Question: What requirements apply to the use of RDS?

Answer:

OSHA first established requirements for the use of RDS in a 1991 Memorandum to Regional Administrators. The final rule incorporates those requirements and requires that employers ensure each RDS:

• Is not used for heights greater than 300 feet, unless the employer demonstrates that it is not feasible or creates a greater hazard to access such heights by any other means (e.g., powered platforms);
• Is used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, warnings and design limitations or under the direction of a qualified person;
• Is inspected before initial use during a workshift;
• Has proper rigging, including anchorages and tiebacks;
• Has a separate and independent personal fall arrest system;
• Has components that are all capable of sustaining 5,000-pound minimum rated load (except seatboards, which must be able to support 300 pounds);
• Has ropes that are protected to prevent cuts and weakening and exposure to open flames, hot work, corrosive chemicals and destructive conditions;
• Has stabilization when descents are greater than 130 feet; and
• Is not used when hazardous weather conditions are present.

In addition, the final rule requires that employers:

• Obtain written information from building owners assuring that permanent RDS anchorages have been tested, certified and maintained before employers use them (also see enforcement guidance dated November 20, 2017 (https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2017-11-20);
• Ensure each worker who uses an RDS receives training;
• Ensure each worker who uses an RDS secures tools to prevent them from falling on persons below; and
• Provide prompt rescue of each worker in the event of a fall.