WAC 296-24 Walking-Working Surfaces Draft Updates

WAC 296-24-735 Walking-working surfaces.

WAC 296-24-73501

Scope. General requirementsScope. This section applies to all

permanent places of employment, except where domestic, mining,

or agricultural work only is performed. Construction work is

not to be deemed as a permanent place of employment. Measures

for the control of toxic materials are considered to be outside

the scope of this section. This section covers all walking-

working surfaces unless specifically excluded by an individual

paragraph of this section. Where used in Part J of this rule

(WAC 296-24).

WAC 296-24-73502

Definitions. As used in Part J of this rule (WAC 296-24),

the following definitions apply:

Alternating tread-type stair. A type of stairway consisting

of a series of treads that are usually attached to a center

support in an alternating manner such that an employee typically

does not have both feet on the same level while using the

stairway.

Authorized. An employee who the employer assigns to perform

a specific type of duty, or allows in a specific location or

area.

WAC (6/15/2018 02:58 PM) [ 1 ] NOT FOR FILING

Combination ladder. A portable ladder that can be used as a

stepladder, extension ladder, trestle ladder, or stairway

ladder. The components of a combination ladder also may be used

separately as a single ladder.

Dangerous equipment. Equipment, such as vats, tanks,

electrical equipment, machinery, equipment or machinery with

protruding parts, or other similar units, that, because of their

function or form, may harm an employee who falls into or onto

the equipment.

Designated area. A distinct portion of a walking-working

surface delineated by a warning line in which employees may

perform work without additional fall protection.

Dockboard. A portable or fixed device that spans a gap or

compensates for a difference in elevation between a loading

platform and a transport vehicle. Dockboards include, but are

not limited to, bridge plates, dock plates, and dock levelers.

Equivalent. Alternative designs, equipment, materials, or

methods, that the employer can demonstrate will provide an equal

or greater degree of safety for employees compared to the

designs, equipment, materials, or methods specified in this

subpart.

Failure. A load refusal, breakage, or separation of

component parts. A load refusal is the point at which the

ultimate strength of a component or object is exceeded.

Grab bar. An individual horizontal or vertical handhold

installed to provide access above the height of the ladder.


Guardrail system. A barrier erected along an unprotected or

exposed side, edge, or other area of a walking-working surface

to prevent employees from falling to a lower level.

Handrail. means a rail used to provide employees with a

handhold for support.

Handrail. A single bar or pipe supported on brackets from a

wall or partition to provide a continuous handhold for persons

using a stair. For dimension requirements (rail heights, etc.),

see the unified fall protection rule (WAC 296-880. (WAC 296-

XXX).

Hoist area. Any elevated access opening to a walking-

working surface through which equipment or materials are loaded

or received.

Hole. A gap or open space in a floor, roof, horizontal

walking-working surface, or similar surface that is at least 2

inches (5 cm) in its least dimension.

Low-slope roof. A roof that has a slope less than or equal

to a ratio of 4 in 12 (vertical to horizontal).

Lower level. A surface or area to which an employee could

fall. Such surfaces or areas include, but are not limited to,

ground levels, floors, roofs, ramps, runways, excavations, pits,

tanks, materials, water, equipment, and similar surfaces and

structures, or portions thereof.

Manhole steps. Steps that are individually attached to, or

set into, the wall of a manhole structure.

Maximum intended load. The total load (weight and force) of

all employees, equipment, vehicles, tools, materials, and other


loads the employer reasonably anticipates to be applied to a

walking-working surface at any one time.

Nose, nosing. That portion of a tread projecting beyond the

face of the riser immediately below.

Open riser. The gap or space between treads of stairways

that do not have upright or inclined members (risers).

Opening. A gap or open space in a wall, partition, vertical

walking-working surface, or similar surface that is at least 30

inches (76 cm) high and at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide, through

which an employee can fall to a lower level.

Platform. A walking-working surface that is elevated above

the surrounding area.

Qualified. Describes a person who, by possession of a

recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who

by extensive knowledge, training, and experience has

successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve

problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the

project.

Ramp. An inclined walking-working surface used to access

another level.

Railing. A vertical barrier erected along exposed sides of

stairways and platforms to prevent falls of persons. The top

member of railing usually serves as a handrail.

Rise. The vertical distance from the top of a tread to the

top of the next higher tread.

Riser. The upright (vertical) or inclined member of a stair

that is located at the back of a stair tread or platform and


connects close to the front edge of the next higher tread,

platform, or landing.

Runway. An elevated walking-working surface, such as a

catwalk, a foot walk along shafting, or an elevated walkway

between buildings.

Ship stair (ship ladder). A stairway that is equipped with

treads, stair rails, and open risers, and has a slope that is

between 50 and 70 degrees from the horizontal.

Spiral stairs. A series of treads attached to a vertical

pole in a winding fashion, usually within a cylindrical space.

Stair rail or stair rail system. A barrier erected along

the exposed or open side of stairways to prevent employees from

falling to a lower level.

Stair Platform. An extended step or landing breaking a

continuous run of stairs.

Stairway (stairs). Risers and treads that connect one level

with another, and includes any landings and platforms in between

those levels. Stairways include standard, spiral, alternating

tread-type, and ship stairs.

Standard stairs. A fixed or permanently installed stairway.

Ship, spiral, and alternating tread-type stairs are not

considered standard stairs.

Toeboard. A low protective barrier that is designed to

prevent materials, tools, and equipment from falling to a lower

level, and protect employees from falling.

Tread. A horizontal member of a stair or stairway, but does

not include landings or platforms.


Unprotected sides and edges. Mean any side or edge of a

walking-working surface (except at entrances and other points of

access) where there is no wall, guardrail system, or stair rail

system to protect an employee from falling to a lower level.

Walking-working surface. Any horizontal, vertical, and

inclined or angled surface on or through which an employee

walks, works, or gains access to a work area or workplace

location. This includes, but is not limited to, floors, ladders,

stairways, steps, roofs, ramps, runways, aisles, scaffolds,

dockboards, and step bolts.

WAC 296-24-73505

WAC 296-24-73505

Aisles and passageways. (1) You must ensure that where

mechanical handling equipment is used, sufficient safe

clearances are allowed for aisles, at loading docks,

through doorways and wherever turns or passage must be

made. You must keep aisles and passageways clear and in

good repairs, with no obstruction across or in aisles that

could create a hazard.

(2) You must ensure that permanent aisles and passageways

are appropriately marked. "Appropriate" does not limit the

marking to printed lines on the floor only. Other


appropriate methods may be marked pillars, powder

stripping, flags, traffic cones, or barrels, provided they

are maintained in good repair and the recognition of such

markings are included in the training programs for vehicle

operators and employees.

(3) You must ensure that all trestles in connection with

industrial plants on which cars run, which are also used as

walkways for workers, are equipped with a walkway on the

outer edge, so located as to give safe minimum clearance of

3 feet to cars. Such walkways must be equipped with

standard rails. Where a trestle crosses a driveway or

passageway the trestle over such points must be solidly

boarded over.

WAC 296-24-73507 Covers and guardrails. (1) You must

ensure that all open vats and tanks into which workers may

fall are guarded with railings or screen guards.

(2) You must ensure that all open vats and tanks where

workers are employed have a platform or walkway 36 to 42

inches below the top of vat or tank or where walkway is


flush with top of vat or tank, a standard safeguard of 36

to 42 inches high must be constructed.

(3) You must ensure that every tank over 5 feet deep,

excepting where agitators are used or where products may be

damaged by ladders, has a ladder fixed on the inside so

placed as to connect with means of access from the outside.

Rungs must have a clearance of at least 6 inches measured

between the rung and the side of the tank.

WAC 296-24-73511 Steam pipes. (1) You must ensure that

all steam pipes or pipes heated by any other means to a

sufficient temperature to burn a person (other than coil

pipes, radiators, for heating rooms or buildings, or pipes

on portable steam engines and boilers) and which are within

seven feet of a floor or platform, if exposed to contact,

are guarded with a standard safeguard.

(2) Protection from hot pipes. You must cover all exposed

hot pipes within 7 feet of the floor or working platform,

or within 15 inches measured horizontally from stairways,

ramps or fixed ladders, with an insulating material or be

guarded in such a manner as to prevent contact.


General Requirements

(1) Surface Conditions; you must ensure

a. All places of employment, passageways, storerooms,

service rooms, and walking-working surfaces are kept

in a clean, orderly, and sanitary condition.

b. The floor of each workroom is maintained in a clean

and, to the extent feasible, in a dry condition.

When wet processes are used, drainage must be

maintained and, to the extent feasible, dry standing

places, such as false floors, platforms, and mats

must be provided.

c. Walking-working surfaces are maintained free of

hazards such as sharp or protruding objects, loose

boards, corrosion, leaks, spills, snow, and ice.

(2) You must ensure that each walking-working surface can

support the maximum intended load for that surface.

(3) You must provide, and ensure each employee uses, a

safe means of access and egress to and from walking-

working surfaces.

(4) Inspection, maintenance, and repair. You must ensure:


a. Walking-working surfaces are inspected, regularly

and as necessary, and maintained in a safe

condition;

b. Hazardous conditions on walking-working surfaces are

corrected or repaired before an employee uses the

walking-working surface again. If the correction or

repair cannot be made immediately, the hazard must

be guarded to prevent employees from using the

walking-working surface until the hazard is

corrected or repaired; and.

a.c. When any correction or repair involves the

structural integrity of the walking-working surface,

a qualified person performs or supervises the

correction or repair.

WAC 296-24-750 Guarding floor and wall openings and holes.

296-24-75001

Terms.

The following terms shall have the meaning ascribed in this

section, when referred to in WAC 296-24-75003 through 296-24-

75011, unless the context requires otherwise.


(1) Floor hole. An opening measuring less than 12 inches

but more than 1 inch in its least dimension, in any floor,

platform, pavement, or yard, through which materials but not

persons may fall; such as a belt hole, pipe opening, or slot

opening.

(2) Floor opening. An opening measuring 12 inches or more

in its least dimension, in any floor, platform, pavement, or

yard, through which persons may fall; such as a hatchway, stair

or ladder opening, pit, or large manhole. Floor openings

occupied by elevators, dumb waiters, conveyors, machinery, or

containers are excluded from this part.

(3) Handrail. A single bar or pipe supported on brackets

from a wall or partition, as on a stairway or ramp, to furnish

persons with a handhold in case of tripping.

(4) Platform. A working space for persons, elevated above

the surrounding floor or ground; such as a balcony or platform

for the operation of machinery and equipment.

(5) Runway. A passageway for persons, elevated above the

surrounding floor or ground level, such as a footwalk along

shafting or a walkway between buildings.


(6) Standard railing. A vertical barrier erected along

exposed edges of a floor opening, wall opening, ramp, platform,

or runway to prevent falls of person.

(7) Standard strength and construction. Any construction of

railings, covers, or other guards that meets the requirements of

WAC 296-24-750 through 296-24-75011.

(8) Stair railing. A vertical barrier erected along exposed

sides of a stairway to prevent falls of persons.

(9) Toeboard. A vertical barrier at floor level erected

along exposed edges of a floor opening, wall opening, platform,

runway, or ramp to prevent falls of materials.

(10) Wall hole. An opening less than 30 inches but more

than 1 inch high, of unrestricted width, in any wall or

partition; such as a ventilation hole or drainage scupper.

(11) Wall opening. An opening at least 30 inches high and

18 inches wide, in any wall or partition, through which persons

may fall; such as a yard-arm doorway or chute opening.

296-24-75003

Protection for floor openings.


