PERMANENT RULES
LABOR AND INDUSTRIES
Date of Adoption: August 18, 1999.
Purpose: This rule proposal was developed over a year-and-a-half effort by the Logging Advisory Committee, with members representing management, labor, equipment suppliers, other government entities, and the department. As a part of the Governor's Executive Order 97-02 on Regulatory Reform, WAC 296-54, Safety standards for logging operations, is being adopted in order to be consistent with current local industry practice and technology; reorganize the contents to make it easier to find specific requirements; rewrite for plain language; and update rules to be identical to or consistent with OSHA logging rules.
Citation of Existing Rules Affected by this Order: AMENDED SECTIONS: WAC 296-54, Safety standards for logging operations. WAC 296-54-501 Scope and application, 296-54-503 Variance, 296-54-505 Definitions applicable to this chapter, 296-54-507 Management's responsibility, 296-54-509 Employee's responsibility, 296-54-511 Personal protective equipment, 296-54-513 Safety education, training and first-aid requirements, 296-54-515 General requirements, 296-54-517 Camps, 296-54-519 Motor vehicles, 296-54-521 Transportation of crews by use of speeders and trailers, 296-54-523 Methods of crew transportation other than those specified, 296-54-527 Truck roads, 296-54-529 Falling and bucking--General, 296-54-531 Power saws and power equipment, 296-54-533 Falling and bucking--Springboards and tree jacking, 296-54-535 Tree pulling, 296-54-537 Mechanized falling, 296-54-539 Climbing equipment and passline, 296-54-541 Selection of spar, tail and intermediate trees, 296-54-543 General requirements, 296-54-545 Rigging--Wood spar trees, 296-54-547 Rigging--Tail tree, 296-54-549 Lines, straps and guyline attachments--Steel spars, 296-54-551 Yarding, loading, skidding and chipping machines--General requirements, 296-54-553 Yarding, loading and skidding machines--Mobile towers and boom-type yarding and loading machines, 296-54-555 Yarding--General requirements, 296-54-557 Yarding--Tractors, skidders and rough terrain log loaders (to include feller bunchers and tree shears), 296-54-559 Yarding--Helicopters and helicopter cranes, 296-54-561 Log loading--General requirements, 296-54-563 Log loading--Special requirements, 296-54-565 Log loading--Self-loading log trucks, 296-54-567 Motor truck log transportation--General requirements, 296-54-569 Motor truck log transportation--Brake requirements, 296-54-571 Motor truck log transportation--Trailer hitches and safety chains, 296-54-573 Motor truck log transportation--Reaches and bunks, 296-54-575 Motor truck log transportation--Stakes, stake extensions and chock blocks, 296-54-577 Motor truck log transportation--Wrappers and binders, 296-54-579 Motor truck log transportation--Miscellaneous requirements, 296-54-581 Motor truck log transportation--Steered trailers, 296-54-583 Stationary log truck trailer loading, 296-54-585 Log unloading, booms, and rafting grounds--Storage and sorting areas--General requirements, 296-54-587 Water dumps, 296-54-589 Boom and rafting grounds, 296-54-591 Boats and mechanical devices on waters, 296-54-593 Dry land sorting and storage, 296-54-595 Railroad operations, 296-54-597 Railroad maintenance--Loading or unloading, 296-54-601 Signals and signal systems, 296-54-603 Electric signal systems, 296-54-605 Radio systems used for voice communication, activation of audible signals, or equipment, 296-54-607 Radio signal systems--Specifications and test procedures, 296-54-99002 Appendix 1--Signals, 296-54-99003 Appendix 2--Sample minimum lockout/tagout procedure, and 296-54-99004 Appendix 3--Industry consensus standards.
REPEALED SECTIONS: WAC 296-54, Safety standards for logging operations. WAC 296-54-525 Railroad construction and maintenance, and 296-54-599 Truck and equipment maintenance shops.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040, and [49.17].050.
Adopted under notice filed as WSR 99-08-072 on April 5, 1999.
Changes Other than Editing from Proposed to Adopted Version: Changes to WAC 296-54, Safety standards for logging operations.
WAC 296-54-505 Definitions.
| • | Added examples to the definition of "in the clear" for clarification. |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "logging operations." |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "machine." |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "new job site." |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "long sticks." |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "swing cut." |
| • | Added a definition for "mainline train" that had been inadvertently left out of the proposal. |
| • | Added a definition for the term "should." |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "running line/running rope." |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "spar/spar tree." |
| • | Added "or D" to the definition of "strap socket." |
| • | Added clarifying language to the definition of "tie back." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Inserted an illustration to follow the definition of "twister." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added language relating to employees making prompt report to supervision of each industrial injury or occupational illness, regardless of the degree of severity. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added a subsection relating to hand protection that must be maintained in serviceable condition. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added a subsection relating to leg protection that must be maintained in serviceable condition. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added the words "cut resistant" in front of foot wear and clarified the language relating to a running chain saw to be at-least-as-effective-as the federal standard. |
| • | Added a subsection relating to foot protection that must be maintained in serviceable condition. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Deleted the words "waterproof or water-repellant." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Replace the word "contrasting" with "high visibility." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added an "a" that had been inadvertently left out. |
| • | Added a new subsection to read, "Mechanics or other employees must not be assigned to work on equipment by themselves when there is a probability of a fall from elevated work locations or equipment. Also, if the work is of such nature that heavy parts require moving, or there is a probability that anything heavy could fall on the person, there must be another person in the immediate area to render assistance." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Clarified the language in the note after subsection (5) to avoid confusion. |
| • | Clarified the language in WAC 296-54-513 (9)(d) to avoid confusion. |
| • | Renumbered section. |
| • | Deleted subdivision (3)(g). This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Changed the word "shall" to "must" in subsection (3). |
| • | Deleted two bullets that included loss of mental functioning and drug overdose in the requirements for first-aid training. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Renumbered section. |
| • | In subsection (1), deleted the words "in writing." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Clarified the language to be consistent with the rest of the standard. |
| • | In subsection (2), replaced "crew bus" with "school bus type." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added language relating to when backcuts must be as level as possible. This language was inadvertently left out of the proposal and is a current requirement. |
| • | Added a new subsection to read, "A climber's rope must encircle the tree before the climber leaves the ground, except when the climber is riding the passline." This language was inadvertently left out of the proposal and was a proposed requirement in WAC 296-54-701. |
| • | Renumbered section. |
| • | Added the words "is prohibited" that were inadvertently left out of the proposal. |
| • | Clarified the language for consistency. |
| • | Added the word "slackline" to subsection (2) for clarity and consistency. |
| • | Clarified the language for consistency. |
| • | In subsection (4) replaced the word "trees" with "spars" for clarity. Also, added clarifying language which reads, "pins must be secured with a nut and cotter pin or nut and molle" for consistency. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | After subsection (4), added a clarifying note explaining that items (d) and (e) are lists of options. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added clarifying language to subsection (4)(d). |
| • | Added an illustration on wire rope. |
| • | Corrected the reference by relocating it. |
| • | Clarified language and reformatted subsection (3). |
| • | Clarified language in subsection (2) to avoid confusion. |
| • | Added language from WAC 296-54-561 (5)(b) for consistency. |
| • | In subsection (1)(a), replaced "at least" with "approximately." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | In subsection (1)(b), added the words "support line" for clarity. |
| • | Added language from WAC 296-54-561 (3)(d) and (5)(b) for consistency. |
| • | In subsection (4), deleted the words "if the carriage runs over the extension" for clarity. |
| • | Added a reference to subsection (6)(a) for clarity. |
| • | Added the words "rigged" and "lift" for clarity and consistency in subsection (7). |
| • | In subsection (7), added the words "wood spars" for clarity. |
| • | Added a clarifying note after subsection (5) that reads, "This requirement includes the loading, securing and unloading of a machine on and off a transport vehicle." |
| • | Clarified the language in subsection (8) for consistency. |
| • | Moved subsection (24) to WAC 296-54-577(13) for better organization of information. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | In subsection (26), deleted the words "turn of logs" for clarity and added a new subsection (27) to read, "Riding on arches, reaches or turn of logs is prohibited." |
