Fall protection requirements for employees working over water.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

July 25, 1989

Mr. Paul Falconer
Safety Director
Cianbro Corporation
Hunnewell Square
Pittsfield, Maine 04967

Dear Mr. Falconer:

This is in response to your request addressed to our Area Office in Augusta, Maine, for a clarification of 29 CFR 1926. 1431(k)(10)(i) concerning the fall protection requirements for employees working over water.

Whether OSHA standards require employees to be tied off while working over water on an aerial lift.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

March 20, 2010

Letter # 20090601-9068

Re: Whether OSHA standards require employees to be tied off while working over water on an aerial lift.