Loading (50 kb)...'
(continued)
Exception: Outer garments of 100% wool, with a weight of at least 14 ounces per lineal yard of 54-inch width shall be considered as sufficiently flame resistant for such use.
(3) Certification. Garments shall be certified to meet the requirements of Section 3406(c)(1), flame resistance; and as defined in Section 3402.
(4) A durable label shall be permanently attached and shall include the following information:
(A) Lot Number;
(B) Name and number of specified test; and
(C) Date of specified test.
(d) Turnout coats in combination with turnout trousers, or turnout coats and protective clothing meeting the requirements of Section 3406(c) shall be worn on all structural fires. Body protection provided for other than structural fires shall be appropriate for the potential hazards.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3407. Hand and Wrist Protection.
(a) Protective gloves shall be provided for each fire fighter when exposed to the hazards of structural fire fighting activity. Such protective gloves shall be properly sized and suitable to the hazards encountered in fires and fire related emergencies.
(b) Protective gloves for fire fighters shall be made of durable outer material designed to withstand the effects of flame, heat, vapor, liquids, sharp objects and other hazards that are encountered in fire fighting.
(c) Thermal insulation for protective gloves shall be sufficient to limit the inside surface temperature of the glove material (in contact with the hand) to no more than 111 degrees F (44 degrees C) when subjected to the tests specified in subparagraphs 1, 2 and 3:
(1) Gloves shall be preconditioned in accordance with Federal Test 191, Method 5903.2.
(2) The palm of the glove shall be exposed to a conductive heat load of 932 degrees F (500 degrees C) for a period of 5 seconds at 4 psi pressure using an object made of iron with 3.14 in 2 surface area and sufficient mass to induce the pressure without assistance.
(3) The back of the glove shall be exposed to a stable 1.0 watt/cm 2 radiant heat load for a period of 1 minute.
(d) Protective glove material and pattern shall allow the dexterity of hand and finger movement, a sense of feel for objects, when handling fire fighting equipment, and a satisfactory grip when handling halyards. Gloves shall have separate finger compartments and shall have an integral wristlet not less than 4 inches in length unless other wrist protection is provided as permitted in Section 3407(e).
(1) Dexterity. Dexterity shall be evaluated using a standardized procedure known as the Bennett Dexterity Test. No more than 130% of baseline time shall be accomplished.
(2) Grip Test. Grip testing shall be evaluated with the use of a 3/8-inch diameter Manila halyard attached to a spring scale. Bare-handed lift capability shall be baseline weight. Weight pulling capacity dry shall be no less than 80% of baseline. Weight pulling capacity wet shall be no less than 70% of baseline. Gloves and halyards shall be preconditioned dry and wet prior to test.
(3) Preconditioning:
Dry -Gloves and halyards shall be preconditioned at 25 degrees C. for a period of 4 hours.
Wet -Gloves and halyards shall be thoroughly soaked by immersing in water for a minimum of 30 minutes prior to testing.
(4) Test Requirements. Gloves shall be tested dry, then water soaked as required and tested (without re-drying) within one minute after removal from the soak.
(e) Protection against burns or injury to the wrist shall be provided by one or more of the following means or other equivalent methods:
(1) A minimum 4-inch wristlet attached to the gloves.
(2) An extended wristlet of sufficient length, attached to the sleeve of the turnout coat, to completely cover the wrist area under all conditions.
(f) Fabric specified in this section shall be constructed and tested in accordance with the provisions of Section 3406, Body Protection.
(g) A durable label shall be permanently attached to each glove. Labeling may be accomplished by stamping, embossing, affixing, or other suitable method and shall include the following information:
(1) Lot Number;
(2) Reference to specified test; and
(3) Date of successful test.
Note: Authority and reference cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3408. Foot Protection.
(a) Foot protection shall be provided in accordance with Section 3385 for fire fighters while engaged in structural fire fighting activity.
(b) The use of foot protection shall be coordinated with the wearing of the protective clothing system to ensure full body protection.
(c) Turnout Boots. Fire fighter turnout boots shall meet the requirements of MIL-B-2885D (5-23-73) and amendment dated 12-31-75.
(d) In addition to the requirements of Section 3408(a), protective footwear other than turnout boots shall also provide:
(1) Slip resistant outersoles.
(2) Sole penetration as required in MIL-B2885D (1973) and amendment dated 1975 "Military Specifications for Firemen's Boots."
(3) Permanently attached, corrosion resistant midsoles.
(4) Firm ankle support in horizontal and vertical working loads.
(5) If used, corrosion resistant, lockable fasteners.
(6) Toe protection meeting the requirements of either the ANSI Z41 (1983) or (1991), classification 75, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
(7) Corrosion resistant ladder shanks.
(8) Durable outer shell materials withstanding the effects of flame, heat, sharp objects and other hazards encountered in fire fighting activities.
