Four-worker limit for crane-suspended work platforms

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

September 24, 1987
Roger K. Bailey, Project Manager
Dillingham-Heally-Grow-Dew, J.V.
Milwaukee Crosstown Intercepter Project
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Bailey:
This is in response to your letter of August 24, requesting a variance from the requirements of STD 1-11.2B(F)(2)(d)(1). Your letter was forwarded to this office from the Office of Variance Determination for our evaluation.
As you indicated in your letter, cranes may be used to hoist and suspend employees on a work platform or to provide access and egress in unique work situations when such action results in the least hazardous exposure to employees. However, paragraph (F)(2)(d)(1) as you noted in your letter limits the number of employees to be hoisted to four.
The fact that your mancages are designed with a safety factor of four, and tested at twice the maximum load at which they will be utilized, and are of a physical size adequate to handle the number of employees on your crew, it does not ensure that there is a safety level equal to what would exist if the standard is met. It is our intent to limit the number of employees exposed in this type of unique situation to a minimum and in no case shall the number exceed four. We do not agree with your position that the safety of your employees will be guaranteed because the design size and strength of your cages will be bases on carrying that many people.
If we may be of further assistance, please contact us.
Sincerely,
Thomas J. Shepich, Director
Directorate of Compliance Programs