29 CFR part 1926, subpart R

29cfr1926 Subpart R(2010).pdf

Steel Erection (29 CFR part 1926, subpart R)

29 CFR part 1926, subpart R

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
(5) The limited access zone shall remain in place until the wall is adequately supported to prevent overturning and to prevent collapse unless
the height of wall is over eight feet, in
which case, the limited access zone
shall remain in place until the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section
have been met.
(b) All masonry walls over eight feet
in height shall be adequately braced to
prevent overturning and to prevent collapse unless the wall is adequately supported so that it will not overturn or
collapse. The bracing shall remain in
place until permanent supporting elements of the structure are in place.
APPENDIX A TO SUBPART Q OF PART
1926—REFERENCES TO SUBPART Q OF
PART 1926

§ 1926.750

Insulating
Concrete
for
Compressive
Strength (ASTM C513–86).
• Test Method for Comprehensive Strength
of Lightweight Insulating Concrete (ASTM
C495–86).
• Method of Making, Accelerating Curing,
and Testing of Concrete Compression Test
Specimens (ASTM C684–81).
• Test Method for Compressive Strength of
Concrete Using Portions of Beams Broken in
Flexure (ASTM C116–68 (1980)).

Subpart R—Steel Erection
AUTHORITY: Sec. 107, Contract Work Hours
and Safety Standards Act (Construction
Safety Act) (40 U.S.C. 333); Secs. 4, 6, and 8,
Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970
(29 U.S.C. 653, 655, 657); Secretary of Labor’s
Order Nos. 3–2000 (65 FR 50017), 5–2002 (67 FR
65008), and 5–2007 (72 FR 31160); and 29 CFR
part 1911.
SOURCE: 66 FR 5265, Jan. 18, 2001, unless
otherwise noted.

(This Appendix is non-mandatory.)
The following non-mandatory references
provide information which can be helpful in
understanding and complying with the requirements contained in subpart Q.
• Accident Prevention Manual for Industrial Operations; Eighth Edition; National
Safety Council.
• Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete (ACI 318–83).
• Formwork for Concrete (ACI SP–4).
• Recommended Practice for Concrete
Formwork (ACI 347–78).
• Safety Requirements for Concrete and
Masonry Work (ANSI A10.9–1983).
• Standard Test Method for Compressive
Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
(ASTM C39–86).
• Standard Test Method for Making and
Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field
(ASTM C31–85).
• Standard Test Method for Penetration
Resistance of Hardened Concrete (ASTM
C803–82).
• Standard Test Method for Compressive
Strength of Concrete Cylinders Cast In-Place
in Cylindrical Molds (ASTM C873–85).
• Standard Method for Developing Early
Age Compressive Test Values and Projecting
Later Age Strengths (ASTM C918–80).
• Recommended Practice for Inspection
and Testing Agencies for Concrete, Steel and
Bituminous Materials as Used in Construction (ASTM E329–77).
• Method of Making and Curing Concrete
Test Specimens in the Laboratory (ASTM
C192–88).
• Methods of Obtaining and Testing Drilled
Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete (ASTM
C42–87).
• Methods of Securing, Preparing and Testing Specimens from Hardened Lightweight

§ 1926.750

Scope.

(a) This subpart sets forth requirements to protect employees from the
hazards associated with steel erection
activities involved in the construction,
alteration, and/or repair of single and
multi-story buildings, bridges, and
other structures where steel erection
occurs. The requirements of this subpart apply to employers engaged in
steel erection unless otherwise specified. This subpart does not cover electrical transmission towers, communication and broadcast towers, or
tanks.
NOTE TO PARAGRAPH (a): Examples of structures where steel erection may occur include
but are not limited to the following: Single
and multi-story buildings; systems-engineered metal buildings; lift slab/tilt-up
structures; energy exploration structures;
energy production, transfer and storage
structures and facilities; auditoriums; malls;
amphitheaters; stadiums; power plants;
mills; chemical process structures; bridges;
trestles; overpasses; underpasses; viaducts;
aqueducts; aerospace facilities and structures; radar and communication structures;
light towers; signage; billboards; scoreboards; conveyor systems; conveyor supports
and related framing; stairways; stair towers;
fire escapes; draft curtains; fire containment
structures; monorails; aerialways; catwalks;
curtain walls; window walls; store fronts; elevator fronts; entrances; skylights; metal
roofs; industrial structures; hi-bay structures; rail, marine and other transportation

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§ 1926.751

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

structures; sound barriers; water process and
water containment structures; air and cable
supported structures; space frames; geodesic
domes; canopies; racks and rack support
structures and frames; platforms; walkways;
balconies; atriums; penthouses; car dumpers;
stackers/reclaimers; cranes and craneways;
bins; hoppers; ovens; furnaces; stacks;
amusement park structures and rides; and
artistic and monumental structures.

(b)(1) Steel erection activities include hoisting, laying out, placing,
connecting, welding, burning, guying,
bracing, bolting, plumbing and rigging
structural steel, steel joists and metal
buildings; installing metal decking,
curtain walls, window walls, siding systems, miscellaneous metals, ornamental iron and similar materials; and
moving
point-to-point
while
performing these activities.
(2) The following activities are covered by this subpart when they occur
during and are a part of steel erection
activities: rigging, hoisting, laying out,
placing, connecting, guying, bracing,
dismantling, burning, welding, bolting,
grinding, sealing, caulking, and all related activities for construction, alteration and/or repair of materials and assemblies such as structural steel; ferrous metals and alloys; non-ferrous
metals and alloys; glass; plastics and
synthetic composite materials; structural metal framing and related bracing and assemblies; anchoring devices;
structural cabling; cable stays; permanent and temporary bents and towers;
falsework for temporary supports of
permanent steel members; stone and
other non-precast concrete architectural materials mounted on steel
frames; safety systems for steel erection; steel and metal joists; metal
decking and raceway systems and accessories; metal roofing and accessories; metal siding; bridge flooring;
cold formed steel framing; elevator
beams; grillage; shelf racks; multi-purpose supports; crane rails and accessories; miscellaneous, architectural
and ornamental metals and metal
work; ladders; railings; handrails;
fences and gates; gratings; trench covers; floor plates; castings; sheet metal
fabrications; metal panels and panel
wall systems; louvers; column covers;
enclosures and pockets; stairs; perforated metals; ornamental iron work,
expansion control including bridge ex-

pansion joint assemblies; slide bearings; hydraulic structures; fascias; soffit panels; penthouse enclosures; skylights; joint fillers; gaskets; sealants
and seals; doors; windows; hardware;
detention/security
equipment
and
doors, windows and hardware; conveying systems; building specialties;
building equipment; machinery and
plant equipment, furnishings and special construction.
(c) The duties of controlling contractors under this subpart include, but are
not limited to, the duties specified in
§§ 1926.752 (a) and (c), 1926.755(b)(2),
1926.759(b), and 1926.760(e).
§ 1926.751

Definitions.

Anchored bridging means that the
steel joist bridging is connected to a
bridging terminus point.
Bolted diagonal bridging means diagonal bridging that is bolted to a steel
joist or joists.
Bridging clip means a device that is
attached to the steel joist to allow the
bolting of the bridging to the steel
joist.
Bridging terminus point means a wall,
a beam, tandem joists (with all bridging installed and a horizontal truss in
the plane of the top chord) or other element at an end or intermediate
point(s) of a line of bridging that provides an anchor point for the steel joist
bridging.
Choker means a wire rope or synthetic fiber rigging assembly that is
used to attach a load to a hoisting device.
Cold forming means the process of
using press brakes, rolls, or other
methods to shape steel into desired
cross sections at room temperature.
Column
means
a
load-carrying
vertical member that is part of the primary skeletal framing system. Columns do not include posts.
Competent person (also defined in
§ 1926.32) means one who is capable of
identifying existing and predictable
hazards in the surroundings or working
conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and
who has authorization to take prompt
corrective measures to eliminate them.
Connector means an employee who,
working with hoisting equipment, is

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
placing and connecting structural
members and/or components.
Constructibility means the ability to
erect structural steel members in accordance with subpart R without having to alter the over-all structural design.
Construction load (for joist erection)
means any load other than the weight
of the employee(s), the joists and the
bridging bundle.
Controlled Decking Zone (CDZ) means
an area in which certain work (for example, initial installation and placement of metal decking) may take place
without the use of guardrail systems,
personal fall arrest systems, fall restraint systems, or safety net systems
and where access to the zone is controlled.
Controlled load lowering means lowering a load by means of a mechanical
hoist drum device that allows a hoisted
load to be lowered with maximum control using the gear train or hydraulic
components of the hoist mechanism.
Controlled load lowering requires the
use of the hoist drive motor, rather
than the load hoist brake, to lower the
load.
Controlling contractor means a prime
contractor, general contractor, construction manager or any other legal
entity which has the overall responsibility for the construction of the
project—its planning, quality and completion.
Critical lift means a lift that (1) exceeds 75 percent of the rated capacity
of the crane or derrick, or (2) requires
the use of more than one crane or derrick.
Decking hole means a gap or void
more than 2 inches (5.1 cm) in its least
dimension and less than 12 inches (30.5
cm) in its greatest dimension in a
floor, roof or other walking/working
surface. Pre-engineered holes in cellular decking (for wires, cables, etc.)
are not included in this definition.
Derrick floor means an elevated floor
of a building or structure that has been
designated to receive hoisted pieces of
steel prior to final placement.
Double connection means an attachment method where the connection
point is intended for two pieces of steel
which share common bolts on either
side of a central piece.