(e) Toe protection shall be optional for those fire fighters who are regularly engaged in structural and wildlands fire fighting activities.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3409. Respiratory Protection.
(a) Approved Equipment.
(1) Approvals. Fire fighters exposed to harmful exposure in the course of their assigned activities shall be provided with, and shall use respiratory protective devices that are approved and certified in accordance with Section 5144, and the methods and requirements specified by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) under 42 CFR part 84.
(2) Permissible Devices.
(A) Respiratory protective devices provided for and used by fire fighters in structural fire fighting activity shall be limited to those types classified as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and combination breathing apparatus of the supplied-air positive-pressure type.
(B) Closed-circuit self-contained breathing apparatus shall not be used by fire fighters except where it has been demonstrated that long duration breathing apparatus is necessary. If such breathing devices are used, quantitative fit tests providing a minimum protection factor of 5,000 shall be performed on each individual using the long duration breathing apparatus. The quantitative fit test procedures shall be available for inspection by the Division.
(b) General Requirements.
(1) Written Standard Procedures. The employer shall develop and implement comprehensive written standard operating procedures for the use, care, maintenance, and training relating to respiratory protective equipment in accordance with Section 5144 and ANSI Z88.2 (1980), "Practices for Respiratory Protection," and ANSI Z88.5 (1981), "Practices for Respiratory Protection for the Fire Service."
The operating procedures required by this subsection are exempt from the prohibition of the use of contact lenses specified in ANSI Z88.2(1980) and ANSI Z88.5(1981).
(2) When emergency conditions require the urgent multi-person use of the same facepiece, requirements of Section 5144(h) pertaining to cleaning and sanitation of the facepiece shall not apply.
(3) Operating Service Time. Respiratory protective devices provided for use by fire fighters shall have a rated service time of at least 30 minutes in accordance with the methods and requirements specified by NIOSH 42 CFR part 84.
Exception: Respiratory protective devices of less than 30 minutes rated service time shall only be used for escape, rescue and observation.
(4) Automatic Warning Signal. Respiratory protective devices provided for use by fire fighters shall be equipped with an automatic device that produces an audible signal to warn the user that the remaining service time of the unit has been reduced to 20-25%. Means shall be designed and incorporated to indicate to the user that his alarm has been activated.
(5) Buddy-Breathing. Approved self-contained breathing apparatus may be equipped with either a "buddy-breathing" device or a quick disconnect valve, even if these devices are not certified by NIOSH. If these accessories are used, they shall not cause damage to the apparatus, or obstruct the normal operation of the apparatus.
(6) Air Cylinders. Approved self-contained compressed air breathing apparatus may be used with approved cylinders from other approved self-contained compressed air breathing apparatus provided that such cylinders are of the same capacity and pressure rating. All compressed air cylinders used with self-contained breathing apparatus shall meet United States Department of Transportation (DOT) and NIOSH criteria.
(c) Positive Pressure. Except as permitted in Section 3409(a)(2)(B), all compressed air self-contained breathing apparatus used in fire fighting activity shall be of positive pressure type.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3410. Wildland Fire Fighting Requirements.
(a) Head Protection.
(1) Head protection shall be worn by fire fighters whenever they are exposed to head injury hazard. Head protection shall be provided for each fire fighter, and shall be maintained in a location of ready availability to the fire fighter.
(2) Emergency Pick-up Labor. Head protection shall be provided for emergency pick-up labor in a hazardous environment on wildland fires and shall consist of structural fire fighting helmets or industrial hard hats or military helmet liners. Helmets and liners shall meet ANSI Z89.1 (1969) standards, and may be either Type 1 or 2, any Class.
(3) Minimum Helmet Requirements. Configuration. The helmet shall conform to ANSI Z89.1 (1969) full brim (Type 1) Class D, or brimless with peak (Type 2) Class A, or structural fire helmets as specified in Section 3403. Provision shall be incorporated for attachment of accessories without shell penetration. Retention shall be provided by chin strap, nape strap or other equivalent means.
(4) Weight. Head protection, except the helmets specified in Section 3403, complete with suspension and headband, but exclusive of accessories, shall not weigh more than 20 ounces.
(5) Heat Resistance. When placed in a forced-air laboratory oven at a temperature of 300 ° F (149 ° C) for a period of five minutes, the helmet shell shall not undergo softening, melting, shrinking or other visible distortion.
(6) Labeling. Each helmet shall be durably and legibly labeled in a manner such that the label can be easily read without removing padding or any other permanent part, and shall include the following information:
Name or designation of manufacturer
Month and year of manufacture
Lot number
Model designation
(b) Eye Protection. Employees exposed to eye injury hazards shall be protected in accordance with the provisions of Section 3382.
