2) Repairs, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Rigging hardware must be repaired, altered or modified according to the hardware manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (b) Welding of hardware is prohibited unless authorized by the manufacturer.

     (c) Replacement parts must meet or exceed the original rigging hardware manufacturer's specifications.

     (3) Hardware use.

     (a) Hardware must be selected with the characteristics suitable for the application and environment where it will be used.

     (b) The rated load of the hardware must not be exceeded.

     (c) At least one of the workers using rigging hardware must meet the requirements of WAC 296-155-33700.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33905   Shackles.   (1) Pins must be connected to the choking eye of the sling when a shackle is used in a choker hitch.

     (2) Screw pins must be:

     (a) Fully engaged, with the shoulder in contact with the shackle body (see Figure 16, Typical Shackle Components).

     (b) Rigged in a way that keeps the pin from unscrewing while in use.

     (c) Secured from rotation or loosening if used for long-term installations.

     (3) Cotter pins must be kept in good working condition.

     (4) If the shackle is side loaded, reduce the rated load, according to the recommendations of the manufacturer or a qualified person (see Figure 17, Side Loading).


Note: See Figure 18, Shackle Types, for examples of types of shackles covered by this rule.

Figure 16

Typical Shackle Components

Figure 17

Side Loading


Side Loading Angle, deg. % Rated Load Reduction
In-line (0) to 5 None
6 to 45 30%
46 to 90 50%
Over 90 Not permitted unless authorized by manufacturer or qualified person

Figure 18

Shackle Types

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33910   Adjustable hardware.   (1) Turnbuckles. Follow these rigging practices for turnbuckles:

     (a) Locking nuts, if used, must be compatible with the threads of the turnbuckle end. (See Figure 19, Turnbuckle Types.)

     (b) For long-term installations, secure turnbuckles in a way that prevents unscrewing.

     (c) Turnbuckle end fitting threads must be fully engaged in the body threads.

     (d) Components, including pins, bolts, nuts, or cotter pins used with jaw ends, must be in good working condition prior to use.


Notes: • See Figure 19 for types of turnbuckles covered by this rule.
• Pipe bodies conceal the length of thread engagement. Verify full engagement before loading. (See Figure 19.)


Figure 19

Turnbuckle Types


     (2) Eyebolts. Follow these rigging practices for eyebolts:

     (a) Eyebolts not shouldered to the load must only be used for in-line loads. (See Figure 20, Eyebolts.)

     (b) Only shoulder eyebolts must be used for angular lifting.

     (i) The shoulder must be flush and securely tightened against the load.

     (ii) The working load limit (WLL) must be reduced as shown in Figure 31.

     (iii) For angular lifts, the plane of the eye must be aligned with the direction of loading. If needed, flat washers can be used under the shoulder to position the plane of the eye. (See Figure 20.)

     (c) When using eyebolts in a tapped blind hole, the effective thread length must be at least one and one-half times the diameter of the bolt for engagement in steel. (See Figure 20.) For other engagements, or engagements in other materials, contact the eyebolt manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (d) When using eyebolts in a tapped through-hole of less than one diameter thickness, a nut must be used under the load, and must be fully engaged and tightened securely against the load. (See Figure 20.)

     (e) When eyebolts are used in an untapped through-hole, the nut under the load must be fully engaged. If the eyebolt is not shouldered to the load, a second nut on top of the load should be used if possible. (See Figure 20.)


Note: See Figure 20 for examples of eyebolts covered by this rule.

Figure 20

Eyebolts


     (3) Eye nuts. Follow these rigging practices for eye nuts (see Figure 21, Eye Nuts):

     (a) The threads of eye nuts must be fully engaged;

     (b) Eye nuts must only be used for in-line loads;

     (c) Components must be in good working condition prior to use.

Figure 21

Eye Nuts


     (4) Swivel hoist rings. Follow these rigging practices for swivel hoist rings:

     (a) The swivel hoist ring working load limit (WLL) must meet or exceed the anticipated angular rigging tension. (See Figure 22, Angle of Loading.)

     (b) Swivel hoist rings must be tightened to the torque specifications of the manufacturer.

     (c) The swivel hoist ring must be free to rotate and pivot without interference during lifting. (See Figure 23, Swivel Hoist Rings.)

     (d) The load applied to the swivel hoist ring must be centered in the bail to prevent side loading.

     (e) Any attached lifting component must be narrower than the inside width of the bail to avoid spreading.

     (f) When using swivel hoist rings in a threaded-hole, the effective thread length must be one and one-half times the diameter of the bolt for steel. (See Figure 23.) For other thread engagements or engagement in other materials, contact the manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (g) When using swivel hoist rings in a through-hole application, a nut and washer must be used. A washer and nut must be in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. The nut must be fully engaged. (See Figure 23.)

     (h) The bushing flange must fully contact the load surface. (See Figure 23.)

     (i) Spacers or washers must not be used between the bushing flange and the mounting surface of the load being lifted.


Note: See Figure 23 for examples of swivel hoist rings covered by this rule.

Figure 22

Angle of Loading (Adjustable Hardware)


Figure 23

Swivel Hoist Rings

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33915   Compression hardware.   (1) Wire rope clips. Follow these assembly requirements for wire rope clips:

     (a) Before installing a wire rope clip on plastic coated or plastic impregnated wire rope, the wire rope clip manufacturer, wire rope manufacturer or a qualified person must be consulted.

     (b) For U-bolt clips used to create end terminations, the saddle must be placed on the live end of the wire rope, with the U-bolt on the dead end side. (See Figure 24, Wire Rope Clips.)

     (c) The assembly must be tested by loading the connection to at least the expected working load. After unloading, retighten the wire rope clips to the torque recommended by the manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (d) Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the minimum number of clips, spacing and turn-back measurements, and to the recommended torque values. In the absence of the manufacturer's recommendations follow Table 5.


Figure 24

Wire Rope Clips


     (2) Wedge sockets. Follow these assembly requirements for wedge sockets:

     (a) Wedge sockets must be assembled as recommended by the manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (b) Before installing a wedge socket on plastic coated or plastic impregnated wire rope the wedge socket manufacturer, wire rope manufacturer or a qualified person must be consulted.

     (c) The assembler must match the proper wedge with the socket for the wire rope to be installed. Wedges must not be interchanged between different manufacturers' sockets or models.

     (d) The live end of the wire rope in the wedge socket cavity must be in alignment with the socket's pin. (See Figure 25, Wedge Sockets.)

     (e) The length of the dead end tail of the wire rope must be as required by the manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (f) The tail of the dead end of the wire rope extending beyond the wedge socket must be secured as recommended by the wedge socket manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (g) The dead end of the wire rope must not be secured to the live end of the wire rope in a way that restricts the movement of the live end. (See Figure 25.)

     (h) After assembly the connection must be loaded to fully seat the wedge before use.


Figure 25

Wedge Sockets

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33920   Links, rings, and swivels.   (1) Follow these rigging practices for links and rings:

     (a) The link or ring must be of the proper shape and size to make sure it seats properly in the hook or lifting device.

     (b) Multiple slings or rigging hardware gathered in a link or ring must not exceed a one hundred twenty degree included angle. (See Figure 22, Angle of Loading.)


Note: See Figure 26, Links and Rings, for examples of links and rings covered by this rule.

Figure 26

Links and Rings


     (2) Follow these rigging practices for swivels:

     (a) Swivels must only be used on in-line loads. (See Figure 27, Swivels.)


Note: Swivels are positioning hardware, and are not intended to be rotated under load.

     (b) Swivels must be of the proper shape and size to make sure it seats correctly in the hook or lifting device.

     (c) All swivel components must be kept in good working condition.


Figure 27

Swivels

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-33925   Rigging blocks.   (1) The rigging block components must be fully engaged, with all fasteners and retaining devices in place and in good working order before use.

     (2) The rope must be in the sheave groove when the rigging block begins to take load.

     (3) The load line multiplied by the block load factor must not exceed the rated load of the rigging block. (See Figure 28, Block Load Factor Multipliers.)

     (4) Load line fittings must not contact the rigging block sheave(s).




Example: Load = 1,000 lb
Line Pull: 1,000 lb χ 2 = 500 lb
Load Block "C" = 500 lb x 2 = 1,000 lb
(line pull x factor for 0 deg. angle)
Load Block "D" = 500 lb x 1.87 + 500 lb = 1,435 lb
(line pull x factor for 40 deg. angle + dead-end load)
Load Block "E" = 500 lb x 0.84 = 420 lb
(line pull x factor for 130 deg. angle)
Load Block "F" = 500 lb x 1.41 = 705 lb
(line pull x factor for 90 deg. angle)
Figure 28

Block Load Factor Multipliers

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-340   Lifting devices other than slings and rigging hardware.  

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-34005   Structural and mechanical lifters.   (1) Structural and mechanical lifting devices must be constructed in accordance with ASME B30.20-2010, Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices.

     (2) The rated load of the lifting device must be legibly marked on the main structure or on a tag attached to it where it is visible. If the lifting device is made up of several lifters, each detachable from the group, these lifters must also be marked with their individual rated loads.

     (3) All structural and mechanical lifting devices must be marked with the following information:

     (a) Manufacturer's name and address;

     (b) Serial number;

     (c) Lifter weight, if over one hundred pounds (45 kg);

     (d) Rated load as required in subsection (2) of this section;

     (e) Name and address of repairer or modifier, when the lifting device has been repaired or modified.

     (4) Installation.

     (a) Structural and mechanical lifters must be assembled and installed according to manufacturer's instructions.

     (b) The installer must check for correct rotation of all motors.

     (5) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect all new, altered, repaired, or modified lifting devices according to Tables 20 and 21. The inspection of altered, repaired or modified lifting devices can be limited to the parts affected, if a qualified person determines that is all that is needed.

     (b) The operator must inspect the lifting device before and during every lift for any indication of damage. Check the following items:

     (i) Surface of the load for debris;

     (ii) Condition and operation of the controls; and

     (iii) Condition and operation of the indicators and meters when installed.

     (c) Lifting devices must be inspected, by the operator or another competent person, according to Table 20.

     (i) If any damage is found, have a qualified person determine whether there is a hazard.

     (ii) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.


Table 20

Structural and Mechanical Lifter Frequent Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Structural members for:
• Deformation.
• Cracks.
• Excessive wear on any part of the lifter.
• Normal service - Monthly.
The device for: • Heavy service - Weekly to monthly.
• Loose or missing: • Severe service - Daily to weekly.
-

-

-

-

-

Guards.

Fasteners.

Covers.

Stops.

Nameplates.

• Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before and after each occurrence.
• Before use, when any lifter has been idle for at least one month.
• All functional operating mechanisms for maladjustments interfering with operation.
• Automatic hold-and-release mechanisms for maladjustments interfering with operation.

Note: • Normal service means service that involves operation with various weights within the rated load limit, averaging less than sixty-five percent of rated load limits.
• Heavy service means service that involves operation within the rated load limit, that exceeds the limits of normal service.
• Severe service means service that involves normal or heavy service with abnormal operating conditions.

     (d) A qualified person must perform a periodic inspection on structural and mechanical lifters according to Table 21. Include the items in Table 20 of this section.

     (i) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.

     (ii) Dated inspection reports must be kept of the most recent periodic inspection.


Table 21

Structural and Mechanical Lifting Device Periodic Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Loose bolts or fasteners. • Normal service for equipment in place - Yearly.
Cracked or worn gear, pulleys, sheaves, sprockets, bearings, chains, and belts. • Heavy service - Semiannually.
Excessive wear of friction pads, linkages, and other mechanical parts. • Severe service - Quarterly.
Excessive wear at hoist hooking points and load support clevises or pins. • Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before the first such occurrence and as directed by the qualified person for any subsequent occurrences.

Note: • Normal service means service that involves operation with various weights within the rated load limit, averaging less than sixty-five percent of rated load limits.
• Heavy service means service that involves operation within the rated load limit, that exceeds the limits of normal service.
• Severe service means service that involves normal or heavy service with abnormal operating conditions.

     (6) Operational tests.

     (a) A qualified person must perform an operational test on new, altered, repaired, or modified lifters before use. The qualified person can limit the testing of altered, repaired or modified lifters to the parts affected.

     (b) The following items must be tested:

     (i) Lifters with moving parts must be tested to determine that the lifter operates according to the manufacturer's instructions.

     (ii) Lifters with manually operated or automatic latches must be tested to determine that the latch operates according to manufacturer's instructions.

     (iii) All indicator lights, gages, horns, bells, alarms, pointers, and other warning devices must be tested.

     (c) Dated reports of all operational tests must be kept on file.

     (7) Repair.

     (a) Structural and mechanical lifting devices must be repaired as follows:

     (i) Adjustments and testing must be done only by a qualified person;

     (ii) Replacement parts used must be at least equal to the original manufacturer's specifications;

     (iii) The device must be inspected according to subsection (5) of this section before returning to service.

     (b) The following precautions must be taken before repairs on a lifting device are started:

     (i) Disconnect, lock out and tag all sources of power "Out of Service," if applicable;

     (ii) Tag the lifting device removed from service for repair "Out of Service."

     (8) Lifting devices must be operated only by qualified personnel.

     (9) Operators must do the following:

     (a) Test all controls before use, each shift;

     (b) Consult a competent person before handling the load whenever there is any doubt as to safety;    

     (c) Respond only to instructions from competent persons, except for stop signals. The operator must obey a stop order at all times, no matter who gives it;

     (d) Do not load the lifting device in excess of its rated load or with any load that it is not specifically designed for;

     (e) Apply the lifter to the load according to the instruction manual;

     (f) Check that:

     (i) Lifter ropes or chains are not kinked.

     (ii) Multiple part lines are not twisted around each other.

     (g) Bring the lifter over the load in a way that minimizes swinging;

     (h) Keep the load or lifter from contacting any obstruction;

     (i) Set down any attached load and store the lifting device before leaving it;

     (j) Check that all personnel are clear of the load;

     (k) Using the lifter for side pulls or sliding the load is prohibited, unless specifically authorized by a qualified person;

     (l) Riding on loads or the lifting device is prohibited.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-34010   Vacuum lifters.   (1) Vacuum lifting devices must be constructed in accordance with ASME B30.20-2010, Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices.

     (2) Rated load.

     (a) The rated load of each lifter and each pad must be legibly marked on the main structure or on a tag attached to it where it is visible. The marking must refer to the instruction manual for information about decreases in rating due to loads:

     (i) Rigidity;

     (ii) Strength;

     (iii) Overhang;

     (iv) Surface condition;

     (v) Angle of load;

     (vi) Temperature;

     (vii) Number of pads;

     (viii) Elevation and vacuum level.

     (b) If the vacuum lifting device has shut-off valves on individual pads or groups of pads, the rated load of each pad must also be marked.

     (3) The vacuum lifter must be clearly marked on the main structure with all of the following:

     (a) Manufacturer's name and address;

     (b) Model number;

     (c) Serial number;

     (d) Lifter weight;

     (e) Electrical power requirements, if applicable;

     (f) Pressure and volume of compressed air required, if applicable;

     (g) Rated load, as required in subsection (2) of this section;

     (h) If repaired or modified, the name, address, and lifter identification of repairer or modifier.

     (4) Installation.

     (a) Vacuum lifters must be assembled and installed according to manufacturer's instructions.

     (b) The installer must check:

     (i) That the power supply is the same as what is shown on the nameplate.

     (ii) For correct rotation of all motors.

     (c) Connect the electrical power supply to the vacuum lifter to either:

     (i) The line side of the crane disconnect; or

     (ii) An independent circuit.

     (5) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect all new, altered, repaired, or modified vacuum lifters. A qualified person can limit the inspection of altered, repaired or modified lifters to the affected parts.

     (b) The operator must inspect the lifter before and during every lift for any indication of damage, including all of the following:

     (i) Surface of the load for debris;

     (ii) Seal of the vacuum pad for debris;

     (iii) Condition and operation of the controls;

     (iv) Condition and operation of the indicators, meters and pumps when installed.

     (c) Lifters must be inspected, by the operator or another competent person, according to Table 22.

     (d) A qualified person must determine whether signs of damage indicate a hazard.

     (e) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.

     (f) A qualified person must perform a periodic inspection of vacuum lifters according to Table 23. Include the items in Table 22 of this section.

     (g) Dated inspection records must be kept on all critical items such as supporting structure, motors, controls, and other auxiliary components.

     (h) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.


Table 22

Vacuum Lifter Frequent Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Structural members for: • Normal service - Monthly.
• Deformation. • Heavy service - Weekly to monthly.
• Cracks. • Severe service - Daily to weekly.
• Excessive wear. • Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before and after each occurrence.
The vacuum generator for output.
The vacuum pad seal rings for:
• Cuts.
•

•

•

Tears.

Excessive wear.

Foreign particles.

• Before using, when a lifting device has been idle for more than one month.
Vacuum lines and connections for:
• Leakage.
• Cuts.
• Kinks.
• Collapsed areas of hoses.
The vacuum reservoir for:
• Leaks.
• Visible damage.
The entire vacuum system including indicator lights, gages, horns, bells, pointers or other warning devices, and vacuum level indicators:
• Attach a nonporous, clean surface to the vacuum pad or pads.
• Stop the vacuum source.
• Check that the vacuum level in the system does not decrease by more than the manufacturer's specified rate.

Table 23

     Vacuum Lifting Device Periodic Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
External evidence of:
• Looseness. • Normal service for equipment in place - Yearly.
• Wear. • Heavy service - Semiannually.
• Deformation. • Severe service - Quarterly.
•

•

Cracking.

Corrosion.

• Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before the first such occurrence and as directed by the qualified person for any subsequent occurrences.
External evidence of damage to:
• Supporting structure.
• Motors.
• Controls.
• Other auxiliary components.
Clear warning labels.

Note: • Normal service means service that involves operation with various weights within the rated load limit, averaging less than sixty-five percent of rated load limits.
• Heavy service means service that involves operation within the rated load limit, that exceeds the limits of normal service.
• Severe service means service that involves normal or heavy service with abnormal operating conditions.

     (6) Operational tests.

     (a) A qualified person must perform an operational test on new, altered, repaired, or modified vacuum lifters before use. The qualified person can limit the testing of altered, repaired or modified lifters to the parts affected.

     (b) The following items must be tested:

     (i) Moving parts;

     (ii) Latches;

     (iii) Stops;

     (iv) Limit switches;

     (v) Control devices;

     (vi) Vacuum lines;

     (vii) The seals and connections must be tested for leaks by attaching a smooth nonporous clean material to the vacuum pad or pads and then stopping the vacuum source. The vacuum level in the system must not decrease more than the manufacturer's specified rate.

     (c) Dated reports of all operations tests must be kept on file.

     (7) Load tests.

     (a) Prior to initial use, all new, altered, repaired, or modified vacuum lifting devices must be load tested and inspected by a qualified person. The qualified person can limit the test to the areas affected by the alteration, repair or modification.

     (b) Test loads must not be more than one hundred twenty-five percent of the rated load of the system, unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (c) Written reports must be kept confirming the load rating of the vacuum lifting device.

     (d) The load test must consist of one of the following procedures:

     (i) Actual load test:

     (A) Attach pads to the designated test load.

     (B) Raise the test load a small distance to make sure the load is supported by the vacuum-lifting device.

     (C) Hold the load for two minutes.

     (D) Lower the load for release.

     (ii) Simulated load test. Using a test fixture, apply forces to all load bearing components either individually or in assemblies equivalent to the forces encountered by the components if they were supporting a load that was one hundred twenty-five percent of the rated load.

     (e) After the test, the vacuum lifting device must be visually inspected. Any condition that constitutes a hazard must be corrected before the lifting device is placed in service. If the correction affects the structure, then the lifter must be retested.

     (8) Repair.

     (a) Repair vacuum lifting devices as follows:

     (i) Adjustments and testing must be done only by a qualified person;

     (ii) Use replacement parts that are at least equal to the original manufacturer's specification;

     (iii) The lifting device must be inspected before returning to service as required in subsection (5) of this section.

     (b) Take the following precautions before repairs on a lifting device are started:

     (i) Move the vacuum-lifting device to an area where it will cause the least interference with other operations;

     (ii) Disconnect, lock out and tag all sources of power "Out of Service," if applicable;

     (iii) Tag the lifting device removed from service for repair "Out of Service."

     (9) Lifting devices must be operated only by qualified personnel.

     (10) Operators must do the following:

     (a) Test all controls before use during a shift;

     (b) Consult a competent person before handling the load whenever safety is in doubt;

     (c) Respond only to instructions from competent persons, except for stop orders. The operator must obey a stop order at all times, no matter who gives it;

     (d) Do not load the lifter in excess of its rated load or with any load that it isn't specifically designed for;

     (e) Apply the lifter to the load according to the manufacturer's instructions;

     (f) Check that:

     (i) Ropes or chains are not kinked.

     (ii) Multiple part lines are not twisted around each other.

     (iii) The pad contact surface is clean and free of loose particles.

     (g) Check that vacuum lines are not:

     (i) Kinked or twisted.

     (ii) Wrapped around or looped over parts of the lifting device that will move during the lift.

     (h) Bring the lifter over the load in a way that minimizes swinging;

     (i) Lift the load a few inches to make sure that the lifting device was correctly applied;

     (j) Keep the load or lifter from contacting any obstruction;

     (k) Do the following if power goes off while making a lift:

     (i) Warn all people in the area;

     (ii) Set the load down if possible.

     (l) Set down any attached load and store the lifting device before leaving it;

     (m) Check that all personnel are clear of the load;

     (n) Using the lifter for side pulls or sliding the load is prohibited, unless specifically authorized by a qualified person;

     (o) Riding on the load or the lifter is prohibited.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-34015   Close proximity lifting magnets.   (1) Close proximity lifting magnets must be constructed in accordance with ASME B30.20-2010, Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices.

     (2) Rated load.

     (a) General application magnets must have the rated load (capacity) marked either on the lifting magnet or on a tag attached to it. The marking must refer to the instruction manual for information about decreases in rating due to the loads.

     (i) Surface condition.

     (ii) Thickness.

     (iii) Percentage of contact with the magnet.

     (iv) Temperature.

     (v) Metallurgical composition.

     (vi) Deflection.

     (b) Specified application magnets must have the rated load (capacity) either on the lifting magnet or on a tag attached to it, referring to the specific loads for which the capacity applies.

     (3) Identification. All close proximity lifting magnets must be marked with the following information:

     (a) Manufacturer's name and address;

     (b) Model and lifting magnet unit identification;

     (c) Weight of lifting magnet;

     (d) Rated load, as required in subsection (2) of this section;

     (e) Duty cycle, if applicable;

     (f) Cold current (amps) at sixty-eight degrees Fahrenheit (twenty degrees Celsius), if applicable; and

     (g) Voltage of primary power supply or battery, if applicable.

     (h) If repaired or modified, name and address of repairer or modifier and (a) through (g) of this subsection if changed.

     (4) Lifting magnets must be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.

     (5) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect all new, altered, repaired, or modified lifting magnets according to Tables 24 and 25. The inspection of altered, repaired or modified lifting magnets can be limited to the parts affected, if a qualified person determines that is all that is needed.

     (b) The operator must inspect the lifting magnet before and during every lift for any indication of damage. Check all of the following items:

     (i) Lifting magnet face and surface of the load for foreign materials and smoothness;

     (ii) Condition and operation of the:

     (A) Control handle of a manually controlled permanent magnet;

     (B) Indicators and meters when installed.

     (c) Lifting magnets must be inspected, by the operator or another competent person, according to Table 24.

     (d) A qualified person must determine whether signs of damage indicate a hazard.

     (e) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.


Table 24

          Close Proximity Lifting Magnet Frequent Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Structural and suspension members for:
• Deformation. • Normal service - Monthly.
• Cracks. • Heavy service - Weekly to monthly.
• Excessive wear on any part of the lifting magnet. • Severe service - Daily to weekly.
• Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before and after each occurrence.
The lifting magnet face for:
• Foreign materials.
• Smoothness.
Condition of lifting bail or sling suspension. • Before using, when a lifting magnet has been idle for more than one month.
Condition and operation of control handle.
Condition and operation of indicators and meters, if applicable.
Electrical conductors, if applicable, that are visible without disassembly for:
• Loose connections.
• Continuity.
• Corrosion.
• Damage to insulation.
Battery operated electromagnets for:
• Proper level of battery electrolyte.
• Corrosion of battery posts or connectors.
Cracked housings, welds, and loose bolts.
Legible labels and marking.

Note: • Normal service means service that involves operation with various weights within the rated load limit, averaging less than sixty-five percent of rated load limits.
• Heavy service means service that involves operation within the rated load limit, that exceeds the limits of normal service.
• Severe service means service that involves normal or heavy service with abnormal operating conditions.

     (f) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections of close proximity lifting magnets according to Table 25. Include the items in Table 24 of this section.

     (g) Dated inspection records must be kept on all critical items such as structural and suspension members, lifting magnet face, lifting bail, control handle, indicators and meters.

     (h) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.


Table 25

          Close Proximity Lifting Magnet Periodic Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Members, fasteners, locks, switches, warning labels, and lifting parts for:
• Deformation. • Normal service for equipment in place - Yearly.
• Wear.
• Corrosion. • Heavy service, unless external conditions indicate that disassembly should be done to permit detailed inspection - Quarterly.
All electrical components, including controllers, battery, external power supply, power disconnects, meters, indicators, and alarms for:
• Proper operation. • Severe service - Monthly.
• Condition. • Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before the first occurrence and as directed by the qualified person for any subsequent occurrences.
Lifting magnet coil must be tested for:
• Ohmic and ground readings compared to manufacturer's standards.

Note: • Normal service means service that involves operation with various weights within the rated load limit, averaging less than sixty-five percent of rated load limits.
• Heavy service means service that involves operation within the rated load limit, that exceeds the limits of normal service.
• Severe service means service that involves normal or heavy service with abnormal operating conditions.

     (6) Operational tests.

     (a) All new, altered, repaired or modified lifting magnets must be tested either by or under the direction of a qualified person before use. The qualified person can limit the testing of altered, repaired or modified lifting magnets to the parts affected.

     (b) The following items must be tested:

     (i) Moving parts;

     (ii) Latches;

     (iii) Stops;

     (iv) Switches;

     (v) Control devices;

     (vi) Alarms; and

     (vii) Warning devices, including:

     (A) Indicator lights;

     (B) Gauges;

     (C) Horns;

     (D) Bells; and

     (E) Pointers.

     (c) Dated reports of all operational tests must be kept on file.

     (7) Load tests.

     (a) Prior to initial use, all new, altered, repaired, or modified close proximity lifting devices must be load tested and inspected by a qualified person. The qualified person can limit the test to the areas affected by the alteration, repair, or modification.

     (b) The breakaway force of lifting magnets must be tested according to manufacturer's directions or ANSI B30.20-2010.

     (8) Repair.

     (a) Close proximity lifting magnets must be repaired as follows:

     (i) Adjustments and testing must be done by or under the direction of a qualified person;

     (ii) Replacement parts used must be at least equal to the original manufacturer's specifications;

     (iii) The magnet must be inspected before returning to service as required in subsection (5) of this section.