§ 1926.751

Double connection seat means a structural attachment that, during the installation of a double connection, supports the first member while the second member is connected.
Erection bridging means the bolted diagonal bridging that is required to be
installed prior to releasing the hoisting
cables from the steel joists.
Fall restraint system means a fall protection system that prevents the user
from falling any distance. The system
is comprised of either a body belt or
body harness, along with an anchorage,
connectors and other necessary equipment. The other components typically
include a lanyard, and may also include a lifeline and other devices.
Final interior perimeter means the perimeter of a large permanent open
space within a building such as an atrium or courtyard. This does not include
openings for stairways, elevator shafts,
etc.
Girt (in systems-engineered metal buildings) means a ‘‘Z’’ or ‘‘C’’ shaped member formed from sheet steel spanning
between primary framing and supporting wall material.
Headache ball means a weighted hook
that is used to attach loads to the hoist
load line of the crane.
Hoisting equipment means commercially manufactured lifting equipment
designed to lift and position a load of
known weight to a location at some
known elevation and horizontal distance from the equipment’s center of
rotation. ‘‘Hoisting equipment’’ includes but is not limited to cranes, derricks, tower cranes, barge-mounted
derricks or cranes, gin poles and gantry hoist systems. A ‘‘come-a-long’’ (a
mechanical device, usually consisting
of a chain or cable attached at each
end, that is used to facilitate movement of materials through leverage) is
not considered ‘‘hoisting equipment.’’
Leading edge means the unprotected
side and edge of a floor, roof, or
formwork for a floor or other walking/
working surface (such as deck) which
changes location as additional floor,
roof, decking or formwork sections are
placed, formed or constructed.
Metal decking means a commercially
manufactured, structural grade, cold
rolled metal panel formed into a series
of parallel ribs; for this subpart, this

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§ 1926.751

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

includes metal floor and roof decks,
standing seam metal roofs, other metal
roof systems and other products such
as bar gratings, checker plate, expanded metal panels, and similar products. After installation and proper fastening, these decking materials serve a
combination of functions including,
but not limited to: a structural element designed in combination with the
structure to resist, distribute and
transfer loads, stiffen the structure and
provide a diaphragm action; a walking/
working surface; a form for concrete
slabs; a support for roofing systems;
and a finished floor or roof.
Multiple lift rigging means a rigging
assembly manufactured by wire rope
rigging suppliers that facilitates the
attachment of up to five independent
loads to the hoist rigging of a crane.
Opening means a gap or void 12
inches (30.5 cm) or more in its least dimension in a floor, roof or other walking/working surface. For the purposes
of this subpart, skylights and smoke
domes that do not meet the strength
requirements of § 1926.754(e)(3) shall be
regarded as openings.
Permanent floor means a structurally
completed floor at any level or elevation (including slab on grade).
Personal fall arrest system means a
system used to arrest an employee in a
fall from a working level. A personal
fall arrest system consists of an anchorage, connectors, a body harness
and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or suitable combination of these. The use of a body
belt for fall arrest is prohibited.
Positioning device system means a body
belt or body harness rigged to allow an
employee to be supported on an elevated, vertical surface, such as a wall
or column and work with both hands
free while leaning.
Post means a structural member with
a longitudinal axis that is essentially
vertical, that: (1) weighs 300 pounds or
less and is axially loaded (a load presses down on the top end), or (2) is not
axially loaded, but is laterally restrained by the above member. Posts
typically support stair landings, wall
framing, mezzanines and other substructures.
Project structural engineer of record
means the registered, licensed profes-

sional responsible for the design of
structural steel framing and whose seal
appears on the structural contract documents.
Purlin (in systems-engineered metal
buildings) means a ‘‘Z’’ or ‘‘C’’ shaped
member formed from sheet steel spanning between primary framing and supporting roof material.
Qualified person (also defined in
§ 1926.32) means one 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.
Safety deck attachment means an initial attachment that is used to secure
an initially placed sheet of decking to
keep proper alignment and bearing
with structural support members.
Shear connector means headed steel
studs, steel bars, steel lugs, and similar
devices which are attached to a structural member for the purpose of
achieving composite action with concrete.
Steel erection means the construction,
alteration or repair of steel buildings,
bridges and other structures, including
the installation of metal decking and
all planking used during the process of
erection.
Steel joist means an open web, secondary load-carrying member of 144
feet (43.9 m) or less, designed by the
manufacturer, used for the support of
floors and roofs. This does not include
structural steel trusses or cold-formed
joists.
Steel joist girder means an open web,
primary load-carrying member, designed by the manufacturer, used for
the support of floors and roofs. This
does not include structural steel trusses.
Steel truss means an open web member designed of structural steel components by the project structural engineer of record. For the purposes of this
subpart, a steel truss is considered
equivalent to a solid web structural
member.

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
Structural steel means a steel member,
or a member made of a substitute material (such as, but not limited to, fiberglass, aluminum or composite members). These members include, but are
not limited to, steel joists, joist girders, purlins, columns, beams, trusses,
splices, seats, metal decking, girts, and
all bridging, and cold formed metal
framing which is integrated with the
structural steel framing of a building.
Systems-engineered
metal
building
means a metal, field-assembled building system consisting of framing, roof
and wall coverings. Typically, many of
these components are cold-formed
shapes. These individual parts are fabricated in one or more manufacturing
facilities and shipped to the job site for
assembly into the final structure. The
engineering design of the system is
normally the responsibility of the systems-engineered metal building manufacturer.
Tank means a container for holding
gases, liquids or solids.
Unprotected sides and edges means any
side or edge (except at entrances to
points of access) of a walking/working
surface, for example a, floor, roof, ramp
or runway, where there is no wall or
guardrail system at least 39 inches (1.0
m) high.
§ 1926.752 Site
layout,
site-specific
erection plan and construction sequence.
(a) Approval to begin steel erection. Before authorizing the commencement of
steel erection, the controlling contractor shall ensure that the steel erector is provided with the following written notifications:
(1) The concrete in the footings, piers
and walls and the mortar in the masonry piers and walls has attained, on
the basis of an appropriate ASTM
standard test method of field-cured
samples, either 75 percent of the intended minimum compressive design
strength or sufficient strength to support the loads imposed during steel
erection.
(2) Any repairs, replacements and
modifications to the anchor bolts were
conducted
in
accordance
with
§ 1926.755(b).
(b) Commencement of steel erection. A
steel erection contractor shall not

§ 1926.753

erect steel unless it has received written notification that the concrete in
the footings, piers and walls or the
mortar in the masonry piers and walls
has attained, on the basis of an appropriate ASTM standard test method of
field-cured samples, either 75 percent
of the intended minimum compressive
design strength or sufficient strength
to support the loads imposed during
steel erection.
(c) Site layout. The controlling contractor shall ensure that the following
is provided and maintained:
(1) Adequate access roads into and
through the site for the safe delivery
and movement of derricks, cranes,
trucks, other necessary equipment, and
the material to be erected and means
and methods for pedestrian and vehicular control. Exception: this requirement does not apply to roads outside of
the construction site.
(2) A firm, properly graded, drained
area, readily accessible to the work
with adequate space for the safe storage of materials and the safe operation
of the erector’s equipment.
(d) Pre-planning of overhead hoisting
operations. All hoisting operations in
steel erection shall be pre-planned to
ensure that the requirements of
§ 1926.753(d) are met.
(e) Site-specific erection plan. Where
employers elect, due to conditions specific to the site, to develop alternate
means and methods that provide employee protection in accordance with
§ 1926.753(c)(5),
§ 1926.757(a)(4)
or
§ 1926.757(e)(4), a site-specific erection
plan shall be developed by a qualified
person and be available at the work
site. Guidelines for establishing a sitespecific erection plan are contained in
Appendix A to this subpart.
§ 1926.753

Hoisting and rigging.

(a) All the provisions of § 1926.550
apply to hoisting and rigging with the
exception of § 1926.550(g)(2).
(b) In addition, paragraphs (c)
through (e) of this section apply regarding the hazards associated with
hoisting and rigging.
(c) General. (1) Pre-shift visual inspection of cranes.
(i) Cranes being used in steel erection
activities shall be visually inspected

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§ 1926.753

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

prior to each shift by a competent person; the inspection shall include observation for deficiencies during operation. At a minimum this inspection
shall include the following:
(A) All control mechanisms for maladjustments;
(B) Control and drive mechanism for
excessive wear of components and contamination by lubricants, water or
other foreign matter;
(C) Safety devices, including but not
limited to boom angle indicators, boom
stops, boom kick out devices, anti-two
block devices, and load moment indicators where required;
(D) Air, hydraulic, and other pressurized lines for deterioration or leakage,
particularly those which flex in normal
operation;
(E) Hooks and latches for deformation, chemical damage, cracks, or
wear;
(F) Wire rope reeving for compliance
with hoisting equipment manufacturer’s specifications;
(G) Electrical apparatus for malfunctioning, signs of excessive deterioration, dirt, or moisture accumulation;
(H) Hydraulic system for proper fluid
level;
(I) Tires for proper inflation and condition;
(J) Ground conditions around the
hoisting equipment for proper support,
including ground settling under and
around outriggers, ground water accumulation, or similar conditions;
(K) The hoisting equipment for level
position; and
(L) The hoisting equipment for level
position after each move and setup.
(ii) If any deficiency is identified, an
immediate determination shall be
made by the competent person as to
whether the deficiency constitutes a
hazard.
(iii) If the deficiency is determined to
constitute a hazard, the hoisting equipment shall be removed from service
until the deficiency has been corrected.
(iv) The operator shall be responsible
for those operations under the operator’s direct control. Whenever there is
any doubt as to safety, the operator
shall have the authority to stop and
refuse to handle loads until safety has
been assured.

(2) A qualified rigger (a rigger who is
also a qualified person) shall inspect
the rigging prior to each shift in accordance with § 1926.251.
(3) The headache ball, hook or load
shall not be used to transport personnel except as provided in paragraph
(c)(4) of this section.
(4) Cranes or derricks may be used to
hoist employees on a personnel platform when work under this subpart is
being conducted, provided that all provisions
of
§ 1926.550
(except
for
§ 1926.550(g)(2)) are met.
(5) Safety latches on hooks shall not
be deactivated or made inoperable except:
(i) When a qualified rigger has determined that the hoisting and placing of
purlins and single joists can be performed more safely by doing so; or
(ii) When equivalent protection is
provided in a site-specific erection
plan.
(d) Working under loads. (1) Routes for
suspended loads shall be pre-planned to
ensure that no employee is required to
work directly below a suspended load
except for:
(i) Employees engaged in the initial
connection of the steel; or
(ii) Employees necessary for the
hooking or unhooking of the load.
(2) When working under suspended
loads, the following criteria shall be
met:
(i) Materials being hoisted shall be
rigged to prevent unintentional displacement;
(ii) Hooks with self-closing safety
latches or their equivalent shall be
used to prevent components from slipping out of the hook; and
(iii) All loads shall be rigged by a
qualified rigger
(e) Multiple lift rigging procedure. (1) A
multiple lift shall only be performed if
the following criteria are met:
(i) A multiple lift rigging assembly is
used;
(ii) A maximum of five members are
hoisted per lift;
(iii) Only beams and similar structural members are lifted; and
(iv) All employees engaged in the
multiple lift have been trained in these
procedures
in
accordance
with
§ 1926.761(c)(1).