| • | Added a new subsection (31) to read, "Guylines required in rigging spars or towers must be evenly spooled to prevent fouling" for clarity. |
| • | Clarified language in subsection (38). |
| • | Renumbered section. |
| • | Clarified the language in subsection (1) relating to spark arrestors. |
| • | Deleted an incorrect reference in subsection (3). |
| • | Added a clarifying note at the end of this section relating to the exemption of self-loaders. |
| • | Clarified the language in subsection (1)(a) to avoid confusion. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Clarified the language in subsection (1)(d) to avoid confusion. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added the proposed language from WAC 296-54-573(24) to this section for better organization of information. This change was made based on public comment. Also, changed the last sentence into a separate item and replaced "should" with "must" to make this a constant reminder for employees to maintain a 36-inch clearance. |
| • | Renumbered section. |
| • | Clarified the language in subsection (3). This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Deleted the reference in subsection (8) because the figure that was referenced is being deleted out of Appendix 1--Signals. |
| • | Added a new subsection (9) to read, "Developed hand signals must be clearly communicated and understood by all persons working in the area who may be affected by their use." This change was made to add more flexibility. |
| • | In subsection (13), added the language "used by ground personnel to position loads." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Renumbered section. |
| • | In subsection (7), replaced the word "grounded" with "bonded." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added new subsection (20) that was inadvertently left out of the proposal. It reads, "Power saws must not be operated on top of loaded logging trucks." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | Added a clarifying note, which reads, "This does not apply to incidental limbs/knots placed on loads during the normal loading process." |
| • | In subsection (1), added three items to the bullet list of daily inspection requirements. They are bunks, stakes and bunk blocks. This was done for clarification. |
| • | Added a clarifying note relating to nylon straps and ratchet binders in subsection (12). |
| • | Renumbered section. |
| • | Removed the word "to" in subsection (3) for clarity. |
| • | Clarified the language in subsection (12) to include voice communication. Also, clarified the language as to when the horn or whistle must be sounded. This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | In subsection (13), added language to read, "or an audible whistle must be sounded from the yarder." This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | In subsection (17), replaced the language with, "(17) When the normal crew configuration consists of two or more persons at the point where chokers are being set, they must each carry an operable transmitter on their person. Only one transmitter is required if: |
| (a) | The signal person has no other duties and remains in an area where there are no hazards created by the moving rigging or logs, or |
| (b) | The rigging crew is comprised of only one employee." |
| This change was made based on public comment. |
| • | In subsection (1), deleted the words "voice or functional" to avoid confusion. |
| • | In subsection (2)(a), deleted the words "or other audible" for clarification and added an "s" to the word "signal." |
| • | In subsection (6), added a reference to point out an illustration. |
| • | In subsection (9), added a reference to point out an illustration. |
| • | In subsection (3), corrected a reference. |
| • | Corrected a typographical error. |
| • | Deleted figure 42: Standard hand signals for helicopters. |
| WAC Number at Proposal | WAC Number at Adoption | ||
| 296-54-521 | 296-54-523 | ||
| 296-54-523 | 296-54-535 | ||
| 296-54-527 | 296-54-529 | ||
| 296-54-529 | 296-54-527 | ||
| 296-54-531 | 296-54-521 | ||
| 296-54-533 | 296-54-531 | ||
| 296-54-535 | 296-54-533 | ||
| 296-54-559 | 296-54-54770 | ||
| 296-54-703 | 296-54-584 | ||
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Comply with Federal Statute: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Federal Rules or Standards: New 65, Amended 55, Repealed 2; or Recently Enacted State Statutes: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted at Request of a Nongovernmental Entity: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted on the Agency's Own Initiative: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0.
Number of Sections Adopted in Order to Clarify, Streamline, or Reform Agency Procedures: New 65, Amended 55, Repealed 2.
Number of Sections Adopted Using Negotiated Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; Pilot Rule Making: New 0, Amended 0, Repealed 0; or Other Alternative Rule Making: New 65, Amended 55, Repealed 2. Effective Date of Rule: December 1, 1999.
August 18, 1999
Gary Moore
Director
OTS-2827.5
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 96-22-013, filed 10/28/96,
effective 1/1/97)
WAC 296-54-501
Scope and application.
((This standard
establishes safety practices, means, methods and operations for
all types of logging, regardless of the end use of the wood. These types of activities include, but are not limited to,
pulpwood and timber harvesting and the logging of sawlogs, veneer
bolts, poles, pilings and other forest products. The
requirements herein contained do not apply to log handling at
sawmills, plywood mills, pulp mills or other manufacturing
operations governed by their own specific safety standards.
These requirements are minimum safety requirements and shall augment other safety standards developed by the department which are of a general nature and apply to all industrial operations such as those contained in the general safety standards, WAC 296-24; occupational health standards, WAC 296-62; or others which may be applicable. Regulations adopted by the department concerning certain types of equipment or conditions, such as metal and nonmetallic mines, quarries, pits and crushing operations, WAC 296-61, and possession, handling and use of explosives, WAC 296-52 shall be complied with when applicable.
Copies of all society of automotive engineers reports (SAE) referred to in these standards are on file in all regional offices of the department of labor and industries, and may be reviewed by any interested person. Individuals desiring to obtain copies of such material shall arrange to do so directly from the publishers or from other sources. The department of labor and industries will not assume the responsibility of acquiring such material for uses other than its own needs.)) This chapter establishes safety practices for all types of logging, log road construction and other forest activities using logging machinery and/or power saws regardless of the end use of the wood. This chapter does not apply to log handling at sawmills, plywood mills, pulp mills, or other manufacturing operations governed by specific safety standards. This chapter provides minimum safety requirements for the logging industry. The logging industry is also covered by the general safety standards, WAC 296-24; occupational health standards, WAC 296-62; or others that may apply. WAC 296-52, which covers the possession, handling and use of explosives, applies when explosives are used in logging operations.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [ RCW 49.17].050 and [ RCW 49.17].060. 96-22-013, § 296-54-501, filed 10/28/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17. 88-23-054 (Order 88-25), § 296-54-501, filed 11/14/88. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.150 and RCW 49.17.240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-501, filed 9/21/79.]
((The assistant director may,
upon receipt of application and after adequate investigation by
the department, permit a variation from these requirements when
an approved alternate means or manner of protection is provided,
which affords an equivalent measure of safety as required by the
rule from which a variance is requested.)) If an employer finds
it impractical to comply with specific requirements of this
chapter, the department may permit a variation from the
requirements. However, the employer must still provide equal
protection by substitute means. To request a variance, write to:
WISHA Services Division--Variance Request
Department of Labor Industries
P.O. Box 44648
Olympia, WA 98504-4648
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.150 and RCW 49.17.240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-503, filed 9/21/79.]
A-frame - a structure made of two independent columns fastened together at the top and separated by a reasonable width at the bottom to stabilize the unit from tipping sideways.
An operation - any place where logging or log related activities are taking place.
Approved - approved by the department of labor and industries.
Arch - any device attached to the back of a vehicle and used for raising one end of logs to facilitate movement.
Authorized person - a person approved or assigned by the employer to perform a specific type of duty(s) or to be at a specific location at a certain time(s).
Backcut (felling cut) - the cut in a felling operation made on the opposite side from the undercut.
Backline - the portion of the haulback that runs between the spar/spar tree and the corner block.
Ballistic nylon - a nylon fabric of high tensile properties designed to provide protection from lacerations.
Barrier - a fence, wall or railing to prevent passage or approach.
Base of tree - that portion of a natural tree not more than three feet above ground level.
Bight of the line - ((any area where a person is exposed to
a controlled or uncontrolled moving line)) a hazardous zone
created by running lines under tension. Any section of a line
between the ends.
Binder - a hinged lever assembly for connecting the ends of a wrapper to tighten the wrapper around the load of logs or materials.
Boomboat - any boat used to push or pull logs, booms, bundles, or bags, in booming ground operations.