(c) Thermal Protection of the Ears and Neck. Protection against burns on the ear and neck shall be provided by one or more of the following means, or other equivalent methods, when fire fighters engaged in wildland fire fighting are exposed to injurious heat and flame: flared neck shield attached to brim of helmet; hood, shroud or snood; high collar with throat strap. Fabric specified for this purpose shall be constructed and tested in accordance with the provisions of Section 3410(d) for body protection. Similar protection shall be provided emergency pick-up labor when exposed to injurious heat and flame.
(d) Body Protection.
(1) Clothing directly exposed to fire environment and subject to flame impingement shall meet the requirements of Section 3406(c).
(2) Emergency Pick-up Labor. Flame resistant protective shirts shall be provided as soon as reasonably possible. Heavy-duty work trousers of 100 percent cotton or 100 percent wool shall be considered as sufficiently flame resistant for the type of fire exposure normally experienced by this class of fire fighter and may be worn in lieu of other flame-resistant type clothing.
(e) Hand and Wrist Protection.
(1) Protective gloves shall be provided for each wildland fire fighter, properly sized and suitable to the hazards encountered in wildland fire fighting activities. Fire fighters shall wear protective gloves whenever exposed to a hazardous environment that may cause injury to the hand or wrist.
(A) Minimum Requirements. Protective gloves shall have a durable outer material of leather or treated fabric designed to withstand the effects of heat, flame or other hazards encountered in wildland fire fighting. Glove material and pattern shall allow dexterity of hand movement and sense of feel for objects. The exterior of the gloves shall be designed to be free of potential snags. Gloves shall be of the gunn cut pattern.
(2) Wrist protection fabric shall meet the requirements of Section 3406(c) and shall consist of either:
(A) Integral knit wristlets of not less than four inches in length, attached to the gloves and designed to protect the wrist area when the arms are extended upward and outward from the body; or
(B) Wristlets, of sufficient length to completely cover the wrist area under all conditions, attached to the sleeves of the outer garment.
(3) Emergency Pick-up Labor. Emergency pick-up labor exposed to hand injury hazard, and not equipped with gloves, shall be provided with gloves which meet these standards.
(f) Foot Protection.
(1) Protective footwear shall be worn by fire fighters while engaged in wildland fire fighting activities.
(2) Minimum Requirements. Protective footwear for fire fighters and emergency pick-up labor engaged in wildland fire fighting shall consist of heavy duty lace-type work boots with non-slip soles and heels, and shall provide firm ankle support. Leather tops shall be at least six inches in height measured from the bottom of the shoe heel.
(g) Fire Shelters. A fire shelter shall be provided and made immediately available for every fire fighter when engaged in fire fighting activities in wildlands as defined in these orders. The fire shelter shall meet or exceed U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service Specification for Forest Fire Shelter, 5100-320D.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3411. Private Fire Brigades.
(a) Scope and Application.
(1) Scope. This section contains requirements for the organization, training, and personal protective equipment of fire brigades whenever they are established by an employer.
(2) Application. The requirements of this section apply to private fire brigades, such as industrial fire departments and private or contractual type fire departments. Personal protective equipment requirements apply only to members of fire brigades performing interior structural fire fighting activities. The requirements of this section do not apply to airport crash rescue or forest fire fighting operations.
(b) Organization.
(1) Organizational Statement. The employer shall prepare and maintain a statement or written policy which establishes the existence of a fire brigade; the basic organizational structure; the type, amount, and frequency of training to be provided to fire brigade members; the expected number of members in the fire brigade; and the functions that the fire brigade is to perform at the workplace. The organizational statement shall be available for inspection by the Division of Occupational Safety and Health and by employees or their designated representatives.
(2) Personnel. The employer shall ensure that employees who are expected to do interior structural fire fighting are physically capable of performing duties which may be assigned to them during emergencies. The employer shall not permit employees with known heart disease, epilepsy, or emphysema, to participate in fire brigade emergency activities unless a physician's certificate of the employees' fitness to participate in such activities is provided. This subsection shall become effective 60 days after the effective date of this Article.
(c) Training and Education.
(1) The employer shall provide training and education for all fire brigade members commensurate with those duties and functions that fire brigade members are expected to perform. Such training and education shall be provided to fire brigade members before they perform fire brigade emergency activities. Fire brigade leaders and training instructors shall be provided with training and education which is more comprehensive than that provided to the general membership of the fire brigade.
(2) The employer shall ensure that training and education is conducted frequently enough to assure that each member of the fire brigade is able to perform the member's assigned duties and functions satisfactorily and in a safe manner so as not to endanger fire brigade members or other employees. All fire brigade members shall be provided with training at least annually. In addition, fire brigade members who are expected to perform interior structural fire fighting activity shall be provided with an education session or training at least quarterly.