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
(v) No crane is permitted to be used
for a multiple lift where such use is
contrary to the manufacturer’s specifications and limitations.
(2) Components of the multiple lift
rigging assembly shall be specifically
designed and assembled with a maximum capacity for total assembly and
for each individual attachment point.
This capacity, certified by the manufacturer or a qualified rigger, shall be
based on the manufacturer’s specifications with a 5 to 1 safety factor for all
components.
(3) The total load shall not exceed:
(i) The rated capacity of the hoisting
equipment specified in the hoisting
equipment load charts;
(ii) The rigging capacity specified in
the rigging rating chart.
(4) The multiple lift rigging assembly
shall be rigged with members:
(i) Attached at their center of gravity and maintained reasonably level;
(ii) Rigged from top down; and
(iii) Rigged at least 7 feet (2.1 m)
apart.
(5) The members on the multiple lift
rigging assembly shall be set from the
bottom up.
(6) Controlled load lowering shall be
used whenever the load is over the connectors.
§ 1926.754

Structural steel assembly.

(a) Structural stability shall be
maintained at all times during the
erection process.
NOTE TO PARAGRAPH (A): Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA) regulations incorporate by reference a number of standards,
policies, and standard specifications published by the American Association of State
Highway
and
Transportation
Officials
(AASHTO) and other organizations. (See 23
CFR 625.4). Many of these incorporated provisions may be relevant to maintaining
structural stability during the erection process. For instance, as of May 17, 2010, in many
cases FHWA requires a Registered Engineer
to prepare and seal working drawings for
falsework used in highway bridge construction. (See AASHTO Specifications for Highway Bridges, Div. II, § 3.2.1, 15th edition, 1992,
which FHWA incorporates by reference in 23
CFR 625.4). FHWA also encourages compliance with AASHTO Specifications that the
FHWA regulations do not currently incorporate
by
reference.
(See
http://
www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/lrfd/index.htm.)

§ 1926.754

(b) The following additional requirements shall apply for multi-story
structures:
(1) The permanent floors shall be installed as the erection of structural
members progresses, and there shall be
not more than eight stories between
the erection floor and the upper-most
permanent floor, except where the
structural integrity is maintained as a
result of the design.
(2) At no time shall there be more
than four floors or 48 feet (14.6 m),
whichever is less, of unfinished bolting
or welding above the foundation or uppermost permanently secured floor, except where the structural integrity is
maintained as a result of the design.
(3) A fully planked or decked floor or
nets shall be maintained within two
stories or 30 feet (9.1 m), whichever is
less, directly under any erection work
being performed.
(c) Walking/working surfaces—shear
connectors and other similar devices—(1)
Tripping hazards. Shear connectors
(such as headed steel studs, steel bars
or steel lugs), reinforcing bars, deformed anchors or threaded studs shall
not be attached to the top flanges of
beams, joists or beam attachments so
that they project vertically from or
horizontally across the top flange of
the member until after the metal decking, or other walking/working surface,
has been installed.
(2) Installation of shear connectors on
composite floors, roofs and bridge decks.
When shear connectors are used in construction of composite floors, roofs and
bridge decks, employees shall lay out
and install the shear connectors after
the metal decking has been installed,
using the metal decking as a working
platform. Shear connectors shall not be
installed from within a controlled
decking zone (CDZ), as specified in
§ 1926.760(c)(8).
(d) Plumbing-up. (1) When deemed
necessary by a competent person,
plumbing-up equipment shall be installed in conjunction with the steel
erection process to ensure the stability
of the structure.
(2) When used, plumbing-up equipment shall be in place and properly installed before the structure is loaded
with construction material such as

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§ 1926.755

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

loads of joists, bundles of decking or
bundles of bridging.
(3) Plumbing-up equipment shall be
removed only with the approval of a
competent person.
(e) Metal decking—(1) Hoisting, landing
and placing of metal decking bundles. (i)
Bundle packaging and strapping shall
not be used for hoisting unless specifically designed for that purpose.
(ii) If loose items such as dunnage,
flashing, or other materials are placed
on the top of metal decking bundles to
be hoisted, such items shall be secured
to the bundles.
(iii) Bundles of metal decking on
joists shall be landed in accordance
with § 1926.757(e)(4).
(iv) Metal decking bundles shall be
landed on framing members so that
enough support is provided to allow the
bundles to be unbanded without dislodging the bundles from the supports.
(v) At the end of the shift or when environmental or jobsite conditions require, metal decking shall be secured
against displacement.
(2) Roof and floor holes and openings.
Metal decking at roof and floor holes
and openings shall be installed as follows:
(i) Framed metal deck openings shall
have structural members turned down
to allow continuous deck installation
except where not allowed by structural
design constraints or constructibility.
(ii) Roof and floor holes and openings
shall be decked over. Where large size,
configuration or other structural design does not allow openings to be
decked over (such as elevator shafts,
stair wells, etc.) employees shall be
protected
in
accordance
with
§ 1926.760(a)(1).
(iii) Metal decking holes and openings shall not be cut until immediately
prior to being permanently filled with
the equipment or structure needed or
intended to fulfill its specific use and
which meets the strength requirements
of paragraph (e)(3) of this section, or
shall be immediately covered.
(3) Covering roof and floor openings. (i)
Covers for roof and floor openings shall
be capable of supporting, without failure, twice the weight of the employees,
equipment and materials that may be
imposed on the cover at any one time.

(ii) All covers shall be secured when
installed to prevent accidental displacement by the wind, equipment or
employees.
(iii) All covers shall be painted with
high-visibility paint or shall be marked
with the word ‘‘HOLE’’ or ‘‘COVER’’ to
provide warning of the hazard.
(iv) Smoke dome or skylight fixtures
that have been installed, are not considered covers for the purpose of this
section unless they meet the strength
requirements of paragraph (e)(3)(i) of
this section.
(4) Decking gaps around columns. Wire
mesh, exterior plywood, or equivalent,
shall be installed around columns
where planks or metal decking do not
fit tightly. The materials used must be
of sufficient strength to provide fall
protection for personnel and prevent
objects from falling through.
(5) Installation of metal decking. (i) Except as provided in § 1926.760(c), metal
decking shall be laid tightly and immediately secured upon placement to prevent accidental movement or displacement.
(ii) During initial placement, metal
decking panels shall be placed to ensure full support by structural members.
(6) Derrick floors. (i) A derrick floor
shall be fully decked and/or planked
and the steel member connections completed to support the intended floor
loading.
(ii) Temporary loads placed on a derrick floor shall be distributed over the
underlying support members so as to
prevent local overloading of the deck
material.
[66 FR 5265, Jan. 18, 2001, as amended at 71
FR 2885, Jan. 18, 2006; 71 FR 16674, Apr. 3,
2006; 75 FR 27429, May 17, 2010]

§ 1926.755

Column anchorage.

(a) General requirements for erection
stability. (1) All columns shall be anchored by a minimum of 4 anchor rods
(anchor bolts).
(2) Each column anchor rod (anchor
bolt) assembly, including the columnto-base plate weld and the column
foundation, shall be designed to resist
a minimum eccentric gravity load of
300 pounds (136.2 kg) located 18 inches
(.46m) from the extreme outer face of

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
the column in each direction at the top
of the column shaft.
(3) Columns shall be set on level finished
floors,
pre-grouted
leveling
plates, leveling nuts, or shim packs
which are adequate to transfer the construction loads.
(4) All columns shall be evaluated by
a competent person to determine
whether guying or bracing is needed; if
guying or bracing is needed, it shall be
installed.
(b) Repair, replacement or field modification of anchor rods (anchor bolts). (1)
Anchor rods (anchor bolts) shall not be
repaired, replaced or field-modified
without the approval of the project
structural engineer of record.
(2) Prior to the erection of a column,
the controlling contractor shall provide written notification to the steel
erector if there has been any repair, replacement or modification of the anchor rods (anchor bolts) of that column.
§ 1926.756 Beams and columns.
(a) General. (1) During the final placing of solid web structural members,
the load shall not be released from the
hoisting line until the members are secured with at least two bolts per connection, of the same size and strength
as shown in the erection drawings,
drawn up wrench-tight or the equivalent as specified by the project structural engineer of record, except as
specified in paragraph (b) of this section.
(2) A competent person shall determine if more than two bolts are necessary to ensure the stability of cantilevered members; if additional bolts
are needed, they shall be installed.
(b) Diagonal bracing. Solid web structural members used as diagonal bracing shall be secured by at least one bolt
per connection drawn up wrench-tight
or the equivalent as specified by the
project structural engineer of record.
(c) (1) Double connections at columns
and/or at beam webs over a column. When
two structural members on opposite
sides of a column web, or a beam web
over a column, are connected sharing
common connection holes, at least one
bolt with its wrench-tight nut shall remain connected to the first member
unless a shop-attached or field-at-

§ 1926.757

tached seat or equivalent connection
device is supplied with the member to
secure the first member and prevent
the column from being displaced (See
Appendix H to this subpart for examples of equivalent connection devices).
(2) If a seat or equivalent device is
used, the seat (or device) shall be designed to support the load during the
double connection process. It shall be
adequately bolted or welded to both a
supporting member and the first member before the nuts on the shared bolts
are removed to make the double connection.
(d) Column splices. Each column splice
shall be designed to resist a minimum
eccentric gravity load of 300 pounds
(136.2 kg) located 18 inches (.46 m) from
the extreme outer face of the column
in each direction at the top of the column shaft.
(e) Perimeter columns. Perimeter columns shall not be erected unless:
(1) The perimeter columns extend a
minimum of 48 inches (1.2 m) above the
finished floor to permit installation of
perimeter safety cables prior to erection of the next tier, except where
constructibility does not allow (see Appendix F to this subpart);
(2) The perimeter columns have holes
or other devices in or attached to perimeter columns at 42–45 inches (107–114
cm) above the finished floor and the
midpoint between the finished floor
and the top cable to permit installation of perimeter safety cables required
by
§ 1926.760(a)(2),
except
where
constructibility does not allow. (See
Appendix F to this subpart).
§ 1926.757 Open web steel joists.
(a) General. (1) Except as provided in
paragraph (a)(2) of this section, where
steel joists are used and columns are
not framed in at least two directions
with solid web structural steel members, a steel joist shall be field-bolted
at the column to provide lateral stability to the column during erection.
For the installation of this joist:
(i) A vertical stabilizer plate shall be
provided on each column for steel
joists. The plate shall be a minimum of
6 inch by 6 inch (152 mm by 152 mm)
and shall extend at least 3 inches (76
mm) below the bottom chord of the
joist with a 13⁄16 inch (21 mm) hole to