(1) You must ensure that every ladderway floor opening or

platform is guarded by a standard railing with standard toeboard

on all exposed sides (except at entrance to opening), with the

passage through the railing either provided with a swinging gate

or so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the

opening.

(2) You must ensure that every hatchway and chute floor

opening is guarded by one of the following:

(a) Hinged floor opening cover of standard strength and

construction equipped with standard railings or permanently

attached thereto so as to leave only one exposed side. When the

opening is not in use, the cover must be closed or the exposed

side must be guarded at both top and intermediate positions by

removable standard railings.

(b) A removable railing with toeboard on not more than two

sides of the opening and fixed standard railings with toeboards

on all other exposed sides. The removable railings must be kept

in place when the opening is not in use and should preferably be

hinged or otherwise mounted so as to be conveniently

replaceable.


Where operating conditions necessitate the feeding of

material into any hatchway or chute opening, protection must be

provided to prevent a person from falling through the opening.

(c) The area under floor openings must, where practical, be

fenced off. When this is not practical, the areas must be

plainly marked with yellow lines and telltales shall be

installed to hang within 5 1/2 feet of ground or floor level.

(d) Where floor openings are used to drop materials from

one level to another, audible warning systems must be installed

and used to indicate to employees on the lower level that

material is to be dropped.

(3) You must ensure that every skylight opening and hole is

guarded by a standard skylight screen or a fixed standard

railing on all exposed sides.

(4) You must ensure that every pit and trapdoor floor

opening, infrequently used, is guarded by a floor opening cover

of standard strength and construction which should be hinged in

place. While the cover is not in place, the pit or trap opening

must be constantly attended by someone or must be protected on

all exposed sides by removable standard railings.


(5) You must ensure that every manhole floor opening is

guarded by a standard manhole cover which need not be hinged in

place. While the cover is not in place, the manhole opening must

be constantly attended by someone or must be protected by

removable standard railings.

296-24-75005

Protection for wall openings and holes.

(1) You must ensure that every wall opening from which

there is a drop of more than 4 feet is guarded by one of the

following:

(a) Rail, roller, picket fence, half door, or equivalent

barrier.

The guard may be removable but should preferably be hinged

or otherwise mounted so as to be conveniently replaceable. Where

there is exposure below to falling materials, a removable

toeboard or the equivalent must also be provided. When the

opening is not in use for handling materials, the guard must be

kept in position regardless of a door on the opening. In

addition, a grab handle must be provided on each side of the


opening with its center approximately 4 feet above floor level

and of standard strength and mounting.

(b) Extension platform onto which materials can be hoisted

for handling, and which must have side rails or equivalent

guards of standard specifications.

(2) You must ensure that every chute wall opening from

which there is a drop of more than 4 feet is guarded by one or

more of the barriers specified in WAC 296-24-75005 (1)(a) and

(b), or as required by the conditions.

(3) You must ensure that every window wall opening at a

stairway landing, floor, platform, or balcony, from which there

is a drop of more than 4 feet, and where the bottom of the

opening is less than 3 feet above the platform or landing, is

guarded by standard slats, standard grill work (as specified in

WAC 296-24-75011(11)), or standard railing.

(4) You must ensure that where the window opening is below

the landing, or platform, a standard toeboard is provided.

(5) You must ensure that every temporary wall opening has

adequate guards but these need not be of standard construction.


(6) You must ensure that where there is a hazard of

materials falling through a wall hole, and the lower edge of the

near side of the hole is less than 4 inches above the floor, and

the far side of the hole more than 5 feet above the next lower

level, the hole is protected by a standard toeboard, or an

enclosing screen either of sold construction, or as specified in

WAC 296-24-75011(11).

296-24-75007

Protection of open-sided runways.

(1) You must provide railings with a toeboard wherever,

beneath the open sides:

(a) Person can pass;

(b) There is moving machinery; or

(c) There is equipment with which falling materials could

create a hazard.

(2) You must guard every runway by a standard railing (or

the equivalent as specified in WAC 296-24-75011(3) on all open

sides 4 feet or more above floor or ground level. Wherever


tools, machine parts, or materials are likely to be used on the

runway, you must also provide a toeboard on each exposed side.

Runways used exclusively for special purposes (such as

oiling, shafting, or filling tank cars) may have the railing on

one side omitted where operating conditions necessitate such

omission, providing the falling hazard is minimized by using a

runway of not less than 18 inches wide. Where persons entering

upon runways become thereby exposed to machinery, electrical

equipment, or other danger not a falling hazard, additional

guarding than is here specified may be essential for protection.

(3) You must ensure that regardless of height, runways

above or adjacent to dangerous equipment, pickling or

galvanizing tanks, degreasing units, and similar hazards are

guarded with a standard railing and toeboard.

296-24-75011

Railing, toeboards, and cover specifications.

(1) You must ensure that a standard railing consists of top

rail, intermediate rail, and posts, and has a vertical height of


forty-two inches, plus or minus three inches, from upper surface

of top rail to floor, platform, runway, or ramp level and:

(a) The top rail must be smooth-surfaced throughout the

length of the railing.

(b) The intermediate rail must be approximately halfway

between the top rail and the floor, platform, runway, or ramp.

(c) The ends of the rails must not overhang the terminal

posts except where such overhang does not constitute a

projection hazard.

(d) Guardrails with heights greater than 42 inches are

permissible provided the extra height does not create a

dangerous situation for employees and that additional mid-rails

were installed so that openings beneath the top rail would not

permit the passage of a 19-inch or larger spherical object.

(2) You must ensure that a stair railing is of construction

similar to a standard railing but the vertical height is not

more than 34 inches nor less than 30 inches from upper surface

of top rail to surface of tread in line with face of riser at

forward edge of tread.


(3) Minimum requirements for standard railings under

various types of construction are specified in this subsection.

Dimensions specified are based on the U.S. Department of

Agriculture Wood Handbook, No. 72, 1955 (No. 1 (S4S) Southern

Yellow Pine (Modulus of Rupture 7,400 p.s.i.)) for wood; ANSI G

41.5-1970, American National Standard Specifications for

Structural Steel, for structural steel; and ANSI B 125.1-1970,

American National Standard Specifications for Welded and

Seamless Steel Pipe, for pipe.

(a) For wood railings, the posts must be of at least 2-inch

by 4-inch nominal stock spaced not to exceed 6 feet; the top and

intermediate rails must be of at least 2-inch by 4-inch nominal

stock. If top rail is made of two right-angle pieces of 1-inch

by 4-inch stock, posts may be spaced on 8-foot centers, with 2-

inch by 4-inch intermediate rail.

(b) For pipe railings, posts and top and intermediate

railings must be at least 1 1/2 inches nominal diameter (outside

diameter) with posts spaced not more than 8 feet on centers.

(c) For structural steel railings, posts and top and

intermediate rails must be of 2-inch by 2-inch by 3/8-inch


angles or other metal shapes of equivalent bending strength with

posts spaced not more than 8 feet on centers.

(d) The anchoring of posts and framing of members for

railings of all types shall be of such construction that the

completed structure must be capable of withstanding a load of at

least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any point on the

top rail.

(e) Other types, sizes, and arrangements of railing

construction are acceptable provided they meet the following

conditions:

(i) A smooth-surfaced top rail at a height above floor,

platform, runway, or ramp level of from 36 to 42 inches nominal;

(ii) A strength to withstand at least the minimum

requirement of 200 pounds top rail pressure;

(iii) Protection between top rail and floor, platform,

runway, ramp, or stair treads, equivalent at least to that

afforded by a standard intermediate rail;

(iv) Elimination of overhang of rail ends unless such

overhang does not constitute a hazard; such as, baluster

railings, scrollwork railings, paneled railings.


(4) You must ensure that a standard toeboard is a minimum

of 4 inches nominal in vertical height from its top edge to the

level of the floor, platform, runway, or ramp. It must be

securely fastened in place and with not more than 1/4-inch

clearance above floor level. It may be made of any substantial

material either solid or with openings not over one inch in

greatest dimension.

Where material is piled to such height that a standard

toeboard does not provide protection, paneling from floor to

intermediate rail, or to top rail must be provided.

(5) You must ensure that a handrail consists of a

lengthwise member mounted directly on a wall or partition by

means of brackets attached to the lower side of the handrail so

as to offer no obstruction to a smooth surface along the top and

both sides of the handrail. The handrail must be of rounded or

other section that will furnish an adequate handhold for anyone

grasping it to avoid falling. The ends of the handrail should be

turned in to the supporting wall or otherwise arranged so as not

to constitute a projection hazard.


(a) The height of handrails must be not more than 34 inches

nor less than 30 inches from upper surface of handrail to

surface of tread in line with face of riser or to surface of

ramp.

(b) The size of handrails must be: When of hardwood, at

least 2 inches in diameter; when of metal pipe, at least 1 1/2

inches in diameter. The length of brackets must be such as will

give a clearance between handrail and wall or any projection

thereon of at least 1 1/2 inches. The spacing of brackets shall

not exceed 8 feet.

(c) The mounting of handrails must be such that the

completed structure is capable of withstanding a load of at

least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any point on the

rail.

(6) You must ensure that all handrails and railings are

provided with a clearance of not less than 1 1/2 inches between

the handrail or railing and any other object.

(7) Floor opening covers may be of any material that meets

the following strength requirements:


(a) Trench or conduit covers and their supports, when

located in plant roadways, must be designed to carry a truck

rear-axle load of at least twenty thousand pounds.

(b) Manhole covers and their supports, when located in

plant roadways, must comply with local standard highway

requirements if any; otherwise, they must be designed to carry a

truck rear-axle of at least twenty thousand pounds.

(c) The construction of floor opening covers may be of any

material that meets the strength requirements. Covers projecting

not more than one inch above the floor level may be used

providing all edges are chamfered to an angle with the

horizontal of not over thirty degrees. All hinges, handles,

bolts, or other parts must set flush with the floor or cover

surface.

(8) You must ensure that skylight screens are of such

construction and mounting that they are capable of withstanding

a load of at least 200 pounds applied perpendicularly at any one

area on the screen. You must also ensure that they are of such

construction and mounting that under ordinary loads or impacts,

they will not deflect downward sufficiently to break the glass


below them. The construction must be of grillwork with openings

not more than 4 inches long or of slatwork with openings not

more than 2 inches wide with length unrestricted.

(9) You must ensure that wall opening barriers (rails,

rollers, picket fences, and half doors) are of such construction

and mounting that, when in place at the opening, the barrier is

capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied in

any direction (except upward) at any point on the top rail or

corresponding member.

(10) You must ensure that wall opening grab handles are not

less than 12 inches in length and are so mounted as to give 1

1/2 inches clearance from the side framing of the wall opening.

The size, material, and anchoring of the grab handle must be

such that the completed structure is capable of withstanding a

load of at least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any

point of the handle.

(11) You must ensure that wall opening screens are of such

construction and mounting that they are capable of withstanding

a load of at least 200 pounds applied horizontally at any point

on the near side of the screen. They may be of solid


construction, of grillwork with openings not more than 8 inches

long, or of slatwork with openings not more than 4 inches wide

with length unrestricted.

WAC 296-24-740 Stairways74065 Fixed industrial

Sstairways.

296-24-76501

Terms.

The following terms must have the meaning ascribed in this

section when referred to in WAC 296-24-76503 through 296-24-

76523 unless the context requires otherwise.

(1) Handrail. A single bar or pipe supported on brackets

from a wall or partition to provide a continuous handhold for

persons using a stair.

(2) Nose, nosing. That portion of a tread projecting beyond

the face of the riser immediately below.