     (b) The following precautions must be taken before repairs on a magnet are started:

     (i) Disconnect, lock out and tag all sources of power "Out of Service," if applicable; and

     (ii) Tag any lifting magnet removed from service for repair "Out of Service."

     (9) Lifting magnets must be operated only by qualified personnel.

     (10) Operators must do the following:

     (a) Test all controls before use, each shift;

     (b) Check all meters and indicators for proper operation before making a lift;

     (c) Consult a competent person before handling the load whenever there is any doubt as to safety;

     (d) Respond only to instructions from competent persons, except for stop orders. Operators must obey a stop order at all times, no matter who gives it;

     (e) Do not load the lifting magnet in excess of its rated load or with any load that it isn't specifically designed for;

     (f) Apply the magnet to the load according to the instruction manual;

     (g) Check that:

     (i) Lifter ropes or chains are not kinked;

     (ii) Multiple part lines are not twisted around each other;

     (iii) The lifting magnet face and the contact area on the load are clean.

     (h) Bring the magnet over the load in a way that minimizes swinging;

     (i) Lift the load a few inches to make sure that the lifting magnet has been correctly applied;

     (j) Keep the load or lifting magnet from contact with any obstruction;

     (k) Set down any attached load and store the lifting magnet before leaving it;

     (l) Check that all people near the lift are warned before lifting;

     (m) Using the lifter for side pulls or sliding the load is prohibited, unless specifically authorized by a qualified person; and

     (n) Riding on loads or the lifting magnet is prohibited.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-34020   Remotely operated lifting magnets.   (1) Remotely operated lifting magnets must be constructed in accordance with ASME B30.20-2010, Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices.

     (2) Identification. All remotely operated lifting magnets must be marked with the following information:

     (a) Manufacturer's name and address;

     (b) Model or unit identification;

     (c) Weight of lifting magnet;

     (d) Duty cycle;

     (e) Cold current;

     (f) Voltage;

     (g) If repaired or modified, name and address of repairer or modifier and (a) through (g) of this subsection if changed.

     (3) Lifting magnets must be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.

     (4) Inspections.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect all new, altered, repaired or modified lifting magnets according to Tables 26 and 27. A qualified person can limit the inspection of altered, repaired or modified lifting magnets to the parts affected.

     (b) Lifting magnets must be inspected, by the operator or another competent person, according to Table 26.

     (c) A qualified person must determine whether signs of damage indicate a hazard.

     (d) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.

     (e) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections of remotely operated lifting magnets according to Table 27. Include the items in Table 26.

     (f) Make records of apparent external conditions to provide the basis for a continuing evaluation.

     (g) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.

Table 26

     Remotely Operated Lifting Magnet Frequent Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Structural and suspension members for:
• Deformation. • Normal service - Monthly.
• Cracks. • Heavy service - Weekly to monthly.
• Excessive wear on any part of the lifting magnet. • Severe service - Daily to weekly.
• Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before and after each occurrence.
The lifting magnet face for:
• Foreign materials.
• Smoothness.
Electrical conductors that are visible without disassembly. • Before using, when a lifting magnet has been idle for more than one month.
Cracked housings, welds, and loose bolts.

Note: • Normal service means service that involves operation with various weights within the rated load limit, averaging less than sixty-five percent of rated load limits.
• Heavy service means service that involves operation within the rated load limit, that exceeds the limits of normal service.
• Severe service means service that involves normal or heavy service with abnormal operating conditions.

Table 27

     Remotely Operated Lifting Magnet Periodic Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Members, fasteners, and lifting parts for: • Normal service for equipment in place - Yearly.
• Deformation. • Heavy service - Quarterly.
• Wear. • Severe service - Monthly.
• Corrosion.
All electrical components for:
• Proper operation.
• Condition. • Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before the first occurrence and as directed by the qualified person for any subsequent occurrences.
Magnet coil for:
• Ohmic and ground readings compared to manufacturer's standards.

     (5) Operational tests.

     (a) All new, altered, repaired or modified lifting magnets must be tested either by or under the direction of a qualified person before use. The qualified person can limit the testing of altered, repaired or modified lifting magnets to the parts affected.

     (b) The following items must be tested:

     (i) All electrical equipment for proper operation;

     (ii) Warning devices, including:

     (A) Indicator lights;

     (B) Gauges;

     (C) Horns;

     (D) Bells; and

     (E) Pointers.

     (c) Dated reports of all operational tests must be kept on file.

     (6) Repair.

     (a) Remotely operated lifting magnets must be repaired as follows:

     (i) Have adjustments and testing done only by or under the direction of a qualified person;

     (ii) Use replacement parts that are at least equal to the original manufacturer's specifications; and

     (iii) Inspect the lifter according to subsection (4) of this section, before returning to service.

     (b) The following precautions must be taken before repairs on a lifter are started:

     (i) Disconnect, lock out and tag all sources of power "Out of Service."

     (ii) Tag any magnet removed from service for repair "Out of Service."

     (7) Lifting devices must be operated only by qualified personnel.

     (8) Operators must do the following:

     (a) Test all controls before use during a shift;

     (b) Consult a competent person before handling the load whenever there is any doubt as to safety;

     (c) Respond only to instructions from competent persons, except for stop orders. Operators must obey a stop order at all times, no matter who gives it;

     (d) Do not load the lifting magnet in excess of its rated load or with any load that it is not specifically designed for;

     (e) Apply the lifting magnet to the load according to the instruction manual;

     (f) Check that:

     (i) Lifter ropes or chains are not kinked;

     (ii) Multiple part lines are not twisted around each other.

     (g) Bring the lifting magnet over the load in a way that minimizes swinging;

     (h) Keep the load or magnet from contact with any obstruction;

     (i) Set down any attached load and store the lifting magnet before leaving it;

     (j) Check that all people are clear of the load;

     (k) Using the lifter for side pulls or sliding the load is prohibited, unless specifically authorized by a qualified person; and

     (l) Riding on loads or the lifting magnet is prohibited.

[]


NEW SECTION
WAC 296-155-34025   Scrap and material handling grapples.   (1) Grapples must be constructed in accordance with ASME B30.20-2010, Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices.

     (2) Identification. All grapples must be marked with the following information:

     (a) Manufacturer's name and address;

     (b) Serial number or unit identification;

     (c) Grapple weight;

     (d) Rated voltage, if applicable;

     (e) Operating hydraulic pressure(s), if applicable;

     (f) Rated capacity;

     (g) If repaired or modified, name and address of repairer or modifier and (a) through (f) of this subsection if changed.

     (3) Grapple installation.

     (a) Grapples must be installed according to manufacturer's instructions.

     (b) The hydraulic flows and pressures must be the same as shown in the manufacturer's instructions.

     (4) Inspections.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect all new, altered, repaired and modified grapples according to Table 28. A qualified person can limit the inspection of altered, repaired or modified grapples to the parts affected.

     (b) Grapples must be visually inspected each shift they are used, by the operator or another competent person, according to Table 28.

     (c) A qualified person must determine whether signs of damage indicate a hazard.

     (d) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.


Table 28

     Grapple Frequent Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Structural members for: • Normal service - Monthly.
• Deformation. • Heavy service - Weekly to monthly.
• Cracks. • Severe service - Daily to weekly.
• Excessive wear on any part of the grapple. • Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before and after each occurrence.
Pins and bushings.
Hydraulic lines.
Hydraulic cylinders. • Before using, when a grapple has been idle for more than one month.
Loose bolts.
Electrical conductors that are visible without disassembly.

Note: • Normal service means service that involves operation with various weights within the rated load limit, averaging less than sixty-five percent of rated load limits.
• Heavy service means service that involves operation within the rated load limit, that exceeds the limits of normal service.
• Severe service means service that involves normal or heavy service with abnormal operating conditions.

     (e) A qualified person must perform a periodic inspection of grapples according to Table 29. Include the items from Table 28 of this section.

     (f) Data inspection reports must be kept on critical items such as structural members, fasteners, lifting parts, hydraulic hoses, fittings and tubing, hydraulic motors and hydraulic cylinders.

     (g) Hazardous conditions must be corrected before continuing use.


Table 29

          Grapple Periodic Inspection


Inspect for: How often:
Members, fasteners, and lifting parts for: • Normal service for equipment in place - Yearly.
•

•

•

Deformation.

Wear.

Corrosion.

• Heavy service, unless external conditions indicate that disassembly should be done to permit detailed inspection - Quarterly.
Hydraulic hose, fittings, and tubing for:
• Evidence of leakage at the surface of the hose or its junction with metal couplings. • Severe service - Monthly.
• Blistering or abnormal deformation of the outer covering of the hose. • Special or infrequent service - As recommended by a qualified person before the first occurrence and as directed by the qualified person for any subsequent occurrences.
• Leakage at threaded or clamped joints that cannot be eliminated by normal tightening or recommended procedures.
• Excessive abrasion or scrubbing on the outer surface of hoses, rigid tubes, or fittings.
Hydraulic motors for:
• Loose bolts or fasteners.
• Leaks at joints between sections.
• Shaft seal leaks.
• Unusual noises or vibration.
• Loss of operating speed.
• Excessive heating of the fluid.
• Loss of pressure.
Hydraulic cylinders for:
• Drifting caused by fluid leaking across the piston seals.
• Rod seal leakage.
• Leaks at welded joints.
• Scored, nicked, or dented cylinder rods.
• Dented case (barrel).
• Loose or deformed rod eyes or connecting joints.
All electrical components, including meters, indicators and alarms for:
• Proper operation.
• Condition.

     (5) Operational tests.

     (a) All new, altered, repaired or modified grapples must be tested either by or under the direction of a qualified person before use. The qualified person can limit the testing of altered, repaired or modified grapples to the parts affected.

     (b) All warning devices must be tested, including:

     (i) Indicator lights;

     (ii) Gauges;

     (iii) Horns;

     (iv) Bells;

     (v) Pointers;

     (vi) Other warning devices.

     (c) Dated reports of all operational tests must be kept on file.

     (6) Repair.

     (a) Grapples must be repaired as follows:

     (i) Have adjustments and testing done only by or under the direction of a qualified person;

     (ii) Use replacement parts that are at least equal to the original manufacturer's specifications;

     (iii) Inspect the grapple according to subsection (4) of this section, before returning to service;

     (b) The following precautions must be taken before repairs on a grapple are started:

     (i) Disconnect, lock out and tag all sources of power "Out of Service";

     (ii) Tag any grapple removed from service for repair "Out of Service."

     (7) Grapples must be operated only by qualified personnel.

     (8) Operators must do the following:

     (a) Test all controls before use during a shift;

     (b) Check all meters and indicators for proper operation before making a lift;

     (c) Consult a competent person before handling the load whenever there is any doubt as to safety;

     (d) Respond only to instructions from competent persons, except for stop orders. An operator must obey a stop order at all times, no matter who gives it;

     (e) Do not load grapples in excess of the rated load or with any load that they are not specifically designed for;

     (f) Apply the grapple to the load according to the instruction manual;

     (g) Bring the grapple over the load in a way that minimizes swinging;

     (h) Keep the load or grapple from contact with any obstruction;

     (i) Set down any attached load and store the grapple before leaving it;

     (j) Don't let anyone ride on loads or the grapple;

     (k) Check that all people stay clear of the load.

[]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 08-22-080, filed 11/4/08, effective 1/1/10)

WAC 296-155-529   ((Crane certifier accreditation and crane certification.)) Scope and definitions.  

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, 49.17.400, 49.17.410, 49.17.420, 49.17.430, and 49.17.440. 08-22-080, § 296-155-529, filed 11/4/08, effective 1/1/10.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-52900   Scope.   (1) Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, this part applies to the following:

     (a) Power-operated cranes and derricks used in construction that can hoist, lower and horizontally move a suspended load (with or without attachments). Such equipment includes, but is not limited to: Articulating boom cranes (such as knuckle-boom cranes); crawler cranes; floating cranes; cranes on barges; locomotive cranes; mobile cranes (such as wheel-mounted, rough-terrain, all-terrain, commercial truck-mounted, and boom truck cranes); multipurpose machines when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load; industrial cranes (such as carry-deck cranes); cranes being used as dedicated pile drivers; service/mechanic trucks with a hoisting device; a crane on a monorail; tower cranes (such as fixed jib ("hammerhead boom"), luffing boom and self-erecting); pedestal cranes; portal cranes; overhead/bridge and gantry cranes; straddle cranes; side-boom tractors; derricks; and variations of such equipment((.)); and

     (b) Personnel lifting with attached or suspended platforms using cranes or derricks (WAC 296-155-547).

     (2) Attachments. This standard applies to equipment included in subsection (1) of this section when used with attachments. Such attachments, whether crane-attached or suspended include, but are not limited to:


     • Hooks;

     • Magnets;

     • Grapples;

     • Clamshell buckets;

     • Orange peel buckets;

     • Concrete buckets;

     • Draglines;

     • Personnel platforms;

     • Augers or drills; and

     • Pile driving equipment.


     (3) The equipment listed below are exempted from WAC ((296-155-529)) 296-155-531 and 296-155-532 (Crane certifier accreditation and crane certification) through 296-155-53300 (Operator qualifications and certification):

     (a) Cranes having a maximum rated capacity of one ton or less ((are exempt from this rule for the purposes of crane certification and operator certification)). See WAC 296-155-53414 for additional requirements.

     (b) ((Equipment included in subsection (1) of this section while it has been converted or adapted for nonhoisting/lifting use. Such conversions/adaptations include, but are not limited to, power shovels, excavators and concrete pumps.

     (c) Power shovels, excavators, wheel loaders, backhoes, loader backhoes, track loaders. This machinery is also excluded when used with chains, slings or other rigging to lift suspended loads. For rigging requirements see WAC 296-155-556 through 296-155-562.

     (d) Automotive wreckers and tow trucks when used to clear wrecks and haul vehicles.

     (e) Digger derricks when used for activities that are covered under chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers, or chapter 296-32 WAC, Safety standards for telecommunications. Cranes other than digger derricks when used for activities that are covered under chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers, or chapter 296-32 WAC, Safety standards for telecommunications are NOT exempt.

     (f) Equipment originally designed as vehicle-mounted aerial devices (for lifting personnel) and self-propelled elevating work platforms.

     (g) Hydraulic jacking systems, including telescopic/hydraulic gantries.

     (h) Stacker cranes.

     (i))) Powered industrial trucks (forklifts) ((except)) when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load((. (Powered industrial trucks including their attachments do not need to be certified by an accredited certifier)) are exempted from WAC 296-155-532 (crane certification). Operators must also follow the requirements in chapter 296-863 WAC, Forklifts and other powered industrial trucks ((and WAC 296-155-53300 of this chapter.)

     (j) Mechanic's truck with a hoisting device when used in activities related to equipment maintenance and repair.

     (k) Equipment that hoists by using a come-a-long or chainfall.

     (l) Overhead/bridge cranes or hoists that travel or trolley manually.

     (m) Dedicated drilling rigs.

     (n) Gin poles used for the erection of communication towers.

     (o) Tree trimming and tree removal work.

     (p) Anchor handling or dredge-related operations with a vessel or barge using an affixed A-frame.

     (q) Roustabouts)).

     (((r))) (c) Service cranes with booms that rotate manually.

     (((s) Machines equipped with a boom that is limited to up and down movement only and does not rotate.

     (t) Conveyors.

     (u) Pump hoists with booms that do not rotate.

     (v) Permanently installed overhead/bridge, gantry cranes, semigantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, and others having the same fundamental characteristics which are located in manufacturing facilities or powerhouses.

     (w) Cranes and their operators used on-site in manufacturing facilities or powerhouses for occasional or routine maintenance and repair work.

     (x) Helicopter cranes.

     (4) Digger derricks that do not meet the exemption criteria in subsection (3)(e) of this section must comply with WAC 296-155-529 (Crane certifier accreditation and crane certification) through WAC 296-155-53300 (Operator qualifications and certification) one hundred eighty days after the effective date of this section.))

     (4) The equipment listed below are exempt from this part:

     (a) Equipment included in subsection (1) of this section while it has been converted or adapted for nonhoisting/lifting use. Such conversions/adaptations include, but are not limited to, power shovels, excavators and concrete pumps.

     (b) Power shovels, excavators, wheel loaders, backhoes, loader backhoes, track loaders. This machinery is also excluded when used with chains, slings or other rigging to lift suspended loads.

     (c) Automotive wreckers and tow trucks when used to clear wrecks and haul vehicles.

     (d) Equipment originally designed as vehicle-mounted aerial devices (for lifting personnel) and self-propelled elevating work platforms.

     (e) Hydraulic jacking systems, including telescopic/hydraulic gantries.

     (f) Stacker cranes.

     (g) Mechanic's truck with a hoisting device when used in activities related to equipment maintenance and repair.

     (h) Equipment that hoists by using a come-a-long or chainfall.

     (i) Dedicated drilling rigs.

     (j) Gin poles used for the erection of communication towers.

     (k) Tree trimming and tree removal work.

     (l) Anchor handling or dredge-related operations with a vessel or barge using an affixed A-frame.

     (m) Roustabouts.

     (n) Machines equipped with a boom that is limited to up and down movement only and does not rotate.

     (o) Conveyors.

     (p) Pump hoists with booms that do not rotate.

     (q) Cranes and their operators used on-site in manufacturing facilities or powerhouses for occasional or routine maintenance and repair work.

     (r) Helicopter cranes.

     (s) Permanently installed overhead/bridge, gantry cranes, semi-gantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, and others having the same fundamental characteristics.

     (t) Digger derricks when used for activities that are covered under chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers, or chapter 296-32 WAC, Safety standards for telecommunications. Cranes other than digger derricks when used for activities that are covered under chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers, or chapter 296-32 WAC, Safety standards for telecommunications are NOT exempt.

     (u) Powered industrial trucks (forklifts) except when configured to hoist and lower (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load.


Note: Rigging requirements for material handling is located in Part F-1 of this chapter.

     (5) Digger derricks that do not meet the exemption criteria in subsection (4) of this section must comply with WAC 296-155-531 (crane certifier accreditation and crane certification) through WAC 296-155-53300 (Operator qualifications and certification) one hundred eighty days after the effective date of this section.

     (((5))) (6) Where provisions of this standard direct an operator, crewmember, or other employee to take certain actions, the employer must establish, effectively communicate to the relevant persons, and enforce work rules, to ensure compliance with such provisions.

     (((6))) (7) Work covered by chapter 296-45 WAC, Safety standards for electrical workers is deemed in compliance with WAC 296-155-53408.

     (((7))) (8) WAC 296-155-53400 (35) through (39) does not apply to cranes designed for use on railroad tracks, when used on railroad tracks that are used as part of the general railroad system of transportation that is regulated pursuant to the Federal Railroad Administration under C.F.R. 49, Part 213, and that comply with applicable Federal Railroad Administration requirements. See WAC 296-155-53400(39).

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-52900, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. 10-14-100, § 296-155-52900, filed 7/6/10, effective 9/1/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, 49.17.400, 49.17.410, 49.17.420, 49.17.430, and 49.17.440. 08-22-080, § 296-155-52900, filed 11/4/08, effective 1/1/10.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-52902   Definitions.   Accredited crane certifier means a crane inspector who has been accredited by the department.

     A/D director (assembly/disassembly) director means an individual who meets the requirements in this part for an A/D director, irrespective of the person's formal job title or whether the person is nonmanagement or management personnel.

     Angle of loading means the acute angle between horizontal and the leg of the rigging, often referred to as horizontal angle. See Figures 18 and 33.

     Anti two-block device means a device that, when activated, disengages all crane functions whose movement can cause two-blocking.

     Apprentice operator or trainee means a crane operator who has not met requirements established by the department under RCW 49.17.430.

     Articulating boom crane means a crane whose boom consists of a series of folding, pin connected structural members, typically manipulated to extend or retract by power from hydraulic cylinders.

     Assembly/disassembly means the assembly and/or disassembly of components or attachments covered under this part. With regard to tower cranes, "erecting and climbing" replaces the term "assembly," and "dismantling" replaces the term "disassembly." Regardless of whether the crane is initially erected to its full height or is climbed in stages, the process of increasing height of the crane is an erection process.

     Assist crane means a crane used to assist in assembling or disassembling a crane.

     Attachments mean((s)) any device that expands the range ((or)) of tasks that can be done by the crane/derrick. Examples include, but are not limited to: An auger, drill, magnet, pile-driver, and boom-attached personnel platform.

     Audible signal means a signal made by a distinct sound or series of sounds. Examples include, but are not limited to, sounds made by a bell, horn, or whistle.

     Basket hitch means a method of rigging a sling in which the sling is passed around the load and both loop eyes or end fittings are attached to the lifting device.

     Below-the-hook lifting device means a device used for attaching loads to a hoist. The device may contain components such as slings, hooks, rigging hardware, and lifting attachments.

     Bird caging means the twisting of fiber or wire rope in an isolated area of the rope in the opposite direction of the rope lay, thereby causing it to take on the appearance of a bird cage.

     Blocking (also referred to as "cribbing") means wood or other material used to support equipment or a component and distribute loads to the ground. It is typically used to support latticed boom sections during assembly/disassembly and under outrigger and stabilizer floats.

     Boatswain's chair means a single-point adjustable suspension scaffold consisting of a seat or sling (which may be incorporated into a full body harness) designed to support one employee in a sitting position.

     Bogie. See "travel bogie."

     Boom (other than tower crane) means an inclined spar, strut, or other long structural member which supports the upper hoisting tackle on a crane or derrick. Typically, the length and vertical angle of the boom can be varied to achieve increased height or height and reach when lifting loads. Booms can usually be grouped into general categories of hydraulically extendible, cantilevered type, latticed section, cable supported type or articulating type.

     Boom (tower cranes) on tower cranes: If the "boom" (i.e., principal horizontal structure) is fixed, it is referred to as a jib; if it is moveable up and down, it is referred to as a boom.

     Boom angle indicator means a device which measures the angle of the boom relative to horizontal.

     Boom hoist limiting device includes boom hoist disengaging device, boom hoist shut-off, boom hoist disconnect, boom hoist hydraulic relief, boom hoist kick-outs, automatic boom stop device, or derricking limiter. This type of device disengages boom hoist power when the boom reaches a predetermined operating angle. It also sets brakes or closes valves to prevent the boom from lowering after power is disengaged.

     Boom length indicator indicates the length of the permanent part of the boom (such as ruled markings on the boom) or, as in some computerized systems, the length of the boom with extensions/attachments.

     Boom stop includes boom stops (belly straps with struts/standoff), telescoping boom stops, attachment boom stops, and backstops. These devices restrict the boom from moving above a certain maximum angle and toppling over backward.

     Boom suspension systems means a system of pendants, running ropes, sheaves, and other hardware which supports the boom tip and controls the boom angle.

     Braided wire rope means a wire rope formed by plaiting component wire ropes.

     Bridle wire rope sling means a sling composed of multiple legs with the top ends gathered in a fitting that goes over the lifting hook.

     Builder means the builder/constructor of derricks.

     Cable laid endless sling-mechanical joint means a wire rope sling made endless from one continuous length of cable laid rope with the ends joined by one or more metallic fittings.

     Cable laid grommet-hand tucked means an endless wire rope sling made from one continuous length of rope formed to make a body composed of six ropes around a rope core. The rope ends are tucked into the body, thus forming the core. No sleeves are used.

     Center of gravity means the center of gravity of any object is the point in the object around which its weight is evenly distributed. If you could put a support under that point, you could balance the object on the support.

     Certified crane inspector means a crane certifier accredited by the department.

     Certified welder means a welder who meets nationally recognized certification requirements applicable to the task being performed.

     Choker hitch means a method of rigging a sling in which the sling is passed around the load, then through one loop eye, end fitting, or other device, with the other loop eye or end fitting attached to the lifting device. This hitch can be done with a sliding choker hook or similar device.

     Climbing means the process in which a tower crane is raised or lowered to a new working height, either by adding or removing tower sections to the top of the crane (top climbing), or by a system in which the entire crane is raised or lowered inside the structure (inside climbing).

     Come-a-long means a mechanical device typically consisting of a chain or cable attached at each end that is used to facilitate movement of materials through leverage.

     Competent person means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

     Construction work means (for the purposes of this part) all or any part of excavation, construction, erection, alteration, repair, demolition, and dismantling of buildings and other structures and all related operations; the excavation, construction, alteration, and repair of sewers, trenches, caissons, conduits, pipelines, roads, and all related operations; the moving of buildings and other structures, and the construction, alteration, repair, or removal of wharfs, docks, bridges, culverts, trestles, piers, abutments, or any other related construction, alteration, repair, or removal work. Construction work does not include the normal day-to-day activities at manufacturing facilities or powerhouses.

     Controlled load lowering means lowering a load by means of a mechanical hoist drum device that allows a hoisted load to be lowered with maximum control using the gear train or hydraulic components of the hoist mechanism. Controlled load lowering requires the use of the hoist drive motor, rather that the load hoist brake, to lower the load.

     Controlling entity means an employer that is a prime contractor, general contractor, construction manager or any other legal entity which has the overall responsibility for the construction of the projects, its planning, quality, and completion.

     Counterjib (counterweight jib) means a horizontal member of the tower crane on which the counterweights and usually the hoisting machinery are mounted.

     Counterweight means weight used to supplement the weight of equipment in providing stability for lifting loads by counterbalancing those loads.

     Crane means power-operated equipment used in construction that can hoist, lower, and horizontally move a suspended load. "Crane" includes, but is not limited to: Articulating boom cranes, such as knuckle-boom cranes; crawler cranes; floating cranes; cranes on barges; locomotive cranes; mobile cranes, such as wheel-mounted, rough-terrain, all-terrain, commercial truck mounted, and boom truck cranes; multipurpose machines when configured to hoist and lower by means of a winch or hook and horizontally move a suspended load; industrial cranes, such as carry-deck cranes; dedicated pile drivers; service/mechanic trucks with a hoisting device; a crane on a monorail; tower cranes, such as fixed jib, hammerhead boom, luffing boom, and self-erecting; pedestal cranes; portal cranes; overhead and gantry cranes; straddle cranes; side-boom tractors; derricks; and variations of such equipment.

     Crane/derrick type means cranes or derricks as established by American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Crane operator means an individual engaged in the operation of a crane.

     Crane level indicator means a device for determining true horizontal (also see safety devices).

     Crawler crane means equipment that has a type of base mounting which incorporates a continuous belt of sprocket driven track.

     Critical lift means a lift that:

     • Exceeds seventy-five percent of the crane or derrick rated load chart capacity; or

     • Requires the use of more than one crane or derrick.

     Cross rod means a wire used to join spirals of metal mesh to form a complete fabric. See Figure 22.

     Crossover points means locations on a wire rope which is spooled on a drum where one layer of rope climbs up on and crosses over the previous layer. This takes place at each flange of the drum as the rope is spooled onto the drum, reaches the flange, and begins to wrap back in the opposite direction.