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§ 1926.757

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

provide an attachment point for guying
or plumbing cables.
(ii) The bottom chords of steel joists
at columns shall be stabilized to prevent rotation during erection.
(iii) Hoisting cables shall not be released until the seat at each end of the
steel joist is field-bolted, and each end
of the bottom chord is restrained by
the column stabilizer plate.
(2) Where constructibility does not
allow a steel joist to be installed at the
column:
(i) an alternate means of stabilizing
joists shall be installed on both sides
near the column and shall:
(A) provide stability equivalent to
paragraph (a)(1) of this section;
(B) be designed by a qualified person;
(C) be shop installed; and
(D) be included in the erection drawings.
(ii) hoisting cables shall not be released until the seat at each end of the
steel joist is field-bolted and the joist
is stabilized.
(3) Where steel joists at or near columns span 60 feet (18.3 m) or less, the
joist shall be designed with sufficient
strength to allow one employee to release the hoisting cable without the
need for erection bridging.
(4) Where steel joists at or near columns span more than 60 feet (18.3 m),
the joists shall be set in tandem with
all bridging installed unless an alternative method of erection, which provides equivalent stability to the steel
joist, is designed by a qualified person
and is included in the site-specific erection plan.
(5) A steel joist or steel joist girder
shall not be placed on any support
structure unless such structure is stabilized.
(6) When steel joist(s) are landed on a
structure, they shall be secured to prevent unintentional displacement prior
to installation.
(7) No modification that affects the
strength of a steel joist or steel joist
girder shall be made without the approval of the project structural engineer of record.
(8) Field-bolted joists. (i) Except for
steel joists that have been pre-assembled into panels, connections of individual steel joists to steel structures in
bays of 40 feet (12.2 m) or more shall be

fabricated to allow for field bolting
during erection.
(ii) These connections shall be fieldbolted unless constructibility does not
allow.
(9) Steel joists and steel joist girders
shall not be used as anchorage points
for a fall arrest system unless written
approval to do so is obtained from a
qualified person.
(10) A bridging terminus point shall
be established before bridging is installed. (See Appendix C to this subpart.)
(b) Attachment of steel joists and steel
joist girders. (1) Each end of ‘‘K’’ series
steel joists shall be attached to the
support structure with a minimum of
two 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) fillet welds 1 inch
(25 mm) long or with two 1⁄2-inch (13
mm) bolts, or the equivalent.
(2) Each end of ‘‘LH’’ and ‘‘DLH’’ series steel joists and steel joist girders
shall be attached to the support structure with a minimum of two 1⁄4-inch (6
mm) fillet welds 2 inches (51 mm) long,
or with two 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) bolts, or
the equivalent.
(3) Except as provided in paragraph
(b)(4) of this section, each steel joist
shall be attached to the support structure, at least at one end on both sides
of the seat, immediately upon placement in the final erection position and
before additional joists are placed.
(4) Panels that have been pre-assembled from steel joists with bridging
shall be attached to the structure at
each corner before the hoisting cables
are released.
(c) Erection of steel joists. (1) Both
sides of the seat of one end of each
steel joist that requires bridging under
Tables A and B shall be attached to the
support structure before hoisting cables are released.
(2) For joists over 60 feet, both ends
of the joist shall be attached as specified in paragraph (b) of this section and
the provisions of paragraph (d) of this
section met before the hoisting cables
are released.
(3) On steel joists that do not require
erection bridging under Tables A and
B, only one employee shall be allowed
on the joist until all bridging is installed and anchored.

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
TABLE A—ERECTION BRIDGING FOR SHORT
SPAN JOISTS
Joist

§ 1926.757

TABLE A—ERECTION BRIDGING FOR SHORT
SPAN JOISTS—Continued

Span

8L1 .................................................................
10K1 ..............................................................
12K1 ..............................................................
12K3 ..............................................................
12K5 ..............................................................
14K1 ..............................................................
14K3 ..............................................................
14K4 ..............................................................
14K6 ..............................................................
16K2 ..............................................................
16K3 ..............................................................
16K4 ..............................................................
16K5 ..............................................................
16K6 ..............................................................
16K7 ..............................................................
16K9 ..............................................................
18K3 ..............................................................
18K4 ..............................................................
18K5 ..............................................................
18K6 ..............................................................
18K7 ..............................................................
18K9 ..............................................................
18K10 ............................................................
20K3 ..............................................................
20K4 ..............................................................
20K5 ..............................................................
20K6 ..............................................................
20K7 ..............................................................
20K9 ..............................................................
20K10 ............................................................
22K4 ..............................................................
22K5 ..............................................................
22K6 ..............................................................
22K7 ..............................................................
22K9 ..............................................................
22K10 ............................................................
22K11 ............................................................
24K4 ..............................................................
24K5 ..............................................................
24K6 ..............................................................
24K7 ..............................................................
24K8 ..............................................................
24K9 ..............................................................
24K10 ............................................................
24K12 ............................................................
26K5 ..............................................................
26K6 ..............................................................
26K7 ..............................................................
26K8 ..............................................................
26K9 ..............................................................
26K10 ............................................................
26K12 ............................................................
28K6 ..............................................................
28K7 ..............................................................
28K8 ..............................................................
28K9 ..............................................................
28K10 ............................................................
28K12 ............................................................
30K7 ..............................................................
30K8 ..............................................................
30K9 ..............................................................
30K10 ............................................................
30K11 ............................................................
30K12 ............................................................
10KCS1 .........................................................
10KCS2 .........................................................
10KCS3 .........................................................
12KCS1 .........................................................
12KCS2 .........................................................
12KCS3 .........................................................
14KCS1 .........................................................

Joist

NM
NM
23–0
NM
NM
27–0
NM
NM
NM
29–0
30–0
32–0
32–0
NM
NM
NM
31–0
32–0
33–0
35–0
NM
NM
NM
32–0
34–0
34–0
36–0
39–0
39–0
NM
34–0
35–0
36–0
40–0
40–0
40–0
40–0
36–0
38–0
39–0
43–0
43–0
44–0
NM
NM
38–0
39–0
43–0
44–0
45–0
49–0
NM
40–0
43–0
44–0
45–0
49–0
53–0
44–0
45–0
45–0
50–0
52–0
54–0
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM

14KCS2
14KCS3
16KCS2
16KCS3
16KCS4
16KCS5
18KCS2
18KCS3
18KCS4
18KCS5
20KCS2
20KCS3
20KCS4
20KCS5
22KCS2
22KCS3
22KCS4
22KCS5
24KCS2
24KCS3
24KCS4
24KCS5
26KCS2
26KCS3
26KCS4
26KCS5
28KCS2
28KCS3
28KCS4
28KCS5
30KC53
30KCS4
30KCS5

Span

.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................
..........................................................
.........................................................
.........................................................

NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
NM
35–0
NM
NM
NM
36–0
39–0
NM
NM
36–0
40–0
NM
NM
39–0
44–0
NM
NM
39–0
44–0
NM
NM
40–0
45–0
53–0
53–0
45–0
54–0
54–0

NM=diagonal bolted bridging not mandatory for joists under
40 feet.

TABLE B—ERECTION BRIDGING FOR LONG SPAN
JOISTS
Joist
18LH02
18LH03
18LH04
18LH05
18LH06
18LH07
18LH08
18LH09
20LH02
20LH03
20LH04
20LH05
20LH06
20LH07
20LH08
20LH09
20LH10
24LH03
24LH04
24LH05
24LH06
24LH07
24LH08
24LH09
24LH10
24LH11
28LH05
28LH06
28LH07

..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................

Span
33–0.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
33–0.
38–0.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
35–0.
39–0.
40–0.
45–0.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
42–0.
42–0.
NM.

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§ 1926.757

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

TABLE B—ERECTION BRIDGING FOR LONG SPAN
JOISTS—Continued
Joist
28LH08
28LH09
28LH10
28LH11
28LH12
28LH13
32LH06
32LH07
32LH08
32LH09
32LH10
32LH11
32LH12
32LH13
32LH14
32LH15
36LH07
36LH08
36LH09
36LH10
36LH11
36LH12
36LH13
36LH14
36LH15

Span

..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................
..................................

NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
NM.
47–0 through 60–0.
47–0 through 60–0.
55–0 through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
47–0 through 60–0.
47–0 through 60–0.
57–0 through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.
NM through 60–0.

NM = diagonal bolted bridging not mandatory for joists
under 40 feet.