(3) Open riser. The air space between the treads of

stairways without upright members (risers).


(4) Platform. An extended step or landing breaking a

continuous run of stairs.

(5) Railing. A vertical barrier erected along exposed sides

of stairways and platforms to prevent falls of persons. The top

member of railing usually serves as a handrail.

(6) Rise. The vertical distance from the top of a tread to

the top of the next higher tread.

(7) Riser. The upright member of a step situated at the

back of a lower tread and near the leading edge of the next

higher tread.

(8) Stairs, stairway. A series of steps leading from one

level or floor to another, or leading to platforms, pits, boiler

rooms, crossovers, or around machinery, tanks, and other

equipment that are used more or less continuously or routinely

by employees, or only occasionally by specific individuals. A

series of steps and landings having three or more risers

constitutes stairs or stairway.

(9) Tread. The horizontal member of a step.

(10) Tread run. The horizontal distance from the leading

edge of a tread to the leading edge of an adjacent tread.


(11) Tread width. The horizontal distance from front to

back of tread including nosing when used.

296-24-74003

Scope and Application.

This section contains specifications for the safe design

and construction of fixed general industrial stairs. This

classification includes interior and exterior stairs around

machinery, tanks, and other equipment, and stairs leading to or

from floors, platforms, or pits. This section does not apply to

stairs used for fire exit purposes, to construction operations,

to private buildings or residences, or to articulated stairs,

such as may be installed on floating roof tanks or on dock

facilities, the angle of which changes with the rise and fall of

the base support.

When stairs of public and private buildings are located at

loading or receiving docks, in maintenance areas, etc., or are

used exclusively by employees, the term "fixed industrial steps"

will apply and be evaluated accordingly.

296-24-74005

General Requirements for All Stairs.


You must ensure:

(1) Handrails, stair rail systems, and guardrail systems

are provided in accordance with WAC 296-XXX

(2) Vertical clearance above any stair tread to any

overhead obstruction is at least 6 feet, 8 inches (203

cm), as measured from the leading edge of the tread.

Spiral stairs must meet the vertical clearance

requirements in paragraph (d)(3) of this section WAC

296-24-7406515.

(3) Stairs have uniform riser heights and tread depths

between landings

(4) Stairway landings and platforms are at least the width

of the stair and at least 30 inches (76 cm) in depth;

as measured in the direction of travel.

(5) When a door or a gate opens directly on a stairway, a

platform is provided, and the swing of the door or

gate does not reduce the platform's effective usable

depth to:

a. Less than 20 inches (51 cm) for platforms installed

before January 17, 2017; and


b. Less than 22 inches (56 cm) for platforms installed

on or after January 17, 2017 (see Figure D-7 at the

end of this section);

(6) Each stair can support at least five times the normal

anticipated live load, but never less than a

concentrated load of 1,000 pounds (454 kg) applied at

any point.

(7) Standard stairs are used to provide access from one

walking-working surface to another when operations

necessitate regular and routine travel between levels,

including access to operating platforms for equipment.

Winding stairways may be used on tanks and similar

round structures when the diameter of the tank or

structure is at least 5 feet (1.5 m).

(8) Spiral, ship, or alternating tread-type stairs are

used only when the employer can demonstrate that it is

not feasible to provide standard stairs.


(9) When paragraph WAC 296-24-74005(8) of this section

allows the use of spiral, ship, or alternating tread-

type stairs, they are installed, used, and maintained

in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.

(10) Each tread and the top landing of a stairway, where

risers are used, should have a nose which extends 1/2

inch to one inch beyond the face of the lower riser.

(1)(11) Stair tread noses should have an even leading

edge.

296-24-76507

Stair strength.


You must ensure that fixed stairways are designed and

constructed to carry a load of five times the normal live

load anticipated but never of less strength than to carry

safely a moving concentrated load of 1,000 pounds.

296-24-76509

Stair width.

Fixed stairways must have a minimum width of 22 inches.

296-24-74010

Standard Stairs.

In addition to paragraph WAC 296-24-74005 of this chapter,

you must also ensure standard stairs:

(1) Are installed at angles between 30 to 50 degrees from

the horizontal

(2) Have a maximum riser height of 9.5 inches (24 cm)

(3) Have a minimum tread depth of 9.5 inches (24 cm)

(4) Have a minimum width of 22 inches (56 cm) between

vertical barriers (see Figure D-8 of this section).

Exception: Paragraphs (2) and (3) of this section do not apply

to standard stairs installed prior to January 17, 2017, provided

those stairs meet the dimension requirements specified in Table


D-1 of this section or they use a combination that achieves the

angle requirements of paragraph WAC 296-24-74010(1) of this

section.

TABLE D-1 Angle to Rise Tread Run

Horizontal (in inches) (in inches) 30°35' . . . . 6 1/2 11 32°08' . . . . 6 3/4 10 3/4 33°41' . . . . 7 10 1/2 35°16' . . . . 7 1/4 10 1/4 36°52' . . . . 7 1/2 10 38°29' . . . . 7 3/4 9 3/4 40°08' . . . . 8 9 1/2 41°44' . . . . 8 1/4 9 1/4 43°22' . . . . 8 1/2 9 45°00' . . . . 8 3/4 8 3/4 46°38' . . . . 9 8 1/2 48°16' . . . . 9 1/4 8 1/4 49°54' . . . . 9 1/2 8


Figure D-8


296-24-76511

Angle of stairway rise.

(1) You must ensure that fixed stairs are installed at

angles to the horizontal of between 30 degrees and 50 degrees.

Any uniform combination of rise/tread dimensions may be used

that will result in a stairway at any angle to the horizontal

within the permissible range. Table D-1 gives rise/tread


dimensions which will produce a stairway within the permissible

range, stating the angle to the horizontal produced by each

combination. However, the rise/tread combinations are not

limited to those given in Table D-1.

(2) Because of space limitations a permanent stairway

sometimes has to be installed at an angle above the 50 degree

critical angle. Such installations are commonly called inclined

ladders or ship's ladders, which you must ensure have handrails

on both sides and open risers. You must ensure that they are

capable of sustaining a live load of 100 pounds per square foot

with a safety factor of 4. The following preferred and critical

angles from the horizontal must be considered for inclined

ladders and ship's ladders:

(a) 35 to 60 degrees - Preferred angle from horizontal.

(b) 60 to 70 degrees - Critical angle from horizontal.

TABLE D-1 Angle to Rise Tread Run

Horizontal (in inches) (in inches) 30°35' . . . . 6 1/2 11 32°08' . . . . 6 3/4 10 3/4 33°41' . . . . 7 10 1/2 35°16' . . . . 7 1/4 10 1/4 36°52' . . . . 7 1/2 10 38°29' . . . . 7 3/4 9 3/4 40°08' . . . . 8 9 1/2 41°44' . . . . 8 1/4 9 1/4 43°22' . . . . 8 1/2 9 45°00' . . . . 8 3/4 8 3/4


46°38' . . . . 9 8 1/2 48°16' . . . . 9 1/4 8 1/4 49°54' . . . . 9 1/2 8

296-24-76513

Stair treads.

Each tread and the top landing of a stairway, where risers

are used, should have a nose which extends 1/2 inch to one

inch beyond the face of the lower riser. Noses should have

an even leading edge. You must ensure that all treads are

reasonably slip-resistant and the nosings are of nonslip

finish. Welded bar grating treads without nosings are

acceptable providing the leading edge can be readily

identified by personnel descending the stairway and

provided the tread is serrated or is of definite nonslip

design. You must ensure that rise height and tread width

are uniform throughout any flight of stairs including any

foundation structure used as one or more treads of the

stairs.

296-24-74015

Spiral7406515

Length of stairwaysSpiral Stairs.

Long flights of stairs, unbroken by landings or

intermediate platforms, should be avoided. Consideration should

be given to providing intermediate platforms where practical and

where such stairways are in frequent use. You must ensure that

stairway platforms are no less than the width of a stairway and


a minimum of 30 inches in length measured in the direction of

travel.


you must also ensure spiral stairs:

(1) Have a minimum clear width of 26 inches (66 cm)

(2) Have a maximum riser height of 9.5 inches (24 cm)

(3) Have a minimum headroom above spiral stair treads of

at least 6 feet, 6 inches (2 m), measured from the

leading edge of the tread

(4) Have a minimum tread depth of 7.5 inches (19 cm),

measured at a point 12 inches (30 cm) from the

narrower edge

(5) Have a uniform tread size

296-24-76519

Vertical clearance.

You must ensure that vertical clearance above any stair

tread to an overhead obstruction is at least 7 feet measured

from the leading edge of the tread.

296-24-74020

Ship Stairs.


you must also ensure ship stairs (see figure D-9 of this

section):

(1) Are installed at a slope of 50 to 70 degrees from the

horizontal

(2) Have open risers with a vertical rise between tread

surfaces of 6.5 to 12 inches (17 to 30 cm)


(3) Have minimum tread depth of 4 inches (10 cm)

(4) Have a minimum tread width of 18 inches (46 cm)

296-24-7402576521

Open risers.

Stairs having treads of less than 9-inch width should have

open risers.

296-24-76523

General.

Open grating type treads are desirable for outside stairs.


296-24-7655574025

Alternating tread-type stairs.

Alternating tread-type stairs have a series of steps

between 50 and 70 degrees from horizontal, attached to a center

support rail in an alternating manner so that a user of the

stairs never has both feet at the same level at the same time.

(See Figure D-11112 of this section)..). You must ensure

alternating tread-type stairs are:

(1) DesignedYou must ensure that alternating tread-type

stairs are Ddesigned, installed, used, and maintained in

accordance with approved manufacturer's specifications, and have

the following:

(a) Stair rails on all open sides;

(b) Handrails on both sides of enclosed stairs;

(c) Stair rails and handrails of such configuration as to

provide an adequate handhold for a user grasping it to avoid a

fall;

(d) A minimum distance of 17 to 24 inches between

handrails;

(e) A minimum width of 22 inches overall;

(f) A minimum tread depth of 8.5 inches;

(g) A minimum tread width of 7 inches; and

(h) A maximum rise of 9 1/2 inches to the tread surface of

the next alternating tread; and.

(i) Open risers if the tread depth is less than 9.5 inches

(24 cm).


(2) You must ensure that alternating tread-type stairs have

not more than a 20-foot continuous rise. You must provide one or

more intermediate platforms in accordance with WAC 296-24-76515

296-24-74005 where more than a 20-foot rise is necessary to

reach the top of a required stair.


6/15/2018 02:58 PM) [ 43 ] NOT FOR FILINGWAC (

Figure D-11(3) You must ensure that stairs and platforms

are installed so the top landing of the alternating tread stair

is flush with the top of the landing platform.

(4) You must ensure that stair design and construction

sustains a load of not less than 5 times the normal live load,

but never less strength than to carry safely a moving

concentrated load of 1,000 pounds.

(5) You must ensure that treads are equipped with slip-

resistant surfaces.


(6) You must ensure that where a platform or landing is

used, the width is not less than the width of the stair nor less

than 30-inch depth in the direction of travel. You must ensure

that stairs are flush with the top of the landing

platform.Figure D-11

WAC 296-24-855 750 Other working surfaces.

296-24-755058550175505

Dockboards (bridge plates).


(1) (1) You must ensure:

(2) Portable and powered dockboards are strong enough to

carry the load imposed on them.

(3) Dockboards put into initial service on or after

January 17, 2017 are designed, constructed, and

maintained to prevent employees from running off the

dockboard edge.

Exception: When the employer demonstrates there is no hazard of

employees running off the dockboard edge, WAC 296-24-85501(2)

does not apply.

