KNOWLEDGE // WEBINARS

Benefits and Provisions of New OSHA Rule

Jarkko T. Simonen, Senior Associate
54:58
 

Learn the benefits and provisions of OSHA's final rule on Walking-Working Surfaces and Personal Fall Protection Systems, now in effect. Jarkko Simonen and Cal Bearman summarize critical portions of the new rule and give an overview of local code provisions governing facade access, methods and equipment, and responsibilities of building owners and managers -- with a focus on Seattle and Portland.

A WJE Advisory: Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Rope Access Techniques
On November 17, 2016, OSHA issued a final rule updating the fall protection requirements of the General Industry Rules 29 CFR 1910, known as Subpart D, Walking-Working Surfaces. OSHA’s General Industry Rules apply to maintenance work performed on or in existing structures and facilities. The new rules cover a wide array of conditions and hazards.

Notably, effective January 17, 2017, the use of rope descent systems for maintenance activities is now restricted to locations no higher than 300 feet above ground level unless it is not feasible to access such heights by any other means or if those means pose a greater hazard than rope descent. The burden for proving that no other safe and feasible method exists rests with the entity whose employees are performing the work via rope descent.

A new WJE Advisory shares the advantages and disadvantages of using rope access techniques to access the facades of buildings based upon our project experience in this area as well as discussions with building owners and window washing contractors.

You can download and read it now.

* This webinar recording is made available for educational purposes. While we hope you will watch and learn something useful, please note that viewers aren't eligible for AIA credit.