(3) The quality of the training and education program for fire brigade members shall be similar to those conducted by such fire training schools as the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute; Iowa Fire Service Extension; West Virginia Fire Service Extension; Georgia Fire Academy; New York State Department, Fire Prevention and Control; Louisiana State University Firemen Training Program, or Washington State's Fire Service Training Commission for Vocational Education. (For example, for the oil refinery industry, with its unique hazards, the training and education program for those fire brigade members shall be similar to those conducted by Texas A & M University, Lamar University, University of Nevada-Reno Fire Academy, or the Delaware State Fire School.)
(4) The employer shall inform fire brigade members about special hazards such as storage and use of flammable liquids and gases, toxic chemicals, radioactive sources, and water reactive substances, to which they may be exposed during fire and other emergencies. The fire brigade members shall also be advised of any changes that occur in relation to the special hazards. The employer shall develop and make available for inspection by fire brigade members, written procedures that describe the actions to be taken in situations involving the special hazards and shall include these in the training and education program.
(d) Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment. Shall be provided by the employer at no cost to the employee in accordance with this article commensurate with the fire fighting activity involved.
(e) Respiratory Protection Devices. The employer shall provide at no cost to the employee and assure that respiratory protective devices worn by fire brigade members meet the requirements contained in Section 5144 and the requirements contained in this Article, and are certified under 42 CFR part 84.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3412. General.
(a) Scope. This Article applies to all elevated outdoor advertising structures, billboards, signboards or other such structures where employees are required to work from platforms elevated more than 7-1/2 feet above the ground or other surface, suspended scaffolds, or work from ladders that are not ground supported. Employees working on outdoor advertising structures are subject to all applicable safety orders except where they are inconsistent with the requirements of this Article.
(b) Definitions.
Poster Ladder Scaffold. A scaffold platform supported by brackets attached to the rungs of a special purpose poster ladder.
Special Purpose Poster Ladder. A Type 1 heavy-duty aluminum ladder with a hook(s) at the top of the ladder specifically designed to hook over the top edge of billboards.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3413. Ladders.
(a) All portable ladders shall be at least Type 1 heavy-duty ladders and shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections 3278 and 3279 of the General Industry Safety Orders.
(b) Portable ladders shall be tied, blocked or otherwise secured to prevent displacement.
(c) All special purpose poster ladders ordered or purchased after January 1, 1993, shall be approved, constructed of heavy duty aluminum, and equipped with a hook(s) at the top of the ladder that fits securely over the top edge of billboards.
(d) All special purpose poster ladders ordered or purchased after January 1, 1993, shall have a permanent and durable label containing the following information:
1. Manufacturer's Name;
2. Date of Manufacturer;
3. Type and/or Duty Rating;
4. Approval Certification.
(e) All special purpose poster ladders shall be inspected for defects prior to use. Defective ladders shall be repaired before use or removed from service.
(f) All special purpose poster ladders placed in service prior to January 1, 1993, shall be identified by the employer with a durable identification mark.
(g) The hooks on the special purpose poster ladders shall be of such a size that they will not interfere with the horizontal movement of the ladder.
(h) In addition to subsection (b) above, special purpose poster ladders, when used in conjunction with poster ladder scaffolds, shall be secured to prevent horizontal movement.
(i) Special purpose poster ladders used to access the fixed ladder of the billboard platform shall not be attached to the bottom rung of the fixed ladder. If a special purpose poster ladder is positioned against the platform to gain access, the ladder shall extend at least three feet above the horizontal edge of the platform.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3414. Poster Ladder Scaffolds.
(a) Poster ladder scaffolds shall only be used with special purpose poster ladders designed for such use.
(b) No more than two employees at a time shall be allowed on the platform of a poster ladder scaffold.
(c) The platform shall be at least 14 inches wide consisting of a structural plank or equivalent, free from damage that could affect its strength.
(d) The ladders that support the platform plank shall not be placed over 16 feet from center to center, and where the platform consists of a single-dressed 2-inch by 14-inch plank, the spacing shall not be greater than 12 feet.
(e) Both metal and wood platform planks shall overlap the bearing surface of the supports by at least 12 inches but not more than 18 inches.
(f) Platform plank supports shall be so designed and constructed that they will bear on the ladder's rungs. The bearing area shall be at least 8 inches on each rung.
(g) When working from a poster ladder scaffold, employees shall use safety belts or harnesses with lanyards attached to independently anchored safety lines.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3415. Suspended Scaffolds.
Suspended scaffolds shall comply with the applicable provisions of Article 23 of the Construction Safety Orders.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3416. Fall Protection.
(a) All outdoor advertising structure platforms, over 7-1/2 feet above ground or other surface, which are not provided with standard guardrails and where employees' work requires horizontal movement, shall be provided with a horizontal safety line.
Exception: When the employee's safety belt or harness lanyard is secured to the special purpose poster ladder.