(4) Portable dockboards are secured by anchoring them in

place or using equipment or devices that prevent the

dockboard from moving out of a safe position. When the

employer demonstrates that securing the dockboard is

not feasible, the employer must ensure there is

sufficient contact between the dockboard and the

surface to prevent the dockboard from moving out of a

safe position.

(5) Powered dockboards are designed and constructed in

accordance with Commercial Standard CS202-56 (1961)

"Industrial Lifts and Hinged Loading Ramps" published

by the U.S. Department of Commerce, or newer standards

as effective as the code such as:

a. American National Standards Institute

(ANSI)/Industrial Truck Standards Development

Foundation (ITSDF) B56.1-2012, Trucks, Low and High

Lift, Safety Standard (B56.1-2012)


b. ASME/ANSI MH14.1-1987, Loading Dock Levelers and

Dockboards (MH14.1-1987) (Ex. 371)

c. ANSI MH30.1-2007, National Standard for the Safety

Performance, and Testing of Dock Loading Devices

(MH30.1-2007) (Ex. 372)

d. ANSI MH30.2-2005, Portable Dock Loading Devices:

Standards, Performance, and Testing (MH30.2-2005)

(Ex. 20)

(6) Measures, such as wheel chocks or sand shoes, are used

to prevent the transport vehicle (e.g. a truck, semi-

trailer, trailer, or rail car) or container on which a

dockboard is placed, from moving while employees are

on the dockboard.

(1) You must ensure that handholds, or other effective

means, are provided on portable dockboards to permit

safe handling.

(2) You must ensure that portable dockboards are secured in

position, either by being anchored or equipped with devices

which will prevent their slipping.

(3) You must ensure that powered dockboards are

designed and constructed in accordance with Commercial Standard

CS202-56 (1961) "Industrial Lifts and Hinged Loading Ramps"

published by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

(4) You must ensure that handholds, or other effective

means, are provided on portable dockboards to permit safe

handling.


(5) You must ensure that positive protection is provided to

prevent railroad cars from being moved while dockboards or

bridge plates are in position.

296-24-85503

Forging machine area.

(1) You must ensure that machines are locate so as to give

(a) enough clearance between machines so that the movement of

one operator will not interfere with the work of another, (b)

ample room for cleaning machines and handling the work,

including material and scrap. The arrangement of machines must

be such that operators will not stand in aisles.

(2) You must ensure that aisles are provided of sufficient

width to permit the free movement of employees bringing and

removing material. This aisle space is to be independent of

working and storage space and should be defined by marking.

(3) You must ensure that wood platforms used on the floor

in front of machines are substantially constructed with nonslip

surfaces.

296-24-85505

Veneer machinery.

(1) You must ensure that sides of steam vats extend to a

height of not less than 36 inches above the floor, working

platform, or ground.

(2) You must ensure that large steam vats divided into

sections are provided with substantial walkways between

sections. Each walkway must be provided with a standard handrail


on each exposed side. These handrails may be removable, if

necessary.

(3) You must ensure that covers are removed only from that

portion of steaming vats on which people are working and a

portable railing is placed at this point to protect the

operators.

(4) You must ensure that workers do not ride or step on

logs in steam vats.

296-24-862

Nonmandatory appendices.

Nonmandatory Appendix A to Part J-2, Scaffold

Specifications.

This Appendix provides nonmandatory guidelines to assist

employers in complying with the requirements of Part J-2 of this

chapter. An employer may use these guidelines and tables as a

starting point for designing scaffold systems. However, the

guidelines do not provide all the information necessary to build

a complete system, and the employer is still responsible for

designing and assembling these components in such a way that the

completed system will meet the requirements of WAC 296-24-

86010(1). Scaffold components which are not selected and loaded

in accordance with this Appendix, and components for which no

specific guidelines or tables are given in this Appendix (e.g.,

joints, ties, components for wood pole scaffolds more than 60

feet in height, components for heavy-duty horse scaffolds,

components made with other materials, and components with other

dimensions, etc.) must be designed and constructed in accordance


with the capacity requirements of WAC 296-24-86010(1), and

loaded in accordance with WAC 296-24-86010 (4)(a).

Index to Appendix A for Part J-2

1. General guidelines and tables.

2. Specific guidelines and tables.

(a) Pole scaffolds:

Single-pole wood pole scaffolds.

Independent wood pole scaffolds.

(b) Tube and coupler scaffolds.

(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds.

(d) Plasterers', decorators' and large area scaffolds.

(e) Bricklayers' square scaffolds.

(f) Horse scaffolds.

(g) Form scaffolds and carpenters' bracket scaffolds.

(h) Roof bracket scaffolds.

(i) Outrigger scaffolds (one level).

(j) Pump jack scaffolds.

(k) Ladder jack scaffolds.

(l) Window jack scaffolds.

(m) Crawling boards (chicken ladders).

(n) Step, platform and trestle ladder scaffolds.

(o) Single-point adjustable suspension scaffolds.

(p) Two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds.

(q)(1) Stonesetters' multipoint adjustable suspension

scaffolds.

(q)(2) Masons' multipoint adjustable suspension scaffolds.

(r) Catenary scaffolds.


(s) Float (ship) scaffolds.

(t) Interior hung scaffolds.

(u) Needle beam scaffolds.

(v) Multilevel suspension scaffolds.

(w) Mobile scaffolds.

(x) Repair bracket scaffolds.

(y) Stilts.

(z) Tank builders' scaffolds.

1. General guidelines and tables.

(a) The following tables, and the tables in Part 2—Specific

guidelines and tables, assume that all load-carrying timber

members (except planks) of the scaffold are a minimum of 1,500

lb-f/in(2) (stress grade) construction grade lumber. All

dimensions are nominal sizes as provided in the American

Softwood Lumber Standards, dated January 1970, except that,

where rough sizes are noted, only rough or undressed lumber of

the size specified will satisfy minimum requirements.

(b) Solid sawn wood used as scaffold planks must be

selected for such use following the grading rules established by

a recognized lumber grading association or by an independent

lumber grading inspection agency. Such planks must be identified

by the grade stamp of such association or agency. The

association or agency and the grading rules under which the wood

is graded must be certified by the Board of Review, American

Lumber Standard Committee, as set forth in the American Softwood

Lumber Standard of the U.S. Department of Commerce.


(i) Allowable spans must be determined in compliance with

the National Design Specification for Wood Construction

published by the National Forest Products Association; paragraph

5 of ANSI A10.8-1988 Scaffolding-Safety Requirements published

by the American National Standards Institute; or for 2 x 10 inch

(nominal) or 2 x 9 inch (rough) solid sawn wood planks, as shown

in the following table:

Maximum

permissible Maximum

span using permissible

Maximum full span using

intended thickness nominal

nominal load undressed thickness

(lb/ft2) lumber (ft) lumber (ft)

25

50

10

8

8

6

75 6

(ii) The maximum permissible span for 1 1/4 x 9-inch or

wider wood plank of full thickness with a maximum intended load

of 50 lb/ft.(2) must be 4 feet.

(c) Fabricated planks and platforms may be used in lieu of

solid sawn wood planks. Maximum spans for such units must be as

recommended by the manufacturer based on the maximum intended

load being calculated as follows:


Rated

load

capacity Intended load

Light- *25 pounds per

duty square foot applied

uniformly over the

entire span area.

Medium- *50 pounds per


uniformly over the

entire span area.

Heavy- *75 pounds per


uniformly over the

entire span area.

One- *250 pounds

person placed at the center

of the span (total

250 pounds).

Two- *250 pounds

person placed 18 inches to

the left and right

of the center of the

span (total 500

pounds).


Three-

person

*250 pounds

placed at the center

of the span and 250

pounds placed 18

inches to the left

and right of the

center of the span

(total 750 pounds).

Note: Platform units used to make scaffold platforms

intended for light-duty use must be capable of supporting at

least 25 pounds per square foot applied uniformly over the

entire unit-span area, or a 250-pound point load placed on the

unit at the center of the span, whichever load produces the

greater shear force.

(d) Guardrails must be as follows:

(i) Toprails must be equivalent in strength to 2 inch by 4

inch lumber; or

1 1/4 inch x 1/8 inch structural angle iron; or

1 inch x .070 inch wall steel tubing; or 1.990 inch x .058

inch wall aluminum tubing.

(ii) Midrails must be equivalent in strength to 1 inch by 6

inch lumber; or

1 1/4 inch x 1 1/4 inch x 1/8 inch structural angle iron;

or

1 inch x .070 inch wall steel tubing; or

1.990 inch x .058 inch wall aluminum tubing.


(iii) Toeboards must be equivalent in strength to 1 inch by

4 inch lumber; or

1 1/4 inch x 1 1/4 inch structural angle iron; or



(iv) Posts must be equivalent in strength to 2 inch by 4

inch lumber; or

1 1/4 inch x 1 1/4 inch x 1/8 structural angle iron; or



(v) Distance between posts must not exceed 8 feet.

(e) Overhead protection must consist of 2 inch nominal

planking laid tight, or 3/4-inch plywood.

(f) Screen installed between toeboards and midrails or

toprails must consist of No. 18 gauge U.S. Standard wire one

inch mesh.

2. Specific guidelines and tables.

(a) Pole scaffolds.

Single Pole Wood Pole Scaffolds

Light

duty up to Light

20 feet duty up to

high 60 feet high

Medium

duty up to

60 feet

high

Heavy

duty up to

60 feet

high

Maximum

intended load

(lbs/ft2) 25 25 50 75


Poles or

uprights in.

2 x 4 4 x 4

in. in.

4 x 4 4 x

in.

6

Maximum

pole spacing

(longitudinal) feet

6

10 feet

6

8 feet feet

Maximum

pole spacing

(transverse) feet

5

5 feet

5

5 feet feet

Runners

in.

1 x 4 1 1/4 x

9 in. in.

2 x 10 2 x

10 in.

Bearers

and maximum

spacing of

bearers: 3 feet

in.

2 x

in.

4 2 x 4

in. in.

2 x 10 2 x

10 in.

or or

3 x 4 3 x

in.

5

5 feet

in.

in.

2 x

or

3 x

6 2 x 6

in. in.

or

4 3 x 4

in. in.

(rough)

2 x 10 2 x

10 in.

or or

3 x 4 3 x

in.

5

6 feet — —

in.

in.

2 x 10

or

3 x 4

2 x

10 in.

or

3 x

in.

5


8 feet — —

in.

in.

2 x 10

or

3 x 4

Planking 1 1/4

x 9 in. in.

Maximum

vertical

spacing of

horizontal 7

members feet

Bracing

horizontal

1 x 4

in. in.

Bracing 1 x 4

diagonal in. in.

2

9

1

1

x 10

feet

x 4

x 4

in.

in.

x 4

in.

2 x 10 2

10 in.

6

7 feet 6 in.

1 x 6

or

1 1/4 2

in. in.

1 x 4 2

in.

x

ft.

x 4

x 4

Tie-ins 1 x 4

in. in.

1 x 4

in.

1 x 4 1

in.

x 4

Note: All members except planking are used on edge. All

wood bearers must be reinforced with 3/16 x 2 inch steel strip,

or the equivalent, secured to the lower edges for the entire

length of the bearer.

Independent Wood Pole Scaffolds


Light

duty up to

Light

duty up to

60 feet high

Medium

duty up to

60 feet high

Heavy

duty up to

60 feet high 20 feet

high

Maximum

intended load

25

lbs/ft2

25

lbs/ft2

50

lbs/ft2

75

lbs/ft2

Poles or

uprights

2 x 4

in.

4 x 4

in.

