OSHA has revised its rules for Cranes and Derricks in construction to update and specify industry work practices necessary to protect employees during the use of the equipment.
The new rules are effective November 8, 2010. Some sections, such as certification of crane operators in states and municipalities without licensing requirements, will be phased in over a 4-year period. Crane operator training in states without licensing rules must be provided by the rule's effective date.
Common causes of injuries associated with crane operations addressed in the new rules are struck by load, electrocution, crushing during assembly/disassembly, failure of boom, crane tip-over, struck by cab/counterweight, and falls. The new rules are designed to reduce or eliminated these hazards.