     Dedicated channel means a line of communication assigned by the employer who controls the communication system to only one signal person and crane/derrick or to a coordinated group of cranes/derricks/signal persons.

     Dedicated drilling rig means a machine which creates bore holes and/or shafts in the ground.

     Dedicated pile-driver is a machine that is designed to function exclusively as a pile-driver. These machines typically have the ability to both hoist the material that will be pile-driven and to pile-drive that material.

     Dedicated spotter (power lines): To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (Signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached.

     Derrick is an apparatus consisting of a mast or equivalent member held at the end by guys or braces, with or without a boom, for use with a hoisting mechanism and operating ropes.

     Design factor means the ratio between nominal or minimum breaking strength and rated load.

     Digger derrick means a multipurpose vehicle-mounted machine which is primarily designed to accommodate components that dig holes, set poles, and position materials and apparatus.

     Directly under the load means a part or all of an employee is directly beneath the load.

     Dismantling includes partial dismantling (such as dismantling to shorten a boom or substitute a different component).

     Drum rotation indicator is a device on a crane or hoist which indicates in which direction and at what relative speed a particular hoist drum is turning.

     Electrical contact means when a person, object, or equipment makes contact or comes close in proximity with an energized conductor or equipment that allows the passage of current.

     Employer-made equipment means floating cranes/derricks designed and built by an employer for the employer's own use.

     Encroachment is where any part of the crane, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories) breaches a minimum clearance distance that this part requires to be maintained from a power line.

     Equipment criteria means instructions, recommendations, limitations and specifications.

     Fabric (metal mesh) means the flexible portion of the sling exclusive of end fittings consisting of a series of transverse spirals and cross rods.

     Fall protection equipment means guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, positioning device systems or fall restraint systems.

     Fall restraint system means a fall protection system that prevents the user from falling any distance. The system is comprised of either a body belt or body harness, along with an anchorage, connectors, and other necessary equipment. The other components typically include a lanyard, and may also include a lifeline and other devices.

     Fall zone means the area (including, but not limited to, the area directly beneath the load) in which it is reasonably foreseeable that partially or completely suspended materials could fall in the event of an accident.

     Flange points means a point of contact between rope and drum flange where the rope changes layers.

     Floating cranes/derricks means equipment designed by the manufacturer (or employer) for marine use by permanent attachment to a barge, pontoons, vessel or other means of flotation.

     Free fall (of the load line) means when only the brake is used to regulate the descent of the load line (the drive mechanism is not used to drive the load down faster or retard its lowering).

     Free rated load test means testing stability and operation of crane, carrier, wheels, tires, tracks, brakes, etc., under load, when lifting without outriggers and/or traveling with the load are permitted at the activity for the type of crane being tested.

     Free surface effect is the uncontrolled transverse movement of liquids in compartments which reduce a vessel's transverse stability.

     Functional testing means the testing of a crane, typically done with a light load or no load, to verify the proper operation of a crane's primary function, i.e., hoisting, braking, booming, swinging, etc. A functional test is contrasted to testing the crane's structural integrity with heavy loads.

     Gin pole derrick means a boom without a mast which has guys arranged from its top to permit leaning the mast in one or more directions. The load is lifted and lowered by ropes reeved through sheaves or blocks at the top of the mast and the lower block.

     Ground conditions means the ability of the ground to support the crane/derrick (including slope, compaction, and firmness).

     Ground crew means those individuals who are involved in the personnel lift, other than the hoisting equipment operator and the platform occupants. These individuals include riggers, signal persons, and supervision.

     Gudgeon pins means a pin connecting the mast cap to the mast allowing rotation of the mast.

     Guy means a rope used to steady or secure the mast, boom, or other member in the desired position.

     Hairpin anchors means a hairpin-shaped, guy-supporting anchor that is placed in footings or walls before concrete is poured and held in place by the cured concrete.

     Hitch (hitched) means a method of rigging (attaching) a sling temporarily to a load or object for the purpose of lifting.

     Hoist means a mechanical device for lifting and lowering loads by winding rope onto or off a drum.

     Hoisting means the act of raising, lowering or otherwise moving a load in the air with equipment covered by this standard. As used in this standard, "hoisting" can be done by means other than wire rope/hoist drum equipment.

     Hoisting equipment means a machine for lifting and lowering a load and moving it horizontally. The machine may be fixed or mobile and be driven manually, by power, or by a combination of both.

     Hook latch means a mechanical device used to close the throat opening of a hook.

     Insulating link/device means an insulating device listed, labeled, or accepted by a nationally recognized testing laboratory in accordance with 29 C.F.R. 1910.7.

     Intermediate rail means the middle member of a barrier along the edges of a platform, located approximately one-half the distance between the platform floor and top rail.

     Jib means an extension attached to the boom point to provide added boom length for lifting specified loads. The jib may be in line with the boom or offset to various angles in the vertical plane of the boom. For tower cranes, see boom (tower cranes).

     Jib stop (also referred to as a jib backstop), is the same type of device as a boom stop but is for a fixed or luffing jib.

     Land crane/derrick means equipment not originally designed by the manufacturer for marine use by permanent attachment to barges, pontoons, vessels, or other means of flotation.

     List means the angle of inclination about the longitudinal axis of a barge, pontoons, vessel, or other means of flotation.

     Live boom means a boom whose lowering is controlled by a brake without the aid of other lowering retarding devices (free-fall capable).

     Live load line means a load line whose lowering is controlled by a brake without the aid of other lowering retarding devices (free-fall capable).

     Load is the weight of the object being lifted or lowered, including the weight of the load-attaching equipment such as the load block, ropes, slings, shackles, and any other auxiliary attachment.

     Load moment (or rated capacity) indicator means a system which aids the equipment operator by sensing the overturning moment on the equipment, i.e., load X radius. It compares this lifting condition to the equipment's rated capacity, and indicates to the operator the percentage of capacity at which the equipment is working. Lights, bells, or buzzers may be incorporated as a warning of an approaching overload condition.

     Load moment (or rated capacity) limiter means a system which aids the equipment operator by sensing the overturning moment on the equipment, i.e., load X radius. It compares this lifting condition to the equipment's rated capacity, and when the rated capacity is reached, it shuts off power to those equipment functions which can increase the severity of loading on the equipment, e.g., hoisting, telescoping out, or luffing out. Typically, those functions which decrease the severity of loading on the equipment remain operational, e.g., lowering, telescoping in, or luffing in.

     Load ratings means a set of rated loads for stipulated hoisting equipment configurations and operating conditions.

     Load sustaining/bearing parts means those parts of a crane that support the crane or load and upon failure could cause dropping, uncontrolled shifting, or uncontrolled movement of the crane or load.

     Locomotive crane means a crane mounted on a base or car equipped for travel on a railroad track.

     Luffing boom is a member hinged to the rotating superstructure and used for supporting the hoisting tackle.

     Luffing jib limiting device is similar to a boom hoist limiting device, except that it limits the movement of the luffing jib.

     Marine worksite means a construction worksite located in, on or above the water.

     Master coupling link means an alloy steel welded coupling link used as an intermediate link to join alloy steel chain to master links.

     Master link means forged or welded steel link used to support all members (legs) of an alloy steel chain sling or wire rope sling.

     Mechanical coupling link (alloy steel chain) means a nonwelded, mechanically closed link used primarily to attach fittings to alloy steel chain.

     Mobile cranes means a lifting device incorporating a cable suspended latticed boom or hydraulic telescopic boom designed to be moved between operating locations by transport over the road. ((These are referred to in Europe as a crane mounted on a truck carrier.))

     Moving point-to-point means the times during which an employee is in the process of going to or from a work station.

     Multipurpose machine means a machine that is designed to be configured in various ways, at least one of which allows it to hoist (by means of a winch or hook) and horizontally move a suspended load. For example, a machine that can rotate and can be configured with removable forks/tongs (for use as a forklift) or with a winch pack, jib (with a hook at the end) or jib used in conjunction with a winch. When configured with the forks/tongs, it is not covered by this part. When configured with a winch pack, jib (with a hook at the end) or jib used in conjunction with a winch, it is covered by this part.

     Multiple lift rigging means a rigging assembly manufactured by wire rope rigging suppliers that facilitates the attachment of up to five independent loads to the hoist rigging of a crane.

     Nationally recognized accrediting agency is an organization that, due to its independence and expertise, is widely recognized as competent to accredit testing organizations.

     Nonconductive means that, because of the nature and condition of the materials used, and the conditions of use (including environmental conditions and condition of the material), the object in question has the property of not becoming energized (that is, it has high dielectric properties offering a high resistance to the passage of current under the conditions of use).

     Nonstandard tower crane base means any deviation from the structural support or base configuration recommended by the crane manufacturer.

     Occasional or routine maintenance and repair work means regular, customary and foreseeable work necessary to keep equipment in good repair and/or condition. This also includes regular, customary and foreseeable work necessary to return equipment to sound condition after damage.

     Operational aid means an accessory that provides information to facilitate operation of a crane or that takes control of particular functions without action of the operator when a limiting condition is sensed. Examples of such devices include, but are not limited to, the following: Anti-two-block device, rated capacity indicator, rated capacity (load) limiter, boom angle or radius indicator, lattice boom hoist disconnect device, boom length indicator, drum rotation indicator, load indicator, and wind speed indicator.

     Operational controls means levers, switches, pedals and other devices for controlling equipment operation.

     Operator is a person who is operating the equipment.

     Outriggers means extendable or fixed members attached to the mounting base, which rests on supports at the outer ends, used to support the crane.

     Overhead/bridge and gantry cranes includes overhead/bridge cranes, cranes on monorails, under hung cranes, semigantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, launching gantry cranes, and similar equipment, irrespective of whether it travels on tracks, wheels, or other means.

     Pendants includes both wire and bar types. Wire type: A fixed length of wire rope with mechanical fittings at both ends for pinning segments of wire rope together. Bar type: Instead of wire rope, a bar is used. Pendants are typically used in a latticed boom crane system to easily change the length of the boom suspension system without completely changing the rope on the drum when the boom length is increased or decreased.

     Personal fall arrest system means a system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a working level. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, and a body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combination of these.

     Personnel lifting means raising, lowering, or transporting personnel using a crane/derrick.

     Personnel platform - Boom attached means a platform attached to the boom of the crane.

     Personnel platform - Suspended means a platform attached to a crane/derrick using wire rope, chain, or a jointed attachment and that has no installed motion controls for the platform itself.

     Personnel platform suspension system means the rope or chain slings and other components, including fastening devices, used to connect the crane/derrick to the personnel platform.

     Platform occupant means a person who is within the guardrail barrier while the personnel platform is in a hoisted position.

     Platform rating means the maximum capacity of a personnel lifting platform, established by the platform manufacturer, in terms of total weight and the number of occupants allowed.

     Portal crane is a type of crane consisting of a rotating upper structure, hoist machinery, and boom mounted on top of a structural gantry which may be fixed in one location or have travel capability. The gantry legs or columns usually have portal openings in between to allow passage of traffic beneath the gantry.

     Power controlled lowering means a system or device in the power train, other than the load hoist brake, that can regulate the lowering rate of speed of the load hoist mechanism.

     Powerhouse means a plant wherein electric energy is produced by conversion from some other form of energy (e.g., chemical, nuclear, solar, mechanical, or hydraulic) by means of suitable apparatus. This includes all generating station auxiliaries and other associated equipment required for the operation of the plant. Not included are stations producing power exclusively for use with communication systems.

     Power lines means electrical distribution and electrical transmission lines.

     Procedures include, but are not limited to: Instructions, diagrams, recommendations, warnings, specifications, protocols, and limitations.

     Proximity alarm is a device that provides a warning of proximity to a power line that has been listed, labeled or accepted by a nationally recognized testing laboratory in accordance with 29 C.F.R. 1910.7.

     Qualified crane operator means a crane operator who meets the requirements established by the department under RCW 49.17.430.

     Qualified evaluator (not a third party) means a person employed by the signal person's or the rigger's employer (as applicable) who has demonstrated that he/she is competent in accurately assessing whether individuals meet the qualification requirements in this part for a signal person or a rigger.

     Qualified evaluator (third party) means an entity that, due to its independence and expertise, has demonstrated that it is competent in accurately assessing whether individuals meet the qualification requirements in this part for a signal person or a rigger.

     Qualified person means a person who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience, successfully demonstrated the ability to solve/resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

     Qualified rigger is a rigger who meets the requirements in WAC 296-155-53306.

     Qualified signal person is a signal person who meets the requirements in WAC 296-155-53302.

     Range control limit device is a device that can be set by an equipment operator to limit movement of the boom or jib tip to a plane or multiple planes.

     Range control warning device is a device that can be set by an equipment operator to warn that the boom or jib tip is at a plane or multiple planes.

     Rated capacity means the maximum working load permitted by the manufacturer under specified working conditions. Such working conditions typically include a specific combination of factors such as equipment configuration, radii, boom length, and other parameters of use.

     Rated capacity indicator, see load moment indicator.

     Rated capacity limiter, see load moment limiter.

     Repetitive pickup points refer to, when operating on a short cycle operation, the rope being used on a single layer and being spooled repetitively over a short portion of the drum.

     Rotation resistant rope means a type of wire rope construction which reduces the tendency of a rope to rotate about its axis under load. Usually, this consists of an inner system of core strands laid in one direction covered by an outer system of strands laid in the opposite direction.

     RPE means a registered professional engineer licensed under RCW 18.43.040(1).

     RPSE means a registered professional structural engineer licensed under RCW 18.43.040(1).

     Running wire rope is a wire rope that moves over sheaves or drums.

     Runway means a firm, level surface designed, prepared and designated as a path of travel for the weight and configuration of the crane being used to lift and travel with the crane suspended platform. An existing surface may be used as long as it meets these criteria.

     Safety devices, examples of safety devices are, but are not limited to, the following: Horn, boom/jib or trolley stops, crane level indicator, hydraulic holding device/check valve, rail clamps, rail stops, brakes, deadman control or forced neutral return control, emergency stop switch, guards, handrails, audible and visual alarms, etc.

     Safety or health standard means a standard adopted under this chapter.

     Section means a section of this part, unless otherwise specified.

     Side-boom crane means a track-type or wheel-type tractor having a boom mounted on the side of the tractor, used for lifting, lowering, or transporting a load suspended on the load hook. The boom or hook can be lifted or lowered in a vertical direction only.

     Sling means an assembly to be used for lifting when connected to a lifting mechanism. The upper portion of the sling is connected to the lifting mechanism and the lower supports the load, as described in this part.

     Special hazard warnings means warnings of site-specific hazards (for example, proximity of power lines).

     Spiral means a single transverse coil that is the basic element from which metal mesh is fabricated.

     Stability (flotation device) means the tendency of a barge, pontoons, vessel, or other means of flotation to return to an upright position after having been inclined by an external force.

     Stabilizer means an extendable or fixed member attached to the mounting base to increase the stability of the crane, but that may not have the capability of relieving all of the weight from the wheels or tracks.

     Standard method means the hand signals established in the applicable ASME B30 series and WAC 296-155-56400, Mobile crane hand signal chart.

     Standing wire rope means a supporting wire rope which maintains a constant distance between the points of attachment to the two components connected by the wire rope.

     Superstructure: See upperworks.

     Supporting materials means blocking, mats, cribbing, marsh buggies (in marshes/wetlands), or similar supporting materials or devices.

     Taglines means a rope (usually fiber) attached to a lifted load for purposes of controlling load spinning and pendular motions or used to stabilize a bucket or magnet during material handling operations.

     Tender means an individual responsible for monitoring and communication with a diver.

     Tilt up or tilt down operation means raising/lowering a load from the horizontal to vertical or vertical to horizontal.

     Toe board means a vertical barrier at foot level, along the edges of the platform, to protect against material from falling over the edge.

     Top rail means the top member of a barrier along the edges of a platform to protect against persons from falling off the platform.

     Tower crane means a type of lifting structure which utilizes a vertical mast or tower to support a working boom (jib) in an elevated position. Loads are suspended from the working boom. While the working boom may be of the fixed type (horizontal or angled) or have luffing capability, it can always rotate to swing loads, either by rotating on the top of the tower (top slewing) or by the rotation of the tower (bottom slewing). The tower base may be fixed in one location or ballasted and moveable between locations. Mobile cranes that are configured with a luffing jib and/or tower attachments are not considered tower cranes under this part.

     Travel means the function of the hoisting equipment moving under its own power from one location to another.

     Travel bogie (tower cranes) means an assembly of two or more axles arranged to permit vertical wheel displacement and equalize the loading on the wheels.

     Trim means the angle of inclination about the transverse axis of a barge, pontoons, vessel or other means of flotation.

     Two blocking means a condition in which a component that is uppermost on the hoist line such as the load block, hook block, overhaul ball, or similar component, comes in contact with the boom tip, fixed upper block or similar component. This binds the system and continued application of power can cause failure of the hoist rope or other component.

     Unavailable procedures means procedures that are no longer available from the manufacturer, or have never been available from the manufacturer.

     Upperstructure: See upperworks.

     Upperworks means the revolving frame of equipment on which the operating machinery (and many cases the engine) are mounted along with the operator's cab. The counterweight is typically supported on the rear of the upperstructure and the boom or other front end attachment is mounted on the front.

     Up to means "up to and including."

     Vertical hitch means a method of rigging a sling in which the load is attached to the loop eye or end fitting at one end of the sling and the loop eye or end fitting at the other end is attached to the lifting device. Any hitch less than five degrees from the vertical may be considered a vertical hitch.

     Wire rope means a flexible rope constructed by laying steel wires into various patterns of multiwired strands around a core system to produce a helically wound rope.

     Working load means the external load applied to the hoisting equipment, including the personnel lifting platform, its contents, and the load attaching equipment, such as lowered load block, shackles, and slings.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-52902, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. 10-14-100, § 296-155-52902, filed 7/6/10, effective 9/1/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, 49.17.400, 49.17.410, 49.17.420, 49.17.430, and 49.17.440. 08-22-080, § 296-155-52902, filed 11/4/08, effective 1/1/10.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53300   Operator qualifications and certification.   (1) Prior to operating any crane covered under chapter 296-155 WAC, Part L, with the exception of the trainee/apprentice requirements outlined in subsection (2) of this section and those cranes exempt in WAC 296-155-52900(3), the employer must ensure that the operator meets the following requirements:

     (a) Has a valid crane operator certificate, for the type of crane to be operated, issued by a crane operator testing organization which has an accredited program, accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency. The operator certification must include a successful passing of a written and practical examination for each crane category listed in Table 3 and by crane type for mobile cranes.

     (b) A determination through a written test that:

     (i) The individual knows the information necessary for safe operation of the specific type of crane/derrick the individual will operate, including all of the following:

     (A) The controls and operational/performance characteristics.

     (B) Use of, and the ability to calculate, load/capacity information on a variety of configurations of the crane/derrick.

     (C) Procedures for preventing and responding to power line contact.

     (D) Technical knowledge similar to the subject matter criteria listed in WAC 296-155-56420 of this part applicable to the specific type of crane/derrick the individual will operate. Use of WAC 296-155-56420 criteria meets the requirements of this provision.

     (E) Technical knowledge applicable to:

     (I) The suitability of the supporting ground and surface to handle expected loads.

     (II) Site hazards.

     (III) Site access.

     (F) This part, including applicable incorporated materials.

     (ii) The individual is able to read and locate relevant information in the equipment manual and other materials containing information referred to in (i) of this subsection.

     (c) A determination through a practical test that the individual has the skills necessary for safe operation of the crane/derrick, including the following:

     (i) Ability to recognize, from visual and auditory observation, the items listed in WAC 296-155-53405(2).

     (ii) Operational and maneuvering skills.

     (iii) Application of load chart information.

     (iv) Application of safe shut-down and securing procedures.


Notes: • An operator's certificate issued by the accredited testing agency is valid for a five-year period, and must be renewed to ensure operators maintain qualified operator status.
• For self-erecting tower cranes, the department will accept a tower crane certification issued by a nationally accrediting testing agency.
• For derricks, the department will accept, at a minimum, a lattice boom truck or crawler mobile crane operator's certificate.
• An operator will be deemed qualified to operate a crane if the operator is certified under (a) of this subsection for the type and capacity of the crane or for higher-capacity crane of the same type.

     (d) If there is no accredited written or practical test for operator certification available, the employer must ensure the operator has been completely trained, evaluated and tested by the employer on the operating procedures for the piece of equipment in use as recommended by the crane/equipment manufacturer and the applicable ASME standard. This process must be documented and made available upon request.

     (e) Has crane hours of experience as shown in Table 3; and

     (f) Pass a substance abuse test conducted by a recognized laboratory.


Exemption: When it is necessary in the performance of their duties, manufacture representatives, factory representatives and maintenance personnel are not required to be certified crane operators.

Crane Operator Experience for Cranes Used in the Construction Industry

Table 3


The 5 Categories of Cranes and their Types Number of Hours of Actual Crane Operating Experience Number of Hours of Crane Related Experience
(1) Mobile Cranes
(a) Lattice Boom Crawler Cranes (LBC) 300 tons and above

1000 Hours

300 tons and above

1000 Hours

Under 300 tons

500 Hours

Under 300 tons

500 Hours

(b) Lattice Boom Truck Cranes (LBT) 300 tons and above

1000 Hours

300 tons and above

1000 Hours

Under 300 tons

500 Hours

Under 300 tons

500 Hours

(c) Large Telescopic Boom Cranes (Swing Cab) (TLL) (including digger derricks) Over 130 tons

750 Hours

Over 130 tons

750 Hours

Over 40 tons to 130 tons

250 Hours

Over 40 tons to 130 tons

250 Hours

40 tons and under

40 Hours

40 tons and under

40 Hours

(d) Small Telescopic Boom Cranes (Fixed Cab) (TSS) (including digger derricks) 15 tons and above

40 Hours

15 tons and above

40 Hours

Over 5 tons and under 15 tons

20 Hours

Over 5 tons and under 15 tons

20 Hours

5 tons and under

8 hours

5 tons and under

16 hours

(2) Articulating Boom Cranes 20 Hours 20 Hours
(3) Tower Cranes
(a) Hammerhead 500 Hours 500 Hours
(b) Luffer 500 Hours 500 Hours
(c) Self-Erecting 50 Hours 50 Hours
(4) Overhead/Bridge and Gantry Cranes
(a) Cab Operated 40 Hours 40 Hours
(b) Pendant/Remote 40 Hours 40 Hours
(5) Derricks (not including digger derricks) 20 Hours 500 Hours
Hours of actual crane operating experience. For all cranes: Time while the operator is at the controls of the crane; and/or has direct control of that crane; and/or a combination of operating hours within the same crane type. For mobile cranes: It also includes time while installing/removing boom sections, luffing boom, jib, extending and retracting outriggers/stabilizers, leveling crane, and replacing hoisting rope. For tower cranes: It includes time while jumping (increasing the height of the tower/mast).
Note: Additional actual crane operator experience may account for crane related experience.
Hours of crane related experience: Time as a signalperson/bellman, oiler, crane mechanic, crane inspector, formal classroom training, crane simulator operation, and a combination of operating hours on other categories of cranes.

Note: Cranes and other lifting machines covered under this part that are exempt can be found in WAC 296-155-52900(3).

     (2) Prequalification/certification training period. An employee who is not a qualified crane operator as outlined in subsection (1) of this section is permitted to operate the crane as part of his/her training providing the following requirements are met:

     (a) The employee ("trainee/apprentice") must be provided with sufficient training prior to operating the crane to enable the trainee to operate the crane safely under limitations established by this section (including continuous supervision) and any additional limitations established by the employer.

     (b) The tasks performed by the trainee/apprentice while operating the crane must be within the trainee's ability, as determined by the supervising qualified crane operator.

     (c) Qualified crane/derrick operator. While operating the crane/derrick, the trainee/apprentice must be continuously supervised by a qualified crane/derrick operator who meets the following requirements:

     (i) The qualified crane/derrick operator is an employee or agent of the trainee's/apprentice's employer.

     (ii) The qualified crane/derrick operator under this section is familiar with the proper use of the crane's/derrick's controls.

     (iii) While supervising the trainee/apprentice, the qualified crane/derrick operator performs no tasks that detract from the qualified crane/derrick operator's ability to supervise the trainee/apprentice.

     (iv) For cranes other than tower cranes: The qualified crane/derrick operator and the trainee/apprentice must be in direct line of sight of each other. In addition, they must communicate verbally or by hand signal.

     (v) For tower cranes: The qualified crane operator and the trainee/apprentice must be in direct communication with each other.

     (d) The trainee/apprentice must not operate the crane in any of the following circumstances:

     (i) If any part of the crane, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), if operated up to the crane's maximum working radius in the work zone, could get within twenty feet of a power line that is up to three hundred fifty kV, or within fifty feet of a power line that is over three hundred fifty kV;

     (ii) If the crane is used to hoist personnel;

     (iii) In a multiple-crane or multiple load line lift situations; or

     (iv) Multiple-lift rigging, as defined in WAC 296-155-52902, can only be accomplished by the trainee/apprentice when the qualified crane operator determines that the trainee's/apprentice's skills are sufficient for this high-skill work.

     (v) Critical lifts, as defined in WAC 296-155-52902, can only be accomplished by the trainee/apprentice when the qualified crane operator determines that the trainee's/apprentice's skills are sufficient for this high-skill work.

     (3) The employer must obtain documentation showing hours of crane operator experience and crane related experience separated out by crane type and capacity.


Note: The employer may accept a signed declaration from the crane operator attesting to actual hours of crane operator experience and crane related experience separated out by crane type and capacity. For sample declaration form see WAC 296-155-56425.

     (4) The department may recognize crane operator certification from another state or territory of the United States as equivalent to qualified crane operator requirements if the department determines that the other jurisdiction's credentialing standards are substantially similar to the qualified crane operator requirements.

     (5) Crane operator experience and crane related experience must be documented and separated out by crane type and capacity; this documentation need only show the minimum amount of hours as outlined in Table 3 above. If the employer is documenting crane operating and/or related crane experience hours, the employer must provide a copy of the hours to the operator as soon as practical, if requested.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53300, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. 10-14-100, § 296-155-53300, filed 7/6/10, effective 9/1/10. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, 49.17.400, 49.17.410, 49.17.420, 49.17.430, and 49.17.440. 08-22-080, § 296-155-53300, filed 11/4/08, effective 1/1/10.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53306   Rigger qualifications.   (1) The rigger must meet the qualification requirements (subsection (3) of this section) prior to performing hoisting activities for assembly and disassembly work (WAC 296-155-53402 (19)(a)). A qualified rigger is required whenever ((workers)) employees are ((within the fall zone and)) engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding ((a)) the load, or ((doing)) in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure, and are within the fall zone (WAC 296-155-53400 (43)(c)). This requirement must be met by using either Option (1) or Option (2).

     (a) Option (1) - Third-party qualified evaluator. The rigger has documentation from a third-party qualified evaluator showing that the rigger meets the qualification requirements listed in subsection (3) of this section.