(b) The horizontal safety line shall be designed under the supervision of a professional engineer currently registered in the State of California and installed as part of a complete personal fall protection system, with a safety factor of at least two.
(c) Outdoor advertising structures, where employees post billboards while working from special purpose poster ladders, shall be provided with one of the following:
(1) A removable horizontal safety line so located on the billboard that employees can attach their safety belt's or harness' lanyard when working from the upper half of the ladder, or
(2) A 1/4-inch improved plow steel cable 19 inches in length with 4-inch swagged loops on each end. The steel cable shall be looped through the special purpose hooked ladder with the lanyard's snaphook attached to both loops of the cable. Other locking connectors of equivalent strength, such as caribiners, may be used in lieu of the 1/4-inch improved plow steel cable.
(d) Lanyards shall not exceed 5 feet in length.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3420. Scope and Definition.
(a) Scope. This standard applies to work performed and equipment used in tree maintenance and removal.
Note: Line clearance tree trimming operations shall be performed in accordance with the provisions of Article 38 of the High-Voltage Electrical Safety Orders, Title 8, California Code of Regulations..
(b) Definition.
Qualified Tree Worker. An employee who, through related training and on-the-job experience, has demonstrated familiarity with the techniques and hazards of tree maintenance, removal, and the equipment used in the specific operations involved.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3421. General.
(a) An accident prevention program shall be inaugurated and maintained in accordance with Section 3203.
(b) Each work location where tree trimming, tree repairing or removal is to be done, shall be under the direction of a qualified tree worker.
(c) Employees shall be trained and instructed in the hazards involved in their job assignments, including the proper use of all equipment utilized in tree work, maintenance or removal operations. Such training shall be documented by the employer to certify that the employee has satisfactorily completed the training program prior to performing the job assignment.
(d) A job briefing shall be conducted by a qualified tree worker before each work assignment is begun. Such job briefing shall include the description of the hazards unique to a specific job, appropriate work procedures to be followed, work assignment and other items to ensure that the work can be accomplished safely.
(e) Prior to use, all equipment and safety devices shall be inspected and any found to be defective shall be immediately repaired or removed from service.
(f) Employees shall be trained in the identification and preventive measures relating to common poisonous plants and harmful animals.
(g) An adequate supply of potable water shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 3363.
(h) Where vehicular or pedestrian traffic may endanger employees, traffic control shall be provided that conforms to the applicable provisions of Article 11 of the Construction Safety Orders, Title 8, California Code of Regulations.
(i) Internal combustion engine fuel tanks shall be refilled in accordance with Section 3319.
(j) The employer shall establish rescue procedures and provide training in first-aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and aerial rescue. First-aid and CPR training shall be performed by a certified instructor.
(k) When employees are required to work in areas in which the noise levels exceed the allowable standards for occupational noise, the employer shall provide hearing protection and training as required in Article 105 of the General Industry Safety Orders.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3422. Tree Workers' Saddles.
Tree workers' saddles shall be approved for their intended use as defined in Section 3206 of these orders.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3423. Electrical Hazards, General.
(a) Employees engaged in tree maintenance and removal in proximity to electrical equipment and conductors, shall be instructed to consider all such equipment to be energized with potentially fatal voltages, never to be touched (contacted) either directly or indirectly. Except as permitted in Section 3423(b), employees shall not be permitted to work closer than 6 feet to electrical equipment and conductors energized in excess of 600 volts.
(b) Work performed as described in Section 3423(a) shall be in accordance with Article 38 of the High-Voltage Electrical Safety Orders, Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3424. Mobile Equipment.
(a) General.
(1) All vehicles and equipment shall be equipped and operated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, applicable safety orders of Title 8, California Administrative Code, and these orders.
(b) Aerial Devices.
(1) All aerial devices used for operations within the scope of this standard shall be in accordance with Article 24 of the General Industry Safety Orders and as modified by these orders.
(2) Placement of an employee in a tree with the aid of an aerial device shall be accomplished in the following manner:
(A) Prior to leaving the basket for entry into the tree, employees shall be safety secured to the tree before removing the safety line attached to the basket. The procedure shall be reversed when entering the basket from a tree.
(c) Brush Chippers.
(1) Each rotary drum tree or brush chipper or disk-type tree or brush chipper not equipped with a mechanical infeed system shall be equipped with an infeed hopper not less than 85 inches, measured from the blades or knives to ground level over the centerline of the hopper, and shall have sufficient height on its side members so as to prevent personnel from contacting the blades or knives of the machine during normal operations.
(2) Each rotary drum tree or brush chipper or disk-type tree or brush chipper not equipped with a mechanical infeed system shall have a flexible anti-kickback device installed in the infeed hopper for the purpose of protecting the operator and other persons in the machine area from the hazards of flying chips and debris.
