WAC 296-54-563 Guying tail/lift trees.

(1) Whenever a tail/lift tree is within reach of the work area and the rigging is placed on the tail/lift tree at a height greater than five times the tree diameter (dbh), at least two guylines must be used unless tree size and strength and rigging position eliminate the need for guylines or employees must be in the clear before the go-ahead signal is given.

(2) Guylines on tail/lift trees must not be anchored to standing trees unless:

(a) There is no danger that the guyline anchor tree will enter the work area;

(b) The guyline anchor tree is properly tied back; or

(c) Employees are in the clear of the guyline anchor tree(s) before the go-ahead signal is given.

(3) When guylines are required, they must be positioned according to Figure 16: Positioning Guylines in Back of Tree and Figure 19: 4 Guyline Case - Tail/Lift Tree Guying as follows:

(a) When the angle between the horizontal and skyline coming into the tree (angle A in Figure 16) is less than the angle between the horizontal and the skyline leaving the tree towards the anchor point (angle B in Figure 16), the guylines must be in back of the tail/lift tree as specified in Figure 19.

(b) If angle A is greater than angle B, then the guys must be placed in front of the tail/lift tree. This situation usually occurs when a tail/lift tree is used during downhill yarding as shown below. Placing the guys on the uphill side only helps to pull the tail/lift tree over uphill.

(c) If a suitable anchor is not available within a specified shaded zone, two guylines may be used instead of one guyline, provided a guyline is placed on either side of and as near as possible to the affected shaded zone.

(4) Tail/lift trees must be supported by additional guylines if necessary, to ensure the stability of the tree.

(5) Guylines for tail/lift trees may be made of synthetic material and must be used according to the manufacturer's recommendation.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-563, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .050, and .240, chapters 43.22 and 42.30 RCW. 80-11-057 (Order 80-15), § 296-54-563, filed 8/20/80. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150, and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-563, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-565 Intermediate support trees.

(1) Trees used as intermediate supports must be sound and straight from the ground to the point of strap attachment; and must be rigged so that:

(a) Carriage clearance, as measured at the base of the support tree(s) is approximately five feet.

(b) The jackline/support line (see Figure 21: Critical Measurements of the Double Tree Intermediate Support System) is a single piece of line that is one-eighth inch larger than the tong or skidding line or rigged to provide a strength equal to a line one-eighth inch larger than the tong or skidding line.

(2) Vertical support trees must be firmly rooted.

(3) The base of all leaning tree supports must be prevented from moving by:

(a) Retaining twenty percent of the stump diameter in holding wood; or

(b) Other suitable rigging arrangements.

(4) Double tree supports must be rigged so that (see Figure 22: Double Tree Intermediate Support System):

(a) The minimum and maximum heights of the jack relative to the height of the block are as shown below:

(b) The angle the block line makes with the center line of the support tree is as follows:

(i) For skylines one and one-eighth inch and smaller, ten degrees in any direction; and

(ii) For skylines larger than one and one-eighth inch, deflection of the block is in the direction of the jack and a maximum of ten degrees.

(c) The loaded support tree does not displace more than two feet at the point of rigging attachment.

(5) Intermediate support trees must be adequately guyed to withstand any stress to which the tree may be subjected.

(6) Single tree supports must be guyed as follows:

(a) For skylines one and one-eighth inch and less, as shown in Figure 4; and

(b) For skylines larger than one and one-eighth inch, as shown in Figure 6.

(7) Double tree supports must be guyed as follows:

(a) For skylines one and one-eighth inch and less, no guys are required;

(b) For skylines larger than one and one-eighth inch, as shown in Figure 4.

(8) Guylines for intermediate support trees may be made of synthetic material and must be used according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Figure 21: Critical measurements of the double tree intermediate support system

Figure 22: Double tree intermediate support system

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-565, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .050, .060 96-22-013, § 296-54-565, filed 10/28/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150, and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-565, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-567 Rigging skylines.

(1) A skyline must not make an angle greater than fifty degrees measured from the horizontal as it leaves the tail/lift tree. (See Figure 18: Maximum Angle for Load Bearing Guylines and Skyline.)

(2) When rigged in a tail/lift tree, the skyline must be anchored no more than eight degrees offline from the rearward projection of the skyline. If a suitable anchor is not available within the specified zone and the tail/lift tree is stable, a more suitable anchor outside the zone may be used. (See Figure 23: Skyline Positioning Limits Tail/Lift Tree.)

(3) A skyline must not be considered a guyline.

(4) Extensions to skylines must be equal in breaking strength to the skyline to which they are attached and must not alter the safe capacity of the tower. In addition, the extension must be attached only by a regular long splice or by a flush pin straight side shackle connecting the two eyes.