4 x 4

in.

4 x 4

in.

Maximum

pole spacing

(longitudinal)

6

feet 10 feet 8 feet 6 feet

Maximum

(transverse)

6

feet 10 feet 8 feet 8 feet

Runners 1 1/4

x 4 in.

1 1/4 x

9 in.

2 x 10

in.

2 x 10

in.

Bearers

and maximum

spacing of

bearers: 3 feet

2 x 4

in.

2 x 4

in.

2 x 10

in.

(rough)

2 x 10

in.

6 feet 2 x 6

in.

or

3 x 4

in.

2 x 10

in.

(rough)

or

3 x 8

in.

2 x 10

in.

2 x 10

in.

(rough)


8 feet 2 x 6

in.

or

3 x 4

in.

in.

in.

2 x 10

(rough)

or

3 x 8

2 x 10

in.

10 feet 3 x 4

in. in.

in.

Planking 1 1/4

x 9 in. in.

Maximum

vertical

spacing of

horizontal 7

members feet

Bracing

horizontal

1 x 4

in. in.

2 x 6 2 x 10

in.

(rough)

or

3 x 3

2 x 10 2 x 10

in. in.

7 feet 6 feet

1 x 6

in.

or

1 x 4 1 1/4 x

4 in. in.

2

6

2

x 10

feet

x 4

Bracing

diagonal

1 x 4

in. in.

1 x 4 1 x 4

in. in.

2 x 4


Tie-ins

in.

1 x 4

in.

1 x 4

in.

1 x 4

in.

1 x 4

Note: All members except planking are used on edge. All

wood bearers must be reinforced with 3/16 x 2 inch steel strip,

or the equivalent, secured to the lower edges for the entire

length of the bearer.

(b) Tube and coupler scaffolds.

Minimum

Maximum

intended

load

Posts,

runners and

braces

Size of Members

Light Medium

duty duty

25 50

lbs/ft2 lbs/ft2

Nominal Nominal

2 in. (1.90 2 in. (1.90

inches) OD inches) OD

steel tube steel tube

or pipe. or pipe.

Heavy

duty

75

lbs/ft2

Nominal

2 in. (1.90

inches) OD

steel tube

or pipe.

Bearers Nominal

2 in. (1.90

inches) OD

steel tube

or pipe and

a maximum

post spacing

Nominal

2 in. (1.90

inches) OD

steel tube

or pipe and

a maximum

post spacing

Nominal

2 1/2 in.

(2.375 in.)

OD steel

tube pipe or

and a

maximum post

of 4 ft. 7 x


of 4 ft. x

10 ft.

ft. or

Nominal 2

1/2 in.

(2.375 in.)

OD steel

tube pipe

spacing of 6

ft. x 6 ft.

or

and a

maximum post

spacing of 6

ft. x 8 ft.

(*).

Maximum

runner

spacing

vertically

6 ft. 6

in.

6 ft. 6

in.

6

in.

ft. 6

(*) Bearers must be installed in the direction of the

shorter dimension.

Note: Longitudinal diagonal bracing must be installed at an

angle of 45 deg. (+/- 5 deg.).

Maximum Number of Planked Levels

Maximum number of

additional planked levels

Light

duty

Medium

duty

Heavy

duty

Maximum

height of

scaffold (in

feet)


Duty Number of Working Levels:

1 16 11 6 125

2 11 1 0 125

3 6 0 0 125

4 1 0 0 125

(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds. Because of their

prefabricated nature, no additional guidelines or tables for

these scaffolds are being adopted in this Appendix.

(d) Plasterers', decorators', and large area scaffolds. The

guidelines for pole scaffolds or tube and coupler scaffolds

(Appendix A (a) and (b)) may be applied.

(e) Bricklayers' square scaffolds.

Maximum intended load: 50 lb/ft.(2)(*)

Footnote(*): The squares must be set not more than 8 feet

apart for light duty scaffolds and not more than 5 feet apart

for medium duty scaffolds.

Maximum width: 5 ft.

Maximum height: 5 ft.

Gussets: 1 x 6 in.

Braces: 1 x 8 in.

Legs: 2 x 6 in.

Bearers (horizontal members): 2 x 6 in.

(f) Horse scaffolds.

Maximum intended load (light duty): 25 lb/ft.(2)(**)


Footnote(**): Horses must be spaced not more than 8 feet

apart for light duty loads, and not more than 5 feet apart for

medium duty loads.

Maximum intended load (medium duty): 50 lb/ft.(2)(**)

Footnote(**): Horses must be spaced not more than 8 feet

apart for light duty loads, and not more than 5 feet apart for

medium duty loads.

Horizontal members or bearers:

Light duty: 2 x 4 in.

Medium duty: 3 x 4 in.

Legs: 2 x 4 in.

Longitudinal brace between legs: 1 x 6 in.

Gusset brace at top of legs: 1 x 8 in.

Half diagonal braces: 2 x 4 in.

(g) Form scaffolds and carpenters' bracket scaffolds.

(1) Brackets must consist of a triangular-shaped frame made

of wood with a cross-section not less than 2 inches by 3 inches,

or of 1 1/4 inch x 1 1/4 inch x 1/8 inch structural angle iron.

(2) Bolts used to attach brackets to structures must not be

less than 5/8 inches in diameter.

(3) Maximum bracket spacing must be 8 feet on centers.

(4) No more than two employees must occupy any given 8 feet

of a bracket or form scaffold at any one time. Tools and

materials must not exceed 75 pounds in addition to the

occupancy.

(5) Wooden figure-four scaffolds:

Maximum intended load: 25 lb/ft.(2)


Uprights: 2 x 4 in. or 2 x 6 in.

Bearers (two): 1 x 6 in.

Braces: 1 x 6 in.

Maximum length of bearers (unsupported): 3 ft. 6 in.

(i) Outrigger bearers must consist of two pieces of 1 x 6

inch lumber nailed on opposite sides of the vertical support.

(ii) Bearers for wood figure-four brackets must project not

more than 3 feet 6 inches from the outside of the form support,

and must be braced and secured to prevent tipping or turning.

The knee or angle brace must intersect the bearer at least 3

feet from the form at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, and

the lower end must be nailed to a vertical support.

(6) Metal bracket scaffolds:


Uprights: 2 x 4 inch

Bearers: As designed.

Braces: As designed.

(7) Wood bracket scaffolds:


Uprights: 2 x 4 in. or 2 x 6 in.

Bearers: 2 x 6 in.

Maximum scaffold width: 3 ft. 6 in.

Braces: 1 x 6 in.

(h) Roof bracket scaffolds. No specific guidelines or

tables are given.

(i) Outrigger scaffolds (single level). No specific

guidelines or tables are given.


(j) Pump jack scaffolds. Wood poles must not exceed 30 feet

in height. Maximum intended load — 500 lbs between poles;

applied at the center of the span. Not more than two employees

must be on a pump jack scaffold at one time between any two

supports. When 2 x 4's are spliced together to make a 4 x 4 inch

wood pole, they must be spliced with "10 penny" common nails no

more than 12 inches center to center, staggered uniformly from

the opposite outside edges.

(k) Ladder jack scaffolds. Maximum intended load — 25

lb/ft(2). However, not more than two employees must occupy any

platform at any one time. Maximum span between supports must be

8 feet.

(l) Window jack scaffolds. Not more than one employee must

occupy a window jack scaffold at any one time.

(m) Crawling boards (chicken ladders). Crawling boards must

be not less than 10 inches wide and 1 inch thick, with cleats

having a minimum 1 x 1 1/2 inch cross-sectional area. The cleats

must be equal in length to the width of the board and spaced at

equal intervals not to exceed 24 inches.

(n) Step, platform, and trestle ladder scaffolds. No

additional guidelines or tables are given.

(o) Single-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. Maximum

intended load — 250 lbs. Wood seats for boatswains' chairs must

be not less than 1 inch thick if made of nonlaminated wood, or

5/8 inches thick if made of marine quality plywood.

(p) Two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds.


(1) In addition to direct connections to buildings (except

window cleaners' anchors) acceptable ways to prevent scaffold

sway include angulated roping and static lines. Angulated roping

is a system of platform suspension in which the upper wire rope

sheaves or suspension points are closer to the plane of the

building face than the corresponding attachment points on the

platform, thus causing the platform to press against the face of

the building. Static lines are separate ropes secured at their

top and bottom ends closer to the plane of the building face

than the outermost edge of the platform. By drawing the static

line taut, the platform is drawn against the face of the

building.

(2) On suspension scaffolds designed for a working load of

500 pounds, no more than two employees must be permitted on the

scaffold at one time. On suspension scaffolds with a working

load of 750 pounds, no more than three employees must be

permitted on the scaffold at one time.

(3) Ladder-type platforms. The side stringer must be of

clear straight-grained spruce. The rungs must be of straight-

grained oak, ash, or hickory, at least 1 1/8 inches in diameter,

with 7/8 inch tenons mortised into the side stringers at least

7/8 inch. The stringers must be tied together with tie rods not

less than 1/4 inch in diameter, passing through the stringers

and riveted up tight against washers on both ends. The flooring

strips must be spaced not more than 5/8 inch apart, except at

the side rails where the space may be 1 inch. Ladder-type


platforms must be constructed in accordance with the following

table:

Schedule for Ladder-Type Platforms

14 18

Length of 12 & 16 & 20

Platform feet feet feet

Side stringers, minimum cross

section (finished sizes):

At ends 1

3/4 x 2

3/4 in.

1

3/4 x 2

3/4 in.

1

3/4 x 3

in.

At middle 1

3/4 x 3

3/4 in.

1

3/4 x 3

3/4 in.

1

3/4 x 4

Reinforcing

strip (minimum)

A 1/8 x 7/8 inch

steel reinforcing strip

must be attached to the

side or underside, full

length.

Rungs Rungs must be 1 1/8

inch minimum diameter

with at least 7/8 inch

in diameter tenons, and

the maximum spacing must

be 12 inches to center.

Tie rods: 3 4 4


Number

(minimum)

Diameter 1/4 1/4 1/4

(minimum) inch inch inch

Flooring, 1/2 1/2 1/2

minimum finished x 2 3/4 x 2 3/4 x 2 3/4

size in. in. in.

Length of 22 28

Platform & 24 ft. & 30 ft.

Side stringers, minimum cross

section (finished sizes):

At ends 1

3/4 x 3

in.

1

3/4 x 3

1/2 in.

At middle 1

3/4 x 4

1/4 in.

1

3/4 x 5

in.

Reinforcing A 1/8 x 7/8 inch

strip (minimum) steel reinforcing strip

must be attached to the

side or underside, full

length.

Rungs Rungs must be 1 1/8

inch minimum diameter

with at least 7/8 inch

in diameter with at


least 7/8 inch in

diameter tenons, and the

maximum spacing must be

12 inches to center.

Tie rods:

Number

(minimum) 5 6

Diameter 1/4

(minimum) in.

1/4

in.

Flooring, 1/2 1/2

minimum finished x 2 3/4 x 2 3/4

size in. in.

(4) Plank-type platforms. Plank-type platforms must be

composed of not less than nominal 2 x 8 inch unspliced planks,

connected together on the underside with cleats at intervals not

exceeding 4 feet, starting 6 inches from each end. A bar or

other effective means must be securely fastened to the platform

at each end to prevent the platform from slipping off the

hanger. The span between hangers for plank-type platforms must

not exceed 10 feet.