     (b) Option (2) - Employer's qualified evaluator. The employer has its qualified evaluator assess the individual and determine that the individual meets the qualification requirements listed in subsection (3) of this section and provides documentation of that determination. An assessment by an employer's qualified evaluator under this option is not portable meaning other employers are not permitted to use this qualification to meet the requirements of this section.

     (c) The employer must make the documentation for whichever option is used available at the site while the rigger is employed by the employer. The documentation must specify each type of rigging for which the rigger meets the requirements of subsection (3) of this section.

     (2) If subsequent actions by the rigger indicate that the individual may not meet the qualification requirements listed in subsection (3) of this section, the employer must not allow the individual to continue working as a rigger until retraining is provided and a reassessment is made in accordance with subsection (1) of this section that confirms that the individual meets the qualification requirements.

     (3) Qualification requirements. Each rigger must:

     (a) Know and understand the requirements located in ASME B30.7-2006, Base-Mounted Drum Hoists, B30.9-2010, Slings, B30.10-2009, Hooks, B30.16-2007, Overhead Hoists (Underhung), B30.20-2010, Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices, B30.21-2005, Manually Lever Operated Hoists and B30.26-2004, Rigging Hardware, as applicable.

     (b) Know and understand the type of sling and hitch used. For example, if synthetic web slings are used, the rigger must know and understand the removal criteria for this type of sling and how to properly use the sling.

     (c) Be competent in the application of the type of hitches used.

     (d) Have a basic understanding of slings, rigging hardware and below-the-hook lifting devices (as applicable); their limitations, rigging practices, associated hazards and inspection requirements.

     (e) Know and understand load weight estimation, center of gravity, effect of angles on rigging components, load turning, knots/tag lines, chain hoist/come-a-long usage, winch and block usage, and basic hand signals, as applicable.

     (f) Know and understand the relevant requirements of WAC 296-155-556 through 296-155-56220 and this section.

     (g) Demonstrate that they meet the requirements in (a) through (e) of this subsection through a written test and through a practical test. All tests must be documented.


Notes: • The provisions of subsection (3)(g) of this section are ((applicable one hundred eighty days after the effective date of this section)) not required until February 1, 2013.
• This section does not require that each and every worker associated with the rigging of a component or structure to be a "fully qualified rigger" as defined in this section, the requirement is for at least one of the workers to be a fully qualified rigger. However, all other associated workers must be qualified by training or experience to perform their assigned tasks (WAC 296-155-035(2)).

     (4) Qualification period. A rigger qualification cannot exceed a five-year period; this qualification must be renewed every five years to ensure riggers maintain qualified status. At a minimum, this renewal must include a documented written exam.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53306, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53400   General requirements.   (1) All cranes and derricks covered under this part, except for those exempted in WAC 296-155-52900(3), must be certified annually by an accredited certifier recognized by the department, for detailed information about this certification see WAC 296-155-532.

     (2) All crane and derrick operators covered under this part, except for those exempted in WAC 296-155-52900(3), must be qualified as required by WAC 296-155-533.

     (3)(a) Cranes must meet the requirements for design, construction, installation and testing as prescribed in the applicable ASME standard at the time the crane or derrick was manufactured.

     (b) Where manufacturer's specifications are not available the limitations assigned to the crane must be based on the determinations of a registered professional engineer (RPE), competent in this field and such determinations must be appropriately documented and recorded.

     (c) Attachments used with cranes must not exceed the capacity, rating, or scope recommended by the manufacturer or RPE.

     (4) Unavailable operation procedures.

     (a) Where the manufacturer procedures are unavailable, the employer must ((provide)) develop and ensure compliance with all procedures necessary for the safe operation of the crane/derrick and attachments.

     (b) Procedures for the operational controls must be developed by a qualified person.

     (c) Procedures related to the capacity of the crane/derrick must be developed and signed by a registered professional engineer familiar with this equipment.

     (5) Warning decals and placards must be installed and legible as prescribed by this part and the crane manufacturer.

     (6) The procedures applicable to the operation of the crane/derrick including a legible and applicable operator's manual and load rating chart, written in the English language with customary grammar and punctuation, must be in the operator's cab or station when the crane is in operation. Where rated capacities are available in the cab only in electronic form: In the event of a failure which makes the rated capacities inaccessible, the operator must immediately cease operations or follow safe shut-down procedures until the rated capacities (in electronic or other form) are available.

     (7) Rated capacity and related information. The information available in the operator's cab or station (see WAC 296-155-53400(6)) regarding "rated capacity" and related information must include, at a minimum, the following information:

     (a) A complete range of the manufacturer's rated capacities, as follows:

     (i) At all manufacturer approved operating radii, boom angles, work areas, boom lengths and configurations, jib lengths and angles (or offset).

     (ii) Alternate ratings for use and nonuse of optional equipment which affects rated capacities, such as outriggers, stabilizers, and extra counterweights.

     (iii) When available from the manufacturer load ratings where structural competence governs lifting performance must be identified.

     (b) A work area chart for which capacities are listed in the load chart.


Note: An example of this type of chart for mobile cranes is in WAC 296-155-56435.

     (c) The work area figure and load chart must clearly indicate the areas where no load is to be handled.

     (d) Recommended reeving for the hoist lines must be shown.

     (e) Recommended parts of hoist reeving, size, and type of wire rope for various crane loads.

     (f) Recommended boom hoist reeving diagram, where applicable; size, type, and length of wire rope.

     (g) Tire pressure (where applicable).

     (h) Caution or warnings relative to limitations on cranes and operating procedures, including an indication of the least stable direction.

     (i) Position of the gantry and requirements for intermediate boom suspension (where applicable).

     (j) Instructions for boom erection and conditions under which the boom, or boom and jib combinations, may be raised or lowered.

     (k) Whether the hoist holding mechanism is automatically or manually controlled, whether free fall is available, or any combination of these.

     (l) The maximum telescopic travel length of each boom telescopic section.

     (m) Whether sections are telescoped manually or with power.

     (n) The sequence and procedure for extending and retracting the telescopic boom section.

     (o) Maximum loads permitted during the boom extending operation, and any limiting conditions or cautions.

     (p) Hydraulic relief valve settings specified by the manufacturer.

     (8) All manufacturer procedures applicable to the operational functions of cranes/derricks, including its use with attachments must be complied with.

     (9) The operator must not engage in any practice or activity that diverts his/her attention while actually engaged in operating the crane/derrick, such as the use of cellular phones (other than when used for signal communications).

     (10) A portable fire extinguisher, with a basic minimum extinguisher rating of 10 BC, must be installed in the cab or at the machinery housing. Additional requirements relating to portable fire extinguishers can be found in WAC 296-800-300.

     (11) Cabs. Cranes/derricks with cabs must meet the following requirements:

     (a) Cabs must be designed with a form of adjustable ventilation and method for clearing the windshield for maintaining visibility and air circulation. Examples of means for adjustable ventilation include air conditioner or window that can be opened (for ventilation and air circulation); examples of means for maintaining visibility include heater (for preventing windshield icing), defroster, fan, windshield wiper.

     (b) Cab doors (swinging, sliding) must be designed to prevent inadvertent opening or closing while traveling or operating the machine. Swinging doors adjacent to the operator must open outward. Sliding operator doors must open rearward.

     (c) Windows.

     (i) The cab must have windows in front and on both sides of the operator. Forward vertical visibility must be sufficient to give the operator a view of the boom point at all times.

     (ii) Windows may have sections designed to be opened or readily removed. Windows with sections designed to be opened must be designed so that they can be secured to prevent inadvertent closure.

     (iii) Windows must be of safety glass or material with similar optical and safety properties that introduce no visible distortion or otherwise obscure visibility that interferes with the safe operation of the equipment.

     (d) A clear passageway must be provided from the operator's station to an exit door on the operator's side.

     (e) Areas of the cab roof that serve as a workstation for rigging, maintenance, or other equipment-related tasks must be capable of supporting two hundred fifty pounds without permanent distortion.

     (12) Personal belongings must be stored in such a manner as to not interfere with access or operation of the crane.

     (13) Rigging gear, tools, oil cans, waste, and other articles must be stored in the toolbox or another appropriate location, and must not be permitted to lie loose in or about the cab or operator's work station.

     (14) Operating controls must be properly marked to indicate the function of the controls in each position.

     (15) The employer must designate a competent person who must inspect the cranes and components daily when used, and periodically during use to make sure it is in safe operating condition. Any deficiencies that effect the safe operation of the crane must be repaired, or defective parts replaced, before continued use.


Note: For additional requirements relating to inspections see WAC 296-155-53405.

     (16) Before starting the engine, the operator must verify that all controls are in the proper starting position and that all personnel are in the clear.

     (17) While in operation, belts, gears, shafts, pulleys, sprockets, spindles, drums, fly wheels, chains, or other reciprocating, rotating, or other moving parts or equipment must be guarded if such parts are exposed to contact by employees, or otherwise create a hazard. Guarding must meet the requirements of chapter 296-806 WAC, Machine safety.

     (18) Neither the load nor the boom is allowed to be lowered below the point where less than two full wraps of rope remain on their respective drums.

     (19) All exhaust pipes, turbochargers, and charge air coolers must be guarded or insulated in areas where contact by employees is possible in the performance of normal duties and are discharged in a direction away from the operator.

     (20) Hydraulic and pneumatic lines must be protected from damage to the extent feasible.

     (21) Friction mechanisms. Where friction mechanisms (such as brakes and clutches) are used to control the boom hoist or load line hoist, they must be:

     (a) Of a size and thermal capacity sufficient to control all rated loads with the minimum recommended reeving.

     (b) Adjustable to permit compensation for lining wear to maintain proper operation.

     (22) Hydraulic load hoists. Hydraulic drums must have an integrally mounted holding device or internal static brake to prevent load hoist movement in the event of hydraulic failure.

     (23) Whenever internal combustion engine powered crane/derrick exhausts in enclosed spaces, tests must be made and recorded to see that employees are not exposed to unsafe concentrations of toxic gases or oxygen deficient atmospheres. (See chapter 296-62 WAC, General occupational health standards and chapter 296-841 WAC, Airborne contaminants.)

     (24) If access to the cab roof is necessary, a ladder or steps must be provided to give access to a cab roof.

     (25) All steps, running boards, and ladders must be of substantial construction and in good repair at all times.

     (26) Guardrails, handholds, and steps must be provided on cranes for easy access to the cab in accordance with Parts C-1 and J of this chapter.

     (27) Platforms and walkways must have antiskid surfaces.

     (28) Cranes/derricks fuel tank filler pipe must be located in such a position, or protected in such a manner, as to not allow spill or overflow to run onto the engine, exhaust, or electrical equipment of any crane being fueled. In addition, cranes/derricks must be refueled as follows:

     (a) Make sure the engine is turned off before refueling.

     (b) When refueling with gasoline using portable containers, make sure only an approved safety-type can with an automatic closing cap and flame arrester is used.

     (c) Smoking or open flames is prohibited in the refueling area.

     (29) Crane hook ball assemblies and load blocks.

     (a) ((All crane hook ball assemblies and load blocks must be labeled with their rated capacity and their weight.)) Load hooks (including latched and unlatched types), ball assemblies, and load blocks must be of sufficient weight to overhaul the line from the highest hook position for boom or boom and jib lengths and the number of parts of the line in use.

     (b) Crane hooks must be equipped with latches or self-locking devices unless a qualified person determines that it is safer to hoist and place the load without latches (or with the latches removed/tied back(().)) or otherwise disabled) and routes for the loads are preplanned to ensure that no employee is required to work in the fall zone except for employees necessary for the hooking or unhooking of the load.

     (c) The latch or self-locking device (when used) must bridge the throat opening of the hook for the purpose of retaining slings or other lifting devices under slack conditions.

     (30) Repair or replace a hook when it shows:

     (a) Any cracks, nicks, or gouges.

     (b) Wear of more than ten percent of the original sectional dimension, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

     (c) Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook.

     (d) Any distortion causing an increase in the throat opening of five percent, not to exceed one-fourth inch or as recommended by the manufacturer.

     (e) Repair or replace hook latches or self-locking devices when they become inoperative.

     (31) A qualified person must determine if a damaged hook needs to be replaced or can be repaired.

     (32) When repairing a hook, the requirements below must be followed:

     (a) Unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer, only a qualified person can repair cracks, nicks and gouges by grinding longitudinally, following the contour of the hook.


Note: The dimension of the hook cannot be reduced more than ten percent of its original value, unless otherwise recommended by the manufacturer.

     (b) All other repairs must be performed by the hook manufacturer or the qualified person.

     (c) Weld repairs or reshaping must not be performed on hooks, unless approved by the manufacturer.

     (33) Replacement parts, such as load pins for clevis hooks must be at least equal to the original manufacturer's specifications.


Note: For requirements relating to wedge sockets, see WAC 296-155-56115(2).

     (34) Before traveling a crane with a load, it must be determined that this practice is not prohibited by the manufacturer. If not, a qualified person must be responsible for the operation. Decisions such as the necessity to reduce crane ratings, load position, boom location, ground support, travel route, and speed of movement must be in accordance with that person's determination. Specified tire pressure must be maintained. The boom should be carried in line with the direction of travel. Sudden starts and stops should be avoided.

     (35) The crane/derrick must not be assembled or used unless ground conditions are firm, drained, and graded to a sufficient extent as determined by a competent person, so that, in conjunction (if necessary) with the use of supporting materials, the crane/derrick manufacturer's specifications for adequate support and degree of level of the crane/derrick are met. The requirement for the ground to be drained does not apply to marshes/wetlands. For additional requirements for self-erecting tower cranes, see WAC 296-155-54100.

     (36) The controlling entity must:

     (a) Ensure that ground preparations necessary to meet the requirements in subsection (35) of this section are provided.

     (b) Inform the user of the crane/derrick and the operator of the location of hazards beneath the crane/derrick set-up area (such as voids, tanks, utilities) if those hazards are identified in documents (such as site drawings, as-built drawings, and soil analyses) if they are available to the controlling entity that are in the possession of the controlling entity (whether at the site or off-site) or the hazards are otherwise known to that controlling entity.

     (37) If there is no controlling entity for the project, the requirement in subsection (36)(a) of this section must be met by the employer that has authority at the site to make or arrange for ground preparations needed to meet subsection (35) of this section.

     (38) If the assembly/disassembly director or the operator determines that ground conditions do not meet the requirements in subsection (35) of this section, that person's employer must have a discussion with the controlling entity regarding the ground preparations that are needed so that, with the use of suitable supporting materials/devices (if necessary), the requirements in subsection (35) of this section can be met.

     (39) This section does not apply to cranes designed for use on railroad tracks when used on railroad tracks that are part of the general railroad system of transportation that is regulated pursuant to the Federal Railroad Administration under 49 C.F.R. Part 213, and that comply with applicable Federal Railroad Administration requirements.

     (40) Multiple crane/derrick coordination. Where any part of a crane/derrick is within the working radius of another crane/derrick, the controlling entity must institute a system to coordinate operations. If there is no controlling entity, the employer (if there is only one employer operating the multiple pieces of equipment), or employers, must institute such a system.

     (41) Multiple crane or multiple load line lifts.

     (a) Plan development. Before beginning a crane/derrick operation in which more than one crane/derrick will be supporting the load or multiple load lines on one crane will be supporting the load, the operation must be planned. The planning must meet the following requirements:

     (i) The plan must be developed by a qualified person.

     (ii) The plan must be designed to ensure that the requirements of this part are met.

     (iii) Where the qualified person determines that engineering expertise is needed for the planning, the employer must ensure that it is provided.

     (b) Plan implementation.

     (i) The multiple-crane/derrick lift or multiple load line lifts must be directed by a person who meets the criteria for both a competent person and a qualified person, or by a competent person who is assisted by one or more qualified persons (lift director).

     (ii) The lift director must review the plan in a meeting with all workers who will be involved with the operation.

     (42) Work area control. Swing radius hazards.

     (a) The requirements in (b) of this subsection apply where there are accessible areas in which the crane's rotating superstructure (whether permanently or temporarily mounted) poses a reasonably foreseeable risk of:

     (i) Striking and injuring an employee; or

     (ii) Pinching/crushing an employee against another part of the crane or another object.

     (b) To prevent employees from entering these hazard areas, the employer must:

     (i) Train each employee assigned to work on or near the crane (authorized personnel) in how to recognize struck-by and pinch/crush hazard areas posed by the rotating superstructure.

     (ii) Erect and maintain control lines, warning lines, railings or similar barriers to mark the boundaries of the hazard areas.


Exception: When the employer can demonstrate that it is neither feasible to erect such barriers on the ground nor on the crane, the hazard areas must be clearly marked by a combination of warning signs (such as Danger-Swing/Crush Zone) and high visibility markings on the crane that identify the hazard areas. In addition, the employer must train each employee to understand what these markings signify.

     (c) Protecting employees in the hazard area.

     (i) Before an employee goes to a location in the hazard area that is out of view of the operator, the employee (or someone instructed by the employee) must ensure that the operator is informed that he/she is going to that location.

     (ii) Where the operator knows that an employee went to a location covered by subsection (43)(c)(i) of this section, the operator must not rotate the superstructure until the operator is informed in accordance with a prearranged system of communication that the employee is in a safe position.

     (d) Where any part of a crane/derrick is within the working radius of another crane/derrick, the controlling entity must institute a system to coordinate operations. If there is no controlling entity, the employer (if there is only one employer operating the multiple pieces of equipment), or employers, must institute such a system.

     (43) Keeping clear of the load.

     (a) Where available, hoisting routes that minimize the exposure of employees to hoisted loads must be used to the extent consistent with public safety.

     (b) While the operator is not moving a suspended load, no employee is allowed to be within the fall zone, except for employees:

     (i) Engaged in hooking, unhooking or guiding a load; or

     (ii) Engaged in the initial attachment of the load to a component structure; or

     (iii) Operating a concrete hopper or concrete bucket.

     (c) When employees are engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding the load, or in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure, and are within the fall zone, all of the following criteria must be met:

     (i) The materials being hoisted must be rigged to prevent unintentional displacement.

     (ii) Hooks with self-closing latches or their equivalent must be used, see subsection (29)(b) of this section. "J" hooks are permitted to be used for setting wooden trusses.

     (iii) The materials must be rigged by a qualified rigger.

     (d) Receiving a load. Only employees needed to receive a load are permitted to be within the fall zone when a load is being landed.

     (e) During a tilt-up or tilt-down operation:

     (i) Employees are not allowed to be directly under the load.

     (ii) Only employees' essential to the operation are allowed to be in the fall zone (but not directly under the suspended load).


Note: An employee is essential to the operation if the employee is conducting one of the following operations and the employer can demonstrate it is infeasible for the employee to perform that operation from outside the fall zone:
• Physically guide the load;
• Closely monitor and give instructions regarding the load's movement; or
• Either detach it from or initially attach it to another component or structure (such as, but not limited to, making an initial connection or installing bracing).

     (f) Boom free fall is prohibited when an employee is in the fall zone of the boom or load, and load line free fall is prohibited when an employee is directly under the load. See subsections (44) through (47) of this section.

     (44) Boom free fall prohibitions.

     (a) The use of cranes in which the boom is designed to free fall (live boom) is prohibited in each of the following circumstances:

     (i) An employee is in the fall zone of the boom or load.

     (ii) An employee is being hoisted.

     (iii) The load or boom is directly over a power line, or over any part of the area listed in Table 4 located in WAC 296-155-53408, clearance distance to each side of the power line; or any part of the area extending the Table 4 clearance distance to each side of the power line is within the radius of vertical travel of the boom or the load.

     (iv) The load is over a shaft, except where there are no employees in the shaft.

     (v) The load is over a cofferdam, except where there are no employees in the fall zone of the boom or the load.

     (vi) Lifting operations are taking place in a refinery or tank farm.

     (b) The use of cranes in which the boom is designed to free fall (live boom) is permitted only where none of the circumstances listed in (a) of this subsection are present and:

     (i) The crane was manufactured prior to October 31, 1984; or

     (ii) The crane is a floating crane or a land crane on a vessel/flotation device.

     (45) Preventing boom free fall. Where the use of a crane with a boom that is designed to free fall (live boom) is prohibited (see subsection (44)(a) of this section), the boom hoist must have a secondary mechanism or device designed to prevent the boom from falling in the event the primary system used to hold or regulate the boom hoist fails, as follows:

     (a) Friction drums must have:

     (i) A friction clutch and, in addition, a braking device, to allow for controlled boom lowering.

     (ii) A secondary braking or locking device, which is manually or automatically engaged, to back-up the primary brake while the boom is held (such as a secondary friction brake or a ratchet and pawl device).

     (b) Hydraulic drums must have an integrally mounted holding device or internal static brake to prevent boom hoist movement in the event of hydraulic failure.

     (c) Neither clutches nor hydraulic motors must be considered brake or locking devices for purposes of this part.

     (d) Hydraulic boom cylinders must have an integrally mounted holding device.

     (46) Preventing uncontrolled retraction. Hydraulic telescoping booms must have an integrally mounted holding device to prevent the boom from retracting in the event of hydraulic failure.

     (47) Load line free fall. In each of the following circumstances, controlled load lowering is required and free fall of the load line hoist is prohibited:

     (a) An employee is directly under the load.

     (b) An employee is being hoisted.

     (c) The load is directly over a power line, or over any part of the area listed in Table 4, located in WAC 296-155-53408, clearance distance to each side of the power line; or any part of the area extending the Table 4 of WAC 296-155-53408, clearance distance to each side of the power line is within the radius of vertical travel of the load.

     (d) The load is over a shaft.

     (e) The load is over a cofferdam, except where there are no employees in the fall zone of the load.

     (48) Employees must not be allowed to ride on the hook or load.

     (49) The hoist rope must not be wrapped around the load.

     (50) All loads must be attached to the hook by means of suitable slings or other devices of sufficient lifting capacity.

     (51) When moving a load it must be well secured and balanced in the sling or lifting device before it is lifted more than a few inches.

     (52) Leaving the crane/derrick unattended. The operator must not leave the controls while the load is suspended, except where all of the following are met:

     (a) The operator remains adjacent to the crane/derrick and is not engaged in any other duties.

     (b) The load is to be held suspended for a period of time exceeding normal lifting operations.

     (c) The competent person determines that it is safe to do so and implements measures necessary to restrain the boom hoist and telescoping, load, swing, and outrigger or stabilizer functions.

     (d) Barricades or caution lines, and notices, are erected to prevent all employees from entering the fall zone. No employees, including those listed in subsection (43)(b), (d), and (e) of this section, are permitted in the fall zone.


Exemption: The provisions in this section do not apply to working gear (such as slings, spreader bars, ladders, and welding machines) where the weight of the working gear is negligible relative to the lifting capacity of the equipment as positioned, and the working gear is suspended over an area other than an entrance or exit.

Note: For additional requirements relating to leaving the crane unattended for tower, self-erecting, overhead/bridge and derricks see:
• WAC 296-155-53915, Tower cranes -- Operations;
• WAC 296-155-54115, Self-erecting tower cranes -- Operations;
• WAC 296-155-54215, Overhead/bridge cranes and gantry cranes -- Operations;
• WAC 296-155-54320, Derricks -- Operations.

     (53) While moving the load the lift and swing path must be clear of obstructions.

     (54) Before starting to lift the following conditions must be met:

     (a) The hoist rope must not be kinked.

     (b) Multiple-part lines must not be twisted around each other.

     (c) The hook must be brought over the load in such a manner as to minimize swinging.

     (d) If the competent person determines that there is slack rope condition requiring respooling of the rope, it must be ((determined)) verified (before starting the lift) that the rope is seated on the drum and in the sheaves as the slack is removed.

     (e) The competent person must adjust the crane/derrick and/or operations to address the effect of wind, ice, and snow on equipment stability and rated capacity.

     (f) If possible, the load must be free to be lifted; it is neither caught nor attached to other objects.

     (55) During lifting operations, care must be taken that there is no sudden acceleration or deceleration of the moving load and that the load boom or other parts of the crane do not contact any obstruction. Rotational speed of the crane/derrick must be such that the load does not swing out beyond the radius at which it can be controlled.

     (56) Side loading of booms (jibs) must be limited to freely suspended loads. Cranes must not be used for dragging loads sideways.

     (57) The operator must test the brakes each time a load that is ninety percent or more of the maximum line pull is handled by lifting the load a few inches and applying the brakes. In duty cycle and repetitive lifts where each lift is ninety percent or more of the maximum line pull, this requirement applies to the first lift but not to successive lifts.

     (58) Modifications or additions which affect the capacity or safe operation of the crane/derrick are prohibited except where the requirements of (a) or (b) of this subsection are met. For recertification requirements see WAC 296-155-53214 (1)(c).

     (a) Manufacturer review and approval.

     (i) The manufacturer approves the modifications/additions in writing.

     (ii) The load charts, procedures, instruction manuals and instruction plates/tags/decals are modified as necessary to accord with the modification/addition.

     (iii) The original safety factor of the crane/derrick is not reduced.

     (b) Where manufacturer is unavailable or has refused to review a request. The manufacturer is provided a detailed description of the proposed modification/addition, is asked to approve the modification/addition, but it declines to review the technical merits of the proposal or fails, within thirty days, to acknowledge the request or initiate the review, and all of the following are met:

     (i) A registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to the crane/derrick involved:

     (A) Approves the modification/addition and specifies the crane/derrick configurations to which that approval applies; and

     (B) Modifies load charts, procedures, instruction manuals and instruction plates/tags/decals as necessary to accord with the modification/addition.

     (ii) The original safety factor of the crane/derrick is not reduced.

     (c) Manufacturer does not complete the review within one hundred twenty days of the request. The manufacturer is provided a detailed description of the proposed modification/addition, is asked to approve the modification/addition, agrees to review the technical merits of the proposal, but fails to complete the review of the proposal within one hundred twenty days of the date it was provided the detailed description of the proposed modification/addition, and the requirements of subsection (58)(b)(i) and (ii) of this section are met.

     (d) Multiple manufacturers of equipment designed for use on marine worksites. The equipment is designed for marine worksites, contains major structural components from more than one manufacturer, and the requirements of subsection (58)(b)(i) and (ii) of this section are met.

     (59) No modifications or additions which affect the capacity or safe operation of the crane can be made by the employer without the manufacturers' written approval. If components of more than one crane manufacturer are being combined, the employer must obtain written approval from all manufacturers prior to use. If the manufacturer(s) is/are not available a registered professional structural engineer's (RPSE) written approval must be obtained. If such modifications or changes are made, the capacity, operation, and maintenance instruction plates, tags, or decals, must be changed accordingly. In no case must the original safety factor of the crane be reduced.


Note: The provisions in subsections (58) and (59) of this section do not apply to modifications made or approved by the U.S. military.

     (60) All applicable controls must be tested by the operator at the start of a new shift, if possible. If any controls fail to operate properly, they must be adjusted or repaired before operations are initiated.