Boomscooter - a small boat, usually less than fourteen feet in length, equipped with an outboard motor, having directional pushing capabilities of 360 degrees.
Brailing - when tiers of logs, poles, or piles are fastened together with a type of dogline and the ends of the side members are then fastened together for towing.
Brow log - a log or a suitable substitute placed parallel to any roadway at a landing or dump to protect the carrier and facilitate the safe loading or unloading of logs, timber products, or materials.
Buck - means the process of severing a tree into sections (logs or bolts).
Butt - the bottom of the felled part of a tree.
Butt welding - the practice of welding something end to end.
Cable tree thinning - the selective thinning of a timber stand using mobile yarding equipment specifically designed or adapted for the purpose. Cable tree thinning includes skyline, slackline, or modified slackline, overhead cable systems.
Cable yarding - the movement of felled trees or logs from the area where they are felled to the landing on a system composed of a cable suspended from spars and/or towers. The trees or logs may be either dragged across the ground on the cable or carried while suspended from the cable.
Chock - a block, often wedge shaped, which is used to prevent movement; e.g., a log from rolling, a wheel from turning.
Choker - a length of wire rope with attachments for encircling the end of a log to be yarded.
Chunking - to clear nonusable material from a specified area.
Cold deck - a pile of yarded logs left for future removal.
Competent person - one who is capable of identifying hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous.
Corner block - the first block the haulback passes through on its way to the tail block.
Crotch line - two short lines attached to the same ring or shackle, used for loading or unloading.
Cutter - an employee whose primary job is to fall, buck, or limb trees before they are moved to the landing area.
Danger trees - any tree of any height, dead or alive, that presents a hazard to workers because of rot, root, stem or limb damage, lean, or any other observable condition created by natural process or man-made activity.
Dapped - a notch in a timber for receiving part of another timber.
DBH - diameter at breast height.
Deadman - buried log or other object used as an anchor.
Debark - to remove bark from trees or logs. Debark generally denotes mechanical means as opposed to manual peeling.
Deck - a stack of trees or logs.
Designated person - an employee who has the requisite knowledge, training, and experience to perform specific duties.
Directional falling - a mechanical means to control the direction of falling timber.
Dog line - type of line used to fasten logs or timber products together by the use of dogs.
Domino felling - the partial cutting of multiple trees which are left standing and then pushed over with a pusher tree.
Donkey - any machine with a series of drums used to yard logs.
Double ended logs - two logs end to end on the same lay.
Drop zone - the area where the helicopter delivers logs from the logging site.
Droplines - a short line attached to the carriage or carriage block which is used as an extension to the main line.
Drum - a mechanical device on which line is spooled or unspooled.
Dry land storage - decks of logs stored for future removal or use.
Dutchman -
• a block used to change direction of line lead (sideblocking).
• a method ((of falling timber consisting of inserting a
piece of material into one side of the undercut to assist in
pulling a tree against the lean or a section of the undercut can
be left in a corner to accomplish the same purpose)) used to pull
a tree against its lean by leaving a section of the undercut on
one corner of the face. The portion left consists of a single saw
kerf in one side of the face, with the face completely removed on
the opposite side of the face cut. A single saw kerf must never
extend completely across the stump.
Experienced person - a person who has been trained and has participated in the subject process for a period of time long enough to thoroughly acquaint the person with all facets of the process.
F.O.P.S. - falling object protective structure.
Fair lead - sheaves, rolls, or a combination thereof arranged to receive a line coming from any direction for proper line spooling on to a drum.
Fell (fall) - to cut down trees.
Feller (faller) - an employee who fells trees.
Front end loader - a mobile machine mounted on a wheeled or tracked chassis, equipped with a grapple, tusk, bucket, or fork-lift device, and employed in the loading, unloading, stacking, or sorting of logs or materials.
Grounded - the placement of a component of a machine on the ground or on a device where it is firmly supported. Grounded may also relate to the placement of a tree on the ground or a method to dissipate static or electrical charges.
Guarded - covered, shielded, fenced, enclosed, or otherwise protected by means of suitable enclosures, covers, casings, shields, troughs, railings, screens, mats, or platforms, or by location, to prevent injury.
Guard rail - a railing to restrain a person.
Guyline - a line used to support or stabilize a spar, tail/lift tree, intermediate support tree or equipment. A guyline is considered a standing line.
Gypsy drum - a mechanical device wherein the line is not attached to the drum and is manually spooled to control the line movement on and off the drum.
Haulback - a line used to pull the buttrigging and mainline to the logs to be yarded.
Haulback block - any block the haulback line passes through including the corner block and tailblock.
Hay rack -
• a type of loading boom where two tongs are used and logs are suspended.
• a transporting vehicle with multiple sets of bunks attached to a rigid frame usually used for hauling logs.
Haywire - see strawline.
Hazardous falling area - the area within a circle centered on the tree being felled and having a radius not less than twice the height of that tree.
Head tree - the tree where yarding and/or loading takes place. (See spar)
Heel boom - a type of loading boom where one tong is used and one end of the log is pulled up against the boom.
High lead - a system of logging wherein the main line is threaded through the main line block, which is attached near the top of the spar, to obtain a lift of the logs being yarded.
High visibility colors - white, bright, or fluorescent colors that stand out from the surrounding background color so they are easily seen.
Hobo log and/or hitchhiker - a free or unattached log that is picked up by a turn and is transported with the turn.
Hooktender - the worker that supervises the method of moving the logs from the woods to the landing.
Hot deck - a landing where logs are being moved.
Hydraulic jack - a mechanical device, powered by internal pressure, used to control the direction in which a tree is to be felled.
In the clear - ((being in a position where the possibility
of harmful physical contact is minimized)) a position within the
work area where the probability of hazardous contact with falling
trees, moving logs, rootwads, chunks, material, rigging and
equipment is minimized by distance from the hazards and/or use of
physical barriers, such as stumps, trees, terrain or other
objects providing protection.
Examples:
• Back behind on the uphill side of the turn and out of reach of any upending logs.
• Out of the bight.
• In the logged off area.
• In a position where movement will not be obstructed.
Intermediate support system - a system for supporting a loaded skyline in a support jack by one of the two following methods:
• Double tree support - the skyline is suspended on a single piece of wire rope supported by two trees so that the load is shared between the two trees.
• Single tree support - the skyline is suspended on a single piece of wire rope, single-eyed choker or double-eyed strap supported by a single tree. The support tree may be vertical or leaning.
Jackstrawed - trees or logs piled in an unorderly manner.
Jaggers - any projecting broken wire in a strand of cable.
Kerf - the part of timber products taken out by the saw teeth.
Knob - a metal ferrule attached to the end of a line.
Landing - any place where logs are laid after being yarded, awaiting subsequent handling, loading, and hauling.
((Lift tree - an intermediate support for skylines.))
Landing chute - the head of the skid trail or road where the logs are temporarily placed before handling, loading and hauling.
Lay -
• the straight-line distance it takes a strand of wire rope to make one complete spiral around the core of a rope.
• the position of a log in a pile, on a load, or in the fell and bucked.
Limbing - to cut branches off felled or standing trees.
Loading boom - any structure projecting from a pivot point to guide a log when lifted.
Lodged tree (hung tree) - a tree leaning against another tree or object which prevents it from falling to the ground.
((Logging operations - operations associated with felling
and moving trees and logs from the stump to the point of
delivery, such as, but not limited to, marking, felling, bucking,
limbing, debarking, chipping, yarding, loading, unloading,
storing, and transporting machines, equipment and personnel from
one site to another.
Log dump - a place where logs are removed from transporting equipment. It may be either dry land or water, parbuckled over a brow log or removed by machine.
Logging machine - a machine used or intended for use to yard, move, or handle logs, trees, chunks, trailers, and related materials or equipment. This shall include self-loading log trucks only during the loading and unloading process.
Log - a tree segment suitable for subsequent processing into lumber, pulpwood, or other wood products, including but not limited to poles, piling, peeler blocks, sections and/or bolts.
