FAQs

An OSHA code is a regulation and is enforceable. ANSI and other Standards are voluntary unless recognized and cited directly by OSHA.

OSHA Codes vs ANSI Standards

A davit is defined by OSHA as a device, used singly or in pairs, for suspending a powered platform from work, storage and rigging locations on the building being serviced. Unlike outriggers, a davit reacts its operating load into a single roof socket or carriage attachment.

OSHA Subpart F, 1910.66(f)(3)(iii)

CAL OSHA Title 8, Section 3291(c)

ASME A120’s-2014 Definition

There are a few variations of a Tie-back:

OSHA’s Definition: Tieback means an attachment between an anchorage (e.g., structural member) and a supporting device (e.g., parapet clamp or cornice hook).

ASME A120’s-2014 Definition: a building structure point of attachment used for securing any required tie-back ropes of transported and/or portable support equipment.

ANSI/IWCA I-14.1-2001 Definition: see anchorage.

VS. Anchorage:

OSHA’s Definition: Anchorage means a secure point of attachment for equipment such as lifelines, lanyards, deceleration devices, and rope descent systems.

ASME A120’s-2014 Definition: a secure point of attachment for personal fall arrest lifelines, lanyards, or deceleration devices, and that is independent of the means of supporting or sus-pending the user.

ANSI/IWCA I-14.1-2001 Definition: a secure point of attachment. Refer to section 3.9.

“Building Maintenance” means operations such as window cleaning, caulking, metal polishing, re-glazing, and general maintenance on building structures.

Yes, with our full Turnkey services, we are able to evaluate an existing system and provide the missing pieces to bring the building into compliance. Part of our process is to tell the entire story of the project so that there is no missing information on what is installed on your building and what the intent of that system is.

The building must be in compliance with OSHA regulations for Exterior Building Maintenance (including permanent window washing equipment) in order to receive an OPOS (Operating Procedures Outline Sheet).

An OPOS establishes safe window cleaning and exterior maintenance procedures for buildings and structures.

Issuance of the OPOS requires that all equipment and procedures described in The OPOS are in place and working. The issuance can be delayed where OSHA approvals or rule clarifications are not immediately forthcoming, where there is missing equipment that must be replaced, or modifications have been made or are required to the existing system to assure full compliance with regulations.

There may be unknown hazardous exposures where installing equipment may reduce that exposure. Some states OSHA regulations require installing some type of equipment at a minimum for preventative measures.

You may not need to install permanent rooftop equipment. Depending upon building height, features of the building, aspects of the perimeter of the building, obstructions for accessing the exterior, the strengths of the structure and surrounding structures, climatic conditions, etc, alternative solutions may be available. However, consideration should still be given to evaluating all conditions of your building to determine if there are any safety hazards with the desired means of access.

In California however, it is a requirement to install tie-back anchors at a minimum. Title 8, Article 6, Section 3291(f)

No. “The entire group of standards were not adopted, but in general, provisions made to Subpart D-Walking and Working Surfaces and Subpart I – Personal Protective Equipment (Fall Protection) mirror those contained in IWCA I-14.1- 2001, however, OSHA does not cite for violations of ANSI standards that have not been adopted as OSHA standards, but ANSI or other industry standards are sometimes referred to in citations and used as evidence of hazard recognition or feasible abatement means.”

Standard Interpretation

Purchasing the support equipment for a specific building or structure, not only the equipment permanently connected to the building, but also the portable equipment, reduces liability exposure by ensuring that only the portable equipment designed to be used with the permanent equipment is utilized, reducing the chances of non-compatibility and failure of the equipment.

Per OSHA: OSH Act, Section 5(a)(1) (a) Each employer

(1) shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees;

(2) shall comply with occupational safety and health standards promulgated under this Act;

Per CAL OSHA: Labor Code Section 7329 Every person owning or entitled to possession, under any lease, sublease, or agreement for a longer period than one year, or under any renewal lease, sublease, or agreement for a period of less than one year, of any building heretofore constructed shall, within six months following the effective date of this chapter, install and provide the safety devices as provided for in this chapter, and thereafter maintain such safety devices in good condition. Any person failing to install or provide and maintain said safety devices as provided for in this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Labor Code Section 7330. Every person who fails to provide the safety devices as set forth in this chapter upon any building hereafter to be constructed, and who thereafter fails to maintain such devices in good condition, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. Labor Code 6405. No employer, owner, or lessee of any real property shall construct or cause to be constructed any place of employment that is not safe and healthful.

Cal OSHA has restricted Lag Screws for Exterior Building Maintenance Equipment installations.

Title 8, Section 3282(h)