Note: See exception in WAC 296-54-553 (4)(e).

(5) Live, running or standing skylines must be anchored by one of the following methods:

(a) Directly to a stump or suitable manufactured anchor;

(b) Directly to the base of a standing tree provided the point of attachment is no more than three feet above the ground and no part of the tree will enter the work area if pulled over;

(i) If the tree will enter a work area, it must be properly tied back; or

(ii) Employee(s) must be in the clear before the go-ahead signal is given.

(c) By passing the skyline though a jack or block hung on a tail/lift tree before being anchored.

(6) Skylines or mainlines must be secured by one of the following methods:

(a) With at least two and one-half wraps, well spiked, or properly clamped (see WAC 296-54-569 (5)(b)); or

(b) Choked by using an approved shackle over the skyline or mainline with the pin through the eye; or

(c) With an approved strap having both eyes hung in a shackle and the knockout pin or safety pin through the eye of the skyline or mainline.

(7) Attaching the end of the skyline or slackline to the base of the rigged tail/lift tree is prohibited.

Figure 23: Skyline positioning limits tail/lift tree

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-567, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .050, .060 96-22-013, § 296-54-567, filed 10/28/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040 and 49.17.050. 81-05-013 (Order 81-3), § 296-54-567, filed 2/10/81. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150, and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-567, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-569 Anchoring.

(1) Stumps used to anchor guylines and skylines must be carefully chosen for position, height, and strength. When necessary, stump anchors must be tied back to distribute the load.

(2) Stump anchors when spiked must be barked where attachments are to be made.

(3) Stump anchors must be adequately notched to keep the line in place and not adversely affect the stump strength.

(4) Employees must not stand close to the stump or tree or in the bight of lines as the guyline or wraps are being tightened.

(5) When spikes or cable clamps are used, guylines or skylines must be anchored with at least two and one-half wraps around the stumps. Wraps must:

(a) Be well secured with at least eight spikes or six staples in sound wood on the first and last wrap; or

(b) Have the end of the line secured with two wire rope clips on lines up to one inch diameter and three wire rope clips on lines one inch diameter and over.

(6) Properly installed deadman anchors are permitted. Guylines must not be directly attached to deadman anchors. Suitable straps or equally effective means must be used.

(7) Guylines of portable spars, wood spars or towers must not be anchored to standing trees if the unit is used as a head tree, except as specified in subsection (8) of this section.

(8) In special cases such as hanging on foreign ownership or in cable thinning operation where frequent moves make the retrieval of fell guyline trees difficult, the following will apply:

(a) Standing trees within reach of a work area or haul road may be used provided:

(i) They are solid;

(ii) Have a sound undisturbed root system;

(iii) If fell, would be suitable for a guyline stump or tailhold as required in subsection (1) of this section; and

(iv) Are properly tied back to distribute the load; or

(b) Guyline and/or tailhold anchor trees, when located so they will not fall into the work area or haul road, need not be tied back if stable.

Note: Under no circumstances must an employer accept a requirement, or be required to use standing trees to anchor guylines.

(9) Rock bolt anchors must be grouted, installed, tested, and maintained according to the rock bolt manufacturer's recommendations.

(10) Anchors must be regularly inspected while the logging operation is in progress. Insecure or hazardous anchors must be corrected immediately.

(11) Artificial earth anchors must be installed and used according to their design specifications and manufacturer's recommendations.

(12) Mobile equipment may be used to anchor skylines, running lines and guylines, provided the weight of the machine or other methods are used to ensure machine stability for all applied loads.

Figure 24: Rigging Illustrations

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-569, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 90-09-026 (Order 90-01), § 296-54-569, filed 4/10/90, effective 5/25/90. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150, and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-569, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-571 Releasing spiked guylines and spiked skylines from anchors. 

The following procedures must be followed when removing spiked guylines or spiked skylines from stumps:

(1) Reversed safety wrap is put on and secured before loosening the last wrap;

(2) An authorized employee is in charge of loosening guylines or skylines;

(3) The authorized employee uses all precautions and gives warning before releasing lines; and

(4) Safety holdbacks are used when necessary for employee safety.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-571, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150, and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-571, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-573 Logging machines--General.

(1) All logging machinery must have speed limiting devices, safety stops, or emergency shut down devices or shut off valves, with the controls located so that in the event of an emergency, the prime mover may be shut down from a safe place.

(2) Machine operators must be experienced in operating the equipment they use.

Exception: Inexperienced employees may operate equipment to gain experience while in training but may do so only while working under the immediate supervision of an experienced authorized person.

(3) All machine controls must be marked as to their purpose in the operation of the machine.