     (61) Except for proof load testing required under WAC 296-155-53202 through 296-155-53212, no crane/derrick is permitted to be loaded beyond the specifications of the load rating chart, unless authorized by the crane manufacturer. The operator must not be required to operate the crane/derrick in a manner that would violate this requirement.

     (62) Load weight. The operator must verify that the load is within the rated capacity of the crane/derrick by at least one of the following methods:

     (a) The weight of the load must be determined from a reliable source recognized by the industry (such as the load's manufacturer), or by a reliable calculation method recognized by the industry (such as calculating a steel beam from measured dimensions and a known per foot weight), or by other equally reliable means. In addition, when requested by the operator, this information must be provided to the operator prior to the lift; or

     (b) The operator must begin hoisting the load to determine, using a load weighing device, load moment indicator, rated capacity indicator, or rated capacity limiter. If the load exceeds seventy-five percent of the maximum rated capacity at the longest radius that will be used during the lift operation, the operator must not proceed with the lift until it is verified that the weight of the load is in accordance with (a) of this subsection.

     (63) Tag lines or restraint lines must be used when rotation or swinging of the load is hazardous or if the load needs guidance. Tag lines are not required when all of the following criteria are met:

     • The suspended load can be expected to remain still when in a static (nonmoving) condition or does not swing or rotate in a hazardous manner;

     • The movement of the crane or boom cannot be expected to cause the load to swing or rotate in an uncontrolled manner that may create a hazard;

     • The operator is in control of the movement of the load and a hazardous condition is not created.

     (64) All brakes must be adjusted in accordance with manufacturer procedures to prevent unintended movement.

     (65) Safety devices and/or operational aids must not be used as a substitute for the exercise of professional judgment by the operator.

     (((65))) (66) Storm warning. When a local storm warning has been issued, the competent person must determine whether it is necessary to implement manufacturer recommendations for securing the crane/derrick.

     (((66))) (67) Whenever there is a concern as to safety, the operator has the authority to stop and refuse to handle loads until a qualified person has determined that safety has been assured.

     (((67))) (68) Tag-out.

     (a) Tagging out of service. Where the employer has taken the crane/derrick out of service, a tag must be placed in the cab or at the operator station stating that the equipment is out of service and is not to be used. Where the employer has taken a function(s) out of service, a tag must be placed in a conspicuous position stating that the function is out of service and is not to be used.

     (b) Response to do not operate/tag-out signs.

     (i) If there is a warning (tag-out or maintenance/do not operate) sign on the crane/derrick or starting control, the operator must not activate the switch or start the crane/derrick until the sign has been removed by a person authorized to remove it, or until the operator has verified that:

     (A) No one is servicing, working on or otherwise in a dangerous position around the machine.

     (B) The crane/derrick has been repaired and is working properly.

     (ii) If there is a warning (tag-out or maintenance/do not operate) sign on any other switch or control, the operator must not activate that switch or control until the sign has been removed by a person authorized to remove it, or until the operator has verified that the requirements in (b)(i)(A) and (B) of this subsection have been met.


Note: For additional lockout/tagout procedures for electrical circuits, see WAC 296-155-429.

     (((68))) (69) If crane/derrick adjustments or repairs are necessary:

     (a) The operator must, in writing, promptly inform the person designated by the employer to receive such information and, where there are successive shifts, to the next operator; and

     (b) The employer must notify all affected employees, at the beginning of each shift, of the necessary adjustments or repairs and all alternative measures.

     (((69))) (70) All cranes and derricks mounted on barges or other floating structures must meet the requirements as outlined in ASME B30.8-2004 for construction, installation, inspection, maintenance and operation.

     (((70))) (71) Swinging locomotive cranes. A locomotive crane must not be swung into a position where railway cars on an adjacent track could strike it, until it is determined that cars are not being moved on the adjacent track and that proper flag protection has been established.

     (((71))) (72) Remote control cranes/derricks. Before an operator leaves the crane/derrick to operate remotely, the operator must ensure that the crane/derrick will be used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Provisions must be made to prevent simultaneous activation of controls when more than one control station (remote control) is provided.

     (((72))) (73) Remote-operated cranes/derricks must function so that if the control signal for any crane/derrick motion becomes ineffective, the crane/derrick motion must stop.

     (((73))) (74) Remote-operated cranes/derricks must be equipped with an "emergency stop" system, located at the operator's remote station to provide the means to remove power from the crane in the event of a malfunction.

     (((74))) (75) A preventative maintenance program must be established based on the recommendation of the crane/derrick manufacturer. If manufacturer's recommendations are not available, then those of a qualified person must be followed. Dated records must be kept available.

     (((75))) (76) Working with a diver. The employer must meet the following additional requirements when working with a diver in the water:

     (a) If a crane/derrick is used to get a diver into and out of the water, it must not be used for any other purpose until the diver is removed from the water. When used for more than one diver, it must not be used for any other purpose until all divers are all out of the water.

     (b) The operator must remain at the controls of the crane/derrick at all times.

     (c) In addition to the requirements in WAC 296-155-53406, Signals, either:

     (i) A clear line of sight must be maintained between the operator and dive tender; or

     (ii) The signals between the operator and dive tender must be transmitted electronically.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53400, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53402   Assembly/disassembly.   (1) When assembling and disassembling crane/derrick (or attachments), the employer must comply with all applicable manufacturer prohibitions and must comply with either:

     (a) Manufacturer procedures applicable to assembly and disassembly; or

     (b) Employer procedures for assembly and disassembly. Employer procedures may be used only where the employer can demonstrate that the procedures used meet the requirements in subsection (17) of this section.


Note: The employer must follow manufacturer procedures when an employer uses synthetic slings during assembly or disassembly of cranes/derricks, see subsection (19) of this section.

     (2) Supervision - Competent/qualified person.

     (a) Assembly/disassembly must be directed by a person who meets the criteria for both a competent person and a qualified person, or by a competent person who is assisted by one or more qualified persons (assembly/disassembly director).

     (b) Where the assembly/disassembly is being performed by only one person, that person must meet the criteria for both a competent person and a qualified person. For purposes of this part, that person is considered the assembly/disassembly director.

     (3) Knowledge of procedures. The assembly/disassembly director must understand the applicable assembly/disassembly procedures.

     (4) Review of procedures. The assembly/disassembly director must review the applicable assembly/disassembly procedures immediately prior to the commencement of assembly/disassembly unless the assembly/disassembly director has applied them to the same type and configuration of crane/derrick (including accessories, if any).

     (5) Preassembly inspection.

     (a) Prior to assembling crane/derrick components or attachments the assembly/disassembly director must inspect these components and attachments to ensure that they meet the manufacturer's recommendations. This inspection must include a visual inspection to ensure that the components and attachments are of sound physical condition and functional within the manufacturer's recommendations.

     (b) Documentation of this inspection must remain at the job site while the crane/derrick is in use.

     (6) Crew instructions.

     (a) Before commencing assembly/disassembly operations, the assembly/disassembly director must ensure that the crew members understand the following:

     (i) Their tasks;

     (ii) The hazards associated with their tasks;

     (iii) The hazardous positions/locations that they need to avoid.

     (b) During assembly/disassembly operations, before a crew member takes on a different task, or when adding new personnel during the operations, the requirements in (a)(i) through (iii) of this subsection must be met.

     (7) Protecting assembly/disassembly crew members out of operator view.

     (a) Before a crew member goes to a location that is out of view of the operator and is either: In, on, under, or near the crane/derrick (or load) where the crew member could be injured by movement of the crane/derrick (or load), the crew member must inform the operator that they are going to that location.

     (b) Where the operator knows that a crew member went to a location covered by (a) of this subsection, the operator must not move any part of the crane/derrick (or load) until the operator is informed in accordance with a prearranged system of communication that the crew member is in a safe position.

     (8) Working under the boom, jib or other components.

     (a) When pins (or similar devices) are being removed, employees must not be under the boom, jib, or other components, except where the requirements in (b) of this subsection are met.

     (b) Exception. Where the employer demonstrates that site constraints require one or more employees to be under the boom, jib, or other components when pins (or similar devices) are being removed, the assembly/disassembly director must implement procedures that minimize the risk of unintended dangerous movement and minimize the duration and extent of exposure under the boom. (See WAC 296-155-56430, Assembly/disassembly -- Working under the boom, jib or other components -- Sample procedures for minimizing the risk of unintended dangerous boom movement.)

     (9) Capacity limits. During all phases of assembly/disassembly, rated capacity limits for loads imposed on the crane/derrick, components (including rigging), lifting lugs and crane/derrick accessories must not be exceeded.

     (10) Addressing specific hazards. The assembly/disassembly director supervising the assembly/disassembly operation must address the hazards associated with the operation, which include:

     (a) Site and ground bearing conditions. Site and ground conditions must be adequate for safe assembly/disassembly operations and to support the crane/derrick during assembly/disassembly (see WAC 296-155-53400 (34) through (38) for ground condition requirements).

     (b) Blocking material. The size, amount, condition and method of stacking blocking must be sufficient to sustain the loads and maintain stability.

     (c) Proper location of blocking. When used to support lattice booms or components, blocking must be appropriately placed to:

     (i) Protect the structural integrity of the crane/derrick; and

     (ii) Prevent dangerous movement and collapse.

     (d) Verifying assist crane loads. When using an assist crane, the loads that will be imposed on the assist crane at each phase of assembly/disassembly must be verified in accordance with WAC 296-155-53400(61) before assembly/disassembly begins.

     (e) Boom and jib pick points. The point(s) of attachment of rigging to a boom (or boom sections or jib or jib sections) must be suitable for preventing structural damage and facilitating safe handling of these components.

     (f) Center of gravity.

     (i) The center of gravity of the load must be identified if it is necessary for the method used for maintaining stability.

     (ii) Where there is insufficient information to accurately identify the center of gravity, measures designed to prevent unintended dangerous movement resulting from an inaccurate identification of the center of gravity must be used. (See WAC 296-155-56430, Assembly/disassembly -- Working under the boom, jib or other components -- Sample procedures for minimizing the risk of unintended dangerous boom movement.)

     (g) Stability upon pin removal. The boom sections, boom suspension systems (such as gantry A-frames and jib struts), and components must be rigged or supported to maintain stability upon the removal of the pins.

     (h) Snagging. Suspension ropes and pendants must not be allowed to catch on the boom or jib connection pins or cotter pins (including keepers and locking pins).

     (i) Struck by counterweights. The potential for unexpected movement from inadequately supported counterweights and from hoisting counterweights.

     (j) Boom hoist brake failure. Each time reliance is to be placed on the boom hoist brake to prevent boom movement during assembly/disassembly, the brake must be tested prior to such reliance to determine if it is sufficient to prevent boom movement. If it is not sufficient, a boom hoist pawl, other locking device/back-up braking device, or another method of preventing dangerous movement of the boom (such as blocking or using an assist crane) from a boom hoist brake failure must be used.

     (k) Loss of backward stability. Backward stability before swinging the upperworks, travel, and when attaching or removing crane/derrick components.


Figure 2. Lack of backward stability results in superstructure toppling.

     (l) Wind speed and weather. The effect of wind speed and weather on the crane/derrick.

     (11) Cantilevered boom sections. Manufacturer limitations on the maximum amount of boom supported only by cantilevering must not be exceeded. Where these are unavailable, a registered professional engineer familiar with the type of crane/derrick involved must determine this limitation in writing, which must not be exceeded.

     (12) Weight of components. The weight of each of the components must be readily available.

     (13) Components and configuration.

     (a) The selection of components and configuration of the crane/derrick that affect the capacity or safe operation of this equipment must be in accordance with:

     (i) Manufacturer's instructions, prohibitions, limitations, and specifications. Where these are unavailable, a registered professional engineer familiar with the type of crane/derrick involved must approve, in writing, the selection and configuration of components; or

     (ii) Approved modifications that meet the requirements of WAC 296-155-53400 (58) and (59) (crane/derrick modifications).

     (b) Post-assembly inspection. Upon completion of assembly, the crane/derrick must be inspected by the assembly/disassembly director to ensure compliance with (a) of this subsection and as follows:

     (i) Upon completion of assembly, the crane/derrick must be inspected by a qualified person to assure that it is configured in accordance with manufacturer's criteria. For tower cranes, this inspection must be done by an accredited crane certifier.

     (ii) Where manufacturer's criteria is unavailable, a qualified person must determine if a registered professional engineer (RPE) familiar with the type of crane/derrick involved is needed to develop criteria for the configuration. If an RPE is not needed, the employer must ensure that the criteria are developed by the qualified person. If an RPE is needed, the employer must ensure that they are developed by an RPE.

     (c) Crane/derrick must not be used until an inspection demonstrates that it is configured in accordance with the applicable criteria.

     (d) Documentation of this inspection must remain at the job site while the crane/derrick is in use.

     (14) Shipping pins. Reusable shipping pins, straps, links, and similar equipment must be removed. Once they are removed they must either be stowed or otherwise stored so that they do not present a falling object hazard.

     (15) Pile driving. Cranes used for pile driving must not have a jib attached during pile driving operations.

     (16) The following are additional requirements for dismantling of booms and jibs, including dismantling for changing the length of booms and jibs (applies to both the use of manufacturer procedures and employer procedures):

     (a) None of the pins in the pendants are to be removed (partly or completely) when the pendants are in tension. See, for example, Figure 3.


Figure 3. Pins (indicated by arrows) are not to be removed while pendants remain in tension.

     (b) None of the pins (top and bottom) on boom sections located between the pendant attachment points and the crane/derrick body are to be removed (partly or completely) when the pendants are in tension. See, for example, Figures 4 and 5.


Figure 4. Pendant is in tension while connected to uppermost boom section, and no pins are to be removed.

Figure 5. Pendant is in tension, and pins between pendant attachment point and crane body (indicated by arrows) are not to be removed. Note that, because the cantilevered portion of the boom is not supported, only the bottom pins ahead of the pendant may be removed. See Figure 8.

     (c) None of the pins (top and bottom) on boom sections located between the uppermost boom section and the crane/derrick body are to be removed (partly or completely) when the boom is being supported by the uppermost boom section resting on the ground (or other support). See, for example, Figure 6.


Figure 6. Uppermost boom section is resting on ground, and no pins between uppermost boom section and crane body are to be removed.

     (d) None of the top pins on boom sections located on the cantilevered portion of the boom being removed (the portion being removed ahead of the pendant attachment points) are to be removed (partly or completely) until the cantilevered section to be removed is fully supported. See, for example, Figures 7 and 8.


Figure 7. Cantilevered portion of boom is not supported, and top pins therefore are not to be removed. Bottom pins (circled) may be removed.

Figure 8. Cantilevered portion of boom is supported, and top pins (circled) may therefore be removed.

     (17) When using employer procedures instead of manufacturer procedures for assembling or disassembling, the employer must ensure that the procedures are designed to:

     (a) Prevent unintended dangerous movement, and to prevent collapse, of any parts of the crane/derrick.

     (b) Provide adequate support and stability of all parts of the crane/derrick during the assembly/disassembly process.

     (c) Position employees involved in the assembly/disassembly operation so that their exposure to movement or collapse is minimized.

     (d) Qualified person. Employer procedures must be developed by a qualified person.

     (18) Outriggers and stabilizers. When the load to be handled and the operating radius require the use of outriggers or stabilizers, or at any time when outriggers or stabilizers are used, the following requirements must be met:

     (a) The outriggers or stabilizers must be either fully extended or, if manufacturer procedures permit, deployed as specified in the load chart.

     (b) The outriggers must be set to remove the crane weight from the wheels, except for locomotive cranes (see (f) of this subsection for use of outriggers on locomotive cranes). This provision does not apply to stabilizers.

     (c) When outrigger floats are used, they must be attached to the outriggers. When stabilizer floats are used they must be attached to the stabilizers.

     (d) Each outrigger or stabilizer must be visible to the operator or to a signal person during extension and setting.

     (e) Outrigger and stabilizer blocking must:

     (i) Meet the requirements in subsection (((9))) (10)(b) and (c) of this section.

     (ii) Be placed only under the outrigger or stabilizer float/pad of the jack or, where the outrigger or stabilizer is designed without a jack, under the outer bearing surface of the extended outrigger or stabilizer beam.

     (f) For locomotive cranes, when using outriggers or stabilizers to handle loads, the manufacturer's procedures must be followed. When lifting loads without using outriggers or stabilizers, the manufacturer's procedures must be met regarding truck wedges or screws.

     (19) Rigging. In addition to the following requirements in WAC 296-155-556, 296-155-558, 296-155-560 and 296-155-562 and other requirements in this and other standards applicable to rigging, when rigging is used for assembly/disassembly, the employer must ensure that:

     (a) The rigging work is done by a qualified rigger. See WAC 296-155-53306.

     (b) Synthetic slings are protected from: Abrasive, sharp or acute edges, and configurations that could cause a reduction of the sling's rated capacity, such as distortion or localized compression. See WAC 296-155-55815(6), 296-155-55820(6) and 296-155-55825(6).


Note: Requirements for the protection of wire rope slings are contained in WAC 296-155-55805.

     (c) When synthetic slings are used, the synthetic sling manufacturer's instructions, limitations, specifications and recommendations must be followed.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53402, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53403   Fall protection.   (1) Application.

     (a) Subsections (2), (3)(b), (5) and (6) of this section apply to all cranes/derricks covered by this part except tower cranes.

     (b) Subsections (3)(a), (4), (7), (10) and (11) of this section apply to all cranes/derricks covered by this part.

     (c) Subsections (3)(c) and (9) of this section apply only to tower cranes.

     (2) Boom walkways.

     (a) Cranes/derricks manufactured after the effective date of this section with lattice booms must be equipped with walkways on the boom(s) if the vertical profile of the boom (from cord centerline to cord centerline) is six or more feet.

     (b) Boom walkway criteria ((must meet manufacturer's specifications after the effective date of this section)). The walkways must be at least twelve inches wide.

     (3) Steps, handholds, ladders, grabrails, guardrails and railings.

     (a) All steps, handholds, ladders and guardrails/railings/grabrails must be maintained in good condition.

     (b) Cranes/derricks manufactured after the effective date of this section must be equipped so as to provide safe access and egress between the ground and the operator work station(s), including the forward and rear positions, by the provision of devices such as steps, handholds, ladders, and guardrails/railings/grabrails. These devices must meet the following criteria:

     (i) Steps, handholds, ladders and guardrails/railings/grabrails must meet the criteria of SAE J185 (May 2003) or ISO 11660-2:1994(E) except where infeasible.

     (ii) Walking/stepping surfaces, except for crawler treads, must have slip-resistant features/properties (such as diamond plate metal, strategically placed grip tape, expanded metal, or slip-resistant paint).

     (c) Tower cranes manufactured after the effective date of this section must be equipped so as to provide safe access and egress between the ground and the cab, machinery platforms, and tower (mast), by the provision of devices such as steps, handholds, ladders, and guardrails/railings/grabrails. These devices must meet the following criteria:

     (i) Steps, handholds, ladders, and guardrails/railings/grabrails must meet the criteria of ISO 11660-1:2008(E) and ISO 11660-3:2008(E) or SAE J185 (May 2003) except where infeasible.

     (ii) Walking/stepping surfaces must have slip-resistant features/properties (such as diamond plate metal, strategically placed grip tape, expanded metal, or slip-resistant paint).

     (4) Personal fall arrest and fall restraint systems must conform to the criteria in WAC 296-155-24510. Body harnesses must be used in personal fall arrest and fall restraint systems.

     (5) For nonassembly/disassembly work, the employer must provide and ensure the use of fall protection equipment for employees who are on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than six feet above a lower level as follows:

     (a) When moving point-to-point:

     (i) On nonlattice booms (whether horizontal or not horizontal).

     (ii) On lattice booms that are not horizontal.

     (iii) On horizontal lattice booms where the fall distance is ten feet or more.

     (b) While at a work station on any part of the crane (including the boom, of any type).


Note: If the equipment is running and the employee is at or near the draw-works, precautions should be taken to ensure the fall protection gear will not become entangled.

     (6) For assembly/disassembly work, the employer must provide and ensure the use of fall protection equipment for employees who are on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than ten feet above a lower level.


Note: If the equipment is running and the employee is at or near the draw-works, precautions should be taken to ensure the fall protection gear will not become entangled.

     (7) Anchorage criteria.

     (a) Anchorages used for attachment of personal fall arrest equipment must be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and capable of supporting at least five thousand pounds (22.2 kN) per employee attached, or must be designed, installed, and used as follows:

     (i) As part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor of at least two; and

     (ii) Under the supervision of a qualified person.

     (b) Positioning devices must be secured to an anchorage capable of supporting at least twice the potential impact load of an employee's fall or three thousand pounds (13.3 kN), whichever is greater.

     (c) Anchorages for personal fall arrest and positioning device systems.

     (i) Personal fall arrest systems must be anchored to any apparently substantial part of the equipment unless a competent person, from a visual inspection, without an engineering analysis, would conclude that the criteria in (a) of this subsection would not be met.

     (ii) Positioning device systems must be anchored to any apparently substantial part of the crane unless a competent person, from a visual inspection, without an engineering analysis, would conclude that the criteria in (b) of this subsection would not be met.

     (iii) Attachable anchor devices (portable anchor devices that are attached to the crane) must meet the anchorage criteria in (a) of this subsection for personal fall arrest systems and (b) of this subsection for positioning device systems.

     (8) Anchorages for fall restraint systems. Fall restraint systems must be anchored to any part of the crane that is capable of withstanding twice the maximum load that an employee may impose on it during reasonably anticipated conditions of use.

     (9) Tower cranes.

     (a) For work other than erecting, climbing, and dismantling, the employer must provide and ensure the use of fall protection equipment for employees who are on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than six feet above a lower level.


Note: If the equipment is running and the employee is at or near the draw-works, precautions should be taken to ensure the fall protection gear will not become entangled.

     (b) For erecting, climbing, and dismantling work, the employer must provide and ensure the use of fall protection equipment for employees who are on a walking/working surface with an unprotected side or edge more than ten feet above a lower level.

     (10) Anchoring to the load line. A personal fall arrest system is permitted to be anchored to the crane/derrick's hook (or other part of the load line) where all of the following requirements are met:

     (a) A qualified person has determined that the set-up and rated capacity of the crane/derrick (including the hook, load line and rigging) meets or exceeds the requirements in subsection (7)(a) of this section.

     (b) The crane operator must be at the worksite and informed that the crane is being used for this purpose.

     (c) No load is suspended from the load line when the personal fall arrest system is anchored to the crane/derrick's hook (or other part of the load line).

     (11) Training. The employer must train each employee who may be exposed to fall hazards while on, or hoisted by, cranes/derricks covered by this section on all of the following:

     (a) The requirements in this part that address fall protection.

     (b) The applicable requirements in Parts C-1 and K of this chapter.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53403, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53404   Wire rope.   (1) Selection and installation criteria.

     (a) Original crane/derrick wire rope and replacement wire rope must be selected and installed in accordance with the requirements of this section. Selection of replacement wire rope must be in accordance with the recommendations of the wire rope manufacturer, the crane/derrick manufacturer, or a qualified person.

     (b) Wire rope design criteria: Wire rope (other than rotation resistant rope) must comply with either Option (1) or Option (2) of this section, as follows:

     (i) Option (1). Wire rope must comply with Section 5-1.7.1 of ASME B30.5-2007 except that section's paragraph (c) must not apply.

     (ii) Option (2). Wire rope must be designed to have, in relation to the crane's/derrick's rated capacity, a sufficient minimum breaking force and design factor so that compliance with the applicable inspection provisions in this section will be an effective means of preventing sudden rope failure.

     (c) Wire rope must be compatible with the safe functioning of the crane/derrick.

     (d) Boom hoist reeving.

     (i) Fiber core ropes must not be used for boom hoist or luffing attachment reeving, except for derricks.

     (ii) Rotation resistant ropes must be used for boom hoist reeving only where the requirements of (e) of this subsection are met.

     (e) Rotation resistant ropes.

     (i) Definitions.

     (A) Type I rotation resistant wire rope (Type I). Type I rotation resistant rope is stranded rope constructed to have little or no tendency to rotate or, if guided, transmits little or no torque. It has at least fifteen outer strands and comprises an assembly of at least three layers of strands laid helically over a center in two operations. The direction of lay of the outer strands is opposite to that of the underlying layer.

     (B) Type II rotation resistant wire rope (Type II). Type II rotation resistant rope is stranded rope constructed to have resistance to rotation. It has at least ten outer strands and comprises an assembly of two or more layers of strands laid helically over a center in two or three operations. The direction of lay of the outer strands is opposite to that of the underlying layer.

     (C) Type III rotation resistant wire rope (Type III). Type III rotation resistant rope is stranded rope constructed to have limited resistance to rotation. It has no more than nine outer strands, and comprises an assembly of two layers of strands laid helically over a center in two operations. The direction of lay of the outer strands is opposite to that of the underlying layer.

     (ii) Requirements.

     (A) Types II and III with an operation design factor of less than five must not be used for duty cycle or repetitive lifts.

     (B) Rotation resistant ropes (including Types I, II and III) must have an operating design factor of no less than 3.5.

     (C) Type I must have an operating design factor of no less than five, except where the wire rope manufacturer and the crane/derrick manufacturer approves the design factor, in writing.

     (D) Types II and III must have an operating design factor of no less than five, except where the requirements of (e)(iii) of this subsection are met.

     (iii) When Types II and III with an operation design factor of less than five are used (for nonduty cycle, nonrepetitive lifts), the following requirements must be met for each lifting operation:

     (A) A qualified person must inspect the rope in accordance with subsection (2)(a) of this section. The rope must be used only if the qualified person determines that there are no deficiencies constituting a hazard. In making this determination, more than one broken wire in any one rope lay must be considered a hazard.

     (B) Operations must be conducted in such a manner and at such speeds as to minimize dynamic effects.

     (C) Each lift made under these provisions must be recorded in the monthly and annual inspection documents. Such prior uses must be considered by the qualified person in determining whether to use the rope again.

     (iv) Additional requirements for rotation resistant ropes for boom hoist reeving.

     (A) Rotation resistant ropes must not be used for boom hoist reeving, except where the requirements of (e)(iv)(B) of this subsection are met.

     (B) Rotation resistant ropes may be used as boom hoist reeving when load hoists are used as boom hoists for attachments such as luffing attachments or boom and mast attachment systems. Under these conditions, all of the following requirements must be met:

     (I) The drum must provide a first layer rope pitch diameter of not less than eighteen times the nominal diameter of the rope used.

     (II) The requirements in WAC 296-155-53400(44) (irrespective of the date of manufacture of the crane/derrick), and WAC 296-155-53400(45).

     (III) The requirements of ANSI/ASME B30.5-2007, Section 5-1.3.2(a), (a)(2) through (a)(4), (b) and (d), except that the minimum pitch diameter for sheaves used in multiple rope reeving is eighteen times the nominal diameter of the rope used instead of the value of sixteen specified in Section 5-1.3.2(d).