(3) All brush chippers shall be equipped with a locking device on the ignition system to prevent unauthorized starting of the equipment.
(4) Trailer chippers detached from trucks shall be chocked or otherwise secured.
(5) Cutting bar and blades shall be kept sharp, properly adjusted and otherwise maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
(6) Each disk-type tree or brush chipper equipped with a mechanical infeed system shall have a quick stop and reversing device on the infeed. The activating lever for the quick stop and reversing device shall be located across the top, along each side of, and as close to the feed end of the infeed hopper as practicable and within easy reach of the operator.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3425. Portable Power Hand Tools.
(a) Gasoline Engine Power Saws.
(1) Power saws weighing more than twenty pounds (service weight) that are used in trees shall be supported by a separate line, except when working from an aerial-lift device or during topping or removing operations.
(2) All power saws shall be equipped with a constant pressure control that will return the saw to idling speed when released.
(3) Power saws shall be so adjusted that the chain drive will not engage at idling speed.
(b) Backpack Power Units (Pruning, Clearing, Etc.).
(1) While the unit is running, no one shall be permitted within 10 feet of the cutting head of the brush saw, except the operator.
(2) The power unit shall be equipped with a quick shutoff switch readily accessible to the operator.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3426. Hand Tools.
(a) General.
(1) Hand tools shall be in accordance with Section 3556.
(b) Pruners and Saws.
(1) Pole pruners, pole saws, and other similar tools shall be equipped with nonconducting poles and actuating cords.
(c) Ropes.
(1) Climbing ropes shall be used when working aloft in trees. These ropes shall have a minimum diameter of 1/2-inch and shall be 3 or 4 strand, first-grade manila, with a nominal breaking strength of 2,300 pounds, or its equivalent in strength and durability.
(2) Polypropylene or other synthetic ropes having similar low melting points shall not be used.
(3) Climbing ropes shall not be used to lower limbs or other parts of trees.
(d) Climber Spurs.
(1) Climber spurs shall be of the tree-climbing type and shall have gaffs of the type and length suitable for the tree being climbed.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3427. Safe Work Procedures.
(a) Climbing and Access.
(1) Prior to climbing the tree, the employer shall ensure that the tree is visually inspected by a qualified tree worker who shall determine and ensure a safe method of entry into the tree. The location of all electrical conductors and equipment within the work area shall be identified in relation to the work being performed.
(A) Only when a tree cannot be safely accessed by climbing or the use of aerial devices, a qualified tree worker may be hoisted into position by using an approved tree worker's saddle secured to a crane's hook that shall be closed with a positive locking device. The tree worker's saddle shall also be secured to an independent line attached above the crane hook, and the following criteria shall be met:
1. All climbing equipment, lines and rigging shall have a minimum breaking strength of at least 5,000 pounds.
2. The crane boom and load line shall be moved in a slow, controlled, cautious manner with no sudden movements when the qualified tree worker is attached to the crane.
3. The requirements for hoisting employees by crane in a personnel platform contained in Sections 5004(d)(2), (4), (5), (6), and 5004(e) shall apply to the hoisting of a qualified tree worker suspended in an approved tree worker saddle.
4. Cranes used for tree work shall be equipped with a functional load indicating device.
5. The crane operator shall be familiar with the potential hazards and operational techniques encountered in tree work.
6. The qualified tree worker being hoisted shall be in continuous communication with the crane operator, or signals shall be relayed by a qualified signal person as provided in Section 5001.
7. The crane operator shall remain at the controls when the qualified tree worker is attached to the crane.
8. The qualified tree worker shall be detached from the crane while the load is hoisted.
9. The employer shall ensure that the crane operator and qualified tree worker determine the weight of the load being lifted to prevent the crane from being overloaded.
10. The hoisting of a qualified tree worker shall be promptly discontinued upon indication of any dangerous weather conditions or other impending danger. NOTE:1. Other applicable provisions pertaining to crane operations are contained in the General Industry Safety Orders, Group 13, Cranes and Other Hoisting Equipment. NOTE:2. For line clearance tree trimming operations, see Article 38 of the High Voltage Electrical Safety Orders.
(B) Special Training Requirements. The employer shall ensure that every qualified tree worker involved in tree work utilizing a crane to position personnel into a tree under the provisions of Section 3427(a)(1)(A), receives instruction and training on such work and is competent in the following areas:
1. Safe work procedures and knowledge of the hazards applicable to tree work involving the use of cranes.
2. The use of personal protective equipment required for tree work.
3. The inspection and safe use of all climbing equipment, lines and rigging.
4. Crane signals and communication requirements with the crane operator as provided in Section 5001.
5. Instructions regarding electrical hazards as described in Section 3423.
6. The safe use of chain saws in tree work.
7. The conditions and criteria necessary to permit the use of a crane to provide access into a tree.
8. The handling of loads as described in Section 4999 and rigging techniques for tree work.
9. Effective means for controlling pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
(C) Documentation of employee training required by Section 3427(a)(1)(B) shall be maintained as prescribed by Section 3203 of these Orders.
