July 31, 2002—In response to industry representatives as well as changes in technology and work processes, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced the first step in updating its construction safety standards for cranes and derricks through the Negotiated Rulemaking Process. The existing rule (29 CFR 1926.550) dates back to 1971, and was based in part on industry consensus standards from 1967 to 1969.
OSHA expects that a range of issues will be considered, including work zone control; crane operations near power lines; qualifications of individuals who operate, maintain, repair, and assemble cranes and derricks; and requirements for fail-safe operation, warnings, and other safety-related devices and technologies.
With publication of its intent to enter into negotiated rulemaking in the Federal Register, OSHA outlines the basic procedures involved in forming a negotiated rulemaking advisory committee to develop a draft proposed rule, identifies the stakeholders who may be affected, solicits nominations for committee members, and ask for public comments regarding any aspect of the negotiated rulemaking process. Comments will be accepted for 60 days following the Federal Register notice.
