Subpart N—Materials Handling and Storage

Servicing of Multi-Piece and Single-Piece Rim Wheels—1910.177(c)(l)(i)-(iii)  

176 Materials Handling and Storage 1910.178 Powered Industrial Trucks 1910.184 Slings 

In lifting the various materials and supplies, a number of standard chokers, slings, bridle hitches, and basket hitches can be used. Because loads vary in physical dimension, shape, and weight, the rigger needs to know what method of attachment can be safely used. It is estimated that 15% to 35% of crane accidents may involve improper rigging. The employer needs to train those employees who are responsible for rigging loads. 

Angle of loading—The inclination of a leg or branch of a sling measured from the horizontal or vertical plane. 

Basket hitch— A sling configuration whereby the sling is passed under the load and has both ends, end attachments, eyes, or handles on the hook or a single master link. 

Bridle wire rope sling— A wire rope formed by plaiting component wire ropes. 

Subpart N provides provisions for cranes, derricks, hoists, helicopters, conveyors, and aerial lifts. This subpart delimits many common safety requirements for material-handling equipment and reinforces the need to follow the manufacturer s requirements regarding load capacities, speed limits, special hazards, and unique equipment characteristics. A competent person must inspect all cranes and derricks before daily use and a thorough inspection must be accomplished annually by an OSHA-recognized qualified person. A record must be maintained of that inspection for each piece of hoisting eqnipment. 

The indnstrial tracks section covers the classifications of trucks and designated areas where a truck can be used. It also describes the required inspections and maintenance actions for those vehicles. Safe operation procedures are also covered in this section. 

This subpart applies to the use of helicopters for lifting purposes. Helicopters must comply with the Federal Aviation Administration regulations. The pilot of the helicopter has the primary responsibility for the load s weight, size, and rigging. Static charge must be eliminated before workers touch the load. Visibility is critical to the pilot in maintaining visual contact with ground crew members so that constant communications can be maintained. 

All hoists are to comply with the manufacturer s specifications. If these do not exist, then as with cranes and derricks, the limitations are based on the determination of a professional engineer. In the operation of a hoist there should be a signaling system, a specified fine speed, and a sign stating No Riders. Permanently enclosed hoist cars are to be used to hoist personnel and these cars must be able to stop at any time using safety breaks or a similar system. All hoists are to be tested, inspected, and maintained on an ongoing basis and at least every 3 months. In addition, requirements exist in this subpart for base-mounted drum hoists and overhead hoists. 

The servicing of single- and multipiece rims is also covered in this subpart. 

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Subpart M. Compressed Gas and Compressed Air Equipment Subpart N. Materials Handling and Storage... 

OSHA 29 CFR Subpart N - Materials Handling and Storage, 1910.178 describes methods to use for compliance with powered industrial lift truck operations, maintenance, inspection and training. 

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