(4) Employees shall not be allowed on
steel joists where the span of the steel
joist is equal to or greater than the
span shown in Tables A and B except in
accordance with § 1926.757(d).
(5) When permanent bridging terminus points cannot be used during
erection, additional temporary bridging terminus points are required to
provide stability. (See appendix C of
this subpart.)
(d) Erection bridging. (1) Where the
span of the steel joist is equal to or
greater than the span shown in Tables
A and B, the following shall apply:
(i) A row of bolted diagonal erection
bridging shall be installed near the
midspan of the steel joist;
(ii) Hoisting cables shall not be released until this bolted diagonal erection bridging is installed and anchored;
and
(iii) No more than one employee shall
be allowed on these spans until all
other bridging is installed and anchored.
(2) Where the span of the steel joist is
over 60 feet (18.3 m) through 100 feet
(30.5 m), the following shall apply:
(i) All rows of bridging shall be
bolted diagonal bridging;

(ii) Two rows of bolted diagonal erection bridging shall be installed near
the third points of the steel joist;
(iii) Hoisting cables shall not be released until this bolted diagonal erection bridging is installed and anchored;
and
(iv) No more than two employees
shall be allowed on these spans until
all other bridging is installed and anchored.
(3) Where the span of the steel joist is
over 100 feet (30.5 m) through 144 feet
(43.9 m), the following shall apply:
(i) All rows of bridging shall be
bolted diagonal bridging;
(ii) Hoisting cables shall not be released until all bridging is installed
and anchored; and
(iii) No more than two employees
shall be allowed on these spans until
all bridging is installed and anchored.
(4) For steel members spanning over
144 feet (43.9 m), the erection methods
used shall be in accordance with
§ 1926.756.
(5) Where any steel joist specified in
paragraphs (c)(2) and (d)(1), (d)(2), and
(d)(3) of this section is a bottom chord
bearing joist, a row of bolted diagonal
bridging shall be provided near the support(s). This bridging shall be installed
and anchored before the hoisting
cable(s) is released.
(6) When bolted diagonal erection
bridging is required by this section, the
following shall apply:
(i) The bridging shall be indicated on
the erection drawing;
(ii) The erection drawing shall be the
exclusive indicator of the proper placement of this bridging;
(iii) Shop-installed bridging clips, or
functional equivalents, shall be used
where the bridging bolts to the steel
joists;
(iv) When two pieces of bridging are
attached to the steel joist by a common bolt, the nut that secures the first
piece of bridging shall not be removed
from the bolt for the attachment of the
second; and
(v) Bridging attachments shall not
protrude above the top chord of the
steel joist.
(e) Landing and placing loads. (1) During the construction period, the employer placing a load on steel joists

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
shall ensure that the load is distributed so as not to exceed the carrying
capacity of any steel joist.
(2) Except for paragraph (e)(4) of this
section, no construction loads are allowed on the steel joists until all bridging is installed and anchored and all
joist-bearing ends are attached.
(3) The weight of a bundle of joist
bridging shall not exceed a total of
1,000 pounds (454 kg). A bundle of joist
bridging shall be placed on a minimum
of three steel joists that are secured at
one end. The edge of the bridging bundle shall be positioned within 1 foot (.30
m) of the secured end.
(4) No bundle of decking may be
placed on steel joists until all bridging
has been installed and anchored and all
joist bearing ends attached, unless all
of the following conditions are met:
(i) The employer has first determined
from a qualified person and documented in a site-specific erection plan
that the structure or portion of the
structure is capable of supporting the
load;
(ii) The bundle of decking is placed
on a minimum of three steel joists;
(iii) The joists supporting the bundle
of decking are attached at both ends;
(iv) At least one row of bridging is installed and anchored;
(v) The total weight of the bundle of
decking does not exceed 4,000 pounds
(1816 kg); and
(vi) Placement of the bundle of decking shall be in accordance with paragraph (e)(5) of this section.
(5) The edge of the construction load
shall be placed within 1 foot (.30 m) of
the bearing surface of the joist end.
§ 1926.758 Systems-engineered
buildings.

metal

(a) All of the requirements of this
subpart apply to the erection of systems-engineered metal buildings except §§ 1926.755 (column anchorage) and
1926.757 (open web steel joists).
(b) Each structural column shall be
anchored by a minimum of four anchor
rods (anchor bolts).
(c) Rigid frames shall have 50 percent
of their bolts or the number of bolts
specified by the manufacturer (whichever is greater) installed and tightened
on both sides of the web adjacent to

§ 1926.760

each flange before the hoisting equipment is released.
(d) Construction loads shall not be
placed on any structural steel framework unless such framework is safely
bolted, welded or otherwise adequately
secured.
(e) In girt and eave strut-to-frame
connections, when girts or eave struts
share common connection holes, at
least one bolt with its wrench-tight
nut shall remain connected to the first
member unless a manufacturer-supplied, field-attached seat or similar
connection device is present to secure
the first member so that the girt or
eave strut is always secured against
displacement.
(f) Both ends of all steel joists or
cold-formed joists shall be fully bolted
and/or welded to the support structure
before:
(1) Releasing the hoisting cables;
(2) Allowing an employee on the
joists; or
(3) Allowing any construction loads
on the joists.
(g) Purlins and girts shall not be used
as an anchorage point for a fall arrest
system unless written approval is obtained from a qualified person.
(h) Purlins may only be used as a
walking/working surface when installing safety systems, after all permanent
bridging has been installed and fall
protection is provided.
(i) Construction loads may be placed
only within a zone that is within 8 feet
(2.5 m) of the center-line of the primary
support member.
§ 1926.759 Falling object protection.
(a) Securing loose items aloft. All materials, equipment, and tools, which are
not in use while aloft, shall be secured
against accidental displacement.
(b) Protection from falling objects other
than materials being hoisted. The controlling contractor shall bar other construction processes below steel erection unless overhead protection for the
employees below is provided.
§ 1926.760 Fall protection.
(a) General requirements. (1) Except as
provided by paragraph (a)(3) of this section, each employee engaged in a steel
erection activity who is on a walking/
working surface with an unprotected

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§ 1926.761

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

side or edge more than 15 feet (4.6 m)
above a lower level shall be protected
from fall hazards by guardrail systems,
safety net systems, personal fall arrest
systems, positioning device systems or
fall restraint systems.
(2) Perimeter safety cables. On multistory structures, perimeter safety cables shall be installed at the final interior and exterior perimeters of the
floors as soon as the metal decking has
been installed.
(3) Connectors and employees working in controlled decking zones shall be
protected from fall hazards as provided
in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this section, respectively.
(b) Connectors. Each connector shall:
(1) Be protected in accordance with
paragraph (a)(1) of this section from
fall hazards of more than two stories or
30 feet (9.1 m) above a lower level,
whichever is less;
(2) Have completed connector training in accordance with § 1926.761; and
(3) Be provided, at heights over 15
and up to 30 feet above a lower level,
with a personal fall arrest system, positioning device system or fall restraint system and wear the equipment
necessary to be able to be tied off; or be
provided with other means of protection from fall hazards in accordance
with paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
(c) Controlled Decking Zone (CDZ). A
controlled decking zone may be established in that area of the structure
over 15 and up to 30 feet above a lower
level where metal decking is initially
being installed and forms the leading
edge of a work area. In each CDZ, the
following shall apply:
(1) Each employee working at the
leading edge in a CDZ shall be protected from fall hazards of more than
two stories or 30 feet (9.1 m), whichever
is less.
(2) Access to a CDZ shall be limited
to only those employees engaged in
leading edge work.
(3) The boundaries of a CDZ shall be
designated and clearly marked. The
CDZ shall not be more than 90 feet (27.4
m) wide and 90 (27.4 m) feet deep from
any leading edge. The CDZ shall be
marked by the use of control lines or
the equivalent. Examples of acceptable
procedures for demarcating CDZ’s can
be found in Appendix D to this subpart.

(4) Each employee working in a CDZ
shall have completed CDZ training in
accordance with § 1926.761.
(5) Unsecured decking in a CDZ shall
not exceed 3,000 square feet (914.4 m2).
(6) Safety deck attachments shall be
performed in the CDZ from the leading
edge back to the control line and shall
have at least two attachments for each
metal decking panel.
(7) Final deck attachments and installation of shear connectors shall not
be performed in the CDZ.
(d) Criteria for fall protection equipment. (1) Guardrail systems, safety net
systems, personal fall arrest systems,
positioning device systems and their
components shall conform to the criteria in § 1926.502 (see Appendix G to
this subpart).
(2) Fall arrest system components
shall be used in fall restraint systems
and shall conform to the criteria in
§ 1926.502 (see Appendix G). Either body
belts or body harnesses shall be used in
fall restraint systems.
(3) Perimeter safety cables shall
meet the criteria for guardrail systems
in § 1926.502 (see Appendix G).
(e) Custody of fall protection. Fall protection provided by the steel erector
shall remain in the area where steel
erection activity has been completed,
to be used by other trades, only if the
controlling contractor or its authorized representative:
(1) Has directed the steel erector to
leave the fall protection in place; and
(2) Has inspected and accepted control and responsibility of the fall protection prior to authorizing persons
other than steel erectors to work in
the area.
§ 1926.761

Training.

The following provisions supplement
the requirements of § 1926.21 regarding
the hazards addressed in this subpart.
(a) Training personnel. Training required by this section shall be provided
by a qualified person(s).
(b) Fall hazard training. The employer
shall train each employee exposed to a
fall hazard in accordance with the requirements of this section. The employer shall institute a training program and ensure employee participation in the program.

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
(c) Special training programs. In addition to the training required in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the
employer shall provide special training
to employees engaged in the following
activities.
(1) Multiple lift rigging procedure. The
employer shall ensure that each employee who performs multiple lift rigging has been provided training in the
following areas:
(i) The nature of the hazards associated with multiple lifts; and
(ii) The proper procedures and equipment to perform multiple lifts required
by § 1926.753(e).
(2) Connector procedures. The employer shall ensure that each connector
has been provided training in the following areas:
(i) The nature of the hazards associated with connecting; and
(ii) The establishment, access, proper
connecting techniques and work practices required by § 1926.756(c) and
§ 1926.760(b).
(3) Controlled Decking Zone Procedures.
Where CDZs are being used, the employer shall assure that each employee
has been provided training in the following areas:
(i) The nature of the hazards associated with work within a controlled
decking zone; and
(ii) The establishment, access, proper
installation techniques and work practices required by § 1926.760(c) and
§ 1926.754(e).
[66 FR 5265, Jan. 18, 2001, as amended at 73
FR 75589, Dec. 12, 2008]

APPENDIX A TO SUBPART R OF PART
1926—GUIDELINES FOR ESTABLISHING
THE COMPONENTS OF A SITE-SPECIFIC
ERECTION PLAN: NON-MANDATORY
GUIDELINES FOR COMPLYING WITH
§ 1926.752(e).
(a) General. This appendix serves as a
guideline to assist employers who elect to
develop a site-specific erection plan in accordance with § 1926.752(e) with alternate
means and methods to provide employee protection in accordance with § 1926.752(e),
§ 1926.753(c)(5),
§ 1926.757(a)(4)
and
§ 1926.757(e)(4).
(b) Development of a site-specific erection
plan. Pre-construction conference(s) and site

Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. A

inspection(s) are held between the erector
and the controlling contractor, and others
such as the project engineer and fabricator
before the start of steel erection. The purpose of such conference(s) is to develop and
review the site-specific erection plan that
will meet the requirements of this section.
(c) Components of a site-specific erection
plan. In developing a site-specific erection
plan, a steel erector considers the following
elements:
(1) The sequence of erection activity, developed in coordination with the controlling
contractor, that includes the following:
(i) Material deliveries:
(ii) Material staging and storage; and
(iii) Coordination with other trades and
construction activities.
(2) A description of the crane and derrick
selection and placement procedures, including the following:
(i) Site preparation;
(ii) Path for overhead loads; and
(iii) Critical lifts, including rigging supplies and equipment.
(3) A description of steel erection activities
and procedures, including the following:
(i) Stability considerations requiring temporary bracing and guying;
(ii) Erection bridging terminus point;
(iii) Anchor rod (anchor bolt) notifications
regarding repair, replacement and modifications;
(iv) Columns and beams (including joists
and purlins);
(v) Connections;
(vi) Decking; and
(vii) Ornamental and miscellaneous iron.
(4) A description of the fall protection procedures that will be used to comply with
§ 1926.760.
(5) A description of the procedures that
will be used to comply with § 1926.759.
(6) A description of the special procedures
required for hazardous non-routine tasks.
(7) A certification for each employee who
has received training for performing steel
erection operations as required by § 1926.761.
(8) A list of the qualified and competent
persons.
(9) A description of the procedures that
will be utilized in the event of rescue or
emergency response.
(d) Other plan information. The plan:
(1) Includes the identification of the site
and project; and
(2) Is signed and dated by the qualified person(s) responsible for its preparation and
modification.

APPENDIX B TO SUBPART R OF PART 1926
[RESERVED]

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Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. C

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

APPENDIX C TO SUBPART R OF PART 1926—ILLUSTRATIONS OF BRIDGING TERMINUS
POINTS: NON-MANDATORY

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor

Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. C

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427

Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. D

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

APPENDIX D TO SUBPART R OF PART
1926—ILLUSTRATION OF THE USE OF
CONTROL LINES TO DEMARCATE CONTROLLED DECKING ZONES (CDZS):
NON-MANDATORY GUIDELINES FOR
COMPLYING WITH § 1926.760(c)(3)
(1) When used to control access to areas
where leading edge and initial securement of

metal deck and other operations connected
with leading edge work are taking place, the
controlled decking zone (CDZ) is defined by a
control line or by any other means that restricts access.
(i) A control line for a CDZ is erected not
less than 6 feet (1.8 m) nor more than 90 feet
(27.4 m) from the leading edge.
(ii) Control lines extend along the entire
length of the unprotected or leading edge

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428

Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
and are approximately parallel to the unprotected or leading edge.
(iii) Control lines are connected on each
side to a guardrail system, wall, stanchion or
other suitable anchorage.
(2) Control lines consist of ropes, wires,
tapes, or equivalent materials, and supporting stanchions as follows:
(i) Each line is rigged and supported in
such a way that its lowest point (including
sag) is not less than 39 inches (1.0 m) from
the walking/working surface and its highest
point is not more than 45 inches (1.3 m) from
the walking/working surface.
(ii) Each line has a minimum breaking
strength of 200 pounds (90.8 kg).

APPENDIX E TO SUBPART R OF PART
1926—TRAINING:
NON-MANDATORY
GUIDELINES FOR COMPLYING WITH
§ 1926.761
The training requirements of § 1926.761 will
be deemed to have been met if employees
have completed a training course on steel
erection, including instruction in the provisions of this standard, that has been approved by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Apprenticeship.

APPENDIX F TO SUBPART R OF PART
1926—PERIMETER COLUMNS: NONMANDATORY GUIDELINES FOR COMPLYING WITH § 1926.756(e) TO PROTECT THE UNPROTECTED SIDE OR
EDGE OF A WALKING/WORKING SURFACE

In multi-story structures, when holes in
the column web are used for perimeter safety
cables, the column splice must be placed sufficiently high so as not to interfere with any
attachments to the column necessary for the
column splice. Column splices are recommended to be placed at every other or
fourth levels as design allows. Column
splices at third levels are detrimental to the
erection process and should be avoided if possible.

APPENDIX G TO SUBPART R OF PART
1926—§ 1926.502 (b)–(e) FALL PROTECTION SYSTEMS CRITERIA AND PRACTICES

(b) ‘‘Guardrail systems.’’ Guardrail systems and their use shall comply with the following provisions:
(1) Top edge height of top rails, or equivalent guardrail system members, shall be 42
inches (1.1 m) plus or minus 3 inches (8 cm)
above the walking/working level. When conditions warrant, the height of the top edge
may exceed the 45-inch height, provided the
guardrail system meets all other criteria of
this paragraph (§ 1926.502(b)).

Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. G

NOTE: When employees are using stilts, the
top edge height of the top rail, or equivalent
member, shall be increased an amount equal
to the height of the stilts.
(2) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate
vertical members, or equivalent intermediate structural members shall be installed between the top edge of the guardrail
system and the walking/working surface
when there is no wall or parapet wall at least
21 inches (53 cm) high.
(i) Midrails, when used, shall be installed
at a height midway between the top edge of
the guardrail system and the walking/working level.
(ii) Screens and mesh, when used, shall extend from the top rail to the walking/working level and along the entire opening between top rail supports.
(iii) Intermediate members (such as balusters), when used between posts, shall be not
more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart.
(iv) Other structural members (such as additional midrails and architectural panels)
shall be installed such that there are no
openings in the guardrail system that are
more than 19 inches (.5 m) wide.
(3) Guardrail systems shall be capable of
withstanding, without failure, a force of at
least 200 pounds (890 N) applied within 2
inches (5.1 cm) of the top edge, in any outward or downward direction, at any point
along the top edge.
(4) When the 200 pound (890 N) test load
specified in paragraph (b)(3) of this section
(§ 1926.502) is applied in a downward direction, the top edge of the guardrail shall not
deflect to a height less than 39 inches (1.0 m)
above the walking/working level. Guardrail
system components selected and constructed
in accordance with the appendix B to subpart
M of this part will be deemed to meet this requirement.
(5) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate
vertical members, solid panels, and equivalent structural members shall be capable of
withstanding, without failure, a force of at
least 150 pounds (666 N) applied in any downward or outward direction at any point along
the midrail or other member.
(6) Guardrail systems shall be so surfaced
as to prevent injury to an employee from
punctures or lacerations, and to prevent
snagging of clothing.
(7) The ends of all top rails and midrails
shall not overhang the terminal posts, except where such overhang does not constitute a projection hazard.
(8) Steel banding and plastic banding shall
not be used as top rails or midrails.
(9) Top rails and midrails shall be at least
one-quarter inch (0.6 cm) nominal diameter
or thickness to prevent cuts and lacerations.
If wire rope is used for top rails, it shall be
flagged at not more than 6-foot intervals
with high-visibility material.

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Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. G

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

(10) When guardrail systems are used at
hoisting areas, a chain, gate or removable
guardrail section shall be placed across the
access opening between guardrail sections
when hoisting operations are not taking
place.
(11) When guardrail systems are used at
holes, they shall be erected on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole.
(12) When guardrail systems are used
around holes used for the passage of materials, the hole shall have not more than two
sides provided with removable guardrail sections to allow the passage of materials.
When the hole is not in use, it shall be closed
over with a cover, or a guardrail system
shall be provided along all unprotected sides
or edges.
(13) When guardrail systems are used
around holes which are used as points of access (such as ladderways), they shall be provided with a gate, or be so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the hole.

(14) Guardrail systems used on ramps and
runways shall be erected along each unprotected side or edge.
(15) Manila, plastic or synthetic rope being
used for top rails or midrails shall be inspected as frequently as necessary to ensure
that it continues to meet the strength requirements of paragraph (b)(3) of this section
(§ 1926.502).
(c) Safety net systems. Safety net systems
and their use shall comply with the following provisions:
(1) Safety nets shall be installed as close as
practicable under the walking/working surface on which employees are working, but in
no case more than 30 feet (9.1 m) below such
level. When nets are used on bridges, the potential fall area from the walking/working
surface to the net shall be unobstructed.
(2) Safety nets shall extend outward from
the outermost projection of the work surface
as follows:

Vertical distance from working level to horizontal plane of net

Minimum required horizontal distance of outer edge of net from
the edge of the working surface

Up to 5 feet ..................................................................................
More than 5 feet up to 10 feet ....................................................
More than 10 feet ........................................................................

(3) Safety nets shall be installed with sufficient clearance under them to prevent contact with the surface or structures below
when subjected to an impact force equal to
the drop test specified in paragraph (4) of
this section [§ 1926.502].
(4) Safety nets and their installations shall
be capable of absorbing an impact force
equal to that produced by the drop test specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section
[§ 1926.502].
(i) Except as provided in paragraph
(c)(4)(ii) of this section (§ 1926.502), safety
nets and safety net installations shall be
drop-tested at the jobsite after initial installation and before being used as a fall protection system, whenever relocated, after major
repair, and at 6-month intervals if left in one
place. The drop-test shall consist of a 400
pound (180 kg) bag of sand 30+ or ¥2 inches
(76+ or ¥5 cm) in diameter dropped into the
net from the highest walking/working surface at which employees are exposed to fall
hazards, but not from less than 42 inches (1.1
m) above that level.
(ii) When the employer can demonstrate
that it is unreasonable to perform the droptest required by paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this
section (§ 1926.502), the employer (or a designated competent person) shall certify that
the net and net installation is in compliance
with the provisions of paragraphs (c)(3) and
(c)(4)(i) of this section (§ 1926.502) by preparing a certification record prior to the net
being used as a fall protection system. The

8 feet
10 feet
13 feet

certification record must include an identification of the net and net installation for
which the certification record is being prepared; the date that it was determined that
the identified net and net installation were
in compliance with paragraph (c)(3) of this
section (§ 1926.502) and the signature of the
person making the determination and certification. The most recent certification
record for each net and net installation shall
be available at the jobsite for inspection.
(5) Defective nets shall not be used. Safety
nets shall be inspected at least once a week
for wear, damage, and other deterioration.
Defective components shall be removed from
service. Safety nets shall also be inspected
after any occurrence which could affect the
integrity of the safety net system.
(6) Materials, scrap pieces, equipment, and
tools which have fallen into the safety net
shall be removed as soon as possible from the
net and at least before the next work shift.
(7) The maximum size of each safety net
mesh opening shall not exceed 36 square
inches (230 cm) nor be longer than 6 inches
(15 cm) on any side, and the opening, measured center-to-center of mesh ropes or webbing, shall not be longer than 6 inches (15
cm). All mesh crossings shall be secured to
prevent enlargement of the mesh opening.
(8) Each safety net (or section of it) shall
have a border rope for webbing with a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2
kN).

