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• Standard Number: 1926.550

April 13, 1981 

MEMORANDUM FOR:     Bruce Hillenbrand
                   Federal and State Operations

THRU:               John B. Miles, Jr.
                   Office of Field Coordination

FROM:               GERALD A. MAYES,
                   Acting ARA,
                   Technical Support

Originator:         Carlyle F. Bunn,
                   Safety Engineer

SUBJECT:            Physical Qualifications of Crane Operators
Since 29 CFR 1926.550(b)(2) references the ANSI B30.5 related to physical qualifications of crane operators (B30.5 Chapter 5.3.1.2), how does the employer establish that the employee is physically qualified to operate the crane?

We believe that the employer has the right to require physical examination by a licensed physician to make the determination that the employee is physically capable of safe operation.

Employers have not been required to provide physical examinations but have been told that they are in a precarious liability position when they certify an operator without benefit of medical opinions - but that OSHA has no requirement for medical examination. The only requirement imposed by the standards is that the operator be physically capable of operating safely.

Since this could result in national interest, it is requested that an opinion be provided at an early date as to the requirements to be followed.

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