(4) The rated capacity of any vehicle transporting a machine must not be exceeded.

(5) Machines must be loaded, secured, and unloaded in a manner that will not create a hazard for any employee.

Note: This requirement includes the loading, securing and unloading of a machine on and off a transport vehicle.

(6) The employer must not make any modifications or additions that affect the capacity or safe operation of the equipment without written approval of the manufacturer or a qualified engineer. If modifications or changes are made, the capacity, operation and maintenance instruction plates, tags, or decals, must be changed accordingly. The original safety factor of the equipment must never be reduced.

(7) Equipment must be classed and used according to the manufacturer's rating. Where low gear ratios or other devices are installed to increase the line pull in accordance with subsection (6) of this section, the size of the rigging must be increased accordingly so that it will safely withstand the increased strains.

(8) Each machine, including any machine provided by an employee, must be maintained in serviceable condition and the following:

(a) Each machine must be inspected before initial use during each workshift. Defects or damage must be repaired or the unserviceable machine is replaced before beginning work.

(b) Operating and maintenance instructions must be available on the machine or in the area where the machine is being operated. Each machine operator and maintenance employee must comply with the operating and maintenance instructions.

(c) Each machine must be operated only from the operator's station or as otherwise recommended by the manufacturer.

(d) Employees must not be allowed to ride on any load.

(9) The yarding machine or vehicle, including its load, must be operated with safe clearance from all obstructions.

(10) While manual/mechanized falling is in progress, all logging machines must be operated at least two tree lengths away from trees being fell.

Exception: This provision does not apply to logging machines performing tree pulling operations or logging machines called upon by the cutter to ground hazard trees. All cutters must be notified of the logging machine entrance into the area and all falling within two tree lengths of the logging machine must stop.

(11) If a hydraulic or pneumatic storage device can move the moving elements such as, but not limited to, blades, buckets, saws and shears, after the machine is shut down, the pressure or stored energy from the element must be discharged as specified by the manufacturer.

(12) Loads must not exceed the rated capacity of the pallet, trailer, or other carrier.

(13) Boom-type logging machines must have a boom stop to prevent over-topping of the boom.

(14) Boom points of timber booms must be equipped with metal straps, plates, or other devices as needed to properly secure eyebolts and fittings used to support lines, blocks, or other rigging.

(15) Logging machine sleds or bases must be strong enough to withstand any stresses imposed upon them.

(16) Stationary logging machines must be securely anchored or otherwise stabilized to prevent unintended movement while yarding or skidding.

(17) Logging machines and their components must be securely anchored to their bases.

(18) Logging machines must be kept free of flammable waste materials and any materials that might contribute to slipping, tripping or falling.

(19) A safe and adequate means of access and egress to all parts of logging machinery where persons must go must be provided and maintained in a safe and uncluttered condition. Machine access systems, meeting the specifications of the Society of Automotive Engineers, SAE J185, June 1988, “Recommended Practice for Access Systems for Off-Road Machines,” must be provided for each machine where the operator or any other employee must climb onto the machine to enter the cab or to perform maintenance. Walking and working surfaces of each machine and machine work station must have a slip-resistant surface to assure safe footing.

(20) Enclosed-type cabs installed on mobile logging machines must have two means of exit. One may be an emergency exit and be available for use at all times regardless of the position of the side arms or other movable parts of the machine. An easily removable window is acceptable as the emergency exit if it is large enough for an employee to readily exit.

Exception: Mobile logging machines manufactured before July 1,1980 are not required to have two means of exit.

(21) Before leaving the operator's station of a machine, the operator must ensure the machine is secured as follows:

(a) The parking brake or brake locks must be applied;

(b) The transmission must be placed in the manufacturer's specified park position; and

(c) Each moving element such as, but not limited to, blades, buckets, saws and shears, must be lowered to the ground or otherwise secured.

(22) Storing employee property, tools, or other miscellaneous materials on or within three feet of any logging machine is prohibited if retrieving the items would expose an employee to the hazardous pinch point area between the rotating superstructure and the nonrotating undercarriage.

(23) Employees must approach the hazardous pinch point area only after informing the operator of that intent and receiving acknowledgment from the operator that the operator understands the employee's intention. All logging machines must be stopped while any employee is in the hazardous pinch point area.

(24) After adjustments or repairs are made, logging machines must not be operated until all guards are reinstalled, safety devices reactivated, and maintenance equipment removed.

(25) Fairleads must be properly aligned at all times and designed to prevent line damage.

(26) Employee(s), except a mechanic or employee in training to operate equipment, must not ride on any mobile logging machine unless provided with seating, seat belts, and other protection equivalent to that provided for the operator.