     (IV) All sheaves used in the boom hoist reeving system must have a rope pitch diameter of not less than eighteen times the nominal diameter of the rope used.

     (V) The operating design factor for the boom hoist reeving system must be not less than five.

     (VI) The operating design factor for these ropes must be the total minimum breaking force of all parts of rope in the system divided by the load imposed on the rope system when supporting the static weights of the structure and the load within the crane's/derrick's rated capacity.

     (VII) When provided, a power-controlled lowering system must be capable of handling rated capacities and speeds as specified by the manufacturer.

     (f) Wire rope clips used in conjunction with wedge sockets must be attached to the unloaded dead end of the rope only, except that the use of devices specifically designed for dead-ending rope in a wedge socket is permitted.

     (g) Socketing must be done in the manner specified by the manufacturer of the wire rope or fitting.

     (h) Prior to cutting a wire rope, seizings must be placed on each side of the point to be cut. The length and number of seizings must be in accordance with the wire rope manufacturer's instructions.

     (2) Inspection of wire ropes.

     (a) Shift inspection.

     (i) A competent person must begin a visual inspection prior to each shift the crane/derrick is used, which must be completed before or during that shift. The inspection must consist of observation of accessible wire ropes (running and standing) that are likely to be in use during the shift for apparent deficiencies, including those listed in (a)(ii) of this subsection. Untwisting (opening) of wire rope or booming down is not required as part of this inspection.

     (A) Category I. Apparent deficiencies in this category include the following:

     (I) Distortion of the wire rope structure such as kinking, crushing, unstranding, birdcaging, signs of core failure or steel core protrusion between the outer strands.

     (II) Corrosion.

     (III) Electric arc damage (from a source other than power lines) or heat damage.

     (IV) Improperly applied end connections.

     (V) Corroded, cracked, bent, or worn end connections (such as from severe service).

     (B) Category II. Apparent deficiencies in this category are:

     (I) Visibly broken wires in running wire ropes: Six randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay or three broken wires in one strand in one rope lay, where a rope lay is the length along the rope in which one strand makes a complete revolution around the rope;

     (II) Visibly broken wires in rotation resistant ropes: Two randomly distributed broken wires in six rope diameters or four randomly distributed broken wires in thirty rope diameters;

     (III) Visibly broken wires in pendants or standing wire ropes: More than two broken wires in one rope lay located in rope beyond end connections and/or more than one broken wire at an end connection; and

     (IV) A diameter reduction of more than five percent from nominal diameter.

     (C) Category III. Apparent deficiencies in this category include the following:

     (I) In rotation resistant wire rope, core protrusion or other distortion indicating core failure.

     (II) Prior electrical contact with a power line.

     (III) A broken strand.

     (ii) Critical review items. The competent person must give particular attention to all of the following:

     (A) Rotation resistant wire rope in use.

     (B) Wire rope being used for boom hoists and luffing hoists, particularly at reverse bends.

     (C) Wire rope at flange points, crossover points and repetitive pickup points on drums.

     (D) Wire rope at or near terminal ends.

     (E) Wire rope in contact with saddles, equalizer sheaves or other sheaves where rope travel is limited.

     (iii) Removal from service.

     (A) If a deficiency in Category I is identified, an immediate determination must be made by the competent person as to whether the deficiency constitutes a safety hazard. If the deficiency is determined to constitute a safety hazard, operations involving use of the wire rope in question must be prohibited until:

     (I) The wire rope is replaced; or

     (II) If the deficiency is localized, the problem is corrected by removing the damaged section of the wire rope; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Joining lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this subsection, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position.

     (B) If a deficiency in Category II is identified, operations involving use of the wire rope in question must be prohibited until:

     (I) The employer complies with the wire rope manufacturer's established criterion for removal from service or a different criterion that the wire rope manufacturer has approved in writing for that specific wire rope;

     (II) The wire rope is replaced.

     (C) If the deficiency is localized, the problem is corrected by severing the wire rope in two; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Joining lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this subsection, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position. If a deficiency in category III is identified, operations involving use of the wire rope in question must be prohibited until:

     (I) The wire rope is replaced; or

     (II) If the deficiency (other than power line contact) is localized, the problem is corrected by severing the wire rope in two; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Joining lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. Repair of wire rope that contacted an energized power line is also prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this subsection, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position.

     (D) Where a wire rope is required to be removed from service under this section, either the crane/derrick (as a whole) or the hoist with that wire rope must be tagged-out, in accordance with WAC 296-155-53400(67), until the wire rope is repaired or replaced.

     (b) Monthly inspection.

     (i) Each month an inspection must be conducted in accordance with (a) of this subsection (shift inspection).

     (ii) The inspection must include any deficiencies that the qualified person who conducts the annual inspection determines under (c)(iii) of this subsection must be monitored.

     (iii) Wire ropes on a crane/derrick must not be used until an inspection under this subsection demonstrates that no corrective action under (a)(iii) of this subsection is required.

     (iv) This inspection must be documented and be kept and made available upon request. Electronic records are acceptable.

     (c) Annual/comprehensive, for cranes and derricks not covered by WAC ((296-155-529)) 296-155-531 through 296-155-53214.

     (i) At least every twelve months, wire ropes in use on the crane/derrick must be inspected by a qualified person in accordance with (a) of this subsection (shift inspection).

     (ii) In addition, at least every twelve months, the wire ropes in use on the crane/derrick must be inspected by a qualified person, as follows:

     (A) The inspection must be for deficiencies of the types listed in (a)(i)(B) of this subsection.

     (B) The inspection must be complete and thorough, covering the surface of the entire length of the wire ropes, with particular attention given to all of the following:

     (I) Critical review items listed in (a)(ii) of this subsection.

     (II) Those sections that are normally hidden during shift and monthly inspections.

     (III) Wire rope in contact with saddles, equalizer sheaves or other sheaves where rope travel is limited.

     (IV) Wire rope subject to reverse bends.

     (V) Wire rope passing over sheaves.

     (VI) Wire rope at or near terminal ends.

     (C) Exception: In the event an inspection under (c)(ii) of this subsection is not feasible due to existing set-up and configuration of the crane/derrick (such as where an assist crane is needed) or due to site conditions (such as a dense urban setting). The inspection must consist of observation of the working range plus three additional wraps (running and standing) prior to use.

     (iii) If a deficiency is identified, an immediate determination must be made by the qualified person as to whether the deficiency constitutes a safety hazard.

     (A) If the deficiency is determined to constitute a safety hazard, operations involving the use of the wire rope in question is prohibited until:

     (I) The wire rope is replaced; or

     (II) If the deficiency is localized, the problem is corrected by severing the wire rope in two; the undamaged portion may continue to be used. Joining lengths of wire rope by splicing is prohibited. If a rope is shortened under this subsection, the employer must ensure that the drum will still have two wraps of wire when the load and/or boom is in its lowest position.

     (B) If the qualified person determines that, though not presently a safety hazard, the deficiency needs to be monitored, the employer must ensure that the deficiency is checked in the monthly inspections.

     (iv) This inspection must be documented and be kept and made available upon request. Electronic records are acceptable.

     (d) Rope lubricants that are of the type that hinder inspection must not be used.

     (3) All documents produced under this section must be available, during the applicable document retention period, to all persons who conduct inspections under this section.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53404, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53406   Signals.   (1) A qualified signal person that meets the requirements in WAC 296-155-53302 must be provided in each of the following situations:

     (a) The point of operation, meaning the load travel or the area near or at load placement, is not in full view of the crane/derrick operator.

     (b) When the crane is traveling, the view in the direction of travel is obstructed.

     (c) Due to site specific safety concerns, either the crane/derrick operator or the person handling the load determines that it is necessary.

     (2) Types of signals. Signals to crane/derrick operators must be by hand, voice, audible, or other means at least as effective.

     (3) Hand signals.

     (a) When using hand signals, the standard method as established in the applicable ASME B30 standards must be used. Where use of the standard method for hand signals is infeasible, or where an operation or use of an attachment is not covered in the standard method, nonstandard hand signals may be used in accordance with (b) of this subsection.


Note: See WAC 296-155-56400 for the hand signal chart.

     (b) Nonstandard hand signals. When using nonstandard hand signals, the signal person, operator, and lift director must contact each other prior to the operation and agree on the nonstandard hand signals that will be used.

     (4) Signals other than hand, voice or audible signals may be used where the employer demonstrates that the signals provided are at least equally effective communications as voice, audible, or standard method hand signals.

     (5) Use and suitability.

     (a) Prior to beginning operations, the operator, signal person, and lift director, must contact each other and agree on the voice signals that will be used. Once the voice signals are agreed upon, these employees need not meet again to discuss voice signals unless another employee is added or substituted, there is confusion about the voice signals, or a voice signal is to be changed.

     (b) Each voice signal must contain the following three elements, given in the following order: Function (such as hoist, boom, etc.) and direction; distance and/or speed; function stop.

     (c) The operator, signal person and lift director, must be able to effectively communicate in the language used.

     (d) The signals used (hand, voice, audible, or other effective means), and means of transmitting the signals to the operator (such as direct line of sight, video, radio, etc.) must be appropriate for the site conditions.

     (e) Signals must be discernible or audible at all times. The crane operator must not respond unless signals are clearly understood.

     (6) During operations requiring signals, the ability to transmit signals between the operator and signal person must be maintained. If that ability is interrupted at any time, the operator must safely stop operations requiring signals until it is reestablished and a proper signal is given and understood.

     (7) If the operator becomes aware of a safety problem and needs to communicate with the signal person, the operator must safely stop operations. Operations must not resume until the operator and signal person agree that the problem has been resolved.

     (8) Only one person gives signals to a crane/derrick at a time, except in circumstances covered by subsection (9) of this section.

     (9) Anyone who becomes aware of a safety problem must alert the operator or signal person by giving the stop or emergency stop signal. The operator must obey a stop (or emergency stop) signal, irrespective of who gives it.

     (10) All directions given to the operator by the signal person must be given from the operator's direction perspective.

     (11) Communication with multiple cranes/derricks. Where a signal person(s) is in communication with more than one crane/derrick, a system for identifying the crane/derrick for which each signal is intended must be used, as follows:

     (a) For each signal, prior to giving the function/direction, the signal person must identify the crane/derrick for which the signal is intended; or

     (b) An equally effective method of identifying which crane/derrick the signal is intended for must be used.

     (12) Hand signal chart. Hand signal charts must be either posted on the crane/derrick or conspicuously posted in the vicinity of the hoisting operations.

     (13) Radio, telephone or other electronic transmission of signals.

     (a) The device(s) used to transmit signals must be tested on site before beginning operations to ensure that the signal transmission is effective, clear, and reliable.

     (b) Signal transmission must be through a dedicated channel except:

     (i) Multiple cranes/derricks and one or more signal persons may share a dedicated channel for the purpose of coordinating operations.

     (ii) Where a crane is being operated on or adjacent to railroad tracks, and the actions of the crane operator need to be coordinated with the movement of other equipment or trains on the same or adjacent tracks.

     (c) The operator's reception of signals must be made by a hands-free system.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53406, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53408   Power line safety.   (1) Assembly and disassembly of crane/derrick.

     (a) Before assembling or disassembling crane/derrick, the employer must determine if any part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories) could get, in the direction or area of assembly, closer than twenty feet of a power line that is up to 350 kV or closer than fifty feet of a power line that exceeds 350 kV during the assembly/disassembly process. If so, the employer must meet the requirements in Option (1), Option (2), or Option (3), as follows:

     (i) Option (1) - Deenergize and ground. Confirm from the utility owner/operator that the power line has been deenergized and visibly grounded at the worksite.

     (ii) Option (2) - Clearance. Ensure that no part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), gets closer than twenty feet of a power line that is up to 350 kV or closer than fifty feet of a power line that exceeds 350 kV by implementing the measures specified in (b) of this subsection.

     (iii) Option (3) - Table 4 clearance.

     (A) Determine the line's voltage and the minimum approach distance permitted under Table 4 of this section.

     (B) Determine if any part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), could get closer than the minimum approach distance of the power line permitted under Table 4 of this section. If so, then the employer must follow the requirements in (b) of this subsection to ensure that no part of the crane/derrick, load line, or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), gets closer to the line than the minimum approach distance.

     (b) Preventing encroachment/electrocution. Where encroachment precautions are required under Option (2), or Option (3), all of the following requirements must be met:

     (i) Conduct a planning meeting with the assembly/disassembly director, operator, assembly/disassembly crew and the other workers who will be in the assembly/disassembly area to review the location of the power line(s) and the steps that will be implemented to prevent encroachment/electrocution.

     (ii) If tag lines are used, they must be nonconductive.

     (iii) At least one of the following additional measures must be in place. The measure selected from this list must be effective in preventing encroachment. The additional measures are:

     (A) Use a dedicated spotter who is in continuous contact with the crane/derrick operator, plus an elevated warning line, barricade, or line of signs, in view of the spotter, equipped with flags or similar high-visibility markings. The dedicated spotter must:

     (I) Be equipped with a visual aid to assist in identifying the minimum clearance distance. Examples of a visual aid include: A clearly visible line painted on the ground; a clearly visible line on stanchions; a set of clearly visible line-of-sight landmarks (such as a fence post behind the dedicated spotter and a building corner ahead of the dedicated spotter).

     (II) Be positioned to effectively gauge the clearance distance.

     (III) Where necessary, use equipment that enables the dedicated spotter to communicate directly with the operator, in accordance with WAC 296-155-53406(13) (radio, telephone, or other electronic transmission of signals).

     (IV) Give timely information to the operator so that the required clearance distance can be maintained.


Note: To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (Signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached.

     (B) A proximity alarm set to give the operator sufficient warning to prevent encroachment.

     (C) A device that automatically warns the operator when to stop movement, such as a range control warning device. Such a device must be set to give the operator sufficient warning to prevent encroachment.

     (D) A device that automatically limits range of movement, set to prevent encroachment.

     (c) Assembly/disassembly below power lines is prohibited. No part of a crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), whether partially or fully assembled, is allowed below a power line unless the employer has confirmed that the utility owner/operator has deenergized and (at the worksite) visibly grounded the power line.

     (d) Assembly/disassembly inside Table 4 clearance is prohibited. No part of a crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), whether partially or fully assembled, is allowed closer than the minimum approach distance under Table 4 of a power line unless the employer has confirmed that the utility owner/operator has deenergized and (at the worksite) visibly grounded the power line.

     (e) Voltage information. Where Option (3) is used, the utility owner/operator of power lines must provide the requested voltage information prior to commencement of work or within two working days of the employer's request.

     (f) Power lines presumed energized. The employer must assume that all power lines are energized unless the utility owner/operator confirms that the power line has been and continues to be deenergized and visibly grounded at the worksite.

     (g) Posting of electrocution warnings. There must be at least one electrocution hazard warning conspicuously posted in the cab so that it is in view of the operator and (except for overhead gantry and tower cranes) at least two on the outside of the crane/derrick.

     (2) Operation of crane/derrick.

     (a) Hazard assessments and precautions inside the work zone. Before beginning crane/derrick operations, the employer must:

     (i) Identify the work zone.

     (A) Define a work zone by demarcating boundaries (such as with flags, or a device such as a range limit device or range control warning device) and prohibiting the operator from operating the crane/derrick past those boundaries; or

     (B) Define the work zone as the area three hundred sixty degrees around the crane/derrick, up to its maximum working radius.

     (ii) Determine if any part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), if operated up to its maximum working radius in the work zone, could get closer than twenty feet of a power line that is up to 350 kV or closer than fifty feet of a power line that exceeds 350 kV. If so, the employer must meet the requirements in Option (1), Option (2), or Option (3) as follows:

     (A) Option (1) - Deenergize and ground. Confirm from the utility owner/operator that the power line has been deenergized and visibly grounded at the worksite.

     (B) Option (2) - Twenty-foot clearance. Ensure that no part of the crane/derrick, load line, or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), gets closer than twenty feet to the power line by implementing the measures specified in (b) of this subsection.

     (C) Option (3) - Table 4 clearance.

     (I) Determine the line's voltage and the minimum approach distance permitted under Table 4 of this section.

     (II) Determine if any part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), while operating up to its maximum working radius in the work zone, could get closer than the minimum approach distance of the power line permitted under Table 4 of this section. If so, then the employer must follow the requirements in (b) of this subsection to ensure that no part of the crane/derrick, load line, or load (including rigging and lifting accessories), gets closer to the line than the minimum approach distance.

     (b) Preventing encroachment/electrocution. Where encroachment precautions are required under Option (2) or Option (3), all of the following requirements must be met:

     (i) Conduct a planning meeting with the operator and the other workers who will be in the area of the crane/derrick or load to review the location of the power line(s), and the steps that will be implemented to prevent encroachment/electrocution.

     (ii) If tag lines are used, they must be nonconductive.

     (iii) Erect and maintain an elevated warning line, barricade, or line of signs, in view of the operator, equipped with flags or similar high-visibility markings, at twenty feet from a power line that is up to 350 kV or fifty feet from a power line that exceeds 350 kV (if using Option (2)) or at the minimum approach distance under Table 4 of this section (if using Option (3)). If the operator is unable to see the elevated warning line, a dedicated spotter must be used as described in (iv)(B) of this subsection in addition to implementing one of the measures described in (b)(i), (iii) through (v) of this subsection.

     (iv) Implement at least one of the following measures:

     (A) A proximity alarm set to give the operator sufficient warning to prevent encroachment.

     (B) Use a dedicated spotter who is in continuous contact with the crane/derrick operator, plus an elevated warning line, barricade, or line of signs, in view of the spotter, equipped with flags or similar high-visibility markings. The dedicated spotter must:

     (I) Be equipped with a visual aid to assist in identifying the minimum clearance distance. Examples of a visual aid include: A clearly visible line painted on the ground; a clearly visible line on stanchions; a set of clearly visible line-of-sight landmarks (such as a fence post behind the dedicated spotter and a building corner ahead of the dedicated spotter).

     (II) Be positioned to effectively gauge the clearance distance.

     (III) Where necessary, use equipment that enables the dedicated spotter to communicate directly with the operator.

     (IV) Give timely information to the operator so that the required clearance distance can be maintained.


Note: To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (Signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached.

     (C) A device that automatically warns the operator when to stop movement, such as a range control warning device. Such a device must be set to give the operator sufficient warning to prevent encroachment.

     (D) A device that automatically limits range of movement, set to prevent encroachment.

     (E) An insulating link/device, as defined in WAC 296-155-52902, installed at a point between the end of the load line (or below) and the load.

     (v) The requirements of (b)(iv) of this subsection do not apply to work covered by chapter 296-45 WAC.

     (c) Voltage information. Where Option (3) is used, the utility owner/operator of power lines must provide the requested voltage information prior to commencement of work or within two working days of the employer's request.

     (d) Operations below power lines.

     (i) No part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories) is allowed below a power line unless the employer has confirmed that the utility owner/operator has deenergized and (at the worksite) visibly grounded the power line, except where one of the exceptions in (d)(ii) of this subsection apply.

     (ii) Exceptions. (d)(i) of this subsection is inapplicable where the employer demonstrates that one of the following applies:

     (A) The work is covered by chapter 296-45 WAC.

     (B) For cranes/derricks with nonextensible booms: The uppermost part of the crane/derrick, with the boom at true vertical, would be more than twenty feet below the plane of a power line that is up to 350 kV, fifty feet below the plane of a power line that exceeds 350 kV or more than the Table 4 minimum clearance distance below the plane of the power line.

     (C) For cranes with articulating or extensible booms: The uppermost part of the crane, with the boom in the fully extended position, at true vertical, would be more than twenty feet below the plane of a power line that is up to 350 kV, fifty feet below the plane of a power line that exceeds 350 kV or more than the Table 4 minimum clearance distance below the plane of the power line.

     (D) The employer demonstrates that compliance with (d)(i) of this subsection is infeasible and meets the requirements of subsection (((3))) (4) of this section.

     (e) Power lines presumed energized. The employer must assume that all power lines are energized unless the utility owner/operator confirms that the power line has been and continues to be deenergized and visibly grounded at the worksite.

     (f) Training.

     (i) The employer must train each operator and crew member assigned to work with the crane/derrick on all the following:

     (A) The procedures to be followed in the event of electrical contact with a power line. Such training must include:

     (I) Information regarding the danger of electrocution from the operator simultaneously touching the crane/derrick and the ground.

     (II) The importance to the operator's safety of remaining inside the cab except where there is an imminent danger of fire, explosion, or other emergency that necessitates leaving the cab.

     (III) The safest means of evacuating from the crane/derrick that may be energized.

     (IV) The danger of the potentially energized zone around the crane/derrick (step potential).

     (V) The need for crew in the area to avoid approaching or touching the crane/derrick and the load.

     (VI) Safe clearance distance from power lines.

     (B) Power lines are presumed to be energized unless the utility owner/operator confirms that the power line has been and continues to be deenergized, and visibly grounded at the worksite.

     (C) Power lines are presumed to be uninsulated unless the utility owner/operator or a registered engineer who is a qualified person with respect to electrical power transmission and distribution confirms that a power line is insulated.

     (D) The limitations of an insulating link/device, proximity alarm, and range control (and similar) device, if used.

     (E) The procedures to be followed to properly ground equipment and the limitations of grounding.

     (ii) Employees working as dedicated spotters must be trained to enable them to effectively perform their task, including training on the applicable requirements of this section.

     (iii) Training under this section must be administered in accordance with WAC 296-155-53409(2).

     (g) Devices originally designed by the manufacturer for use as: A safety device (see WAC 296-155-53410), operational aid (see WAC 296-155-53412), or a means to prevent power line contact or electrocution, when used to comply with this section, must meet the manufacturer's procedures for use and conditions of use.

     (3) Prior to working near a transmitter/communication tower where an electrical charge can be induced in the crane/derrick or materials being handled, the transmitter must be deenergized or the following precautions must be taken:

     (a) The crane/derrick must be provided with an electrical ground directly to the crane/derrick frame;

     (b) Ground jumper cables must be attached to materials being handled by boom equipment when electrical charge is induced while working near energized transmitters. Crews must be provided with nonconductive poles having large alligator clips or other similar protection to attach the ground cable to the load;

     (c) Combustible and flammable materials must be removed from the immediate area prior to operations; and

     (d) If tag lines are used, they must be nonconductive.

     (4) Operation of the crane/derrick inside the Table 4 zone. Operations in which any part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories) is either closer than the minimum approach distance under Table 4 of an energized power line or the power line voltage is undetermined and the crane/derrick load line or load is within twenty feet from the power line is prohibited, except where the employer demonstrates that all of the following requirements are met:

     (a) Notify the crane safety program within the department of labor and industries.

     (b) The employer determines that it is infeasible to do the work without breaching the minimum approach distance under Table 4 of this section.

     (c) The employer determines that, after consultation with the utility owner/operator, it is infeasible to deenergize and ground the power line or relocate the power line.

     (d) Minimum clearance distance.

     (i) The power line owner/operator or registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to electrical power transmission and distribution determines the minimum clearance distance that must be maintained to prevent electrical contact in light of the on-site conditions. The factors that must be considered in making this determination include, but are not limited to: Conditions affecting atmospheric conductivity; time necessary to bring the crane/derrick, load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories) to a complete stop; wind conditions; degree of sway in the power line; lighting conditions, and other conditions affecting the ability to prevent electrical contact.

     (ii) Subsection (4)(d)(i) of this section does not apply to work covered by chapter 296-45 WAC; instead, for such work, the minimum clearance distances specified in chapter 296-45 WAC, Table 1 apply. Employers covered by chapter 296-45 WAC are permitted to work closer than the distances in chapter 296-45 WAC, Table 1, where both the requirements of this rule and WAC 296-45-375(10) are met.

     (e) A planning meeting with the employer and utility owner/operator (or registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to electrical power transmission and distribution) is held to determine the procedures that will be followed to prevent electrical contact and electrocution. At a minimum these procedures must include:

     (i) If the power line is equipped with a device that automatically reenergizes the circuit in the event of a power line contact, before the work begins, the automatic reclosing feature of the circuit interrupting device must be made inoperative if the design of the device permits.

     (ii) A dedicated spotter who is in continuous contact with the operator. The dedicated spotter must:

     (A) Be equipped with a visual aid to assist in identifying the minimum clearance distance. Examples of a visual aid include, but are not limited to: A clearly visible line painted on the ground; a clearly visible line on stanchions; a set of clearly visible line-of-sight landmarks (such as a fence post behind the dedicated spotter and a building corner ahead of the dedicated spotter).

     (B) Be positioned to effectively gauge the clearance distance.

     (C) Where necessary, use equipment that enables the dedicated spotter to communicate directly with the operator.

     (D) Give timely information to the operator so that the required clearance distance can be maintained.


Note: To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (Signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached.

     (iii) An elevated warning line, or barricade (not attached to the crane), in view of the operator (either directly or through video equipment), equipped with flags or similar high-visibility markings, to prevent electrical contact. However, this provision does not apply to work covered by chapter 296-45 WAC.

     (iv) Insulating link/device.

     (A) An insulating link/device installed at a point between the end of the load line (or below) and the load.

     (B) For work covered by chapter 296-45 WAC, the requirement in (e)(iv)(A) of this subsection applies only when working inside the clearance distances of Table 1 in chapter 296-45 WAC.

     (C) For work covered by chapter 296-45 WAC, electrical workers, involving operations where use of an insulating link/device is infeasible, the requirements of WAC 296-45-375 (10)(c)(ii) or (iii) may be substituted for the requirement in (e)(iv)(A) of this subsection.

     (v) Until one year after the effective date of this part, the following procedure may be substituted for the requirement in (e)(iv)(A) of this subsection: All employees, excluding equipment operators located on the equipment, who may come in contact with the equipment, the load line, or the load must be insulated or guarded from the equipment, the load line, and the load. Insulating gloves rated for the voltage involved are adequate insulation for the purposes of this section.

     (vi) Until three years after the effective date of this part the following procedure may be substituted for the requirement in (e)(iv)(A) of this subsection:

     (A) The employer must use a link/device manufactured on or before one year after the effective date of this part that meets the definition of an insulating link/device, except that it has not been approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, and that is maintained and used in accordance with manufacturer requirements and recommendations, and is installed at a point between the end of the load line (or below) and the load; and

     (B) All employees, excluding equipment operators located on the equipment, who may come in contact with the equipment, the load line, or the load must be insulated or guarded from the equipment, the load line, and the load through an additional means other than the device described in (e)(vi)(A) of this subsection. Insulating gloves rated for the voltage involved are adequate additional means of protection for the purposes of this section.

     (vii) Use nonconductive rigging if the rigging may be within the Table 4 distance during the operation.

     (viii) If the crane/derrick is equipped with a device that automatically limits range of movement, it must be used and set to prevent any part of the crane/derrick, load line or load (including rigging and lifting accessories) from breaching the minimum approach distance established under (d) of this subsection.

     (ix) If a tag line is used, it must be of the nonconductive type.