Log stacker - a mobile machine mounted on a wheeled or tracked chassis, equipped with a frontally mounted grapple, tusk, or forklift device, and employed in the loading, unloading, stacking, or sorting of logs.)) Log - a tree segment suitable for subsequent processing into lumber, pulpwood, or other wood products, including, but not limited to, poles, piling, peeler blocks, sections and/or bolts.
Log bronco - a sturdily built boat usually from twelve to twenty feet in length, used to push logs or bundles of logs in a generally forward direction in booming and rafting operations.
Log dump - a place where logs are removed from transporting equipment. It may be either dry land or water, parbuckled over a brow log or removed by machine.
Log stacker - a mobile machine mounted on a wheeled or tracked chassis, equipped with a frontally mounted grapple, tusk, or forklift device, and employed in the loading, unloading, stacking, or sorting of logs.
Logging machine - a machine used or intended for use to yard, move, or handle logs, trees, chunks, trailers, and related materials or equipment.
| Note: | A self-loading log truck is only considered a logging machine when in use for loading and unloading. |
| Note: | A helicopter is not considered a logging machine. |
Long sticks - an overlength log or tree length that creates a hazard by exceeding the safe perimeters of the landing.
Machine - a piece of stationary or mobile equipment having a
self-contained power plant, that is operated off-road and used
for the movement of material. Machines include but are not
limited to tractors, skidders, front-end loaders, scrapers,
graders, bulldozers, ((swing yarders ())rough terrain logging
shovels(())), log stackers and mechanical felling devices, such
as tree shears and feller-bunchers.
Mainline - the line attached to the buttrigging used to pull logs to the landing.
Mainline block - the block hung in the portable spar or tower through which the mainline passes.
Mainline train - any train that is made up for travel between the woods and log dump.
Matchcutting - the felling of trees without using an undercut.
Mechanized falling - falling of standing timber by a self-propelled mobile wheeled or tracked machine equipped with a shear or other powered cutting device.
Mechanized feller - any such machine as described in WAC
((296-54-535 and 296-54-537)) 296-54-541 and 296-54-543, and
includes feller/bunchers and similar machines performing multiple
functions.
Mechanized logging machine - a feller-buncher, single-grip harvester, processor, forwarder, clambunk, or log loader.
Mobile log loader - a self-propelled log loading machine mounted on wheels or tracks, incorporating a boom and employed in the loading or unloading of logs by means of grapples or tongs.
Mobile yarder - a logging machine mounted on wheels, tracks, or skids, incorporating a vertical or inclined spar, tower, or boom, employed in skyline, slackline, high lead or grapple overhead cable logging systems.
Molle - a single strand of wire rope rolled into a circle with six wraps. A molle can be used as a temporary method of connecting the eye splices of two lines. A molle is used in most pin shackles in place of a cotter key.
Must - the same as "shall" and is mandatory.
((New area or setting - a location of operations when both
the loading station and the yarder are moved.))
New job site - a location of operations when the loading station and/or the yarder or cutting operations are moved to a new area outside of the current sale or contracted unit.
Pass line - a small line threaded through a block at the top of the spar to assist the high climber.
Permissible (as applied to any device, equipment or appliance) - such device, equipment, or appliance has the formal approval of the United States Bureau of Mines, American Standards Association, or National Board of Fire Underwriters.
Portable spar or tower - a movable engineered structure designed to be used in a manner similar to which a wood spar tree would be used.
Qualified person - a person, who by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.
Rated capacity - the maximum load a system, vehicle, machine or piece of equipment was designed by the manufacturer to handle.
Reach - a steel tube or wood timber or pole connected to the truck and inserted through a tunnel on the trailer. It steers the trailer when loaded and pulls the trailer when empty.
((Receding line - the line on a skidder or slackline
comparable to the haulback line on a yarder.))
Reload - an area where logs are dumped and reloaded or transferred as a unit to another mode of transportation.
Rollway - any place where logs are dumped and they roll or slide to their resting place.
Root wad - the ball of a tree root and dirt that is pulled from the ground when a tree is uprooted.
R.O.P.S. - roll over protection structure.
Rub tree - a tree used to guide a turn around an area.
Running line/running rope - any ((line which moves)) moving
line directly involved with the yarding of logs.
Safety factor - the ratio of breaking strength to a safe working strength or loading.
Safety glass - a type of glass that will not shatter when broken.
Sail block - a block hung inverted on the sail guy to hold the tong block in proper position.
Scaler - the person who measures the diameter and length of the logs, determines specie and grade, and makes deductions for footage calculations.
Serviceable condition - a state or ability of a tool, machine, vehicle or other device to operate as it was intended by the manufacturer to operate.
Shall - a requirement that is mandatory.
Shear log - a log placed in a strategic location to divert passage of objects.
Shore skids - any group of timbers spaced a short distance apart on which logs are rolled.
Should - means recommended.
Signal person - the person designated to give signals to the machine operator.
Siwash - to change the lead of a line with a physical object such as a stump or tree instead of a block.
Skidder - a machine or animal used to move logs or trees to a landing.
Skidding - movement of logs or trees on the surface of the ground to the place where they are to be loaded.
Skidding line - the main haulage line from a carriage to which chokers are attached. Sometimes referred to a mainline.
Skyline - the line suspended between two points on which a block or carriage travels.
Slackline - a form of skyline where the skyline cable is spooled on a donkey drum and can be raised or lowered.
Slack puller - any weight or mechanical device used to increase the movement of a line when its own weight is inadequate.
Slope (grade) - the increase or decrease in altitude over a horizontal distance expressed as a percentage. For example, change of altitude of 20 feet (6 m) over a horizontal distance of 100 feet (30 m) is expressed as a 20 percent slope.
Snag - a dead standing tree or a portion thereof. (See Danger tree)
Snorkel - a loading boom modified to extend its limitations for yarding.
Spar/spar tree - a tree or device (rigged for highlead, skyline or slackline yarding) used to yard logs by any method of logging.
Speeder - a small self-powered vehicle that runs on a railroad track.
Spike - a long heavy nail similar to a railroad spike.
Springboard - a board with an iron tip used by fallers to stand on while working above ground level.
Spring pole - a tree, segment of a tree, limb, or sapling which is under stress or tension due to the pressure or weight of another object.
Square lead - the angle of 90 degrees.
Squirrel - a weight used to swing a boom when the power unit does not have enough drums to do it mechanically.
Squirrel tree - a topped tree, guyed if necessary, near the spar tree in which the counter balance (squirrel) of a tree rigged boom is hung.
Standing line -
• guyline
• a nonoperating rope with end terminations to support a boom or mast.
Stiff boom - two or more boom sticks wrapped together on which boom persons walk or work.
Strap - any short piece of line with an eye or "D" in each end.
Strap socket or D - a socket with a closed loop arranged to be attached to the end of a line by the molten zinc, or an equivalent method. It is used in place of a spliced eye.
Strawline - a ((small line used for miscellaneous
purposes.)) light cable used in rigging up, or in moving other
cables or blocks. The smallest line on the yarder. (Mainline - haulback line - strawline.)
Strip - a definite location of timber on which one or more cutting crews work.
Swamping - the falling or cutting of brush around or along a specified place.
Swede connection - a line configuration made by wrapping two choker lines in the same direction around a tree or log connecting the line knobs to opposite line bells.
Swifter - a piece of equipment used to tie the side sticks of a log raft together to keep the raft from spreading.
Swing cut - ((a back cut in which the holding wood on one
side is cut through)) an intentional dutchman left on one corner
of an undercut or a backcut in which the holding wood on one side
is cut through in conjunction with an intentional dutchman to
achieve a desired lay for the tree being fell.
Tail block - ((the haulback block at the back end of the
show)) a block used to guide the haulback line at the back corner
of the yarding area.
Tail hold - an anchor used for making fast any line or block.
Tail/lift tree - the tree at the opposite end from the head tree on which the skyline or other type rigging is hung.
Tie back - to use a twister(s) (or similar system/device) that has a breaking strength equal to fifty percent of the breaking strength of the mainline or skyline whichever is greater. To secure or support one anchor by securing it to a second anchor(s) such as wrapping one stump and choking another.