(5) Beam-type platforms. Beam platforms must have side

stringers of lumber not less than 2 x 6 inches set on edge. The

span between hangers must not exceed 12 feet when beam platforms

are used. The flooring must be supported on 2 x 6 inch cross

beams, laid flat and set into the upper edge of the stringers

with a snug fit, at intervals of not more than 4 feet, securely


nailed to the cross beams. Floor-boards must not be spaced more

than 1/2 inch apart.

(q)(1) Multipoint adjustable suspension scaffolds and

stonesetters' multipoint adjustable suspension scaffolds. No

specific guidelines or tables are given for these scaffolds.

(q)(2) Masons' multipoint adjustable suspension

scaffolds. Maximum intended load — 50 lb/ft(2). Each outrigger

beam must be at least a standard 7 inch, 15.3 pound steel I-

beam, at least 15 feet long. Such beams must not project more

than 6 feet 6 inches beyond the bearing point. Where the

overhang exceeds 6 feet 6 inches, outrigger beams must be

composed of stronger beams or multiple beams.

(r) Catenary scaffolds.

(1) Maximum intended load — 500 lbs.

(2) Not more than two employees must be permitted on the

scaffold at one time.

(3) Maximum capacity of come-along must be 2,000 lbs.

(4) Vertical pickups must be spaced not more than 50 feet

apart.

(5) Ropes must be equivalent in strength to at least 1/2

inch (1.3 cm) diameter improved plow steel wire rope.

(s) Float (ship) scaffolds.

(1) Maximum intended load — 750 lbs.

(2) Platforms must be made of 3/4 inch plywood, equivalent

in rating to American Plywood Association Grade B-B, Group I,

Exterior.


(3) Bearers must be made from 2 x 4 inch, or 1 x 10 inch

rough lumber. They must be free of knots and other flaws.

(4) Ropes must be equivalent in strength to at least 1 inch

(2.5 cm) diameter first grade manila rope.

(t) Interior hung scaffolds.

Bearers (use on edge): 2 x 10 in.

Maximum intended load: Maximum span

25 lb/ft.(2): 10 ft.

50 lb/ft.(2): 10 ft.

75 lb/ft.(2): 7 ft.

(u) Needle beam scaffolds.


Beams: 4 x 6 in.

Maximum platform span: 8 ft.

Maximum beam span: 10 ft.

(1) Ropes must be attached to the needle beams by a

scaffold hitch or an eye splice. The loose end of the rope must

be tied by a bowline knot or by a round turn and a half hitch.

(2) Ropes must be equivalent in strength to at least 1 inch

(2.5 cm) diameter first grade manila rope.

(v) Multilevel suspension scaffolds. No additional

guidelines or tables are being given for these scaffolds.

(w) Mobile scaffolds. Stability test as described in the

ANSI A92 series documents, as appropriate for the type of

scaffold, can be used to establish stability for the purpose of

WAC 296-24-86015 (23)(f)(ii).


(x) Repair bracket scaffolds. No additional guidelines or

tables are being given for these scaffolds.

(y) Stilts. No specific guidelines or tables are given.

(z) Tank builder's scaffold.

(1) The maximum distance between brackets to which

scaffolding and guardrail supports are attached must be no more

than 10 feet 6 inches.

(2) Not more than three employees must occupy a 10 feet 6

inch span of scaffold planking at any time.

(3) A taut wire or synthetic rope supported on the scaffold

brackets must be installed at the scaffold plank level between

the innermost edge of the scaffold platform and the curved plate

structure of the tank shell to serve as a safety line in lieu of

an inner guardrail assembly where the space between the scaffold

platform and the tank exceeds 12 inches (30.48 cm). In the event

the open space on either side of the rope exceeds 12 inches

(30.48 cm), a second wire or synthetic rope appropriately

placed, or guardrails in accordance with WAC 296-24-

86010 (7)(d), must be installed in order to reduce that open

space to less than 12 inches (30.48 cm).

(4) Scaffold planks of rough full-dimensioned 2-inch (5.1

cm) x 12-inch (30.5 cm) Douglas Fir or Southern Yellow Pine of

Select Structural Grade must be used. Douglas Fir planks must

have a fiber stress of at least 1900 lb/in(2) (130,929 n/cm(2))

and a modulus of elasticity of at least 1,900,000 lb/in(2)

(130,929,000 n/cm(2)), while Yellow Pine planks must have a

fiber stress of at least 2500 lb/in(2) (172,275 n/cm(2)) and a


modulus of elasticity of at least 2,000,000 lb/in(2)

(137,820,000 n/cm(2)).

(5) Guardrails must be constructed of a taut wire or

synthetic rope, and must be supported by angle irons attached to

brackets welded to the steel plates. These guardrails must

comply with WAC 296-24-86010 (7)(d) guardrail supports must be

located at no greater than 10 feet 6 inch intervals.

Nonmandatory Appendix C to Part J-2, List of National

Consensus Standards.

ANSI/SIA A92.2-1990 Vehicle-Mounted Elevating and Rotating

Aerial Devices

ANSI/SIA A92.3-1990 Manually Propelled Elevating Aerial

Platforms

ANSI/SIA A92.5-1990 Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms

ANSI/SIA A92.6-1990 Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms

ANSI/SIA A92.7-1990 Airline Ground Support Vehicle-Mounted

Vertical Lift Devices

ANSI/SIA A92.8-1993 Vehicle-Mounted Bridge Inspection and

Maintenance Devices

ANSI/SIA A92.9-1993 Mast-Climbing Work Platforms

Nonmandatory Appendix D to Part J-2, List of Training

Topics for Scaffold Erectors and Dismantlers.

This Appendix D is provided to serve as a guide to assist

employers when evaluating the training needs of employees

erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds.

The Agency believes that employees erecting or dismantling

scaffolds should be trained in the following topics:


*General Overview of Scaffolding

*regulations and standards

*erection/dismantling planning

*PPE and proper procedures

*fall protection

*materials handling

*access

*working platforms

*foundations

*guys, ties and braces

*Tubular Welded Frame Scaffolds

*specific regulations and standards

*components

*parts inspection



*fall protection

*general safety

*access and platforms

*erection/dismantling procedures

*rolling scaffold assembly

*putlogs

*Tube and Clamp Scaffolds


*components

*parts inspection




*fall protection

*general safety



*buttresses, cantilevers, & bridges

*System Scaffolds


*components

*parts inspection



*fall protection

*general safety



*buttresses, cantilevers, & bridges

Scaffold erectors and dismantlers should all receive the

general overview, and, in addition, specific training for the

type of supported scaffold being erected or dismantled.

Nonmandatory Appendix E to Part J-2, Drawings and

Illustrations.

This Appendix provides drawings of particular types of

scaffolds and scaffold components, and graphic illustrations of

bracing patterns and tie spacing patterns.


This Appendix is intended to provide visual guidance to

assist the user in complying with the requirements of Part J-2,

chapter 296-24 WAC.

BRACING-TUBE & COUPLER SCAFFOLDS

SUSPENDED SCAFFOLD PLATFORM WELDING PRECAUTIONS

MAXIMUM VERTICAL

MAXIMUM VERTICAL

SYSTEM SCAFFOLD

TIE

TIE

SPACING

SPACING

WIDER

3'-0"

THAN 3'-0" BASES

AND NARROWER BASES

TUBE AND COUPLER SCAFFOLD

SCAFFOLDING WORK SURFACES

OUTRIGGER SCAFFOLD

296-24-88050

Appendix C—Personal fall arrest system (Part I—Mandatory;

Parts II and III—Nonmandatory).

(1) Use of the Appendix.


Part I of Appendix C sets out the mandatory criteria for

personal fall arrest systems used by all employees using powered

platforms. Part II sets out nonmandatory test procedures which

may be used to determine compliance with applicable requirements

contained in Part I of this Appendix. Part III provides

nonmandatory guidelines which are intended to assist employers

in complying with these provisions.

PART I

Personal fall arrest systems (mandatory)—(1) Scope and

application. This section establishes the application of and

performance criteria for personal fall arrest systems which are

required for use by all employees using powered platforms under

chapter 296-870 WAC, Powered platforms.

(2) Definitions.

Anchorage. A secure point of attachment for lifelines,

lanyards, or deceleration devices which is capable of

withstanding the forces specified in the applicable sections of

chapter 296-24 WAC, and independent of the means of supporting

or suspending the employee.

Buckle. Any device for holding the body harness closed

around the employee's body.

Competent person. An individual knowledgeable of fall

protection equipment, including the manufacturers

recommendations and instructions for the proper use, inspection,

and maintenance; and who is capable of identifying existing and

potential fall hazards; and who has the authority to take prompt

corrective action to eliminate those hazards; and who is


knowledgeable of the rules contained in this section regarding

the erection, use, inspection, and maintenance of fall

protection equipment and systems.

Connector. A device which is used to couple (connect) parts

of the personal fall arrest system and positioning device

systems together. It may be an independent component of the

system, such as a carabiner, or it may be an integral component

of part of the system (such as a buckle or dee-ring sewn into a

body belt or body harness, or a snap-hook spliced or sewn to a

lanyard or self-retracting lanyard).

Deceleration device. Any mechanism, such as a rope grab,

ripstitch lanyard, specially woven lanyard, tearing or deforming

lanyards, automatic self retracting-lifeline/lanyard, etc.,

which serves to dissipate a substantial amount of energy during

a fall arrest, or otherwise limit the energy imposed on an

employee during fall arrest.

Deceleration distance. The additional vertical distance a

falling employee travels, excluding lifeline elongation and free

fall distance, before stopping, from the point at which the

deceleration device begins to operate. It is measured as the

distance between the location of an employee's full body harness

attachment point at the moment of activation (at the onset of

fall arrest forces) of the deceleration device during a fall,

and the location of that attachment point after the employee

comes to a full stop.

Equivalent. Alternative designs, materials or methods to

protect against a hazard which the employer can demonstrate will


provide an equal or greater degree of safety for employees than

the methods, materials or designs specified in the standard.

Free fall. The act of falling before a personal fall arrest

system begins to apply force to arrest the fall.

Free fall distance. The vertical displacement of the fall

arrest attachment point on the employee's body harness between

onset of the fall and just before the system begins to apply

force to arrest the fall. This distance excludes deceleration

distance, and lifeline lanyard elongation, but includes any

deceleration device slide distance or self-retracting

lifeline/lanyard extension before they operate and fall arrest

forces occur.

Full body harness. A configuration of connected straps to

distribute a fall arresting force over at least the thighs,

shoulders and pelvis, with provisions for attaching a lanyard,

lifeline, or deceleration device.

Lanyard. A flexible line of webbing, rope, or cable used to

secure a body belt or harness to a lifeline or an anchorage

point usually 2, 4, or 6 feet long.

Lifeline. A vertical line from a fixed anchorage or between

two horizontal anchorages, independent of walking or working

surfaces, to which a lanyard or device is secured. Lifeline as

referred to in this text is one which is part of a fall

protection system used as back-up safety for an elevated worker.

Personal fall arrest system. A system used to arrest an

employee in a fall from a working level. It consists of an

anchorage, connectors, body harness and may include a lanyard,


deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combinations of

these.

Qualified. One who, by possession of a recognized degree,

certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive

knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully

demonstrated his/her ability to solve or resolve problems

related to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

Rope grab. A fall arrester that is designed to move up or

down a lifeline suspended from a fixed overhead or horizontal

anchorage point, or lifeline, to which the belt or harness is

attached. In the event of a fall, the rope grab locks onto the

lifeline rope through compression to arrest the fall. The use of

a rope grab device is restricted for all restraint applications.

Self-retracting lifeline/lanyard. A deceleration device

which contains a drum-wound line which may be slowly extracted

from, or retracted onto, the drum under slight tension during

normal employee movement, and which after onset of a fall,

automatically locks the drum and arrests the fall.