     (x) Barricades forming a perimeter at least ten feet away from the crane/derrick to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the work area. In areas where obstacles prevent the barricade from being at least ten feet away, the barricade must be as far from the crane/derrick as feasible.

     (xi) Workers other than the operator must be prohibited from touching the load line above the insulating link/device and crane. Operators remotely operating the equipment from the ground must use either wireless controls that isolate the operator from the equipment or insulating mats that insulate the operator from the ground.

     (xii) Only personnel essential to the operation are permitted to be in the area of the crane and load.

     (xiii) The crane/derrick must be properly grounded.

     (xiv) Insulating line hose or cover-up must be installed by the utility owner/operator except where such devices are unavailable for the line voltages involved.

     (f) The procedures developed to comply with (e) of this subsection are documented and immediately available on-site.

     (g) The crane/derrick user and utility owner/operator (or registered professional engineer) meet with the operator and the other workers who will be in the area of the crane/derrick or load to review the procedures that will be implemented to prevent breaching the minimum approach distance established in (d) of this subsection and prevent electrocution.

     (h) The procedures developed to comply with (e) of this subsection are implemented.

     (i) The utility owner/operator (or registered professional engineer) and all employers of employees involved in the work must identify one person who will direct the implementation of the procedures. The person identified in accordance with this section must direct the implementation of the procedures and must have the authority to stop work at any time to ensure safety.

     (j) If a problem occurs implementing the procedures being used to comply with (e) of this subsection, or indicating that those procedures are inadequate to prevent electrocution, the employer must safely stop operations and either develop new procedures to comply with (e) of this subsection or have the utility owner/operator deenergize and visibly ground or relocate the power line before resuming work.

     (k) Devices originally designed by the manufacturer for use as: Safety devices (see WAC 296-155-53410), operational aids (see WAC 296-155-53412), or a means to prevent power line contact or electrocution, when used to comply with this section, must meet the manufacturer's procedures for use and conditions of use.

     (l) The employer must train each operator and crew member assigned to work with the equipment in accordance with subsection (2)(f) of this section.

     (5) Cranes while traveling.

     (a) This section establishes procedures and criteria that must be met for cranes traveling under a power line on the construction site with no load. Equipment traveling on a construction site with a load is governed by subsections (2), (4), (6), and (7) of this section, whichever is appropriate, and WAC 296-155-53400(35).

     (b) The employer must ensure that:

     (i) The boom/mast and boom/mast support system are lowered sufficiently to meet the requirements of this section.

     (ii) The clearances specified in Table 5 of this section are maintained.

     (iii) The effects of speed and terrain on crane movement (including movement of the boom/mast) are considered so that those effects do not cause the minimum clearance distances specified in Table 5 of this section to be breached.

     (iv) Dedicated spotter. If any part of the crane while traveling will get closer than twenty feet of the power line, the employer must ensure that a dedicated spotter who is in continuous contact with the driver/operator is used. The dedicated spotter must:

     (A) Be positioned to effectively gauge the clearance distance.

     (B) Where necessary, use equipment that enables the dedicated spotter to communicate directly with the operator.

     (C) Give timely information to the operator so that the required clearance distance can be maintained.


Note: To be considered a dedicated spotter, the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302 (Signal person qualifications) must be met and his/her sole responsibility is to watch the separation between the power line and the equipment, the load line and load (including rigging and lifting accessories), and ensure through communication with the operator that the applicable minimum approach distance is not breached.

     (v) Additional precautions for traveling in poor visibility. When traveling at night, or in conditions of poor visibility, in addition to the measures specified in (b)(i) through (iv) of this subsection, the employer must ensure that:

     (A) The power lines are illuminated or another means of identifying the location of the lines must be used.

     (B) A safe path of travel is identified and used.

     (6) The requirements of subsections (1) and (2) of this section apply to power lines over 350 kV, and below 1000 kV except that wherever the distance "twenty feet" is specified, the distance "fifty feet" must be substituted.

     (7) For power lines over 1000 kV, the minimum clearance distance must be established by the utility owner/operator or a registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to power transmission and distribution.


Table 4 -- Minimum Clearance Distances
Voltage (nominal, kV) Minimum clearance distance (feet)
up to 50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
over 50 to 200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
over 200 to 345 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
over 345 to 500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
over 500 to 750 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
over 750 to 1,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
over 1,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(as established by the utility owner/operator or registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to electrical power transmission and distribution).


Note: The value that follows "to" is up to and includes that value.

Table 5 -- Minimum Clearance Distances While Traveling With No Load and Boom/Mast Lowered

Voltage (nominal, kV) While traveling -- Minimum clearance distance (feet)
up to 0.75 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

(while traveling/boom lowered)

over 0.75 to 50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

(while traveling/boom lowered)

over 50 to 345 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

(while traveling/boom lowered)

over 345 to 750 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

(while traveling/boom lowered)

over 750 to 1,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

(while traveling/boom lowered)

over 1,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(as established by the utility owner/operator or registered professional engineer who is a qualified person with respect to electrical power transmission and distribution).

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53408, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-53409   Training.   (1) The employer must provide training as follows:

     (a) Overhead power lines. The employer must ensure that each employee is trained in accordance with WAC 296-155-53408 (2)(g) and 296-155-53408 (4)(k) in the topics listed in WAC 296-155-53408 (2)(f).

     (b) Qualified signal persons. The employer must ensure that each employee is trained who will be assigned to work as a signal person in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-155-53302(3).

     (c) Qualified rigger. The employer must ensure that each employee is trained who will be assigned to work as a rigger in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-155-53306(3).

     (d) Operators.

     (i) Trainee/apprentice operator. The employer must ensure that each trainee/apprentice operator is trained in the areas addressed in WAC 296-155-53300 and 296-155-56420.

     (ii) Operator. Operators who have met the requirements in WAC 296-155-53300 and 296-155-56420 will be considered trained.

     (iii) For operators using equipment covered under this part that are exempt in WAC 296-155-52900 (3)(b), the employer must ensure that each operator is trained on the safe operation of the equipment the operator will be using.

     (e) The employer must train each operator of the equipment covered by this part in the following practices:

     (i) On friction equipment, whenever moving a boom off a support, first raise the boom a short distance (sufficient to take the load of the boom) to determine if the boom hoist brake needs to be adjusted. On other types of equipment with a boom, the same practice is applicable, except that typically there is no means of adjusting the brake; if the brake does not hold, a repair is necessary. See WAC 296-155-53400 (68) and (69).

     (ii) Where available, the manufacturer's emergency procedures for halting unintended equipment movement.

     (f) Competent persons and qualified persons. The employer must ensure that each competent person and each qualified person is trained regarding the requirements of this part applicable to their respective roles.

     (((f))) (g) Crush/pinch points. The employer must ensure that each employee is trained who works with the equipment to keep clear of holes, and crush/pinch points and the hazards addressed in WAC 296-155-53400(42) (work area control).

     (((g))) (h) Tag-out. The employer must ensure that each operator and each additional employee authorized to start/energize equipment or operate equipment controls (such as maintenance and repair employees) is trained, in the tag-out and start-up procedures in WAC 296-155-53400 (16) and (67).

     (2) Training administration.

     (a) The employer must evaluate each employee required to be trained under this part to confirm that the employee understands the information provided in the training.

     (b) The employer must ensure that refresher training is provided in relevant topics for each employee when, based on the conduct of the employee or an evaluation of the employee's knowledge, there is an indication that retraining is necessary.

     (c) Whenever the employer is required to provide training under this part, the employer must provide the training at no cost to the employee.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-53409, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-54200   Overhead/bridge and gantry cranes -- General.   (1) Permanently installed overhead/bridge and gantry cranes which are located in a manufacturing facility or powerhouse must follow the requirements of WAC 296-24-235 (General safety and health standards), even when a construction activity is being performed. This requirement applies to overhead, bridge, gantry cranes, including semigantry, cantilever gantry, wall cranes, storage bridge cranes, and others having the same fundamental characteristics.

     (2) Overhead and gantry cranes that are not permanently installed ((in a manufacturing facility or a powerhouse)) must follow the applicable requirements in chapter 296-155 WAC Part L.

     (3) Cranes included in this section must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in:

     (a) ASME B30.2-2005, Safety Standard for Overhead and Gantry Cranes (Top Running Bridge, Single or Multiple Girder, Top Running Trolley Hoist).

     (b) ASME B30.11-2010, Safety Standards for Monorails and Underhung Cranes.

     (c) ASME B30.17-2006, Safety Standards for Overhead and Gantry Cranes (Top Running Bridge, Single Girder, Underhung Hoist).

     (d) It is not the intent of this rule to require retrofitting of existing cranes. However, when an item is being modified, its performance needs to be reviewed by a qualified person and compared to the applicable sections of this rule. For modification requirements see WAC 296-155-53400 (58) and (59). For cranes manufactured prior to the effective date of this rule the design and construction criteria must meet at a minimum, ASME B30.2.0-1990.

     (4) The rated load of the crane must be plainly marked on each side of the crane, and if the crane has more than one hoisting unit, each hoist must have its rated load marked on it or its load block, and this marking must be clearly legible from the ground or floor.

     (5) The crane or surrounding structure must be marked to provide operating directions that match and are visible from the crane's operating controls, i.e., north/south, east/west or forward/back, left/right.

     (6) Overhead and gantry cranes with bridge trucks must be equipped with sweeps which extend below the top of the rail and project in front of the truck wheels.

     (7) Except for floor-operated cranes, an effective warning device must be provided for each crane equipped with a power traveling mechanism.

     (8) A wind-indicating device must be provided for all outdoor overhead and gantry cranes. The device must be mounted on the crane runway structure and must give a visible and audible alarm to the crane operator at a predetermined wind velocity. A single wind-indicating device may serve as an alarm for more than one crane.

     (9) Electrical.

     (a) Wiring and equipment must comply with Article 610 of ANSI/NFPA No. 70, National Electrical Code and chapter 296-155 WAC Part I.

     (b) The control circuit voltage must not exceed 600 volts for AC or DC.

     (c) The voltage at pendant pushbuttons must not exceed 150 volts for AC and 300 volts for DC.

     (d) Where multiple conductor cable is used with a suspended pushbutton station, the station must be supported in a manner that will protect the electrical conductors against strain.

     (e) Pendant control stations must be constructed to prevent electrical shock. The pushbutton enclosure must be at ground potential and marked for identification of functions.

     (10) All welding procedures and welding operator qualifications to be used on load sustaining members must be in accordance with ANSI/AWS D1.1, except as modified by ANSI/AWS D14.1.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-54200, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-54410   Sideboom cranes.   (1) The provisions of this standard apply, except WAC 296-155-53400(34) (Ground conditions), WAC 296-155-53410 (Safety devices), WAC 296-155-53412 (Operational aids), WAC ((296-155-52900)) 296-155-531 through 296-155-53214 (crane certifier accreditation and crane certification) and WAC 296-155-53300 (Operator qualifications and certification).

     (2) Sideboom cranes manufactured prior to the effective date of this section must meet the requirements of SAE J743a-1964. Sideboom cranes mounted on wheel or crawler tractors manufactured after the effective date of this section must meet the requirements of ASME B30.14-2010.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-54410, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-55110   Proof load test platforms and rigging.   (1) The platform and rigging must be proof load tested at each new location before lifting personnel. This may be done at the same time as the trial lift.

     (a) Test as follows:

     (i) Test to one hundred twenty-five percent of the platform's rated capacity.

     (ii) The platform must be ((hoisted, then)) lowered by controlled load lowering, braked, and held in a suspended position for a minimum of five minutes with the test load evenly distributed on the platform.

     (b) Do the following after proof load testing:

     (i) A qualified person must inspect the platform and rigging to determine if the test has passed.

     (ii) Any deficiencies that pose a safety hazard must be corrected prior to lifting personnel.

     (iii) Another test must be performed after any deficiencies are corrected.

     (c) Keep the most recent proof load testing records available at the job site.

     (d) Personnel hoisting must not be conducted until a qualified person determines that the platform and rigging has successfully passed the proof load test.

     (2) The platform and rigging must be proof load tested after any structural repair or modification, before lifting personnel.

     (a) Test suspended platforms in the following order:

     (i) Test to one hundred fifty percent of the platform's rated capacity;

     (ii) The loaded platform must be raised, then lower it at a speed of at least one hundred ft/min;

     (iii) Bring the platform to a stop by using the crane/derrick brakes;

     (iv) The platform must hang for at least five minutes;

     (v) A qualified person must inspect the platform and rigging;

     (vi) Any deficiencies must be corrected;

     (vii) Another test must be performed after any deficiencies are corrected.

     (b) Test attached platforms in the following order:

     (i) Test to one hundred twenty-five percent of the platform's rated capacity;

     (ii) Hold the platform suspended for five minutes with the test load evenly distributed on the platform;

     (iii) A qualified person must inspect the platform and rigging;

     (iv) Any deficiencies must be corrected;

     (v) Another test must be performed after any deficiencies are corrected.

     (c) The most recent proof load testing records must be kept and available at the job site.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-55110, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-55115   Trial lift.   (1) A trial lift must be performed with the personnel platform, on each shift before lifting personnel, to check the following:

     (a) Crane/derrick setup and configuration is correct;

     (b) Load capacities are adequate;

     (c) No hazardous interferences exist;

     (d) The operator's operational competence.

     (2) A trial lift with the unoccupied personnel platform loaded at least to the anticipated lift-weight must be made from ground level, or any other location where employees will enter the platform, to each location at which the platform is to be hoisted and positioned. Where there is more than one location to be reached from a single set-up position, either individual trial lifts for each location, or a single trial lift, in which the platform is moved sequentially to each location, must be performed; the method selected must be the same as the method that will be used to hoist the personnel.

     (3) The trial lift must be repeated before lifting personnel whenever:

     (a) The crane or derrick is moved and set up in a different location or returned to a previously used location;

     (b) The crane or derrick is reconfigured;

     (c) The operator is changed;

     (d) The lift route has changed, unless the competent person determines that the new route presents no new factors affecting safety.

     (4) A competent person must determine that:

     (a) Safety devices and operational aids required by this section are activated and functioning properly. Other safety devices and operational aids must meet the requirements of WAC 296-155-53410 and 296-155-53412.

     (b) Nothing interferes with the crane/derrick or the personnel platform in the course of the trial lift.

     (c) The lift will not exceed fifty percent of the crane/derrick's rated capacity at any time during the lift.

     (d) The load radius to be used during the lift has been accurately determined.

     (5) Immediately after the trial lift, a competent person must:

     (a) Conduct a visual inspection of the crane/derrick, base support or ground, and personnel platform, to determine whether the trial lift has exposed any defect or problem or produced any adverse effect.

     (b) Confirm that, upon the completion of the trial lift process, the test weight has been removed.

     (6) Immediately prior to each lift:

     (a) The platform must be hoisted a few inches with the personnel and materials/tools on board and inspected by a competent person to ensure that it is secure and properly balanced.

     (b) The following conditions must be determined by a competent person to exist before the lift of personnel proceeds:

     (i) Hoist ropes must be free of deficiencies in accordance with WAC 296-155-53404.

     (ii) Multiple part lines must not be twisted around each other.

     (iii) The primary attachment must be centered over the platform.

     (iv) If the load rope is slack, the hoisting system must be inspected to ensure that all ropes are properly seated on drums and in sheaves.

     (7) Any condition found during the trial lift and subsequent inspection(s) that fails to meet a requirement of this standard or otherwise creates a safety hazard must be corrected before hoisting personnel.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-55115, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-55210   Crane or derrick operation requirements for personnel lifting.   (1) Before lifting personnel the following must be met:

     (a) Operate crane/derrick with outriggers or stabilizers extended, blocked, and locked in accordance with the manufacturers' specifications;

     (b) For crane/derrick that uses wire rope to hoist a personnel platform, verify that the crane/derrick has an anti two-block device or upper travel limit switch, installed and operational;

     (c) Position the personnel platform so that it may be tied off to the structure to which the occupants are entering or leaving, if the platform cannot be landed during the entrance or exit of the occupants. If the platform has been tied off, the operator must not move the platform until it is verified that it is freely suspended;

     (d) Not knowingly allow the platform load to exceed the platform rating, except during proof testing;

     (e) Not travel the crane/derrick with personnel in the personnel platform except when they run on fixed rails or runways;

     (f) Perform all movements of the platform or crane/derrick in a slow, controlled, cautious manner to minimize sudden movement of the platform;

     (g) Engage the power-controlled lowering mechanism at all times the platform is occupied (no freefall);

     (h) In the case of suspended or boom-mounted platforms, without controls, the operator must remain at the crane/derrick controls at all times when the platform is occupied;

     (i) Reserved;

     (j) Platforms with controls. Where the platform is equipped with controls, all of the following must be met at all times while the platform is occupied:

     (i) The occupant using the controls in the platform must be a qualified person with respect to their use, including the safe limitations of the crane/derrick and hazards associated with its operation. See WAC 296-155-53300, Operator qualifications and certification.

     (ii) The crane/derrick operator must be at a set of crane controls that include boom and swing functions of the crane, ((or)) and must be on-site and in view of the crane/derrick and platform.

     (iii) The platform operating manual must be in the platform or on the crane/derrick.


Note: If lowering, retracting, and rotating primary power source becomes inoperative, the crane/derrick operator is allowed to leave the controls.

     (k) Set all brakes and locks on the crane/derrick after positioning of the personnel platform and before personnel perform any work;

     (l) Move the platform under controlled conditions and under the direction of a qualified signal person or platform occupant(s);

     (m) Not move platforms over, under, or in the vicinity of power lines unless the requirements of WAC 296-155-55305 are met;

     (n) Not lift any other loads, on any other load lines, while conducting a personnel lift. When the crane/derrick has a boom-attached platform without controls, it must not be used for other lifting service;

     (o) Factory-produced boom-mounted personnel platforms that incorporate a winch as original equipment: Loads are permitted to be hoisted by such a winch while employees occupy the personnel platform only where the load on the winch line does not exceed five hundred pounds and does not exceed the rated capacity of the winch and platform, and does not exceed fifty percent of the crane's rated capacity at the radius and configuration used;

     (p) Not disable, or allow to be disabled, any crane/derrick safety device during a personnel lift;

     (q) Hoist the platform at a speed suitable for the safety of the operation but in no case in excess of ninety feet/minute (30 m/minute) or 1.5 feet/second (0.5 m/second).

     (2) The operator must not move the platform without a discernible or audible signal from a signal person.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-55210, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-55300   Personnel lifting requirements.   (1) Conditions must provide clear visibility. When conditions such as darkness, fog, or snow prevent clear visibility, a personnel lift must not be performed.

     (2) Personnel platforms cannot be used in winds (sustained or gusts) in excess of twenty mph (32.2 km/hr) or in electric storms, snow, ice, sleet, or other adverse weather conditions which could affect the safety of personnel.

     (3) Other weather and environmental conditions. A qualified person must determine if, in light of indications of dangerous weather conditions, or other impending or existing danger, it is not safe to lift personnel. If it is not, the lifting operation must not begin (or, if already in progress, must be terminated).

     (4) Personnel platforms must only be used for personnel, their tools, and sufficient material to do their work. They must not be used for solely transporting bulk materials.

     (5) The number of employees occupying the personnel platform must not exceed the maximum number the platform was designed to hold or the number required to perform the work, whichever is less.

     (6) A qualified person must evaluate the safety concerns of the operational environment and verify the platform and crane/derrick are suitable for use. Additionally, special work circumstances may require further precautions. Precautions such as, but not limited to, the following must be taken:

     (a) When welding is to be accomplished from the personnel platform, suitable electrode holders must be provided to protect them from contact with any conducting components of the platform.

     (b) Operators of cranes/derricks, installed on floating vessels, must be instructed not to lift personnel when the list or trim of the vessel exceeds five degrees. If a mobile crane/derrick is placed on floating vessels, operators must not lift personnel when the list or trim of the vessel exceeds one degree.

     (c) Personnel fall protection devices with quick release features must be provided and required to be worn. The fall protection device must be appropriately attached while personnel are lifted over land and detached while personnel are lifted over water. See Part C-1 of this chapter for requirements for fall arrest system, including the attachment point (anchorage) used to comply with this subsection. When personnel lifts are conducted over water, U.S. Coast Guard approved (Type I, II, III, or V) personnel flotation devices must be provided and required to be worn.

     (d) A boat/skiff with appropriate rescue personnel must be readily available at all times during a personnel lift over water.

     (e) Appropriate personnel protective equipment must be provided and required to be used around toxic, flammable, or hazardous substances or fumes.

     (f) Any concentrated loading of the platform must be reviewed to preclude the overstressing of any component or impairing the platform stability.

     (g) Where the rotation of the platform, while hoisted, can create a hazard, appropriate restraining methods must be provided and required to be used.

     (7) In order to safely perform the personnel lift, make sure the following are met:

     (a) The personnel platform is not loaded with more than its rated load capacity;

     (b) Materials and tools being lifted by a platform are:

     (i) Secured to prevent movement;

     (ii) Evenly distributed on the platform.

     (c) The personnel platform is hoisted slowly, with no sudden movements;

     (d) Tag lines are used to control the motion of suspended platforms, unless using them creates a hazard;

     (e) The platform is secured to the structure where the work will be performed before employees exit or enter the platform, unless securing to the structure is unsafe;

     (f) No other load lines on the crane or derrick are used to lift anything while personnel are on a platform;

     (g) Brakes and locking devices are engaged when the personnel platform is occupied and in a stationary working position;

     (h) The lowering motion of the hoist line and/or the boom is power-controlled only. Free fall is not allowed;

     (8) The platform operation instructions in this rule are intended as minimum criteria. The platform manufacturer's information must be consulted for specific instruction on the platform's operation.

     (9) Traveling.

     (a) Rubber tired cranes are not allowed to travel while lifting personnel. Hoisting of employees while the crane is traveling is only allowed when:

     (i) The crane travels on fixed rails; or

     (ii) The crane has crawlers and is on a runway, and the employer demonstrates that there is no less hazardous way to perform the work.

     (b) Where employees are hoisted while the crane is traveling, the following criteria must be met:

     (i) Crane travel must be restricted to a fixed track or runway.

     (ii) Where a runway is used, it must be a firm, level surface designed, prepared and designated as a path of travel for the weight and configuration of the crane/derrick being used to lift and travel with the personnel platform. An existing surface may be used as long as it meets these criteria.

     (iii) Travel must be limited to boom length.

     (iv) The boom must be parallel to the direction of travel, except where it is safer to do otherwise.

     (v) A complete trial run must be performed to test the route of travel before employees are allowed to occupy the platform. This trial run can be performed at the same time as the trial lift required by WAC 296-155-55115 which tests the lift route.

     (10) Derricks are prohibited from traveling while personnel are hoisted.

     (11) Platform occupants must remain in continuous sight or in communication with the operator and in sight and communication of a signal person.

     (12) Platform occupants must use personnel protective equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, and gloves, in conditions where a hazard of injury exists.

     (13) Platform occupants must wear personnel fall protection devices with lanyards attached to a specific anchorage point(s), unless special work circumstance requirements dictate otherwise, such as working over water.

     (14) Platform occupants must keep all parts of the body inside the platform during raising, lowering, and horizontal movement. This provision does not apply to an occupant of the platform when necessary to position the platform or while performing the duties of a signal person.

     (15) Platform occupants must not stand, sit on, or work from the top rail, intermediate rail, toe board, or use any other device to enhance their vertical height working capability.

     (16) Platform occupants must not pull the platform out of plumb in relation to the crane/derrick.

     (17) Platform occupants must not enter or exit a suspended platform while it is raised unless the platform has an installed gate and is physically secured to the structure to which the occupants are entering or exiting unless the employer can demonstrate that securing to the structure would create a greater hazard.

     (18) Platform occupants must not operate a platform with motion controls without the platform operation manual available in the platform.

     (19) If the platform is tied to the structure, the operator must not move the platform until the operator receives confirmation that it is freely suspended.

     (20) The platform must be inspected prior to each lift to verify all attachments and the platform are safe to use.

     (21) Verify the platform is evenly loaded, material secured, and the total platform weight does not exceed the platform rating or the reduced crane/derrick lift capacity.

     (22) Communication requirements.

     (a) Hand signals to the operator must be in accordance with the applicable crane/derrick portion of this part.

     (b) Signals must be discernable or audible to the operator.

     (c) Hand signals must be posted conspicuously at the following locations:

     (i) On the crane/derrick as required by this part.

     (ii) Inside the personnel platform.

     (iii) At any platform motion control locations.

     (d) Some operations may require additions to or modifications of standard signals.

     (i) Any special signals must be agreed upon and understood by the signal persons and crane/derrick operator.

     (ii) Special signs must not conflict with the crane/derrick standard signals.

     (e) No response must be made unless signals are clearly understood.

     (f) If communications between operator and platform occupants are disrupted, all operations must be stopped until communication is reestablished.

     (g) Communication systems to be used during the lift must be verified as functioning and effective prior to commencing the lift.


Note: If radios or other electronic means of communication are used, they should operate on a secure channel.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-55300, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-556   Rigging--General requirements.   ((The rigging requirements in this part apply to all construction activities.))

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-556, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-55600   General requirements.   (1) Employers must use at least one qualified rigger((s)) as follows:

     (a) During hoisting activities for assembly and disassembly work (WAC 296-155-53402 (19)(a))((. Additionally, qualified riggers are required));

     (b) Whenever ((workers)) employees are ((within the fall zone and)) engaged in hooking, unhooking, or guiding a load, or ((doing)) in the initial connection of a load to a component or structure, and are within the fall zone (WAC 296-155-53400 (43)(c)).


Note: See qualified rigger requirements located in WAC 296-155-53306 of this part.

     (2) All slings in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.9-2010.

     (3) All rigging hardware in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.26-2010.

     (4) All rigging gear must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations or a qualified person.

     (5) All below-the-hook lifting devices in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.20-2010.

     (6) All hooks in use must meet the applicable requirements for design, inspection, construction, testing, maintenance and operation as prescribed in ASME B30.10-2009.

     (7) Repair of hooks must be approved by the manufacturer or qualified person and as follows:

     (a) Cracks, nicks, and gouges may be repaired by a competent person, all other repairs are done by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (b) Grind longitudinally, following the contour of the hook;

     (c) Do not reduce the dimension of the hook more than ten percent from the original.

     (8) Hooks must not be modified by welding and/or drilling unless written approval by the manufacturer has been received.

     (9) Special custom design grabs, hooks, clamps, or other lifting accessories, for such units as modular panels, prefabricated structures and similar materials, must be marked to indicate the safe working loads and must be proof tested prior to use to one hundred and twenty-five percent of their rated load.

     (10) A qualified person must inspect the rigging equipment before each day or shift and:

     (a) Consider the application the equipment will be used for, and determine if it's safe for use;

     (b) Remove the equipment from service if using it will create a hazard or meets any of the removal criteria listed in this chapter.

     (((10))) (11) The rated load of the rigging equipment must not be exceeded.