Tie down - a chain, cable, steel strips or fiber webbing and binders attached to a truck, trailer or other conveyance as a means to secure loads and to prevent them from shifting or moving when they are being transported.
Tight line - when either the mainline or haulback are held and power is exerted on the other or when power is exerted on both at the same time.
Tong line block - the block hung in a boom through which the tong line operates.
Tongue - a device used to pull and/or steer a trailer.
Topping - cutting off the top section of a standing tree.
Tower - (see portable spar or tower).
Tractor - a machine of wheel or track design used in logging.
Tractor logging - the use of any wheeled or tracked vehicle in the skidding or yarding of logs.
Transfer (as used in loading) - changing of logs in a unit from one mode of transportation to another.
Tree jack - a grooved saddle of wood or metal rollers contained within two steel plates, attached to a tree with a strap, used as a guide for skyline, sail guy, or similar static line. It is also formed to prevent a sharp bend in the line.
Tree plates - steel bars sometimes shaped as elongated J's, which are fastened near the top of a tree to hold guylines and prevent them from cutting into the tree when tightened. The hooks of the J are also used to prevent the mainline block strap from sliding down the tree.
Tree pulling - a method of falling trees in which the tree is pulled down with a line.
Tug - a boat, usually over twenty feet in length, used primarily to pull barges, booms of logs, bags of debris, or log rafts.
Turn - any log or group of logs attached by some means to power and moved from a point of rest to a landing.
Twister - a line (usually small diameter wire rope "haywire") that supports a tailhold stump, guyline stump, or tree that does not appear to be strong enough. This is done by connecting the tailhold to another stump or tree opposite by wrapping the two with a line. This line is then tightened by placing a piece of large-diameter limb between the wrappings and twisting them together.
| Place illustration here. |
V-lead - a horizontal angle of less than ninety degrees formed by the projected lines of the mainline from the drum of the logging machine through the block or fairlead and the yarding log or turn.
Vehicle/crew bus - a car, bus, truck, trailer or semi-trailer owned, leased, or rented by the employer that is used for transportation of employees or movement of material.
WAC - Washington Administrative Code.
Waistline - that portion of the haulback running between the corner block and the tail block.
Winching - the winding of cable or rope onto a spool or drum.
Within the stakes - when one-half the log diameter is below the stake top.
Work areas - any area frequented by employees in the performance of assigned or related duties.
Wrapper - a cable assembly or chain used to contain a load of logs.
Wrapper rack - barrier used to protect a person while removing binders and wrappers from a loaded logging truck.
Yarder (donkey) - a machine with a series of drums used to yard logs.
Yarding - the movement of logs from the place they are felled to a landing.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [ RCW 49.17].050 and [ RCW 49.17].060. 96-22-013, § 296-54-505, filed 10/28/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17. 87-24-051 (Order 87-24), § 296-54-505, filed 11/30/87. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.050, RCW 49.17.240, chapters RCW 43.22 and RCW 42.30 RCW. 80-11-057 (Order 80-15), § 296-54-505, filed 8/20/80. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.150 and RCW 49.17.240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-505, filed 9/21/79.]
((In addition to observance of the general
safety and health standards:
(1) The employer shall assume the responsibility of safety training for new employees.
(2) The employer shall develop and maintain a hazard communication program as required by WAC 296-62, Part C, which will provide information to all employees relative to hazardous chemicals or substances to which they are exposed, or may become exposed, in the course of their employment.
(3) The employer shall assume the responsibility of work assignments so that no employee shall be allowed to work in a position or location so isolated that he/she is not within ordinary calling distance of another employee who can render assistance in case of emergency. In any operation where cutting, yarding, loading, or a combination of these duties is carried on, there shall be a minimum of two employees who shall work as a team and shall be in visual or hearing contact with one another to allow prompt awareness of injury or cessation of work activity of one employee by the other. No employee shall be left alone for a period of time to exceed fifteen minutes without visual or hearing contact. In addition, there shall be some system of back-up communication in the near proximity to enable an employee to call for assistance in case of emergency.
| Note: | This does not apply to operators of motor vehicles, watchpersons or certain other jobs which, by their nature, are singular employee assignments. However, a definite procedure for checking the welfare of all employees during their working hours shall be instituted and all employees so advised. |
(4) The employer shall establish a method of checking the
employees in from the woods at the end of each shift. Each
immediate supervisor shall be responsible for his/her crew being
accounted for. This standard also includes operators of all
movable equipment.
(5) Prior to the commencement of logging operations in a new area or setting, a safety meeting shall be held and a plan shall be developed and implemented whereby management shall ascertain by direct supervision that the work is being carried out with special emphasis on safety and safe work practices.
(6) When extreme weather or other extreme conditions are such that additional hazards arise, additional precautions shall be taken to assure safe operations. If the operation cannot be made safe because of the aforementioned conditions, the work shall be discontinued until safe to resume.
(7) Danger trees within reach of landings, roads, rigging, buildings or work areas shall be either felled before regular operations begin or work shall be arranged so that employees shall not be exposed to hazards involved.
(8) Management shall ensure that intoxicating beverages and narcotics are not permitted or used by employees on or in the vicinity of the work site. Management shall cause employees under the influence of alcohol or narcotics to be removed from the work site. This requirement does not apply to employees taking prescription drugs and/or narcotics as directed by a physician providing such use shall not endanger the employee or others.)) The employer must comply with the requirements of all safety and health regulations and must:
(1) Provide safety training for new employees.
(2) Take additional precautions to ensure safe logging operations when extreme weather or other extreme conditions create hazards. If the logging operation cannot be made safe, the work must be discontinued until safe to resume.
(3) Ensure that danger trees within reach of landings, rigging, buildings, or work areas are either fell before regular logging operations begin, or arrange work so that employees are not exposed to the related hazards.
(4) Develop and maintain a hazard communication program as required by WAC 296-62, Part C. The program must provide information to all employees about hazardous chemicals or substances to which they are exposed, or may become exposed, in the course of their employment.
(5) Ensure that intoxicating beverages and narcotics are prohibited on or near the worksite. The employer must remove from the worksite any employee under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.
| Note: | Narcotics do not include prescription drugs taken under a doctor's direction if the use does not endanger any employee. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17. 94-16-145, § 296-54-507, filed 8/3/94, effective 9/12/94; 89-11-035 (Order 89-03), § 296-54-507, filed 5/15/89, effective 6/30/89. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.050, RCW 49.17.240, chapters RCW 43.22 and RCW 42.30 RCW. 80-11-057 (Order 80-15), § 296-54-507, filed 8/20/80. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.150 and RCW 49.17.240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-507, filed 9/21/79.]
(((1) Employees
shall coordinate and cooperate with management and other
employees in an attempt to eliminate accidents.
(2) Employees shall study and observe all safe work practices governing their work.
(3) They should offer safety suggestions, wherein such suggestions may contribute to a safer work environment.
(4) Intoxicating beverages and narcotics shall not be permitted or used by employees in or around the work sites. Employees under the influence of alcohol or narcotics shall not be permitted on the work site. This rule does not apply to employees taking prescription drugs and/or narcotics as directed by a physician providing such use shall not endanger the employee or others.
(5) Employees shall conduct themselves in a workmanlike manner while on the work site.)) (1) Employees must coordinate and cooperate with the employer and other employees in an attempt to eliminate accidents.
(2) Employees must be aware of and follow all safe practices that apply to their work.
(3) Employees should offer safety suggestions that may contribute to a safer work environment.
(4) Intoxicating beverages and narcotics must not be permitted or used by employees in or around the worksites. Employees under the influence of alcohol or narcotics must not be permitted on the worksite.
| EXCEPTION: | This rule does not apply to employees taking prescription drugs and/or narcotics as directed by a physician if the use does not endanger the employee or others. |
(6) Employees must make prompt report to their immediate supervisor of each industrial injury or occupational illness, regardless of the degree of severity.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.150 and RCW 49.17.240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-509, filed 9/21/79.]