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
(9) Connections between safety net panels
shall be as strong as integral net components
and shall be spaced not more than 6 inches
(15 cm) apart.
(d) ‘‘Personal fall arrest systems.’’ Personal fall arrest systems and their use shall
comply with the provisions set forth below.
Effective January 1, 1998, body belts are not
acceptable as part of a personal fall arrest
system.
NOTE: The use of a body belt in a positioning device system is acceptable and is
regulated under paragraph (e) of this section
(§ 1926.502).
(1) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed
or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials.
(2) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges
shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of the system.
(3) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall have a
minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds
(22.2 kN).
(4) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be prooftested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600
pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking,
or taking permanent deformation.
(5) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the
snaphook keeper by the connected member,
or shall be a locking type snaphook designed
and used to prevent disengagement of the
snaphook by the contact of the snaphook
keeper by the connected member. Effective
January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks
shall be used.
(6) Unless the snaphook is a locking type
and designed for the following connections,
snaphooks shall not be engaged:
(i) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope;
(ii) to each other;
(iii) to a dee-ring to which another
snaphook 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
snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object
being able to depress the snaphook keeper
and release itself.
(7) On suspended scaffolds or similar work
platforms with horizontal lifelines which
may become vertical lifelines, the devices
used to connect to a horizontal lifeline shall
be capable of locking in both directions on
the lifeline.
(8) Horizontal lifelines shall be designed,
installed, and used, under the supervision of
a qualified person, as part of a complete personal fall arrest system, which maintains a
safety factor of at least two.

Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. G

(9) Lanyards and vertical lifelines shall
have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000
pounds (22.2 kN).
(10)(i) Except as provided in paragraph
(d)(10)(ii) of this section [§ 1926.502], when
vertical lifelines are used, each employee
shall be attached to a separate lifeline.
(ii) During the construction of elevator
shafts, two employees may be attached to
the same lifeline in the hoistway, provided
both employees are working atop a false car
that is equipped with guardrails; the
strength of the lifeline is 10,000 pounds [5,000
pounds per employee attached] (44.4 kN); and
all other criteria specified in this paragraph
for lifelines have been met.
(11) Lifelines shall be protected against
being cut or abraded.
(12) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards
which automatically limit free fall distance
to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less shall be capable of
sustaining a minimum tensile load of 3,000
pounds (13.3 kN) applied to the device with
the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended
position.
(13) 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 shall be capable
of sustaining a minimum tensile load of 5,000
pounds (22.2 kN) applied to the device with
the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended
position.
(14) Ropes and straps (webbing) used in lanyards, lifelines, and strength components of
body belts and body harnesses shall be made
from synthetic fibers.
(15) Anchorages used for attachment of
personal fall arrest equipment shall be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) per
employee attached, or shall be designed, installed, and used as follows:
(i) as part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor
of at least two; and
(ii) under the supervision of a qualified
person.
(16) Personal fall arrest systems, when
stopping a fall, shall:
(i) limit maximum arresting force on an
employee to 900 pounds (4 kN) when used
with a body belt;
(ii) limit maximum arresting force on an
employee to 1,800 pounds (8 kN) when used
with a body harness;
(iii) be rigged such that an employee can
neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8 m), nor
contact any lower level;
(iv) bring an employee to a complete stop
and limit maximum deceleration distance an
employee travels to 3.5 feet (1.07 m); and,
(v) have sufficient strength to withstand
twice the potential impact energy of an employee free falling a distance of 6 feet (1.8 m),

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Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. H

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

or the free fall distance permitted by the
system, whichever is less.
NOTE: If the personal fall arrest system
meets the criteria and protocols contained in
Appendix C to subpart M, and if the system
is being used by an employee having a combined person and tool weight of less than 310
pounds (140 kg), the system will be considered to be in compliance with the provisions
of paragraph (d)(16) of this section [§ 1926.502].
If the system is used by an employee having
a combined tool and body weight of 310
pounds (140 kg) or more, then the employer
must appropriately modify the criteria and
protocols of the Appendix to provide proper
protection for such heavier weights, or the
system will not be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of paragraph
(d)(16) of this section (§ 1926.502).
(17) The attachment point of the body belt
shall be located in the center of the wearer’s
back. The attachment point of the body harness shall be located in the center of the
wearer’s back near shoulder level, or above
the wearer’s head.
(18) Body belts, harnesses, and components
shall be used only for employee protection
(as part of a personal fall arrest system or
positioning device system) and not to hoist
materials.
(19) Personal fall arrest systems and components subjected to impact loading shall be
immediately removed from service and shall
not be used again for employee protection
until inspected and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable
for reuse.
(20) The employer shall provide for prompt
rescue of employees in the event of a fall or
shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves.
(21) Personal fall arrest systems shall be
inspected prior to each use for wear, damage
and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service.
(22) Body belts shall be at least one and
five-eighths (15⁄8) inches (4.1 cm) wide.
(23) Personal fall arrest systems shall not
be attached to guardrail systems, nor shall
they be attached to hoists except as specified
in other subparts of this Part.
(24) When a personal fall arrest system is
used at hoist areas, it shall be rigged to
allow the movement of the employee only as
far as the edge of the walking/working surface.
(e) Positioning device systems. Positioning
device systems and their use shall conform
to the following provisions:
(1) Positioning devices shall be rigged such
that an employee cannot free fall more than
2 feet (.9 m).

(2) Positioning devices shall be secured to
an anchorage capable of supporting at least
twice the potential impact load of an employee’s fall or 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN), whichever is greater.
(3) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed
or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials.
(4) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges
shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of this system.
(5) Connecting assemblies shall have a
minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds
(22.2 kN)
(6) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be prooftested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600
pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking,
or taking permanent deformation.
(7) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the
snaphook keeper by the connected member,
or shall be a locking type snaphook designed
and used to prevent disengagement of the
snaphook by the contact of the snaphook
keeper by the connected member. As of January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks
shall be used.
(8) Unless the snaphook is a locking type
and designed for the following connections,
snaphooks shall not be engaged:
(i) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope;
(ii) to each other;
(iii) to a dee-ring to which another
snaphook or other connector is attached;
(iv) to a horizontal lifeline; or to depress
the snaphook keeper and release itself.
(v) to any object which is incompatibly
shaped or dimensioned in relation to the
snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object
being able to depress the snaphook keeper
and release itself.
(9) Positioning device systems shall be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage,
and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service.
(10) Body belts, harnesses, and components
shall be used only for employee protection
(as part of a personal fall arrest system or
positioning device system) and not to hoist
materials.

APPENDIX H TO SUBPART R OF PART
1926—DOUBLE CONNECTIONS: ILLUSTRATION OF A CLIPPED END CONNECTION AND A STAGGERED CONNECTION:
NON-MANDATORY GUIDELINES FOR
COMPLYING WITH § 1926.756(c)(1)

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Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. G

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

(10) When guardrail systems are used at
hoisting areas, a chain, gate or removable
guardrail section shall be placed across the
access opening between guardrail sections
when hoisting operations are not taking
place.
(11) When guardrail systems are used at
holes, they shall be erected on all unprotected sides or edges of the hole.
(12) When guardrail systems are used
around holes used for the passage of materials, the hole shall have not more than two
sides provided with removable guardrail sections to allow the passage of materials.
When the hole is not in use, it shall be closed
over with a cover, or a guardrail system
shall be provided along all unprotected sides
or edges.
(13) When guardrail systems are used
around holes which are used as points of access (such as ladderways), they shall be provided with a gate, or be so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the hole.

(14) Guardrail systems used on ramps and
runways shall be erected along each unprotected side or edge.
(15) Manila, plastic or synthetic rope being
used for top rails or midrails shall be inspected as frequently as necessary to ensure
that it continues to meet the strength requirements of paragraph (b)(3) of this section
(§ 1926.502).
(c) Safety net systems. Safety net systems
and their use shall comply with the following provisions:
(1) Safety nets shall be installed as close as
practicable under the walking/working surface on which employees are working, but in
no case more than 30 feet (9.1 m) below such
level. When nets are used on bridges, the potential fall area from the walking/working
surface to the net shall be unobstructed.
(2) Safety nets shall extend outward from
the outermost projection of the work surface
as follows:

Vertical distance from working level to horizontal plane of net

Minimum required horizontal distance of outer edge of net from
the edge of the working surface

Up to 5 feet ..................................................................................
More than 5 feet up to 10 feet ....................................................
More than 10 feet ........................................................................