(2) The climbing line must be crotched as soon as practicable after the employee is aloft, and a taut line-hitch tied and checked.
(3) The climbing rope shall be passed around the main leader or a major upright branch of the tree as high as necessary using branches with a wide crotch to prevent any binding of the safety rope. The crotch selected for tying-in shall be over the work area as nearly as possible, but located in such a way that a slip or fall would not permit the employee to come in contact with any electrical conductor, equipment or other hazard. The rope shall be passed around the main leader or an upright branch, using a limb as a stop. Feet, hands, and ropes should, where possible, be kept out of tight-V-shaped crotches.
(4) When working aloft, employees shall be required to wear tree workers' saddles and tie-in with an approved safety strap or rope.
(5) Employees shall remain tied in until the work is completed and they have returned to the ground, unless it is necessary to recrotch.
(b) Pruning and Trimming.
(1) Employees shall be instructed to give an audible warning before a limb is dropped. "Timber," "headache" or "heads up" can be used for this purpose.
(2) A separate line shall be attached to limbs which cannot be dropped or are too heavy to be controlled by hand. The use of the same crotch for both safety rope and work rope shall be avoided.
(3) Cut branches (hangers) shall be removed from the tree prior to leaving the job site.
(4) With the exception of minor tree trimming, at operations involving tree maintenance or removal, a second employee shall be used at each work location to render immediate assistance.
(c) Felling.
(1) The work area shall be cleared to permit safe working conditions, and an escape route shall be planned before any cutting is started.
(2) A notch and backcut shall be used in felling trees over 10 inches in diameter.
(3) Just before the tree is ready to fall, an audible warning shall be given to those in the area. All personnel in the vicinity shall be safely out of range.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3428. Operating Rules.
(a) Every employer engaged in tree work shall have and employees shall be instructed in a set of operating rules, including but not limited to, the appropriate rules below:
(1) All equipment shall be operated by qualified personnel.
(2) No part of the body shall be used to locate or attempt to stop a hydraulic leak.
(3) Rotary drum or disk-type brush chippers shall be fed from the side of the center line, and the operator shall immediately turn away from the feed table when the brush is taken into the rotor.
(4) Employees shall never place hands, arms, feet, legs, or any other part of the body on the feed table when the brush chipper is in operation or the rotor is turning.
(5) The brush chipper chute shall not be raised while rotor is turning.
(6) Material such as stones, nails, sweepings, etc., shall not be fed into the brush chipper.
(7) Vehicles shall not be operated at speeds which will endanger the driver or workers.
(8) Power saw engines shall be stopped when carrying for a distance greater than 100 feet, or in hazardous conditions such as slippery surfaces or heavy underbrush. Saw shall be at idle speed when carried short distances.
(9) The engine shall be stopped for all cleaning, refueling, adjustments, and repairs to the saw or engine where practical, except where manufacturer's procedures require otherwise.
(10) When using back power units for pruning or clearing, the operator shall heed the position of all personnel while the unit is running.
(11) Tree workers shall not carry tools in their hands while climbing.
(12) Employees shall maintain a safe working distance from other employees when using hand tools.
(13) Employees shall not throw or drop tools from trees unless warning has been given and the ground area is clear, and the act of dropping will not endanger personnel.
(14) Pole pruners and pole saws shall be hung securely in a vertical position to prevent dislodging. Pole pruners or pole saws shall not be hung on utility wires or cables, or left in the tree overnight. Pole saws shall be hung so that the sharp edge is away from the employee.
(15) Climbers shall inspect the ropes for cuts or abrasions before starting work. If any cuts or serious abrasions are found, the rope shall be immediately repaired or removed from service.
(16) Chopping tools shall be swung away from the feet, legs, and body.
(17) Chopping tools shall not be driven as wedges or used to drive metal wedges.
(18) The employee shall work from the uphill side whenever possible when doing limbing or bucking.
(19) The employee shall block the log to prevent rolling, when necessary.
(20) When bucking up trunks of trees, wedges shall be used so that the tree will not bind the guide bar or chain.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Appendix A
Tree Workers' Saddles, Safety Belts, Safety Straps And Lanyards
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3436. Application.
The orders in this article shall apply to agricultural operations. Agricultural machinery and equipment are subject to all applicable Safety Orders except where they are inconsistent with the orders in this article.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3437. Definitions.
Agricultural Equipment. Tractors or implements, including self-propelled implements, and stationary equipment which are used in agricultural operations.
Agricultural Operations. All operations necessary to farming in all of its branches, including maintenance of machinery or other facilities, and the planting, cultivating or growing, keeping for sale, harvesting, transporting on the farm or to the place of first processing, any tree, plant, animal, fowl, fish, insect or products thereof.