(((1)
General requirements.
(a) Protective equipment, including personal protective equipment for eyes, face, head, hearing and extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices and protective shields and barriers, shall be used, and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards of processes or environment, chemical hazards, radiological hazards, or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of the body through absorption, inhalation or physical contact.
(b) The employer shall assure that personal protective equipment, including any personal protective equipment provided by an employee, is maintained in a serviceable condition.
(c) Design. All personal protective equipment shall be of safe design and construction for the work to be performed. All safety belts and attachments shall meet the requirements of section 3 of ANSI A10.14-1975.
(d) The employer shall assure that personal protective equipment, including any personal protective equipment provided by an employee, is inspected before initial use during each workshift. Defects or damage shall be repaired or the unserviceable personal protective equipment shall be replaced before work is commenced.
(2) Eye and face protection. The employer shall provide, at no cost to the employee, and assure that each employee wears the following:
(a) Eye protection meeting the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part A-2 where there is potential for eye injury due to falling or flying objects; and
(b) Face protection meeting the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part A-2 where there is potential for facial injury such as, but not limited to, operating a chipper. Logger-type mesh screens may be worn by employees performing chain-saw operations and yarding. Note to subsection (2): The employee does not have to wear a separate eye protection device where face protection covering both the eyes and face is worn.
(3) Respiratory protection. The respiratory protection requirements of the general occupational health standards, WAC 296-62, shall apply.
(4) Occupational head protection. The employer shall provide, at no cost to the employee, and assure that all employees involved in the logging operation or any of its related activities wears head protection, unless such employees are protected by F.O.P.S., cabs or canopies, meeting the requirements of this chapter. Protective helmets shall be maintained in serviceable condition.
(a) Protective helmets purchased after February 20, 1995, shall comply with ANSI Z89.1-1986, "American National Standard for Personnel Protection--Protective Headwear for Industrial Workers--Requirements," which is incorporated by reference, or shall be demonstrated to be equally effective.
(b) Protective helmets purchased before February 20, 1995, shall comply with the ANSI standard "American National Standard Safety Requirements for Industrial Head Protection," ANSI Z89.1-1969, or shall be demonstrated by the employer to be equally effective.
(5) Personal flotation devices. Employees working on, over or along water, where the danger of drowning exists, shall be provided with and shall wear approved personal flotation devices in accordance with General safety and health standards, WAC 296-24-086.
(6) Occupational footwear. The employer shall assure that each employee wears foot protection, such as heavy-duty logging boots that are waterproof or water repellent, cover and provide support to the ankle. The employer shall assure that each employee who operates a chain saw wears foot protection that is constructed with cut-resistant material which will protect the employee against contact with a running chain saw. Example: The traditional heavy-duty logging boot will meet the cut-resistant requirements of this subsection.
(a) All employees whose duties require them to walk on logs or boomsticks, shall wear sharp-calked (boots) shoes, or the equivalent, except when conditions such as ice, snow, etc., render calks ineffective. When calks are ineffective and other footwear does not afford suitable protection, workers shall not be required to work on logs or boomsticks.
(b) When nonslip type shoes or boots afford a greater degree of employee protection than calk (boots) shoes, such as at scaling stations, log sorting yards, etc., then this type footwear may be worn in lieu of calk shoes providing firm ankle support and secure footing are maintained.
(7) Leg protection. The employer shall provide, at no cost to the employee, and assure that each employee who operates a chain saw wears leg protection constructed with cut-resistant material, such as ballistic nylon. The leg protection shall cover the full length of the thigh to the top of the boot on each leg to protect against contact with a moving, chain saw.
Exception: This requirement does not apply when an employee is working as a climber if the employer demonstrates that a greater hazard is posed by wearing leg protection in the particular situation, or when an employee is working from a vehicular mounted elevating and rotating work platform meeting the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part J-2, Vehicle-mounted elevating and rotating work platforms.
(8) Hand protection. The employer shall provide, at no cost to the employee, and assure that each employee handling wire rope or other rough materials wears hand protection which provides adequate protection from puncture wounds, cuts and lacerations.
(9) Hearing protection. The hearing protection requirements of the general occupational health standards, WAC 296-62, shall apply.
(10) Protective clothing. Employees working on landings or in log sorting yards, when working on or from the ground, shall wear highly visible hard hats and/or yellow or orange vests, or similarly colored garments, to enable equipment operators to readily see them. It is recommended that such hard hats and vests or outer garments be of a luminous or reflectorized material. Employees performing duties of a flagperson shall wear a hard hat and vest or garment of contrasting colors. Warning vests and hard hats worn at night shall be of a reflectorized material.
| Note: | See WAC 296-24, Part A-2, for additional personal protective equipment requirements. |
(1) Protective equipment, including personal protective
equipment for eyes, face, head, hearing and extremities,
protective clothing, respiratory devices and protective shields
and barriers, must be used, and maintained in a sanitary and
reliable condition wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards
of processes or environment, chemical hazards, radiological
hazards, or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable
of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of
the body through absorption, inhalation or physical contact.
(2) Personal protective equipment, including any personal protective equipment provided by an employee, must be maintained in a serviceable condition.
(3) Design. All personal protective equipment must be of safe design and construction for the work to be performed. All safety belts and attachments must meet the requirements of section 3 of ANSI A10.14-1975.
(4) Personal protective equipment, including any personal protective equipment provided by an employee, must be inspected before initial use during each workshift. Defects or damage must be repaired or the unserviceable personal protective equipment must be replaced before work is commenced.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [ RCW 49.17].050 and [ RCW 49.17].060. 96-22-013, § 296-54-511, filed 10/28/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17. 94-20-057 (Order 94-16), § 296-54-511, filed 9/30/94, effective 11/20/94. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and RCW 49.17.050. 83-24-013 (Order 83-34), § 296-54-511, filed 11/30/83. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.050, RCW 49.17.240, chapters RCW 43.22 and RCW 42.30 RCW. 80-11-057 (Order 80-15), § 296-54-511, filed 8/20/80. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.150 and RCW 49.17.240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-511, filed 9/21/79.]
The employer must provide, at no cost to the employee, and ensure that all employees involved in the logging operation or any of its related activities wear head protection, unless the employees are protected by FOPS, cabs, or canopies meeting the requirements of this chapter.
(1) Hard hats purchased after February 20, 1995, must meet the requirements of ANSI Z89.1-1986, "American National Standard for Personnel Protection--Protective Headwear for Industrial Workers--Requirements," or the employer must demonstrate that they are equally effective.
(2) Hard hats purchased before February 20, 1995, must meet the requirements of ANSI Z89.1-1969, "American National Standard Safety Requirements for Industrial Head Protection," or the employer must demonstrate that they are equally effective.
(3) Hard hats must be maintained in serviceable condition.
[]
The employer must provide, at no cost to the employee, and ensure that each employee wears:
(1) Eye protection meeting the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part A-2, where there is potential for eye injury from falling or flying objects; and
(2) Face protection meeting the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part A-2, where there is potential for facial injury such as, but not limited to, operating a chipper. An employee using a chain saw may use either eye or face protection.
| Note: | The employee does not have to wear separate eye protection when the face protection also covers the eyes. |
[]
The employer must provide hearing protection when required by the general occupational health standards, WAC 296-62.
[]
(1) Each employee handling wire rope or other rough materials must wear hand protection that provides adequate protection from puncture wounds, cuts, and lacerations.
(2) Hand protection must be maintained in serviceable condition.
[]
The employer must provide respiratory protection when required by the general occupational health standards, WAC 296-62.
[]
(1) The employer must provide, at no cost to the employee, and ensure that each employee who operates a chain saw wears leg protection constructed with cut-resistant material, such as ballistic nylon. The leg protection must cover the full length of the thigh to the top of the boot on each leg to protect against contact with a moving chain saw.
| EXCEPTION: | This requirement does not apply to an employee working aloft in trees when supported by climbing spurs and climbing belt, or when an employee is working from a vehicle-mounted elevating and rotating work platform meeting the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part J-2, Vehicle-mounted elevating and rotating work platforms. |
[]
(1) Each employee must wear foot protection that covers and supports the ankle, such as heavy-duty logging boots.