(3) Safety nets shall be installed with sufficient clearance under them to prevent contact with the surface or structures below
when subjected to an impact force equal to
the drop test specified in paragraph (4) of
this section [§ 1926.502].
(4) Safety nets and their installations shall
be capable of absorbing an impact force
equal to that produced by the drop test specified in paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this section
[§ 1926.502].
(i) Except as provided in paragraph
(c)(4)(ii) of this section (§ 1926.502), safety
nets and safety net installations shall be
drop-tested at the jobsite after initial installation and before being used as a fall protection system, whenever relocated, after major
repair, and at 6-month intervals if left in one
place. The drop-test shall consist of a 400
pound (180 kg) bag of sand 30+ or ¥2 inches
(76+ or ¥5 cm) in diameter dropped into the
net from the highest walking/working surface at which employees are exposed to fall
hazards, but not from less than 42 inches (1.1
m) above that level.
(ii) When the employer can demonstrate
that it is unreasonable to perform the droptest required by paragraph (c)(4)(i) of this
section (§ 1926.502), the employer (or a designated competent person) shall certify that
the net and net installation is in compliance
with the provisions of paragraphs (c)(3) and
(c)(4)(i) of this section (§ 1926.502) by preparing a certification record prior to the net
being used as a fall protection system. The

8 feet
10 feet
13 feet

certification record must include an identification of the net and net installation for
which the certification record is being prepared; the date that it was determined that
the identified net and net installation were
in compliance with paragraph (c)(3) of this
section (§ 1926.502) and the signature of the
person making the determination and certification. The most recent certification
record for each net and net installation shall
be available at the jobsite for inspection.
(5) Defective nets shall not be used. Safety
nets shall be inspected at least once a week
for wear, damage, and other deterioration.
Defective components shall be removed from
service. Safety nets shall also be inspected
after any occurrence which could affect the
integrity of the safety net system.
(6) Materials, scrap pieces, equipment, and
tools which have fallen into the safety net
shall be removed as soon as possible from the
net and at least before the next work shift.
(7) The maximum size of each safety net
mesh opening shall not exceed 36 square
inches (230 cm) nor be longer than 6 inches
(15 cm) on any side, and the opening, measured center-to-center of mesh ropes or webbing, shall not be longer than 6 inches (15
cm). All mesh crossings shall be secured to
prevent enlargement of the mesh opening.
(8) Each safety net (or section of it) shall
have a border rope for webbing with a minimum breaking strength of 5,000 pounds (22.2
kN).

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Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor
(9) Connections between safety net panels
shall be as strong as integral net components
and shall be spaced not more than 6 inches
(15 cm) apart.
(d) ‘‘Personal fall arrest systems.’’ Personal fall arrest systems and their use shall
comply with the provisions set forth below.
Effective January 1, 1998, body belts are not
acceptable as part of a personal fall arrest
system.
NOTE: The use of a body belt in a positioning device system is acceptable and is
regulated under paragraph (e) of this section
(§ 1926.502).
(1) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed
or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials.
(2) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges
shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of the system.
(3) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall have a
minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds
(22.2 kN).
(4) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be prooftested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600
pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking,
or taking permanent deformation.
(5) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the
snaphook keeper by the connected member,
or shall be a locking type snaphook designed
and used to prevent disengagement of the
snaphook by the contact of the snaphook
keeper by the connected member. Effective
January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks
shall be used.
(6) Unless the snaphook is a locking type
and designed for the following connections,
snaphooks shall not be engaged:
(i) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope;
(ii) to each other;
(iii) to a dee-ring to which another
snaphook 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
snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object
being able to depress the snaphook keeper
and release itself.
(7) On suspended scaffolds or similar work
platforms with horizontal lifelines which
may become vertical lifelines, the devices
used to connect to a horizontal lifeline shall
be capable of locking in both directions on
the lifeline.
(8) Horizontal lifelines shall be designed,
installed, and used, under the supervision of
a qualified person, as part of a complete personal fall arrest system, which maintains a
safety factor of at least two.

Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. G

(9) Lanyards and vertical lifelines shall
have a minimum breaking strength of 5,000
pounds (22.2 kN).
(10)(i) Except as provided in paragraph
(d)(10)(ii) of this section [§ 1926.502], when
vertical lifelines are used, each employee
shall be attached to a separate lifeline.
(ii) During the construction of elevator
shafts, two employees may be attached to
the same lifeline in the hoistway, provided
both employees are working atop a false car
that is equipped with guardrails; the
strength of the lifeline is 10,000 pounds [5,000
pounds per employee attached] (44.4 kN); and
all other criteria specified in this paragraph
for lifelines have been met.
(11) Lifelines shall be protected against
being cut or abraded.
(12) Self-retracting lifelines and lanyards
which automatically limit free fall distance
to 2 feet (0.61 m) or less shall be capable of
sustaining a minimum tensile load of 3,000
pounds (13.3 kN) applied to the device with
the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended
position.
(13) 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 shall be capable
of sustaining a minimum tensile load of 5,000
pounds (22.2 kN) applied to the device with
the lifeline or lanyard in the fully extended
position.
(14) Ropes and straps (webbing) used in lanyards, lifelines, and strength components of
body belts and body harnesses shall be made
from synthetic fibers.
(15) Anchorages used for attachment of
personal fall arrest equipment shall be independent of any anchorage being used to support or suspend platforms and capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN) per
employee attached, or shall be designed, installed, and used as follows:
(i) as part of a complete personal fall arrest system which maintains a safety factor
of at least two; and
(ii) under the supervision of a qualified
person.
(16) Personal fall arrest systems, when
stopping a fall, shall:
(i) limit maximum arresting force on an
employee to 900 pounds (4 kN) when used
with a body belt;
(ii) limit maximum arresting force on an
employee to 1,800 pounds (8 kN) when used
with a body harness;
(iii) be rigged such that an employee can
neither free fall more than 6 feet (1.8 m), nor
contact any lower level;
(iv) bring an employee to a complete stop
and limit maximum deceleration distance an
employee travels to 3.5 feet (1.07 m); and,
(v) have sufficient strength to withstand
twice the potential impact energy of an employee free falling a distance of 6 feet (1.8 m),

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Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. H

29 CFR Ch. XVII (7–1–10 Edition)

or the free fall distance permitted by the
system, whichever is less.
NOTE: If the personal fall arrest system
meets the criteria and protocols contained in
Appendix C to subpart M, and if the system
is being used by an employee having a combined person and tool weight of less than 310
pounds (140 kg), the system will be considered to be in compliance with the provisions
of paragraph (d)(16) of this section [§ 1926.502].
If the system is used by an employee having
a combined tool and body weight of 310
pounds (140 kg) or more, then the employer
must appropriately modify the criteria and
protocols of the Appendix to provide proper
protection for such heavier weights, or the
system will not be deemed to be in compliance with the requirements of paragraph
(d)(16) of this section (§ 1926.502).
(17) The attachment point of the body belt
shall be located in the center of the wearer’s
back. The attachment point of the body harness shall be located in the center of the
wearer’s back near shoulder level, or above
the wearer’s head.
(18) Body belts, harnesses, and components
shall be used only for employee protection
(as part of a personal fall arrest system or
positioning device system) and not to hoist
materials.
(19) Personal fall arrest systems and components subjected to impact loading shall be
immediately removed from service and shall
not be used again for employee protection
until inspected and determined by a competent person to be undamaged and suitable
for reuse.
(20) The employer shall provide for prompt
rescue of employees in the event of a fall or
shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves.
(21) Personal fall arrest systems shall be
inspected prior to each use for wear, damage
and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service.
(22) Body belts shall be at least one and
five-eighths (15⁄8) inches (4.1 cm) wide.
(23) Personal fall arrest systems shall not
be attached to guardrail systems, nor shall
they be attached to hoists except as specified
in other subparts of this Part.
(24) When a personal fall arrest system is
used at hoist areas, it shall be rigged to
allow the movement of the employee only as
far as the edge of the walking/working surface.
(e) Positioning device systems. Positioning
device systems and their use shall conform
to the following provisions:
(1) Positioning devices shall be rigged such
that an employee cannot free fall more than
2 feet (.9 m).

(2) Positioning devices shall be secured to
an anchorage capable of supporting at least
twice the potential impact load of an employee’s fall or 3,000 pounds (13.3 kN), whichever is greater.
(3) Connectors shall be drop forged, pressed
or formed steel, or made of equivalent materials.
(4) Connectors shall have a corrosion-resistant finish, and all surfaces and edges
shall be smooth to prevent damage to interfacing parts of this system.
(5) Connecting assemblies shall have a
minimum tensile strength of 5,000 pounds
(22.2 kN)
(6) Dee-rings and snaphooks shall be prooftested to a minimum tensile load of 3,600
pounds (16 kN) without cracking, breaking,
or taking permanent deformation.
(7) Snaphooks shall be sized to be compatible with the member to which they are connected to prevent unintentional disengagement of the snaphook by depression of the
snaphook keeper by the connected member,
or shall be a locking type snaphook designed
and used to prevent disengagement of the
snaphook by the contact of the snaphook
keeper by the connected member. As of January 1, 1998, only locking type snaphooks
shall be used.
(8) Unless the snaphook is a locking type
and designed for the following connections,
snaphooks shall not be engaged:
(i) directly to webbing, rope or wire rope;
(ii) to each other;
(iii) to a dee-ring to which another
snaphook or other connector is attached;
(iv) to a horizontal lifeline; or to depress
the snaphook keeper and release itself.
(v) to any object which is incompatibly
shaped or dimensioned in relation to the
snaphook such that unintentional disengagement could occur by the connected object
being able to depress the snaphook keeper
and release itself.
(9) Positioning device systems shall be inspected prior to each use for wear, damage,
and other deterioration, and defective components shall be removed from service.
(10) Body belts, harnesses, and components
shall be used only for employee protection
(as part of a personal fall arrest system or
positioning device system) and not to hoist
materials.

APPENDIX H TO SUBPART R OF PART
1926—DOUBLE CONNECTIONS: ILLUSTRATION OF A CLIPPED END CONNECTION AND A STAGGERED CONNECTION:
NON-MANDATORY GUIDELINES FOR
COMPLYING WITH § 1926.756(c)(1)

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Clipped end connections are connection
material on the end of a structural member
which has a notch at the bottom and/or top
to allow the bolt(s) of the first member
placed on the opposite side of the central

member to remain in place. The notch(es)
fits around the nut or bolt head of the opposing member to allow the second member to
be bolted up without removing the bolt(s)
holding the first member.

Staggered connections are connection material on a structural member in which all of
the bolt holes in the common member web
are not shared by the two incoming members
in the final connection. The extra hole in the
column web allows the erector to maintain
at least a one bolt connection at all times
while making the double connection.

Subpart S—Underground Construction,
Caissons,
Cofferdams and Compressed
Air
AUTHORITY: Sec. 107, Contract Work Hours
and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 333);
secs. 4, 6, and 8 of the Occupational Safety
and Health Act of 1970 (29 U.S.C. 653, 655, 657);

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ER18JA01.025

Pt. 1926, Subpt. R, App. H

ER18JA01.024

Occupational Safety and Health Admin., Labor


File Typeapplication/pdf
File TitleDocument
SubjectExtracted Pages
AuthorU.S. Government Printing Office
File Modified2011-04-27
File Created2010-08-30

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