(27) Riding on arches, reaches or turn of logs is prohibited.

(28) Tractors, skidders, arches, or logs being yarded by them must not run over or rub against anchored lines, tailhold stumps, or other rigging.

(29) Ends of lines attached to drums on logging machines must be secured by end attachments that develop the ultimate strength of the line unless three wraps of line are maintained on the drum at all times.

Exception: This does not apply to tractors or skidders.

(30) Wire rope must be wound on drum spools in a manner to prevent excessive wear, kinking, chafing or fouling.

(31) Guylines required in rigging spars or towers must be evenly spooled to prevent fouling.

(32) A guide pulley, tool, stick, iron bar or other mechanical or manual means must be used when guiding lines onto drums. Guiding lines onto drums with any part of the body in direct contact with the line is prohibited.

(33) A limit switch must be installed on electric-powered log loaders to prevent the lift arms from traveling too far in the event the control switch is not released in time.

(34) All forklift type log handling machines must be equipped with a grapple system and the arms must be closed whenever logs are being carried.

(35) When forklift machines are used to load, unload, or handle trailers, a positive means of holding the lifting attachment on the fork must be installed and used.

(36) Loads on forklift type log handling machines must be transported as low as safely operable without obstructing visibility.

(37) Guyline drum controls and outrigger controls must be separated and clearly identified in a manner that will prevent the engaging of the wrong control.

(38) Each machine must be equipped with guarding to protect employees from exposed moving elements, such as, but not limited to, shafts, belts, pulleys on chains, sprockets and gears in accordance with the requirements of this standard and chapter 296-806 WAC, Machine safety. Guards must be in place at all times when machines are in use.

Note: This does not apply to lifting or yarding components such as, but not limited to, cable nip points, sheaves and blocks.

(39) Each machine used for debarking, limbing, and chipping must be guarded to protect employees from flying wood chunks, logs, chips, bark, limbs, and other material in accordance with the requirements of this standard and chapter 296-806 WAC, Machine safety.

(40) Grab rails must be provided and maintained in good repair on all walkways of stationary units elevated more than four feet.

(41) Towed equipment such as, but not limited to, skid pans, pallets, arches, and trailers, must be attached to each machine or vehicle to allow a full ninety degree turn; to prevent overrunning of the towing machine or vehicles; and to ensure that the operator is always in control of the towed equipment.

(42) Timbers used for masts or booms shall be straight-grained, solid, and capable of withstanding the working load.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 04-14-028 (Order 01-12), § 296-54-573, filed 06/29/04, effective 01/01/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-573, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150, and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-573, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-57310 Logging machines--Chipping in woods locations. 

In-woods chipping must be performed according to the following:

(1) Chipper access covers or doors remain closed until the drum or disc stops completely.

(2) Infeed and discharge ports are guarded to prevent contact with the disc, knives, or blower blades.

(3) The chipper is shut down and locked out according to the lockout/tagout requirements of chapter 296-803 WAC, when an employee performs any servicing or maintenance.

(4) Detached trailer chippers are chocked when used on any slope where rolling or sliding of the chipper is reasonably foreseeable.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 04-15-105, (Order 03-12), § 296-54-57310, filed 07/20/04, effective 11/01/04. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57310, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57315 Logging machines--Exhaust pipes.

(1) Engines not equipped with turbochargers must be equipped with spark arrestors in compliance with the department of natural resources, chapter 332-24 WAC, requirements for spark-emitting equipment.

(2) Each machine muffler provided by the manufacturer, or their equivalent, must be in place at all times the machine is in operation.

(3) Exhaust pipes must be located or insulated to protect workers from accidental contact with the pipes or muffler and must direct exhaust gases away from the operator and other persons.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57315, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57320 Logging machines--Glass. 

Glass installed on logging machines must:

(1) Be free of deposits of oil and mud or defects that could endanger the operator or other employees;

(2) Be safety glass or a type that provides equal protection;

(3) Be removed or replaced if defective or broken glass impairs the vision of the operator; and

(4) Have an additional metal screen or guard installed where glass does not provide adequate operator protection from flying chokers, chunks, saplings, limbs, etc. The operator's vision must not be impaired.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57320, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57325 Logging machines--Brakes.

(1) Brakes or dogs must be installed on all machine drums and maintained in effective working condition.

(2) Drum brakes must have an independent locking device that will hold the drum when the operator leaves the machine and the machine is not operating.

(3) Brakes must be protected from direct exposure to the elements or be designed or constructed to make them impervious to such exposure.

(4) At the start of each shift, logging machine operators must test all brakes before taking a load.

(5) Service brakes must be able to stop and hold each machine and its rated load capacity on the slopes over which it is being operated. Brakes must be effective whether or not the engine is running and regardless of the direction of travel.

(6) Self-propelled logging machines manufactured on or after July 1, 1985, must be equipped with braking systems as follows:

(a) A service braking system, which must be the primary means of stopping and holding the equipment;

(b) An emergency stopping system, which must be a secondary means of stopping the equipment in the event of any single failure of the service system; and

(c) A parking brake system, which must be used to continuously hold a stopped machine stationary within the limits of traction on any grade on which it is operated so as to allow the operator to leave the vehicle without the vehicle moving, and to prevent subsequent movement of the vehicle while unattended. The parking brake system must maintain this parking performance despite any contraction of brake parts, failure of the source of application, energy or leakage of any kind.

(7) The braking systems required in subsection (5) of this section must be installed, tested, and maintained according to the following Society of Automotive Engineers' (SAE) Recommended Practices:

(a) J1026-1982--Braking Performance-In Service Crawler Tractors and Crawler Loaders;

(b) J1473-1984--Braking Performance-Rubber-Tired Construction Machines;

(c) J1178-1980-Minimum Performance Criteria for Braking Systems for Rubber-Tired Skidders.

(8) Self-propelled logging machines manufactured before July 1, 1985, must have braking systems installed, tested and maintained in as effective a condition as originally intended by the manufacturer.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57325, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57330 Logging machines--Outriggers.

(1) All outriggers must have a stable base under the outrigger or equivalent leveling pads as recommended by the equipment manufacturer.

(2) Outriggers must have a means to hold them in both the retracted and extended position.

(3) Hydraulic outriggers must have a positive holding device (velocity fuse, load check valve, manually operated valve or equivalent) to prevent movement of the piston in the event of a hose, fitting or other failure in the hydraulic system except when proper blocking is provided.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57330, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57335 Logging machines--Hydraulics.

(1) If failure of hydraulic lines could create a hazard to an equipment operator while at the operator's station, safeguards must be installed that will eliminate the hazard.

(2) Machines or equipment must not be operated when hydraulic fluid leakage creates contamination of the operator's workstation, means of access or egress, or creates other unsafe conditions such as fire hazard or control malfunction.

(3) Abrasive contact with hydraulic hoses, tubing or fittings must be eliminated before further use.

(4) Defective hydraulic hoses, lines and fittings must be replaced.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57335, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57340 Logging machines--A-frames.

(1) A-frames must be guyed or braced to provide stability and prevent tipping.

(2) A-frame bases must be secured against displacement and the tops must be securely bolted or lashed to prevent displacement.

(3) Where guylines are used, A-frames must have at least one snap guy and two guylines securely attached, anchored and spread to form an angle 70 degrees to 90 degrees opposite the direction of stress or strain.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57340, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57345 Logging machines--Moving.

(1) Operators must ensure that all employees are in the clear before initiating or continuing the movement of any mobile equipment. The machine must be operated far enough from employees and other machines so that operation does not create a hazard for an employee.

(2) At any time when moving logging machines, the driver must have a clear and unobstructed view of the direction of travel. When this is not possible, a signal person with a clear and unobstructed view of the direction of travel must be designated and used to direct the movement of the machine, or the machine must have an audible horn that is sounded.

Exception: This does not apply to tractors, skidders or tree harvesters during normal yarding operations.

(3) Where a signalperson is used, the equipment operator must move the equipment only on signal from the designated signalperson and only when the signal is distinct and clearly understood.

(4) When moving power units, persons other than the operator and the person in charge must not be permitted to ride on the unit.

(5) All obstructions that may reach the operator while moving a machine must be removed.

(6) When moving to areas within the immediate landing area, all employees must stay in the clear of the logging machine(s) or must inform the operator of the intent to approach or be near the machine(s).

(7) Mobile yarders and wheel or crawler loaders must not travel on road grades greater than 15 percent unless they are securely snubbed or towed, or have a braking system designed for such travel by the manufacturer.

(8) Crawler-type, track-mounted logging machines with manual transmissions must be equipped with a ratchet or other device that will prevent unintended disengagement or reversing of the machine and the operator must be informed of the proper technique.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57345, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57350 Logging machines--Tractors and skidders.

(1) Operators must operate and control their machines in a safe manner and avoid operations in areas where machine stability may not be maintained.

(2) Winch lines on logging tractors or skidders must be attached to the drums with a breakaway device.

(3) Arches must be equipped with line guards.

(4) A turnaround, if needed for skidders, must be provided on all skidding roads every 500 feet.

(5) The following safe work procedures must be followed:

(a) Lines must not be allowed to trail behind the tractor or skidder where it may hang up and snap forward.

(b) Each machine must be positioned during winching so the machine and winch are operated within their design limits.

(c) Logs/trees must be chocked near the ends of the logs/trees whenever possible and safely positioned before traveling.

(d) Before climbing or descending grades, the proper gear must be selected to allow the engine to govern the tractor speed.

(e) On side hills, abrupt turns uphill must be avoided. The tractor or skidder must be backed downhill first then turned uphill. The turn may be slacked off as necessary to permit this maneuver.

(f) Tractor or skidder speed must be adjusted to the circumstances prevailing. Excessive or uncontrolled speed must be avoided.

(6) Where tractor and skidder operators or helpers, because of the nature of their work duties, are required to wear calk soled footwear, the decks and operating foot controls must be covered with a suitable nonslip material.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050 99-17-117, (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57350, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-57355 Logging machines--Protective structures for operators.

(1) Each tractor, skidder, log stacker and mechanical felling device, such as tree shears or feller-buncher, placed into initial service after February 9, 1995, must be equipped with falling object protective structure (FOPS) and/or rollover protective structure (ROPS). The employer must replace FOPS or ROPS which have been removed from any machine.

Exception: This requirement does not apply to machines which are capable of 360 degree rotation.

(2) ROPS must be installed, tested, and maintained in accordance with the Society of Automotive Engineers SAE J1040, April 1988, “Performance Criteria for Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS) for Construction, Earthmoving, Forestry, and Mining Machines.”

(3) The ROPS must be high enough and wide enough so that it will not impair the movements of the operator or prevent his immediate escape from the vehicle in emergencies and must allow as much visibility as possible. Clearance above the deck and the ROPS of the vehicle at exits must be at least fifty-two inches (1.3 meters).

(4) Certified roll-over protective systems must be identified by a metal tag permanently attached to the ROPS in a position where it may be easily read from the ground. The tag must be permanently and clearly stamped, etched or embossed indicating the name and address of the certifying manufacturer or registered professional engineer, the ROPS model number (if any) and the vehicle make, model or serial number the ROPS is designed to fit.

(5) Roll-over protective structure systems must be maintained in a manner that will preserve their original strength. Welding must be performed by qualified welders only. (A qualified welder is defined under “welder qualification” in American Welding Society A.W.S. A3.0-69.)

(6) FOPS structures must be installed, tested and maintained according to:

(a) The society of automotive engineers SAE J231-1971, “minimum performance criteria for falling object protective structures (FOPS) prior to February 9, 1995.”

(b) Society of automotive engineers SAE J231, January 1981, “minimum performance criteria for falling object protective structures (FOPS) for each tractor, skidder, log stacker, log loader and mechanical falling device, such as tree shears or faller-buncher, placed into initial service after February 9, 1995.”

(7) The employer must replace FOPS that have been removed from any machine.

(8) Vehicles with ROPS or FOPS as required in subsection (1) of this section, must comply with the society of automotive engineers SAE J397a-1972, “deflection limiting volume for laboratory evaluation of roll-over protective structures (ROPS) and falling object protective structures (FOPS) of construction and industrial vehicles.” Vehicles placed into initial service after February 9, 1995, must meet the requirements of SAE J397-1988.

(9) The opening in the rear of the ROPS on the crawler or rubber-tired tractors (skidders) must be covered with 1/4-inch diameter woven wire having not less than 1-1/2-inches or more than 2-inch mesh, or material which will afford equivalent protection for the operator.

(a) The covering must be attached to the structural members so that enough clearance is provided between the screen and the back of the operator.

(b) Structural members must be free from projections that would tend to puncture or tear flesh or clothing.

(c) Suitable safeguards or barricades must be installed, in addition to the screen, to protect the operator when there is a possibility of being struck by any material that could enter from the rear.

(10) Crawler and rubber-tired tractors (skidders) working in areas where limbs or brush may endanger the operator must be guarded.

(a) Shear or deflector guards must be installed on each side of the vehicle at an angle leading forward and down from the top front edge of the canopy of the vehicle, which will tend to slide the brush or limbs up and over the top of the canopy.

(b) Open mesh material with openings of a size that will reject the entrance of an object larger than 1-3/4-inches in diameter, must be extended forward as far as possible from the rear corners of the cab sides to give the maximum protection against obstacles, branches, etc., entering the cab area.

(c) Deflectors must also be installed ahead of the operator to deflect whipping saplings and branches.

(d) Deflectors must be located so as not to impede entrance to or exit from the compartment area.

(e) The floor and lower portion of the cab must be completely enclosed with solid material, except at entrances, to prevent the operator from being injured by obstacles which otherwise could enter the cab compartment.

(11) Enclosures for agricultural and industrial tractors manufactured after September 1, 1972, must be constructed, designed and installed as detailed in the society of automotive engineers technical report J168. Each machine manufactured after August 1, 1996, must have a cab that is fully enclosed with mesh material with openings no greater than 2 inches (5.08 cm) at its lease dimension. The cab may be enclosed with other material(s) where the employer demonstrates such material(s) provides equivalent protection and visibility.

Exception: Equivalent visibility is not required for the lower portion of the cab where there are control panels or similar obstructions in the cab, or where visibility is not necessary for safe operation of the machine.

(12) Overhead protection and other barriers must be installed to protect the operator from lines, limbs, and other moving materials on or over all loading or skidding machines and on all yarding machines where the operator's station is mounted on board. The overhead covering of each cab must be of solid material and extend over the entire canopy. A skylight in a logging machine must be made of safety glass or provide equivalent protection.

Note: This does not apply to self-loaders.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040 and .050. 99-17-117 (Order 97-09), § 296-54-57355, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99.]

WAC 296-54-575 Landing area.

(1) Unless otherwise specified, landing areas must:

(a) Be large enough that if logs are to be heeled and swung, they will not strike standing timber, rigging, or other equipment or objects;

(b) Be large and level enough to land and deck the logs in the turns so that they will not slide or roll in the direction of employees or equipment. This is not intended to restrict the yarding and/or loading of logs for pole piling or an infrequent long break or tree length, provided the log is secured before unhooking the choker;

(c) Be large enough for safe movement of all logs and machinery;

(d) Landings must be free of root wads, limbs, tops, etc., that constitute a safety hazard; and

(e) Not have materials pushed, thrown, or dumped over the edge in a manner or at a time that will endanger employees.

(2) When during roadside thinning, logs stacked on the roadside without a landing must be placed in a stable condition.

(3) During uphill yarding, the landing chute must be cleared of logs before the next turn of logs is landed unless:

(a) The logs are fully contained in the landing chute; or

(b) There is no possibility that employees working below the landing may be struck by rolling objects coming off the landing.

(4) Roadside or continuous landings must be large and wide enough to safely operate and maintain the yarding or loading equipment. Outrigger pads, tracks or wheels must be on firm, stable ground.

(5) In logging operations where the yarder is set up in the haul road and logs are landed on the slope below the road, the following must apply:

(a) If the landing chute slope is twenty percent or less, logs may be landed and decked in the chute provided the logs can be left in a stable position;

(b) If the landing chute slope exceeds twenty percent, decking is not permitted in the chute if a chaser is required to unhook the rigging from the logs or if employees are working below the landing chute and are exposed to rolling or sliding logs;

(c) If logs are to be decked below the road, the logs must be effectively secured from rolling or sliding down the hill; or

(d) If the landing process or weather conditions (rain, snow, ice, mud) prevent the required log stability and exposes employees to the hazard of rolling or sliding logs, the logs must be decked at a different location.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040 and .050. 99-17-117 (Order 97-09), § 296-54-575, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .050 and .060. 96-22-013, § 296-54-575, filed 10/28/96, effective 1/1/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .050, and .240, chapters 43.22 and 42.30 RCW. 80-11-057 (Order 80-15), § 296-54-575, filed 8/20/80. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150 and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-575, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-577 Yarding, skidding, landing.

(1) Running lines must be arranged so that employees are not required to work in the bight of the line. When employees must work in the bight, employees must move out of the bight of the lines before the signal to move the turn is given, or be in a position where they are protected by standing timber, terrain, or other objects large enough to ensure their safety.

(2) Choker holes must be dug from the uphill side of the log when there is danger of the log rolling or moving.

(3) Chokers must be placed near the end of the log/tree whenever possible.

Exception: When long logs or tree-length logs are being yarded and a long end is necessary to safely land the logs/trees on the available landing space.

(4) Employees must be in the clear of logs, root wads, chunks, hazardous trees, rolling material and rigging before the go-ahead signal is given and must stay in the clear until all rigging movement has stopped.

(5) Employees must move away from the turn so as to be above or behind the turn and in the clear. They must remain on their feet and face the turn before the go-ahead signal is given.

(6) All employees must remain away from rigging that is stopped at a hangup, until the rigging has been slacked to reduce the hazard.

(7) Chokers must not be hooked or unhooked until all rigging is stopped completely.

(8) Logs must not be landed until all employees, trucks or equipment are in the clear.

(9) Logs must not accumulate in the landing chute to the point where they become a hazard to the landing personnel.

(10) Logs must be stable and secure before being approached by employees and before chokers are unhooked.

(11) An employee must not buck, limb or trim logs from a position that will expose the employee to contact with moving lines.

(12) Logs must not be placed in, moved about, or removed from the bucking area of the landing unless all employees are in the clear.

(13) An unimpaired horizontal clearance of at least three feet must be maintained between the rotating superstructure of any logging machine working on a landing and any adjacent object or surface. If this clearance cannot be maintained, a safety zone barrier must be used to isolate the hazardous area. The safety zone barrier may be a warning line constructed of rope or ribbon, supported on stanchions.

(14) “DANGER 36-INCH CLEARANCE” must be marked near the rear of the machine.

(15) Employees must not approach a machine's working circle until the operator has acknowledged that it is safe to do so.

(16) Whenever possible, chokers must be set from the uphill side of a log. Persons must not be on the lower side of a log which appears to be unstable or likely to roll.

(17) When yarding during the hours of darkness, the area must be lighted enough to allow employees to safely perform their duties. The source of light must be located and directed to create minimum shadows and glare. If using a portable tailhold, lights must be directed on equipment to allow the person to visually determine that the tailhold equipment remains stabilized.

(18) Each yarded tree/log must be placed in a location that does not create a hazard for an employee and in an orderly manner so that the trees/logs are stable before bucking or limbing is commenced.

(19) When using a yarder, loader or skidding machine, the location of the machine or position of the yarder must be such that the operator will not be endangered by incoming logs or debris.

(20) Employee(s) must be assigned to flag on roads or provide other equivalent protection where hazardous conditions are created from logging such as, but not limited to:

(a) Running wire rope lines or rigging across road grades, excluding guylines and standing skylines if lines remain a safe distance above the road to allow a vehicle to pass under; or

(b) The movement of logs, chunks, or debris across or suspended over road grades.

Exception: Where there is no through traffic, such as on a dead end road or where the property owner's permission or proper authority is granted to close a section of road, warning signs and barricades may be used instead of flagger(s).

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040 and .050. 99-17-117 (Order 97-09), § 296-54-577, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150 and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-577, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-579 Log decks.

(1) Logs must be placed in and removed from decks in a straight and orderly manner so as to minimize the hazards from rolling or shifting logs.

(2) If employees are working on the ground near the deck, the deck must be constructed and located so it is stable and provides each employee with enough room to safely move and work in the area.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040 and .050. 99-17-117 (Order 97-09), § 296-54-579, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150 and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-579, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54-581 Helicopter logging--General.

(1) Prior to daily logging operations, a briefing must be conducted. The briefing must set forth the plan of operation for the pilot(s) and ground personnel. Anytime a change in operating procedure is necessary, affected personnel must be notified.

(2) Employees and equipment must remain in the clear and employees must never be under a suspended load.

(3) Employees must not work under hovering craft except for that limited period of time necessary to guide, secure, hook/unhook loads, and perform maintenance/inspections or other related job duties.

(4) The location of the drop zone, decking areas, loading areas, and designated safety zones must be established by a pilot and a responsible supervisor taking into consideration current operating conditions.

(5) Personal protective equipment.

(a) Employees must wear high visibility hard hats secured by a chinstrap.

(b) Employees hooking and receiving the load must wear high visibility vests or outer garments.

(6) Whenever approaching or leaving a support helicopter with blades rotating, employees must:

(a) Remain in full view of the pilot and keep in a crouched position;

(b) Obtain a visual or audible acknowledgment from the pilot before entering or exiting the helicopter;

(c) Avoid the area from the cockpit or cabin rearward unless authorized by the helicopter company to work there; and

(d) Exercise special caution to keep clear of rotors when visibility is reduced.

(7) Before approaching or departing the service area for maintenance, visual and/or audible communication must be established.

(8) There must be reliable communication available between the helicopter, woods crew, landing, and service areas. In the absence of radio communication there must be a designated signal person.

(9) Developed hand signals must be clearly communicated and understood by all persons working in the area who may be affected by their use.

(10) Riding the load or hook of a helicopter is prohibited except in an emergency.

(11) Unauthorized employees must not be allowed to approach within fifty feet of the helicopter when the rotor blades are turning.

(12) Every practical precaution must be taken to provide for the protection of employees from flying objects in the rotor downwash.

(13) Loads must be properly slung. Tag lines used by ground personnel to position loads must be of a length that will not permit their being drawn up into rotors. Pressed sleeve, swaged eyes, or equivalent means must be used for all freely suspended loads to prevent hand splices from spinning open or cable clamps from loosening.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040 and .050. 99-17-117 (Order 97-09), § 296-54-581, filed 08/18/99, effective 12/01/99. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, .150 and .240. 79-10-081 (Order 79-14), § 296-54-581, filed 9/21/79.]

WAC 296-54 (Continued)