Snap-hook. A self-closing connecting device with a

gatekeeper latch or similar arrangement that will remain closed

until manually opened. This includes single action snap hooks

that open when the gatekeeper is depressed and double action

snap hooks that require a second action on a gatekeeper before

the gate can be opened.

Tie-off. The act of an employee, wearing personal fall

protection equipment, connecting directly or indirectly to an


anchorage. It also means the condition of an employee being

connected to an anchorage.

(3) Design for system components.

(a) Connectors must be drop forged, pressed or formed

steel, or made of equivalent materials.

(b) Connectors must have a corrosion-resistant finish, and

all surfaces and edges must be smooth to prevent damage to

interfacing parts of the system.

(c) Lanyards and vertical lifelines which tie-off one

employee must have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds

(22.2 kN).

(d) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards which

automatically limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or

less must have components capable of sustaining a minimum static

tensile load of 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN) applied to the device

with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended position.

(e) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards which do not

limit free fall distance to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less, ripstitch

lanyards, and tearing and deforming lanyards must be capable of

sustaining a minimum tensile load of 5,400 pounds (23.9 kN)

applied to the device with the lifeline or lanyard in the fully

extended position.

(f) Dee-rings and snap-hooks must be capable of sustaining

a minimum tensile load of 5000 pounds (22.2 N).

(g) Dee-rings and snap-hooks must be 100% proof-tested to a

minimum tensile load of 3600 pounds (16 kN) without cracking,

breaking, or taking permanent deformation.


(h) Snap-hooks must be sized to be compatible with the

member to which they are connected so as to prevent

unintentional disengagement of the snap-hook by depression of

the snap-hook keeper by the connected member, or must be a

locking type snap-hook designed and used to prevent

disengagement of the snap-hook by the contact of the snap-hook

keeper by the connected member.

(i) Horizontal lifelines, where used, must be designed, and

installed as part of a complete personal fall arrest system,

which maintains a safety factor of at least 2, under the

supervision of a qualified person.

(j) Anchorages to which personal fall arrest equipment is

attached must be capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds

(22.2 kN) per employee attached, or must be designed, installed,

and used as part of a complete personal fall arrest system which

maintains a safety factor of at least two, under the supervision

of a qualified person.

(k) Ropes and straps (webbing) used in lanyards, lifelines,

and strength components of body harnesses, must be made from

synthetic fibers or wire rope.

(4) System performance criteria.

(a) Personal fall arrest systems must, when stopping a

fall:

(i) Limit maximum arresting force on an employee to 1,800

pounds (8 kN) when used with a body harness;


(ii) Bring an employee to a complete stop and limit maximum

deceleration distance an employee travels to 3.5 feet (1.07 m);

and

(iii) Must have sufficient strength to withstand twice the

potential impact energy of an employee free falling a distance

of 6 feet (1.8 m), or the free fall distance permitted by the

system, whichever is less.

(b)(i) When used by employees having a combined person and

tool weight of less than 310 pounds (140 kg), personal fall

arrest systems which meet the criteria and protocols contained

in subsections (2), (3), and (4) in Part II of this Appendix

must be considered as complying with the provisions of (a) of

this subsection.

(ii) When used by employees having a combined tool and body

weight of 310 pounds (140 kg) or more, personal fall arrest

systems which meet the criteria and protocols contained in

subsections (2), (3), and (4) of Part II may be considered as

complying with the provisions of (a) of this subsection provided

that the criteria and protocols are modified appropriately to

provide proper protection for such heavier weights.

(5) Care and use.

(a) Snap-hooks, unless of a locking type designed and used

to prevent disengagement from the following connections, must

not be engaged:

(i) Directly to webbing, rope or wire rope;

(ii) To each other;


(iii) To a dee-ring to which another snap-hook or other

connector is attached;

(iv) To a horizontal lifeline; or

(v) To any object which is incompatibly shaped or

dimensioned in relation to the snap-hook such that the connected

object could depress the snap-hook keeper a sufficient amount to

release itself.

(b) Devices used to connect to a horizontal lifeline which

may become a vertical lifeline must be capable of locking in

either direction on the lifeline.

(c) Personal fall arrest systems must be rigged such that

an employee can neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8 m), nor

contact any lower level.

(d) The attachment point of the body harness must be

located in the center of the wearer's back near shoulder level,

or above the wearer's head.

(e) When vertical lifelines are used, each employee must be

provided with a separate lifeline.

(f) Personal fall arrest systems or components must be used

only for employee fall protection.

(g) Personal fall arrest systems or components subjected to

impact loading must be immediately removed from service and must

not be used again for employee protection unless inspected and

determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable

for reuse.


(h) The employer must provide for prompt rescue of

employees in the event of a fall or must assure the self-rescue

capability of employees.

(i) Before using a personal fall arrest system, and after

any component or system is changed, employees must be trained in

accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-24-88030(1), in the

safe use of the system.

(6) Inspections. Personal fall arrest systems must be

inspected prior to each use for mildew, wear, damage and other

deterioration, and defective components must be removed from

service if their strength or function may be adversely affected.

PART II

Test methods for personal fall arrest systems

(nonmandatory)

(1) General. Subsections (2), (3), (4) and (5) of this Part

II set forth test procedures which may be used to determine

compliance with the requirements in subsection (4) of Part I of

this Appendix.

(2) General conditions for all tests in Part II.

(a) Lifelines, lanyards and deceleration devices should be

attached to an anchorage and connected to the body harness in

the same manner as they would be when used to protect employees.

(b) The anchorage should be rigid, and should not have a

deflection greater than .04 inches (1 mm) when a force of 2,250

pounds (10 kN) is applied.

(c) The frequency response of the load measuring

instrumentation should be 120 Hz.


(d) The test weight used in the strength and force tests

should be a rigid, metal, cylindrical or torso-shaped object

with a girth of 38 inches plus or minus 4 inches (96 cm plus or

minus 10 cm).

(e) The lanyard or lifeline used to create the free fall

distance should be supplied with the system, or in its absence,

the least elastic lanyard or lifeline available to be used with

the system.

(f) The test weight for each test should be hoisted to the

required level and should be quickly released without having any

appreciable motion imparted to it.

(g) The system's performance should be evaluated taking

into account the range of environmental conditions for which it

is designed to be used.

(h) Following the test, the system need not be capable of

further operation.

(3) Strength test.

(a) During the testing of all systems, a test weight of 300

pounds plus or minus 5 pounds (135 kg plus or minus 2.5 kg)

should be used. (See subsection (2)(d) of this part.)

(b) The test consists of dropping the test weight once. A

new unused system should be used for each test.

(c) For lanyard systems, the lanyard length should be 6

feet plus or minus 2 inches (1.83 m plus or minus 5 cm) as

measured from the fixed anchorage to the attachment on the body

belt or body harness.


(d) For rope-grab-type deceleration systems, the length of

the lifeline above the centerline of the grabbing mechanism to

the lifeline's anchorage point should not exceed 2 feet (0.61

m).

(e) For lanyard systems, for systems with deceleration

devices which do not automatically limit free fall distance to 2

feet (0.61 m) or less, and for systems with deceleration devices

which have a connection distance in excess of one foot (0.3 m)

(measured between the centerline of the lifeline and the

attachment point to the body harness), the test weight should be

rigged to free fall a distance of 7.5 feet (2.3 m) from a point

that is 1.5 feet (46 cm) above the anchorage point, to its

hanging location (6 feet below the anchorage). The test weight

should fall without interference, obstruction, or hitting the

floor or ground during the test. In some cases a nonelastic wire

lanyard of sufficient length may need to be added to the system

(for test purposes) to create the necessary free fall distance.

(f) For deceleration device systems with integral lifelines

or lanyards which automatically limit free fall distance to 2

feet (0.61 m) or less, the test weight should be rigged to free

fall a distance of 4 feet (1.22 m).

(g) Any weight which detaches from the harness should

constitute failure for the strength test.

(4) Force test.

(a) General. The test consists of dropping the respective

test weight specified in (b)(i) or (c)(i) of this subsection

once. A new, unused system should be used for each test.


(b) For lanyard systems.

(i) A test weight of 220 pounds plus or minus three pounds

(100 kg plus or minus 1.6 kg) should be used. (See subsection

(2)(d) above.)

(ii) Lanyard length should be 6 feet plus or minus 2 inches

(1.83 m plus or minus 5 cm) as measured from the fixed anchorage

to the attachment on the body harness.

(iii) The test weight should fall free from the anchorage

level to its hanging location (a total of 6 feet (1.83 m) free

fall distance) without interference, obstruction, or hitting the

floor or ground during the test.

(c) For all other systems.

(i) A test weight of 220 pounds plus or minus 3 pounds (100

kg plus or minus 1.6 kg) should be used. (See subsection (2)(d)

above.)

(ii) The free fall distance to be used in the test should

be the maximum fall distance physically permitted by the system

during normal use conditions, up to a maximum free fall distance

for the test weight of 6 feet (1.83 m), except as follows:

(A) For deceleration systems which have a connection link

or lanyard, the test weight should free fall a distance equal to

the connection distance (measured between the centerline of the

lifeline and the attachment point to the body harness).

(B) For deceleration device systems with integral lifelines

or lanyards which automatically limit free fall distance to 2

feet (0.61 m) or less, the test weight should free fall a

distance equal to that permitted by the system in normal use.


(For example, to test a system with a self-retracting lifeline

or lanyard, the test weight should be supported and the system

allowed to retract the lifeline or lanyard as it would in normal

use. The test weight would then be released and the force and

deceleration distance measured).

(d) A system fails the force test if the recorded maximum

arresting force exceeds 2,520 pounds (11.2 kN) when using a body

harness.

(e) The maximum elongation and deceleration distance should

be recorded during the force test.

(5) Deceleration device tests.

(a) General. The device should be evaluated or tested under

the environmental conditions, (such as rain, ice, grease, dirt,

type of lifeline, etc.), for which the device is designed.

(b) Rope-grab-type deceleration devices.

(i) Devices should be moved on a lifeline 1,000 times over

the same length of line a distance of not less than one foot

(30.5 cm), and the mechanism should lock each time.

(ii) Unless the device is permanently marked to indicate

the type(s) of lifeline which must be used, several types

(different diameters and different materials), of lifelines

should be used to test the device.

(c) Other self-activating-type deceleration devices. The

locking mechanisms of other self-activating-type deceleration

devices designed for more than one arrest should lock each of

1,000 times as they would in normal service.

PART III


Additional nonmandatory guidelines for personal fall arrest

systems. The following information constitutes additional

guidelines for use in complying with requirements for a personal

fall arrest system.

(1) Selection and use considerations. The kind of personal

fall arrest system selected should match the particular work

situation, and any possible free fall distance should be kept to

a minimum. Consideration should be given to the particular work

environment. For example, the presence of acids, dirt, moisture,

oil, grease, etc., and their effect on the system, should be

evaluated. Hot or cold environments may also have an adverse

affect on the system. Wire rope should not be used where an

electrical hazard is anticipated. As required by the standard,

the employer must plan to have means available to promptly

rescue an employee should a fall occur, since the suspended

employee may not be able to reach a work level independently.

Where lanyards, connectors, and lifelines are subject to

damage by work operations such as welding, chemical cleaning,

and sandblasting, the component should be protected, or other

securing systems should be used. The employer should fully

evaluate the work conditions and environment (including seasonal

weather changes) before selecting the appropriate personal fall

protection system. Once in use, the system's effectiveness

should be monitored. In some cases, a program for cleaning and

maintenance of the system may be necessary.