     (12) All rigging hardware must have permanently affixed and legible identification markings as prescribed by the manufacturer that indicate the recommended safe working load.

     (((11))) (13) All rigging hardware must be inspected in accordance with Table 11, each day before using. If a daily inspection is not feasible because the hardware is in a semipermanent or inaccessible location, a periodic inspection is allowed instead of daily.

     (((12))) (14) Rigging hardware must be removed from service when it shows any conditions listed in Table 11, or any other hazardous condition.


Table 11

Rigging Hardware Inspection/Removal Criteria



For all hardware, inspect for the following:
Missing or illegible identification.
Indications of heat damage, including weld spatter or arc strikes.
Excessive pitting or corrosion.
Load bearing components that are:
• Bent;
• Twisted;
• Distorted;
• Stretched;
• Elongated;
• Cracked;
• Broken.
Excessive nicks or gouges.
10% reduction of the original or catalog dimension at any point.
Excessive thread damage or wear, where applicable.
Evidence of unauthorized welding or modification.
Any other conditions that cause doubt as to the safety of continued use.
On shackles, also inspect for incomplete pin engagement.
On swivels and swivel hoist rings, check for lack of ability to freely rotate or pivot.
On compression hardware, also check for:
Unauthorized replacement components;
Insufficient number of wire rope clips;
Improperly tightened wire rope clips;
Damaged wire rope;
Indications of wire rope slippage;
Improper assembly.
On swivels, check for loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices.
On blocks check for:
• Loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices;
• Misalignment or wobble in sheaves;
• Excessive sheave groove corrugation or wear.

     (((13))) (15) Any alteration or modification of rigging hardware must be in accordance with the hardware manufacturer or a qualified person and proof load tested to one hundred twenty-five percent. This test must be documented and available upon request.

     (((14))) (16) Welding of rigging hardware is prohibited unless authorized by the manufacturer or an RPE.

     (((15))) (17) Replacement parts must meet or exceed the original rigging hardware manufacturer's specifications.

     (((16))) (18) Rigging hardware selection must have the characteristics suitable for the application and environment where it will be used.

     (((17))) (19) Workers must keep all parts of their body from between the load and any rigging during the lift.

     (((18))) (20) If handling intermodal shipping containers at a construction site, the employer must follow the requirements in chapter 296-56 WAC, longshore, stevedore and waterfront related operations, Part F, Specialized terminals and the guidelines found in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 3874 - Series 1 Freight Containers, fifth edition - Handling and Securing.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-55600, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-55805   Wire rope slings.   (1) Manufacturing wire rope slings.

     (a) Wire rope slings must be made from new or unused regular lay wire rope. The wire rope must be manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM A 1023-02 and ASTM A 586.

     (b) The following fabrication methods must be used to make wire rope slings:

     (i) Hand splicing;

     (ii) Turnback eye;

     (iii) Return loop;

     (iv) Flemish eye mechanical splicing;

     (v) Poured or swaged socketing.

     (c) Wire rope slings must have a design factor of five.

     (d) Wire rope slings must meet the requirements in Table 16.

     (e) Using any of the following when making wire rope slings is prohibited:

     (i) Rotation resistant wire rope;

     (ii) Malleable cast iron clips;

     (iii) Knots;

     (iv) Wire rope clips, unless:

     • The application of the sling prevents using prefabricated slings;

     • The specific application is designed by a qualified person.

     (f) Wire rope clips, if used, must be installed and maintained in accordance with the recommendations of the clip manufacturer or a qualified person, or in accordance with the provisions of ASME B30.26-2010.

     (g) Slings made with wire rope clips must not be used as a choker hitch.


Note: If using wire rope clips under these conditions, follow the guidance given in Table 15.


Table 15


Number, Torque Values, and Turn Back Requirements for U-Bolt Wire Rope Clips Number, Torque Values and Turn Back Requirements for Double Saddle (Fist Grip) Wire Rope Clips
Clip & Wire Rope Size (inches) Min. No. of Clips Amount of Rope Turn Back in Inches *Torque in

     Ft. Lbs.

Clip & Wire Rope Size (inches) Min. No. of Clips Amount of Rope Turn Back in Inches *Torque in

     Ft. Lbs.

1/8 2 3-1/4 4.5 3/16-1/4 2 4 30
3/16 2 3-3/4 7.5 5/16 2 5 30
1/4 2 4-3/4 15 3/8 2 5-1/4 45
5/16 2 5-1/4 30 7/16 2 6-1/2 65
3/8 2 6-1/2 45 1/2 3 11 65
7/16 2 7 65 9/16 3 12-3/4 130
1/2 3 11-1/2 65 5/8 3 13-1/2 130
9/16 3 12 95 3/4 4 16 225
5/8 3 12 95 7/8 4 26 225
3/4 4 18 130 1 5 37 225
7/8 4 19 225 1-1/8 5 41 360
1 5 26 225 1-1/4 6 55 360
1-1/8 6 34 225 1-3/8 6 62 500
1-1/4 7 44 360 1-1/2 7 78 500
1-3/8 7 44 360
1-1/2 8 54 360
1-5/8 8 58 430
1-3/4 8 61 590
2 8 71 750
2-1/4 8 73 750
2-1/2 9 84 750
2-3/4 10 100 750
3 10 106 1200
3-1/2 12 149 1200

* The tightening torque values shown are based upon the threads being clean, dry, and free of lubrication.


Table 16

     Wire Rope Sling Configuration Requirements



If you have: Then you need:
• Slings made of rope with 6x19 and 6x36 classification. A minimum clear length of rope ten times the rope diameter between splices, sleeves, or end fittings (see Figure 15, Minimum Sling Length) unless approved by a qualified person.
• Cable laid slings.
• Braided slings. A minimum clear length of rope forty times the component rope diameter between the loops or end fittings (see Figure 16, Minimum Braided Sling Length) unless approved by a qualified person.
• Grommets and endless slings. A minimum circumferential length of ninety-six times the body diameter of the grommet or endless sling unless approved by a qualified person.
• Other configurations. Specific limitation data provided by a qualified person. These slings must meet all other requirements of ASME B30.9-2010.

Figure 15

Minimum Sling Length

For rope with 6x19 and 6x36 classification

or Cable Laid Slings


Figure 16 Minimum Braided Sling Length

     (2) Wire rope sling fittings.

     (a) Fittings must be used according to the fitting manufacturer's directions.

     (b) Rate slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if you use fittings that are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower rated capacity.

     (c) Weld any end attachments, except covers to thimbles, before assembling the sling.

     (3) Identification information. All wire rope slings must have legible identification information attached to the sling which includes the information below, see sample tag in Figure 17. For slings in use that are manufactured before the effective date of this rule, the information below must be added before use or at the time the periodic inspection is completed.

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer.

     (b) Diameter or size.

     (c) Rated loads for the types of hitches used and the angle that the load is based on.

     (d) Number of legs, if more than one.

     (e) Repairing agency, if the sling is ever repaired.


Figure 17 Sample Wire Rope Sling ID Tag

Note: Sample tag for a 1/2" single-leg sling 6x19 or 6x36 classification, extra improved plow steel (EIPS) grade fiber core (FC) wire rope with a mechanical splice (ton = 2,000 lb).

     (4) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect wire rope slings before their initial use, according to Table 17, both:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the wire rope sling is used:

     (i) Include all fastenings and attachments;

     (ii) Immediately remove any sling from service that is damaged beyond the criteria listed in Table 17; or

     (iii) Remove fiber core wire rope slings that have been exposed to temperatures higher than one hundred eighty degrees Fahrenheit.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on wire rope slings according to Table 17.

     (5) Repair, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Repair wire rope slings as follows:

     (i) Make sure slings are only repaired by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (ii) Mark the sling to show the repairing agency;

     (iii) Do not repair wire rope used in slings, wire rope must be replaced. Only end attachments and fittings can be repaired on a wire rope sling.

     (b) Modification or alterations to end attachments or fittings must be considered as repairs and must conform to all other provisions of this part.

     (c) Proof load test repaired slings according to the requirements in subsection (6) of this section.

     (6) Proof load tests. Make sure the sling manufacturer or a qualified person proof load tests the following slings before initial use, according to Table 18:

     (a) All repaired slings;

     (b) All slings incorporating previously used or welded fittings;

     (c) For single- or multiple-leg slings and endless slings, each leg must be proof loaded according to the requirements listed in Table 18 based on fabrication method. The proof load test must not exceed fifty percent of the component ropes' or structural strands' minimum breaking strength;


Table 7

     Wire Rope Sling Inspection and Removal Criteria



Inspect wire rope slings for the following conditions: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification.
• Severe localized abrasion or scraping.
• Kinking, crushing, birdcaging, or any other condition resulting in damage to the rope structure. • At least once a year for slings in normal service.
• Evidence of heat damage. • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service.
• Severe corrosion of the rope, end attachments, or fittings. • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service.
• End attachments that are cracked, deformed, or worn to the extent that the strength of the sling is substantially affected.
• Broken wires:
– For strand-laid and single-part slings, ten randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay, or five broken wires in one strand in one rope lay;
– For cable-laid slings, twenty broken wires per lay;
– For six-part braided slings, twenty broken wires per braid;
– For eight-part braided slings, forty broken wires per braid.
• Hooks that have any of the following conditions:
– Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook;
– Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening five percent, not to exceed one-quarter inch, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Wear exceeding ten percent, of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Self-locking mechanism that does not lock.
• Other visible damage that raises doubt about the safety of the sling.


Table 18

Wire Rope Sling Proof Load Test Requirements



Type of equipment: Proof load test:
• Mechanical splice slings. Each leg to at least two times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Swaged socket and poured socket slings. Each leg to at least two times, but not more than two and one-half, times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.
Note: For mechanical splice, swaged socket and poured socket slings follow the rope manufacturer's recommendations for proof load testing provided that it is within the above-specified proof load range, including (c) of this subsection.
• Hand tucked slings, if proof load tested. To at least one, but not more than one and one-quarter, times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (d) The proof load test for components (fittings) attached to single legs must meet the requirements in (c) of this subsection;

     (e) Proof load testing for master links must be in accordance with Table 19.


Table 19

     Proof Load Test for Master Links on Wire Rope Slings



• Master links for two-leg bridle slings. To at least four times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Master links for three-leg bridle slings. To at least six times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.
• Master links for four-leg bridle slings. To at least eight times the single-leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (7) Rated load. The term "rated capacity" is commonly used to describe rated load.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of sling material;
• Design factor;
• Type of hitch;
• Angle of loading (see Figure 18, Angle of Loading);
• Diameter of curvature over which the sling is used (D/d) (see Figure 19, D/d ratio);
• Fabrication efficiency.

     (a) Wire rope slings must be used within the rated loads shown in Tables 7 through 15 in ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, either use the rated load for the next lower angle or have a qualified person calculate the rated load.

     (b) Prohibit the use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person. See Figure 18.

     (c) Rated loads for slings used in a choker hitch must conform to the values shown in the above referenced tables, provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater. See Figure 20 and Table 20, Angle of Choke.

     (d) Use either Figure 20 and Table 20, the manufacturer, or a qualified person to determine the rated load if the angle of choke in a choker hitch is less than one hundred twenty degrees.

     (i) Inspect the entire length of the sling including splices, end attachments, and fittings.

     (ii) Remove slings from use if any of the conditions in Table 17 are found.

     (iii) Keep a record of the most recent periodic inspection available, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.


Figure 18

Angle of Loading


Figure 19

D/d Ratio


Note: When D is 25 times the component rope diameter (d) the D/d ratio is expressed as 25/1.

Figure 20

Angle of Choke



Table 20

Angle of Choke



Angle of Choke, deg. Rated Capacity, %
Over 120 100
90 - 120 87
60 - 89 74
30 - 59 62
0 - 29 49
Note: Percent of sling rated capacity in a choker hitch.

     (8) Use of wire rope slings.

     (a) Hitch the slings in a way that provides control of the load.

     (b) Shorten or adjust slings using only the methods approved by the manufacturer or qualified person.

     • Do not shorten or lengthen by knotting, twisting, or by wire rope clips.

     (c) Keep all parts of the human body from between the sling and the load, crane, or hoist hook.

     (d) Protruding ends of strands in splices on slings and bridles must be covered or blunted.

     (e) A sling must not be pulled from under a load when the load is resting on the sling.

     (f) Prohibit all of the following:

     (i) Intentional shock loading;

     (ii) Avoid twisting and kinking.

     (((e))) (g) Decrease the rated load of the sling when D/d ratios (Figure 19) smaller than twenty-five to one. Consult the sling manufacturer for specific data or refer to the Wire Rope Sling User's Manual (wire rope technical board).

     (((f))) (h) Follow Table 21, Use of Wire Rope Slings or Clips, when using any of the identified wire rope slings or clips.

     (((g))) (i) Slings in contact with edges, corners, or protrusions must be protected with a material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage to the sling. See Figure 14.


Table 21

Use of Wire Rope Slings or Clips



If you are using: Then:
Single leg slings used with multiple-leg slings. Make sure the rating shown is not exceeded in any leg of the multiple-leg sling.
Hand tucked slings are used in a single leg vertical lift. Do not allow the sling or load to rotate.
Slings made with wire rope clips. Must not be used as a choker hitch.
Use only U-bolt wire rope clips that are made of drop-forged steel.
U-bolt wire rope clips. Follow Table 15 for the number and spacing of the clips.
Apply the U-bolt so the "U" section is in contact with the dead end of the rope (see Figure 21, Installation and Loading).

Figure 21

Installation and Loading

Proper Installation Requires
• Correct number of clips for wire rope size
• Correct spacing of clips
• Correct turnback length
• Correct torque on nuts
• Correct orientation of saddle on live end

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-55805, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-55820   Synthetic webbing slings.   (1) Identification. Make sure all slings have legible identification information permanently attached to the sling which includes the following information:

     (a) Name or trademark of the manufacturer;

     (b) Manufacturer's code or stock number;

     (c) Rated loads for the types of hitches used, and the angle that the load is based on;

     (d) Type of synthetic web material;

     (e) Number of legs, if more than one;

     (f) Repairing agency, if the sling is ever repaired.


Figure 25

Synthetic Webbing Slings


     (2) Inspection.

     (a) A qualified person must inspect synthetic webbing slings before their initial use, according to Table 25:

     (i) When the sling is new; and

     (ii) Whenever a repair, alteration, or modification has been done.

     (b) A qualified person must perform a visual inspection for damage, each day or shift the synthetic webbing sling is used. Immediately remove from service any sling that is damaged beyond the criteria listed in Table 25.

     (c) A qualified person must perform periodic inspections on synthetic webbing slings, according to Table 25.

     (i) Examine each sling and component individually, taking care to expose and examine all surfaces.

     (ii) Remove slings from use if any of the conditions in Table 25 are found.

     (iii) Keep a written record of the most recent periodic inspection available, including the condition of the sling.


Note: An external code mark on the sling is an acceptable means of recording the inspection as long as the code can be traced back to a record.

Table 25

     Synthetic Webbing Sling Inspection



Inspect synthetic webbing slings for the following conditions: Perform inspections:
• Missing or illegible sling identification;
• Acid or caustic burns; • At least once a year for slings in normal service;
• Melting or charring on any part of the sling; • At least once a quarter for slings in severe service;
• Holes, tears, cuts or snags; • As recommended by a qualified person for slings in special service.
• Broken or worn stitching in load bearing splices;
• Excessive abrasive wear;
• Knots in any part of the sling;
• Discoloration, brittle fibers, and hard or stiff areas that may indicate chemical or ultraviolet/sunlight damage;
• Fittings that are pitted, corroded, cracked, bent, twisted, gouged or broken;
• Hooks that have any of the following conditions:
– Any visibly apparent bend or twist from the plane of the unbent hook;
– Any distortion causing an increase in throat opening five percent, not to exceed one-quarter inch, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Wear exceeding ten percent, of the original section dimension of the hook or its load pin, or as recommended by the manufacturer;
– Self-locking mechanism that does not lock.
• Other visible damage that causes doubt about the safety of continued use of the sling.

     (3) Repair, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Meet the following requirements when repairing synthetic webbing slings:

     (i) Slings are only to be repaired by the manufacturer or a qualified person;

     (ii) Temporary repairs are prohibited;

     (iii) Mark the sling to show the repairing agency;

     (iv) Components used for sling repair must meet the requirements of this part;

     (v) Cracked, broken, melted, or otherwise damaged webbing material or fittings other than hooks must not be repaired;

     (vi) Load bearing splices must not be repaired;

     (b) Proof load test repaired slings according to the requirements in subsection (4) of this section.

     (4) Proof load test. The sling manufacturer or a qualified person must proof load test repaired slings and slings that have been altered or modified before initial use according to Table 26:


Table 26

     Synthetic Webbing Sling Proof Test Requirements



Type of equipment: Proof load test:
•

•

•

•

Single leg slings;

Multiple leg slings;

Endless slings;

Fittings attached to single legs.

To a minimum of two times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for two-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of four times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for three-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of six times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.
Master links for four-leg bridle slings. To a minimum of eight times the single leg vertical hitch rated load.

     (5) Rated loads.


Note: Rated loads are based on the following factors:
• Strength of the material;
• Design factor;
• Type of hitch;
• Angle of loading (see Figure 18, Angle of Loading);
• Fabrication efficiency;
• Diameter of curvature over which the sling is used.

     (a) Synthetic web slings must be used within the rated loads shown in Tables 20 through 24 in ASME B30.9-2010. For angles that are not shown in these tables, use either the rated load for the next lower angle or one calculated by a qualified person.

     (b) Rate slings with the load capacity of the lowest rated component of the sling. For example, if you use fittings that are rated lower than the sling material itself, identify the sling with the lower-rated capacity.

     (c) The use of horizontal sling angles less than thirty degrees is prohibited, unless recommended by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person. (See Figure 18.)

     (d) Use Figure 20, Angle of Choke, the manufacturer, or a qualified person to determine the rated load if the angle of choke in a choker hitch is less than one hundred twenty degrees.

     (e) Rated loads for slings used in a choker hitch must conform to the values shown in the above referenced tables, provided that the angle of choke is one hundred twenty degrees or greater. (See Figure 20.)

     (6) Use of synthetic webbing slings.

     (a) Use synthetic webbing slings safely by meeting all of the following requirements:

     (i) Shorten or adjust slings only with methods approved by the manufacturer or qualified person;

     (ii) Slings must not be shortened or lengthened by knotting or twisting;

     (iii) Hitch slings in a way that provides control of the load;

     (iv) Protect slings with material of sufficient strength, thickness, and construction to prevent damage from sharp edges, corners, protrusions, or abrasive surfaces. See Figure 14;

     (v) Keep all parts of the human body from between the sling and the load, crane, or hoist hook((.

     (b)));

     (vi) Fittings must be of a minimum breaking strength equal to that of the sling.

     (b) Webbing. Synthetic webbing must be of uniform thickness and width and selvage edges must not be split from the webbing's width.

     (c) Intentional shock loading is prohibited.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-55820, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-56100   General requirements.   (1) Inspections.

     (a) A qualified person must perform an inspection on all hardware according to Table 29, each day before using. If a daily inspection is not feasible because the hardware is in a semipermanent or inaccessible location, a periodic inspection is allowed instead of daily.

     (b) Hardware must be removed from service when it shows any conditions listed in Table 29, or any other hazardous condition.


Table 29

     Hardware Inspection



For all hardware, inspect for the following:
• Missing or illegible identification.
• For shackles, missing or illegible manufacturer's name or trademark and/or rated load identification.
• Indications of heat damage, including weld spatter or arc strikes.
• Excessive pitting or corrosion.
• Load bearing components that are:
– Bent.
– Twisted.
– Distorted.
– Stretched.
– Elongated.
– Cracked.
– Broken.
• Excessive nicks or gouges. For riggings blocks, excessive nicks, gouges and wear.
• Ten percent reduction of the original or catalog dimension at any point. For shackles, this includes at any point around the body or pin.
• Excessive thread damage or wear, where applicable.
• Evidence of unauthorized welding or modification.
• Any other conditions that cause doubt as to the safety of continued use.
• On shackles, also inspect for incomplete pin engagement.
• On swivels and swivel hoist rings, check for lack of ability to freely rotate or pivot.
• On compression hardware, also check for:
– Unauthorized replacement components.
– Insufficient number of wire rope clips.
– Improperly tightened wire rope clips.
– Damaged wire rope.
– Indications of wire rope slippage.
– Improper assembly.
• On swivels, check for loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices.
• On blocks check for:
– Loose or missing nuts, bolts, cotter pins, snap rings, or other fasteners and retaining devices.
– Misalignment or wobble in sheaves.
– Excessive sheave groove corrugation or wear.

     (2) Repairs, alterations, or modifications.

     (a) Rigging hardware must be repaired, altered or modified according to the hardware manufacturer or a qualified person.

     (b) Welding of hardware is prohibited unless authorized by the manufacturer.

     (c) Replacement parts must meet or exceed the original rigging hardware manufacturer's specifications.

     (3) Hardware use.

     (a) Hardware must be selected with the characteristics suitable for the application and environment where it will be used.

     (b) The rated load of the hardware must not be exceeded.

     (c) ((All personnel)) At least one of the workers using rigging hardware must meet the requirements of WAC 296-155-53306.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-56100, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]


AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-56400   Mobile crane hand signal chart.  


((STRICKEN GRAPHIC
Figure 40 STRICKEN GRAPHIC))

((STRICKEN GRAPHIC
Figure 40 STRICKEN GRAPHIC))


Standard Hand Signals for Controlling Crane Operations


Standard Hand Signals for Controlling Crane Operations


Standard Hand Signals for Controlling Crane Operations

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-56400, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12.]

     Reviser's note: RCW 34.05.395 requires the use of underlining and deletion marks to indicate amendments to existing rules. The rule published above varies from its predecessor in certain respects not indicated by the use of these markings.
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 12-01-086, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12)

WAC 296-155-704   Hoisting and rigging.   (1) All the applicable provisions of Part L of this chapter apply to hoisting and rigging while using a crane/derrick. All applicable provisions of Part F-1 of this chapter apply to material handling hoisting equipment when a crane/derrick is not being used.

     (2) In addition, subsections (3) through (5) of this section apply regarding the hazards associated with hoisting and rigging.

     (3) General.

     (a) Crane preshift visual inspection.

     (i) Cranes being used in steel erection activities must be visually inspected prior to each shift by a competent person. The inspection must include observation for deficiencies during operation and, as a minimum, must include:

     • All control mechanisms for maladjustments;

     • Control and drive mechanism for excessive wear of components and contamination by lubricants, water or other foreign matter;

     • Safety devices, including boom angle indicators, boom stops, boom kick out devices, anti-two block devices, and load moment indicators where required;

     • Air, hydraulic, and other pressurized lines for deterioration or leakage, particularly those which flex in normal operation;

     • Hooks and latches for deformation, chemical damage, cracks, or wear;

     • Wire rope reeving for compliance with hoisting equipment manufacturer's specifications;

     • Electrical apparatus for malfunctioning, signs of excessive deterioration, dirt, or moisture accumulation;

     • Hydraulic system for proper fluid level;

     • Tires for proper inflation and condition;

     • Ground conditions around the hoisting equipment for proper support, including ground settling under and around outriggers, ground water accumulation, or similar conditions;

     • The hoisting equipment for level position; and

     • The hoisting equipment for level position after each move and setup.

     (ii) If any deficiency is identified, an immediate determination must be made by the competent person if the deficiency constitutes a hazard.

     (iii) If the deficiency constitutes a hazard, the hoisting equipment must be removed from service until the deficiency has been corrected.

     (iv) The operator is responsible for those operations under their direct control. Whenever there is any doubt as to safety, the operator must have the authority to stop and refuse to handle loads until safety has been assured.

     (b) A qualified ((person)) rigger (a rigger who is also a qualified person) must inspect the rigging prior to each shift ((in accordance with WAC 296-155-556 through 296-155-56220)).

     (c) The headache ball, hook or load must not be used to transport personnel, except as provided in (d) of this subsection.

     (d) Cranes or derricks may be used to hoist employees on a personnel platform when work under this part is being conducted if all the applicable provisions of Part L of this chapter are met.

     (e) Safety latches on hooks must not be deactivated or made inoperable except:

     (i) When a qualified rigger has determined that the hoisting and placing of purlins and single joists can be performed more safely by doing so; or

     (ii) When equivalent protection is provided in a site-specific erection plan.

     (4) Working under loads.

     (a) Routes for suspended loads must be preplanned to ensure that no employee works directly below a suspended load except when:

     (i) Engaged in the initial connection of the steel; or

     (ii) Necessary for the hooking or unhooking of the load.

     (b) Whenever workers are within the fall zone and hooking, unhooking, or guiding a load, or doing the initial connection of a load to a component or structure (WAC 296-155-53400 (43)(c)), the following criteria must be met:

     (i) Materials being hoisted must be rigged to prevent unintentional displacement;

     (ii) Hooks with self-closing safety latches or their equivalent must be used to prevent components from slipping out of the hook; and

     (iii) All loads must be rigged by a qualified rigger.

     (5) Multiple lift rigging procedure.

     (a) A multiple lift must only be performed if the following criteria are met:

     • A multiple lift rigging assembly is used;

     • A multiple lift is only permitted when specifically within the manufacturer's specifications and limitations;

     • A maximum of five members are hoisted per lift;


Exception: Bundles of decking must not be lifted using the multiple lift rigging procedure, even though they meet the definition of structural members in WAC 296-155-702.

     • Only beams and similar structural members are lifted; and

     • All employees engaged in the multiple lift have been trained in these procedures in accordance with WAC 296-155-717 (3)(a).

     (b) Components of the multiple lift rigging assembly must be specifically designed and assembled with a maximum capacity for total assembly and for each individual attachment point. This capacity, certified by the manufacturer or a qualified rigger, must be based on the manufacturer's specifications with a five to one safety factor for all components.

     (c) The total load must not exceed:

     • The rated capacity of the hoisting equipment specified in the hoisting equipment load charts; and

     • The rigging capacity specified in the rigging-rating chart.

     (d) The multiple lift rigging assembly must be rigged with members:

     • Attached at their center of gravity and maintained reasonably level;

     • Rigged from top down; and

     • Rigged at least seven feet (2.1 m) apart.

     (e) The members on the multiple lift rigging assembly must be set from the bottom up.

     (f) Controlled load lowering must be used whenever the load is over the connectors.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.440, 49.17.060, and 29 C.F.R. 1926, Subpart CC. 12-01-086, § 296-155-704, filed 12/20/11, effective 2/1/12. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060 and chapter 49.17 RCW. 10-22-105, § 296-155-704, filed 11/2/10, effective 1/1/11. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. 06-05-027, § 296-155-704, filed 2/7/06, effective 4/1/06. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040, and [49.17].050. 02-13-115, § 296-155-704, filed 6/19/02, effective 9/1/02.]


REPEALER

     The following section of the Washington Administrative Code is repealed:
WAC 296-155-329 Qualified person -- Rigging.