Rigging Safety Requirements Under OSHA 1926.251 for NJ Contractors
Before a load moves, check the rigging equipment, the load and how the crew will handle it. OSHA’s material-handling rigging requirements are a useful place to start.
OSHA’s construction rigging requirements are in 29 CFR 1926.251. The standard covers slings and other rigging equipment used to move materials by hoisting. Check the provisions for the equipment selected for the lift.
Daily sling inspections
29 CFR 1926.251 requires rigging equipment to be inspected before use on each shift and as needed during use. Slings, fastenings and attachments must be checked for damage or defects by a competent person designated by the employer each day before use. Additional sling inspections are needed during use where service conditions warrant. Damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service. The standard does not set one annual inspection interval for every sling type.
Safe Working Load Limits and Load Markings
Rigging equipment must have legible manufacturer identification showing its recommended safe working load. Do not use equipment without the required markings or load it beyond its marked rating. Account for the hitch and sling angle using the manufacturer’s capacity information; do not estimate a pick by eye.
Removing Defective Rigging From Service
Remove damaged or defective rigging from service. Use the manufacturer’s inspection criteria for the equipment, and protect slings from sharp edges or other conditions that could damage them. Do not shorten or repair rigging with makeshift methods.
Storage and Housekeeping for Rigging Equipment
When rigging is not in use, remove it from the immediate work area so it does not create a hazard. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for storage and care.
Before the load moves, check:
- A competent person designated by the employer checks slings, fastenings and attachments before each day’s use.
- The rigging has legible identification and the manufacturer’s recommended safe working load.
- Any additional inspection or recordkeeping intervals required by the manufacturer, employer or project are identified.
- The crew knows how defective rigging is removed from service and replaced.
- Unused rigging is kept out of the immediate work area and stored as the manufacturer directs.
- For a multi-leg or angled pick, the load and rigging configuration are checked by someone qualified for the task.
Before a lift, check the equipment’s condition and markings against the load and planned configuration. For a contractor-prepared crane lift plan, I can provide remote review and written comments within an agreed scope. Request a free 30-minute preliminary consultation.