(2) Each employee who operates a chain saw must wear cut resistant foot protection that will protect the employee against contact with a running chain saw.
| For example: | Leather logging boots, insulated rubber pacs, and rubber boots with cut protection will meet the cut-resistant requirement of this section. |
| EXCEPTION 1: | When calks are ineffective because of ice, snow, or other conditions and other footwear does not provide suitable protection, employees must be prohibited from working on logs or boomsticks. |
| EXCEPTION 2: | The employer may allow employees to wear nonslip boots instead of calks when the nonslip boots provide greater employee protection than calks (such as at scaling stations, log sorting yards, etc.). The nonslip boots must still provide firm ankle support and secure footing. |
[]
(1) Employees working on, over, or along water, where there is a danger of drowning, must be provided with and wear approved personal flotation devices.
(2) Employees are not considered exposed to the danger of drowning when:
(a) The water depth is known to be less than chest deep on the exposed individual;
(b) Employees work behind standard height and strength guardrails;
(c) Employees work inside operating cabs or stations that will prevent accidentally falling into the water; or
(d) Employees wear approved safety belts with lifeline attached to prevent falling into the water.
(3) Before and after each use, personal flotation devices must be inspected for defects that would reduce their designed effectiveness. Using a defective personal flotation device is prohibited.
(4) An approved personal flotation device must be approved by the United States Coast Guard as a Type I PFD, Type II PFD, Type III PFD, or Type V PFD, or their equivalent, as required in 46 CFR 160 (Coast Guard Lifesaving Equipment Specifications) and 33 CFR 175.23 (Coast Guard table of devices equivalent to personal flotation devices). Ski belt or inflatable personal flotation devices are prohibited.
[]
(1) Employees working on landings or in log sorting yards on or from the ground, must wear highly visible hard hats, yellow or orange vests, or other similarly colored garments, to make employees more visible to equipment operators.
| Note: | The department recommends that hard hats and vests or outer garments be luminous or reflective. |
[]
((The general safety and health standards,
WAC 296-24-040 through
296-24-055 accident prevention program requirements are
applicable to this chapter.
(1) Training. The employer shall provide training for each employee, including supervisors, at no cost to the employee.
(2) Frequency. Training shall be provided as follows:
(a) Before an employee is assigned to work independently on new tasks, tools, equipment, machines or vehicles; and
(b) Whenever an employee demonstrates unsafe job performance.
(3) Content. At a minimum, training shall consist of the following elements:
(a) Safe performance of assigned work tasks;
(b) Safe use, operation and maintenance of tools, machines and vehicles the employee uses or operates, including emphasis on understanding and following the manufacturer's operating and maintenance instructions, warnings and precautions;
(c) Recognition of safety and health hazards associated with the employee's specific work tasks, including the use of measures and work practices to prevent or control those hazards;
(d) Recognition, prevention and control of other safety and health hazards in the logging industry;
(e) Procedures, practices and requirements of the employer's work site; and
(f) The requirements of this chapter.
(4) Training of an employee due to unsafe job performance, or assignment of new work tasks, tools, equipment, machines, or vehicles; may be limited to those elements in subsection (3) of this section which are relevant to the circumstances giving rise to the need for training.
(5) Portability of training.
(a) Each current employee who has received training in the particular elements specified in subsection (3) of this section shall not be required to be retrained in those elements.
(b) Each new employee who has received training in the particular elements specified in subsection (3) of this section shall not be required to be retrained in those elements prior to initial assignment.
(c) The employer shall train each current and new employee in those elements for which the employee has not received training.
(d) The employer is responsible for ensuring that each current and new employee can properly and safely perform the work tasks and operate the tools, equipment, machines, and vehicles used in their job.
(6) Each new employee and each employee who is required to be trained as specified in subsection (2) of this section, shall work under the close supervision of a designated person until the employee demonstrates to the employer the ability to safely perform their new duties independently.
(7) First-aid training.
(a) The employer shall assure that each employee, including supervisors, receives or has received first-aid and CPR training.
(b) First-aid and CPR training shall comply with the requirements of this section and WAC 296-24-060 (3)(e), Part A-1.
(c) The employer shall assure that each employee's first-aid and CPR training and/or certificate of training remain current.
| Note: | First-aid trained personnel at sorting yards may be provided as prescribed in WAC 296-24-060 "First-aid training and certification." |
(8) All training shall be conducted by a designated person.
(9) The employer shall assure that all training required by this standard is presented in a manner that the employee is able to understand. The employer shall assure that all training materials used are appropriate in content and vocabulary to the educational level, literacy, and language skills of the employees being trained.
(10) Certification of training.
(a) The employer shall verify compliance with subsection (1) of this section by preparing a written certification record. The written certification record shall contain the name or other identity of the employee trained, the date(s) of the training, and the signature of the person who conducted the training or the signature of the employer.
(b) The most recent training certification shall be maintained.
(11) Safety and health meetings.
The employer shall hold safety and health meetings as necessary and at least each month for each employee. Safety and health meetings may be conducted individually, in crew meetings, in larger groups, or as part of other staff meetings.
(12) First-aid kits. The employer shall provide first-aid kits at each work site where trees are being cut (e.g., felling, bucking, limbing), at each active landing, and on each employee transport vehicle. The number of first-aid kits and the content of each kit shall reflect the degree of isolation, the number of employees, and the hazards reasonably anticipated at the work site.
(13) First-aid kits shall meet the requirements of WAC 296-24-065 of the general safety and health standard. The size and quantity of first-aid kits can be determined by the following table:
| Number of employees assigned to worksite |
Minimum first-aid supplies required at worksite |
||
| 1-5 | 10 package kit* | ||
| 6-15 | 16 package kit* | ||
| 16-50 | 24 package kit* | ||
*Refer to WAC 296-24-065(7) for a list of required contents.
(14) When required by the department, there shall be
available within the closest practicable distance from the
operations (not to exceed 1/2 mile) the following items:
1 set of arm and leg splints.
2 all wool blankets or blankets equal in strength and fire resistance (properly protected and marked).
1 stretcher. (For crew and emergency vehicles, see WAC 296-54-519(11).)
(15) The employer shall maintain the contents of each first-aid kit in a serviceable condition.
(16) First-aid kits shall also be equipped with the following items:
(a) Latex gloves (1 pr.).
(b) Resuscitation equipment such as resuscitation bag, airway, or pocket mask.)) (1) Employee work areas must be spaced and employee duties organized so the actions of one employee do not create a hazard for any other employee.
(2) Work areas must be assigned so that:
(a) Trees cannot fall into an adjacent occupied work area;
(b) The distance between work areas is at least two tree lengths of the trees being fell;
(c) The distance between work areas reflects the degree of slope, the density of the growth, the height of the trees, the soil structure and other hazards reasonably anticipated at the worksite; and
(d) A distance of more than two tree lengths is maintained between work areas on any slope where rolling or sliding of trees or logs is reasonably foreseeable.
(3) Each employee must be within visual, audible, or radio/telephone contact with another person who can assist in case of emergency.
(4) In any logging operation where cutting, yarding, or loading are performed, there must be at least two employees working as a team.
(5) Each employee must have visual or audible signal contact with another employee as often as this schedule requires:
(a) Cutters - 30 minutes.
(b) All other employees - 2 hours, which allows for making layouts, notching guyline stumps, etc., during normal work hours.
| Exception: | The requirements for a two-person team and check-in schedule do not apply to operators of motor vehicles, mechanized logging machines, watchpersons or certain other jobs which, by their nature, are singular employee assignments. However, a procedure for checking the welfare of these employees during their working hours must be instituted and all employees so advised. |
(7) The employer must establish a method of checking the employees in from the woods at the end of each shift, including operators of all movable equipment. Each immediate supervisor must account for their crew.
(8) Each worksite must have at least one serviceable and operable two-way radio, phone, or radio/phone combination available to reach emergency service. Citizen band radios are permitted only as a secondary means of communication.
