OSHA 1926.1425: keeping workers clear of suspended loads
Under 29 CFR 1926.1425, hoisting routes that minimize workers’ exposure to hoisted loads must be used where available, and while a load is suspended and not moving, no employee may be in the fall zone except those hooking, unhooking or guiding the load, making the initial attachment, or operating the equipment.
Official text
(a) Where available, hoisting routes that minimize the exposure of employees to hoisted loads must be used, to the extent consistent with public safety.Read the full section on eCFR
(b) While the operator is not moving a suspended load, no employee must be within the fall zone, except for employees: (1) Engaged in hooking, unhooking or guiding a load; (2) Engaged in the initial attachment of the load to a component or structure; or (3) Operating a concrete hopper or concrete bucket.Read the full section on eCFR
What it requires, in plain English
- Where available, use hoisting routes that minimize workers’ exposure to hoisted loads, consistent with public safety (1926.1425(a)).
- While the operator is not moving a suspended load, only workers hooking, unhooking or guiding it, making the initial attachment, or operating the equipment may be in the fall zone (1926.1425(b)).
- Additional conditions apply when employees are in the fall zone during a lift, under 1926.1425(c).
Where it shows up on site
- Laborers walking under a load to save a few steps
- No barricade or spotter along the load path
- Tag lines too short, pulling workers under the load
Verify on site before you call it
A photo rarely shows every fact a standard depends on. Confirm these in person before treating the condition as a violation:
- Was the worker part of the lifting crew or a passerby?
- Was the worker engaged in initial connection of steel or hooking/unhooking the load?
- Were routes for suspended loads pre-planned to prevent employees from working below?
- What is the exact height of the suspended load above the worker?
Typical corrective actions
- Stop the lift and move the worker out from under the suspended load until the load is landed or the route is clear.
- Re-plan the load route and establish barricades or a spotter to keep personnel clear of the suspended load path.
- Have a competent person verify the revised lift plan and exclusion zone before hoisting resumes.
Related standards
This guide summarizes federal OSHA construction standards for general information. It is not legal advice. States with their own OSHA-approved plans may set different or additional requirements; see federal and state coverage.