Frond. As used in Section 3458, the large connected leaf of a date palm tree.
Ground Driven Components. Components which are powered by the turning motion of a wheel driven by ground contact as the equipment travels over the ground.
Guard or Shield. See Article 37, Section 3941.
Guarded by Location. See Article 37, Section 3941.
Long-handled hand tool. Any hand-held tool with a handle of four (4) feet or more in length.
Nip Point. The mesh or pinch point of in-running surfaces such as gears, belts, sprockets, rolls, etc.
Power Take-Off (PTO) Drivelines. The shafts and universal joints between the tractor, or other power source, and the first gear set, pulley, or sprocket. Power Take-Off (PTO) Shaft. The power output shaft protruding from the drive unit of the agricultural equipment.
Self-Propelled Agricultural Equipment. Mobile equipment which is provided with locomotive power as an integral part of the unit.
Short-handled hand tool. Any hand-held tool with a handle of less than four (4) feet in length.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3438. Communications.
Where employees do not understand English, safety instructions and warnings shall be presented in a language the employees understand.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3439. First-Aid Kit.
(a) There shall be adequate first-aid materials immediately available at the farm headquarters and/or on worker transportation buses. Such materials shall be kept in a sanitary and usable condition. A frequent inspection shall be made of all first-aid materials, which shall be replenished as necessary. In the case of employers whose workers are widely scattered in small crews that are contacted by a traveling foreman, adequate protection may be accomplished by having a first-aid kit in the foreman's car or vehicle.
(b) At remote locations, provisions must be made in advance for prompt medical attention in case of serious injuries. This may be accomplished by on-the-site facilities or proper equipment for prompt transportation of the injured person to a physician or communication system for contacting a doctor or combinations of these that will avoid unnecessary delay in treatment. There shall be at least 1 employee for every 20 employees at any remote location with training for the administering of emergency first aid.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3440. Agricultural Equipment.
(a) All tractors shall be equipped with fenders or equivalent protection between the tractor operator and the tracks or rear wheels. On wheel tractors a minimum distance of 64 inches from the centerline of one driving wheel to the centerline of the opposite wheel will be considered equivalent protection. See Article 25 for ROPS and overhead protection.
(b) Tractor brake-locking or parking device shall be of the positive type, designed and maintained in such a manner that tractor vibration will not release the device.
(c) Power Take-Off Guarding.
(1) All PTO shafts shall be guarded. If the guard can be used as a step it shall be capable of supporting a 250 pound person.
Exception: Where PTO driven equipment is of a design requiring removal of the PTO shaft guard, the driven equipment shall incorporate guarding of the PTO shaft.
(2) PTO drivelines shall be guarded.
(3) Signs, decals, etc., shall be placed at prominent locations on agricultural equipment specifying that power drive system guards shall be kept in place.
(d) Other Power Transmission Components.
(1) The mesh or nip-point of all power driven gears, belts, chains, sheaves, pulleys, sprockets, and idlers shall be guarded.
(2) All revolving shafts, including projections such as bolts, keys or set screws, shall be guarded, except smooth shaft ends protruding less than one-half the outside diameter of the shaft and its locking means.
(e) Ground driven components shall be guarded if any employee is exposed to those components while they are in motion.
(f) Access to Moving Parts.
(1) Guards, shields, and access doors shall be in place when the equipment is in operation.
(2) Where removal of a guard or access door will expose an employee to any component which continues to rotate after the power is disengaged, the employer shall provide, in the immediate area, the following:
(A) A readily visible or audible warning of rotation (on all agricultural equipment manufactured after June 1, 1977).
(B) A safety sign warning the employee to look and listen for evidence of rotation, and not to remove the guard or access door until all components have stopped.
(g) Functional components of agricultural equipment not specifically addressed in this article, such as snapping or husking rolls, straw spreaders, cutter bars, flail rotors, rotary beaters, mixing augers, feed rolls, rotary tillers, and similar units, which must be exposed for proper function, shall be guarded so as not to interfere with normal functioning of the component.
(h) Sweep arm material gathering mechanisms shall be guarded when used on the top surface of materials within silo structures. The lower or leading edge of the guard shall be located no more than 12 inches above the material surface and no less than six inches in front of the leading edge of the rotating member of the gathering mechanism.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 3441. Operation of Agricultural Equipment.
(a) Operating Instructions and Safe Work Practices.
(1) At the time of initial assignment and at least annually thereafter, the employer shall instruct every employee in the safe operation and servicing of all equipment with which the employee is, or will be involved including, instruction on the safe work practices and operating rules provided in subsection (a)(2).
(2) Agricultural equipment shall be operated in accordance with the following safe work practices and operating rules: (continued)