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Rigging for People: Safety First for Modern Lifts
Lifting people presents unique risks in rigging operations. Riggers must prioritize safety and adhere to strict regulations.
When is Personnel Lifting Justified?
OSHA regulations strictly prohibit lifting personnel unless there's absolutely no safe alternative. Conventional methods (stairs, lifts) should always be prioritized. Personnel lifting should only be considered if:
- There's no feasible or safe alternative way to transport workers.
- Conventional methods pose a greater safety risk.
- Personnel Lifting Regulations (OSHA 29 CFR 1926.550(g))
- Federal Law: Refer to Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) for relevant personnel lifting regulations (specifically 29 CFR 1926.550(g) for suspended personnel platforms).
Generally Prohibited: Riding the Load
Generally, hoisting, lowering, or swinging a load with anyone directly on it is strictly forbidden. However, there are rare exceptions:
- Boatswain's Chair with Fall Protection: One person at a time can be hoisted using a boatswain's chair (designed with a 5:1 design factor) while wearing a full-body harness. This is for strictly controlled ascents and descents with proper signaling.
Exceptional Circumstances: Personnel lifting may be allowed in specific situations like:
- Drill shafts (up to 8 feet diameter)
- Pile driving operations
- Marine worksite transfers (approved devices)
- Steel or concrete tank/shaft/chimney operations
Rigging a Safe Personnel Platform
Before lifting personnel, Riggers must perform a thorough inspection:
- Hoist ropes checked for deficiencies and untangled.
- Primary attachment precisely centered over the platform.
- Wire rope slack eliminated and properly seated on drums and sheaves.
- Hooks closed, locked to eliminate throat opening.
- Bolts, nuts, and retaining pins of shackles secured (if used).
- Mousing (wrapping wire/rope around the hook opening) is expressly prohibited.
Wire Rope Bridle Considerations:
- When a bridle connects the platform to the load line, the Rigger must ensure even load distribution among the bridle legs.
- Bridles and associated rigging used for the platform cannot be used for other purposes.
Hoisting and Environmental Considerations:
- Hoisting of the platform must be slow, controlled, and safe, with no sudden movements.
- Tag lines may be necessary to control platform movement.
- Good judgment is required regarding weather and wind conditions.
- Platforms must be on level ground or a stable base for safe entry/exit. Unlanded platforms need to be secured to the working structure.
Weight Limits and Design Factors:
- The combined weight of the loaded platform and rigging cannot exceed 50% of the rated hoisting equipment capacity.
- Personnel platforms must have a design factor of 5:1 (refer to "Understanding Rigging Design Factors" for details).
- Platforms must be designed by a qualified engineer or a person competent in structural design.
Cautionary Note: This article is limited to information of interest to Riggers regarding the safe lifting of personnel. It is not intended as a complete coverage of OSHA rules and restrictions for cranes and derricks and crane operator actions during the course of lifting personnel.