(2) Testing considerations. Before purchasing or putting

into use a personal fall arrest system, an employer should


obtain from the supplier information about the system based on

its performance during testing so that the employer can know if

the system meets this standard. Testing should be done using

recognized test methods. Part II of this Appendix C contains

test methods recognized for evaluating the performance of fall

arrest systems. Not all systems may need to be individually

tested; the performance of some systems may be based on data and

calculations derived from testing of similar systems, provided

that enough information is available to demonstrate similarity

of function and design.

(3) Component compatibility considerations. Ideally, a

personal fall arrest system is designed, tested, and supplied as

a complete system. However, it is common practice for lanyards,

connectors, lifelines, deceleration devices, and body harnesses

to be interchanged since some components wear out before others.

The employer and employee should realize that not all components

are interchangeable. For instance, a lanyard should not be

connected between a body harness and a deceleration device of

the self-retracting type since this can result in additional

free fall for which the system was not designed. Any

substitution or change to a personal fall arrest system should

be fully evaluated or tested by a competent person to determine

that it meets the standard, before the modified system is put in

use.

(4) Employee training considerations. Thorough employee

training in the selection and use of personal fall arrest

systems is imperative. As stated in the standard, before the


equipment is used, employees must be trained in the safe use of

the system. This should include the following: Application

limits; proper anchoring and tie-off techniques; estimation of

free fall distance, including determination of deceleration

distance, and total fall distance to prevent striking a lower

level; methods of use; and inspection and storage of the system.

Careless or improper use of the equipment can result in serious

injury or death. Employers and employees should become familiar

with the material in this Appendix, as well as manufacturer's

recommendations, before a system is used. Of uppermost

importance is the reduction in strength caused by certain tie-

offs (such as using knots, tying around sharp edges, etc.) and

maximum permitted free fall distance. Also, to be stressed are

the importance of inspections prior to use, the limitations of

the equipment, and unique conditions at the worksite which may

be important in determining the type of system to use.

(5) Instruction considerations. Employers should obtain

comprehensive instructions from the supplier as to the system's

proper use and application, including, where applicable:

(a) The force measured during the sample force test;

(b) The maximum elongation measured for lanyards during the

force test;

(c) The deceleration distance measured for deceleration

devices during the force test;

(d) Caution statements on critical use limitations;

(e) Application limits;


(f) Proper hook-up, anchoring and tie-off techniques,

including the proper dee-ring or other attachment point to use

on the body harness for fall arrest;

(g) Proper climbing techniques;

(h) Methods of inspection, use, cleaning, and storage; and

(i) Specific lifelines which may be used. This information

should be provided to employees during training.

(6) Inspection considerations. As stated in WAC 296-24-

88050(6), personal fall arrest systems must be regularly

inspected. Any component with any significant defect, such as

cuts, tears, abrasions, mold, or undue stretching; alterations

or additions which might affect its efficiency; damage due to

deterioration; contact with fire, acids, or other corrosives;

distorted hooks or faulty hook springs; tongues unfitted to the

shoulder of buckles; loose or damaged mountings; nonfunctioning

parts; or wearing or internal deterioration in the ropes must be

withdrawn from service immediately, and should be tagged or

marked as unusable, or destroyed.

(7) Rescue considerations. As required by WAC 296-24-88050

(5)(h) when personal fall arrest systems are used, the employer

must assure that employees can be promptly rescued or can rescue

themselves should a fall occur. The availability of rescue

personnel, ladders or other rescue equipment should be

evaluated. In some situations, equipment which allows employees

to rescue themselves after the fall has been arrested may be

desirable, such as devices which have descent capability.

(8) Tie-off considerations.


(a) One of the most important aspects of personal fall

protection systems is fully planning the system before it is put

into use. Probably the most overlooked component is planning for

suitable anchorage points. Such planning should ideally be done

before the structure or building is constructed so that

anchorage points can be incorporated during construction for use

later for window cleaning or other building maintenance. If

properly planned, these anchorage points may be used during

construction, as well as afterwards.

(b) Employers and employees should at all times be aware

that the strength of a personal fall arrest system is based on

its being attached to an anchoring system which does not

significantly reduce the strength of the system (such as a

properly dimensioned eye-bolt/snap-hook anchorage). Therefore,

if a means of attachment is used that will reduce the strength

of the system, that component should be replaced by a stronger

one, but one that will also maintain the appropriate maximum

arrest force characteristics.

(c) Tie-off using a knot in a rope lanyard or lifeline (at

any location) can reduce the lifeline or lanyard strength by 50%

or more. Therefore, a stronger lanyard or lifeline should be

used to compensate for the weakening effect of the knot, or the

lanyard length should be reduced (or the tie-off location

raised) to minimize free fall distance, or the lanyard or

lifeline should be replaced by one which has an appropriately

incorporated connector to eliminate the need for a knot.


(d) Tie-off of a rope lanyard or lifeline around an "H" or

"I" beam or similar support can reduce its strength as much as

70% due to the cutting action of the beam edges. Therefore, use

should be made of a webbing lanyard or wire core lifeline around

the beam; or the lanyard or lifeline should be protected from

the edge; or free fall distance should be greatly minimized.

(e) Tie-off where the line passes over or around rough or

sharp surfaces reduces strength drastically. Such a tie-off

should be avoided or an alternative tie-off rigging should be

used. Such alternatives may include use of a snap-hook/dee-ring

connection, wire rope tie-off, an effective padding of the

surfaces, or an abrasion-resistance strap around or over the

problem surface.

(f) Horizontal lifelines may, depending on their geometry

and angle of sag, be subjected to greater loads than the impact

load imposed by an attached component. When the angle of

horizontal lifeline sag is less than 30 degrees, the impact

force imparted to the lifeline by an attached lanyard is greatly

amplified. For example, with a sag angle of 15 degrees, the

force amplification is about 2:1 and at 5 degrees sag, it is

about 6:1. Depending on the angle of sag, and the line's

elasticity, the strength of the horizontal lifeline and the

anchorages to which it is attached should be increased a number

of times over that of the lanyard. Extreme care should be taken

in considering a horizontal lifeline for multiple tie-offs. The

reason for this is that in multiple tie-offs to a horizontal

lifeline, if one employee falls, the movement of the falling


employee and the horizontal lifeline during arrest of the fall

may cause other employees to also fall. Horizontal lifeline and

anchorage strength should be increased for each additional

employee to be tied-off. For these and other reasons, the design

of systems using horizontal lifelines must only be done by

qualified persons. Testing of installed lifelines and anchors

prior to use is recommended.

(g) The strength of an eye-bolt is rated along the axis of

the bolt and its strength is greatly reduced if the force is

applied at an angle to this axis (in the direction of shear).

Also, care should be exercised in selecting the proper diameter

of the eye to avoid accidental disengagement of snap-hooks not

designed to be compatible for the connection.

(h) Due to the significant reduction in the strength of the

lifeline/lanyard (in some cases, as much as a 70% reduction),

the sliding hitch knot should not be used for lifeline/lanyard

connections except in emergency situations where no other

available system is practical. The "one-and-one" sliding hitch

knot should never be used because it is unreliable in stopping a

fall. The "two-and-two," or "three-and-three" knot (preferable),

may be used in emergency situations; however, care should be

taken to limit free fall distance to a minimum because of

reduced lifeline/lanyard strength.

(9) Vertical lifeline considerations. As required by the

standard, each employee must have a separate lifeline when the

lifeline is vertical. The reason for this is that in multiple

tie-offs to a single lifeline, if one employee falls, the


movement of the lifeline during the arrest of the fall may pull

other employees' lanyards, causing them to fall as well.

(10) Snap-hook considerations.

(a) Required by this standard for all connections, locking

snap-hooks incorporate a positive locking mechanism in addition

to the spring loaded keeper, which will not allow the keeper to

open under moderate pressure without someone first releasing the

mechanism. Such a feature, properly designed, effectively

prevents roll-out from occurring.

(b) As required by the standard WAC 296-24-88050 (5)(a) the

following connections must be avoided (unless properly designed

locking snap-hooks are used) because they are conditions which

can result in roll-out when a nonlocking snap-hook is used:

• Direct connection of a snap-hook to a horizontal

lifeline.

• Two (or more) snap-hooks connected to one dee-ring.

• Two snap-hooks connected to each other.

• A snap-hook connected back on its integral lanyard.

• A snap-hook connected to a webbing loop or webbing

lanyard.

• Improper dimensions of the dee-ring, rebar, or other

connection point in relation to the snap-hook dimensions which

would allow the snap-hook keeper to be depressed by a turning

motion of the snap-hook.

(11) Free fall considerations. The employer and employee

should at all times be aware that a system's maximum arresting

force is evaluated under normal use conditions established by


the manufacturer, and in no case using a free fall distance in

excess of 6 feet (1.8 m). A few extra feet of free fall can

significantly increase the arresting force on the employee,

possibly to the point of causing injury. Because of this, the

free fall distance should be kept at a minimum, and, as required

by the standard, in no case greater than 6 feet (1.8 m). To help

assure this, the tie-off attachment point to the lifeline or

anchor should be located at or above the connection point of the

fall arrest equipment to harness. (Since otherwise additional

free fall distance is added to the length of the connecting

means (i.e. lanyard).) Attaching to the working surface will

often result in a free fall greater than 6 feet (1.8 m). For

instance, if a 6 foot (1.8 m) lanyard is used, the total free

fall distance will be the distance from the working level to the

body harness attachment point plus the 6 feet (1.8 m) of lanyard

length. Another important consideration is that the arresting

force which the fall system must withstand also goes up with

greater distances of free fall, possibly exceeding the strength

of the system.

(12) Elongation and deceleration distance

considerations. Other factors involved in a proper tie-off are

elongation and deceleration distance. During the arresting of a

fall, a lanyard will experience a length of stretching or

elongation, whereas activation of a deceleration device will

result in a certain stopping distance. These distances should be

available with the lanyard or device's instructions and must be

added to the free fall distance to arrive at the total fall


distance before an employee is fully stopped. The additional

stopping distance may be very significant if the lanyard or

deceleration device is attached near or at the end of a long

lifeline, which may itself add considerable distance due to its

own elongation. As required by the standard, sufficient distance

to allow for all of these factors must also be maintained

between the employee and obstructions below, to prevent an

injury due to impact before the system fully arrests the fall.

In addition, a minimum of 12 feet (3.7 m) of lifeline should be

allowed below the securing point of a rope grab type

deceleration device, and the end terminated to prevent the

device from sliding off the lifeline. Alternatively, the

lifeline should extend to the ground or the next working level

below. These measures are suggested to prevent the worker from

inadvertently moving past the end of the lifeline and having the

rope grab become disengaged from the lifeline.

(13) Obstruction considerations. The location of the tie-

off should also consider the hazard of obstructions in the

potential fall path of the employee. Tie-offs which minimize the

possibilities of exaggerated swinging should be considered.

(14) Other considerations. Because of the design of some

personal fall arrest systems, additional considerations may be

required for proper tie-off. For example, heavy deceleration

devices of the self-retracting type should be secured overhead

in order to avoid the weight of the device having to be

supported by the employee. Also, if self-retracting equipment is

connected to a horizontal lifeline, the sag in the lifeline


should be minimized to prevent the device from sliding down the

lifeline to a position which creates a swing hazard during fall

arrest. In all cases, manufacturer's instructions should be

followed.


WAC 296-24 Walking-Working Surfaces Draft Updates

Documents

Transcript of WAC 296-24 Walking-Working Surfaces Draft Updates