Sign professionals might not be aware that conventional, "safety belts" (body belts) are not acceptable for use as fall-protection devices by the Occupational Health and Safety Agency (OSHA). The following regulation has existed since 1998:  Conventional "safety belts" or body belts are not acceptable for use as fall protection devices by OSHA. Appendix G to Subpart R -- § 1926.502 (b)-(e) Fall Protection Systems Criteria and Practices Section (d) "Personal fall arrest systems." Personal fall arrest systems and their use shall comply with the provisions set forth below. Effective January 1, 1998, body belts are not acceptable as part of a personal fall arrest system. Note: The use of a body belt in a positioning device system is acceptable and is regulated under paragraph (e) of this section (§ 1926.502).  OSHA requires the use of a full-body harness for fall protection in the construction industry. OSHA requires the use of a full-body harness for fall protection in the construction industry (which includes sign installation and maintenance operations). Conventional, body belts should be used for worker positioning only, or in conjunction with a full-body harness to ensure OSHA-approved fall protection. Additionally, your employees must be trained in the proper use of fall-protection equipment according to the manufacturer's instructions. |