(9) Each worksite must have an emergency medical plan to ensure rapid emergency medical care for employees with major illnesses and injuries. The plan must be in writing and include the following:
(a) Township, range, and section numbers or latitude and longitude or UMS Grid System coordinates;
(b) Directions by road, or escort provisions to the site;
(c) Telephone number of emergency medical services; and
(d) Provisions for emergency vehicle(s) access, when working behind locked gate(s).
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [ RCW 49.17].050 and [ RCW 49.17].060. 96-22-013, § 296-54-513, filed 10/28/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, RCW 49.17.150 and RCW 49.17.240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-513, filed 9/21/79.]
(((1) Emergency stops. Speed limiting
devices, safety stops or emergency shut down devices or shut off
valves shall be provided, with the controls so located that in
the event of an emergency, the prime mover may be shut down from
a safe place.
(2) Machine operators. Machine operators shall be experienced in operating the equipment they are using, except that inexperienced persons may operate the equipment to gain experience while in training and may do so only while working under immediate supervision of an experienced authorized person.
(3) Refueling vehicles. Each machine, vehicle, and portable powered tool shall not be fueled while the motors are running with the exception of helicopters, which is permitted under certain conditions. (See WAC 296-54-559(36).)
(4) Hydraulic lines. If failure of hydraulic lines would create a hazard to an equipment operator while at the operating station, safeguards shall be installed in such a manner as to eliminate the hazard. All hydraulic lines shall be maintained free of leaks and shall be shielded from damage wherever possible.
(5) Defective equipment.
(a) Equipment in need of repair shall be reported to management in writing as soon as possible and such equipment shall not be used until repairs are completed if there is a possible hazard to safety of the operator or other employees.
(b) The employer shall assure that each vehicle used to perform any logging operation is maintained in serviceable condition.
(c) The employer shall assure that each vehicle used to perform any logging operation is inspected before initial use during each workshift. Defects or damage shall be repaired or the unserviceable vehicle shall be replaced before work is commenced.
(6) Lock out - tag out. Procedures for lock out - tag out shall be established and implemented to prevent the accidental starting of equipment that is shut down for repairs, maintenance or adjustments.
(7) Control marking. The controls of all machines shall be marked as to their purpose in the operation of the machine.
(8) Metal objects. Metal objects driven into trees or logs shall be removed immediately after serving their intended purpose.
(9) Fire protection. The employer shall provide and maintain portable fire extinguishers on each machine and vehicle in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part G-3, Fire suppression equipment.
(10) Hand and portable powered tools.
(a) The employer shall assure that each hand and portable powered tool, including any tool provided by an employee, is maintained in serviceable condition.
(b) The employer shall assure that each tool, including any tool provided by an employee, is inspected before initial use during each workshift. At a minimum, the inspection shall include the following:
(i) Handles and guards, to assure that they are sound, tight-fitting, (properly shaped, free of splinters and sharp edges, and in place);
(ii) Controls, to assure proper function;
(iii) Chain saw chains, to assure proper adjustment;
(iv) Chain saw mufflers, to assure that they are operational and in place;
(v) Chain brakes and/or nose shielding devices, to assure that they are in place and function properly;
(vi) Heads of shock, impact-driven and driving tools, to assure that there is no mushrooming.
(c) The employer shall assure that each tool is used only for purposes for which it has been designed.
(d) When the head of any shock, impact-driven or driving tool begins to chip, it shall be repaired or removed from service.
(e) The cutting edge of each tool shall be sharpened in accordance with manufacturer's specifications whenever it becomes dull during the workshift.
(f) Each tool shall be stored in the provided location when not being used at a work site.
(g) Hand and portable powered tools and other hand-held equipment not addressed by this chapter shall be maintained and used in accordance with the general safety and health standards, WAC 296-24-650.
(11) Flammable and combustible liquids shall be stored, handled, transported and used in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-24, Part E, and the following:
(a) Flammable and combustible liquids shall not be transported in the driver compartment or in any passenger-occupied area of a machine or vehicle.
(b) Flammable or combustible liquids, including chain-saw and diesel fuel, may be used to start a fire, provided the employer assures that in the particular situation its use does not create a hazard for an employee.
(12) Smoking prohibited. Smoking shall be prohibited in battery charging areas and within fifty feet of all refueling operations. Precautions shall be taken to prevent open flames, sparks or electric arcs in battery charging or refueling areas.
(13) Charging batteries. When charging batteries, the vent caps shall be kept in place to avoid electrolyte spray. Care shall be taken to ensure caps are functioning. The battery (or compartment) cover(s) shall be open to dissipate heat.
(14) Uncovered batteries. Tools and other metallic objects shall be kept away from the tops of uncovered batteries.
(15) Work areas.
(a) Employees shall be spaced and the duties of each employee shall be organized so the actions of one employee will not create a hazard for any other employee.
(b) Work areas shall be assigned so that trees cannot fall into an adjacent occupied work area. The distance between adjacent occupied work areas shall be at least two tree lengths of the trees being felled. The distance between adjacent occupied work areas shall reflect the degree of slope, the density of the growth, the height of the trees, the soil structure and other hazards reasonably anticipated at that work site. A distance of greater than two tree lengths shall be maintained between adjacent occupied work areas on any slope where rolling or sliding of trees or logs is reasonably foreseeable.
(16) Signaling and signal equipment. Engine noise, such as from a chain saw, is not an acceptable means of signaling. Signaling and signal equipment shall comply with the requirements of this chapter.
(17) Overhead electric lines.
(a) Logging operations near overhead electric lines shall be done in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-54-557(25).
(b) Special precautions shall be taken to prevent trees from falling into power lines. The employer shall notify the power company immediately if a felled tree makes contact with any power line. If it appears that a tree will hit a power line, the power company shall be notified before it is attempted to fall the tree. If an unsuspected tree does contact a power line, each employee shall remain clear of the area until the power company advises that there are no electrical hazards.
(18) Explosives and blasting agents. Explosives and blasting agents shall be stored, handled, transported, and used in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-52, Possession and handling of explosives.
(19) Seat belts. For each vehicle or machine (equipped with ROPS/FOPS or overhead guards), including any vehicle or machine provided by an employee, the employer shall assure:
(a) That a seat belt is provided for each vehicle or machine operator;
(b) That each employee uses the available seat belt while the vehicle or machine is being operated;
(c) That each employee securely and tightly fastens the seat belt to restrain the employee within the vehicle or machine cab;
(d) That each machine seat belt meets the requirements of the Society of Automotive Engineers Standard SAE J386, June 1985, "Operator Restraint Systems for Off-Road Work Machines." Prior to February 9, 1995, seat belts and assemblies shall be designed, constructed and maintained to conform to the requirements specified in the society of automotive engineers technical report J386 or J333a. Seat belts need not be provided for equipment which is designed for stand-up operations;
(e) That seat belts are not removed from any vehicle or machine. The employer shall replace each seat belt which has been removed from any vehicle or machine that was equipped with seat belts at the time of manufacture; and
(f) That each seat belt is maintained in a serviceable condition.
(20) The rated capacity of any vehicle transporting a machine shall not be exceeded.
(21) Machines shall be loaded, secured and unloaded in a manner so that it will not create a hazard for any employee.)) (1) The employer must develop a formal accident prevention program, tailored to the needs of the particular logging operation and to the type of hazards involved.
(2) The accident prevention program must be in writing.
(3) The accident prevention program must cover at least the following elements:
A safety training program that describes the employer's total safety program.
(a) How and when to report injuries;
(b) The location of first aid supplies;
(c) How to report unsafe conditions and practices;
(d) The use and care of required personal protective equipment;
(e) An on-the-job review of the practices necessary to perform job assignments safely; and
(f) Recognition of safety and health hazards associated with the employee's specific work tasks, including using measures and work practices to prevent or control those hazards.
(4) The employer must document and maintain current records of required training, including:
• Who was trained;
• The date(s) of the training; and
• The signature of the trainer or the employer.
[Statutory Authority: