Clarification of 1926.502(d)(6) term "designed for" in snaphook connections.

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 9, 2003

Mr. Doug Mercier
1345 15th Street
Franklin, PA 16232

Re: Section 1926.502(d)(6) prohibits snaphooks from being engaged to certain specified equipment unless "designed for" such a connection. What does the phrase "designed for" mean?

Dear Mr. Mercier:

Fall protection components from different manufacturers may be used together provided connecting parts are sized compatibly.

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.

February 19, 2004

Mr. Chuck Hill
[Address Withheld]

Re: Under §1926.502, whether components of fall protections systems from different manufacturers may be used together, provided they have compatible shapes and dimensions.

Dear Mr. Hill:

Under Subpart M, whether a lanyard may be connected to another lanyard by a snaphook, provided the potential fall distance is six feet or less.

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.

May 11, 2005

Paul Hayes
Sundt Construction
3940 Industrial Boulevard
Suite 100-D
P.O. Box 2280
West Sacramento, CA 95691

Re: Under Subpart M, whether a lanyard may be connected to another lanyard by a snaphook, provided the potential fall distance is six feet or less.

Dear Mr. Hayes:

Compatibility requirements of fall protection equipment from different manufacturers.

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.

October 23, 2012

Chris Medina
204 Manuel Court
Bay Point, CA 94565

Dear Mr. Medina: