WAC 296-304-03007 Painting. 

All respirators required by this section must meet the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.

(1) Paints mixed with toxic vehicles or solvents.

(a) When employees spray paints mixed with toxic vehicles or solvents, the employer must ensure that the following conditions are met:

(i) In confined spaces, employees continuously exposed to spraying are protected by air line respirators.

(ii) In tanks or compartments, employees continuously exposed to spraying are protected by air line respirators. Where mechanical ventilation is provided, employees are protected by respirators.

(iii) In large and well ventilated areas, employees exposed to spraying are protected by respirators.

(b) The employer must ensure that where employees apply by brush paints with toxic solvents in confined spaces or other areas where lack of ventilation creates a hazard, the employees are protected by filter respirators.

(c) When flammable paints or vehicles are used, precautions shall be taken in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-304-03009.

(d) The metallic parts of air moving devices, including fans, blowers, and jet-type air movers, and all duct work shall be electrically bonded to the vessel's structure.

(2) Paints and tank coatings dissolved in highly volatile, toxic and flammable solvents. Several organic coatings, adhesives and resins are dissolved in highly toxic, flammable and explosive solvents with flash points below 80°F. Work involving such materials shall be done only when all of the following special precautions have been taken:

(a) Sufficient exhaust ventilation shall be provided to keep the concentration of solvent vapors below ten percent of the lower explosive limit. Frequent tests shall be made by a competent person to ascertain the concentration.

(b) If the ventilation fails or if the concentration of solvent vapors reaches or exceeds ten percent of the lower explosive limit, painting shall be stopped and the compartment shall be evacuated until the concentration again falls below ten percent of the lower explosive limit. If the concentration does not fall when painting is stopped, additional ventilation to bring the concentration down to ten percent of the lower explosive limit shall be provided.

(c) Ventilation shall be continued after the completion of painting until the space or compartment is gas free. The final determination as to whether the space or compartment is gas free shall be made after the ventilating equipment has been shut off for a least ten minutes.

(d) Exhaust ducts shall discharge clear of working areas and away from sources of possible ignition. Periodic tests shall be made to ensure that the exhausted vapors are not accumulating in other areas within or around the vessel or dry dock.

(e) All motors and control equipment shall be of the explosion-proof type. Fans shall have nonferrous blades. Portable air ducts shall also be of nonferrous materials. All motors and associated control equipment shall be properly maintained and grounded.

(f) Only nonsparking paint buckets, spray guns and tools shall be used. Metal parts of paint brushes and rollers shall be insulated. Staging shall be erected in a manner which ensures that it is nonsparking.

(g) Only explosion proof lights, approved by the Underwriters' Laboratories for use in Class I, Group D atmospheres, or approved as permissible by the U.S. Bureau of Mines or the U.S. Coast Guard, shall be used.

(h) A competent person shall inspect all power and lighting cables to ensure that the insulation is in excellent condition, free of all cracks and worn spots, that there are no connections within fifty feet of the operation, that lines are not overloaded, and that they are suspended with sufficient slack to prevent undue stress or chafing.

(i) The face, eyes, head, hands and all other exposed parts of the bodies of employees handling highly volatile paints must be protected according to WAC 296-304-090. All footwear must be nonsparking, such as rubbers, rubber boots or rubber soled shoes without nails. Coveralls or other outer clothing must be made of cotton. Rubber gloves, instead of plastic gloves, must be used to protect against the danger of static sparks.

(j) No matches, lighted cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, and no cigarette lighters or ferrous articles shall be taken into the area where work is being done.

(k) All solvent drums taken into the compartment shall be placed on nonferrous surfaces and shall be grounded to the vessel. Metallic contact shall be maintained between containers and drums when materials are being transferred from one to another.

(l) Spray guns, paint pots, and metallic parts of connecting tubing shall be electrically bonded, and the bonded assembly shall be grounded to the vessel.

(m) The employer must ensure that all employees continuously in a compartment in which such painting is performed, are protected by air line respirators and by suitable protective clothing. Employees entering such compartments for a limited time must be protected by filter cartridge type respirators.

(n) The employer must ensure that all employees doing exterior paint spraying with such paints are protected by suitable filter cartridge type respirators and by suitable protective clothing.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 05-03-093 (Order 04-41), § 296-304-03007, filed 01/18/05, effective 03/01/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 03-04-099 (Order 02-31), § 296-304-03007, filed 02/04/03, effective 08/01/03. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060; 98-02-006 (Order 96-18), § 296-304-03007, filed 12/26/97, effective 3/1/98; Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-03007, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-03007, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 76-7, § 296-304-03007, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-03007, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-03009 Flammable liquids.

(1) In all cases when liquid solvents, paint and preservative removers, paints or vehicles, other than those covered by WAC 296-304-03007(2), are capable of producing a flammable atmosphere under the conditions of use the following precautions shall be taken:

(a) Smoking, open flames, arcs and spark-producing equipment shall be prohibited in the area.

(b) Ventilation shall be provided in sufficient quantities to keep the concentration of vapors below ten percent of their lower explosive limit. Frequent tests shall be made by a competent person to ascertain the concentration.

(c) Scrapings and rags soaked with these materials shall be kept in a covered metal container.

(d) Only explosion proof lights, approved by the Underwriters' Laboratories for use in Class I, Group D atmospheres, or approved as permissible by the U.S. Bureau of Mines or the U.S. Coast Guard, shall be used.

(e) A competent person shall inspect all power and lighting cables to ensure that the insulation is in excellent condition, free of all cracks and worn spots, that there are no connections within fifty feet of the operation, that lines are not overloaded, and that they are suspended with sufficient slack to prevent undue stress or chafing.

Suitable fire extinguishing equipment shall be immediately available in the work area and shall be maintained in a state of readiness for instant use.

[Order 74-25, § 296-304-03009, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-040 Welding, cutting and heating-Scope and application. 

All sections of this chapter which include WAC 296-304-040 in the section number apply to welding, cutting and heating.

You are also required to protect employees from exposure to hexavalent chromium during the stainless steel welding process. See WAC 296-62-08003, Hexavalent chromium for specific criteria.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 06-16-106 (Order 06-13), § 296-304-040, filed 08/12/04, effective 09/01/06. Statutory Authority: Order 74-25, § 296-304-040, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-04001 Ventilation and protection in welding, cutting and heating.

(1) Mechanical ventilation requirements.

(a) For the purposes of this section, mechanical ventilation shall meet the following requirements:

(i) Mechanical ventilation shall consist of either general mechanical ventilation systems or local exhaust systems.

(ii) General mechanical ventilation shall be of sufficient capacity and so arranged as to produce the number of air changes necessary to maintain welding fumes and smoke within safe limits.

(iii) Local exhaust ventilation shall consist of freely movable hoods intended to be placed by the welder or burner as close as practicable to the work. This system shall be of sufficient capacity and so arranged as to remove fumes and smoke at the source and keep the concentration of them in the breathing zone within safe limits.

(iv) Contaminated air exhausted from a working space shall be discharged into the open air or otherwise clear of the source of intake air.

(v) All air replacing that withdrawn shall be clean and respirable.

(vi) Oxygen shall not be used for ventilation purposes, comfort cooling, blowing dust or dirt from clothing, or for cleaning the work area.

(2) Welding, cutting and heating in confined spaces.

(a) Except as provided in WAC 296-304-04001 (2)(c) and (3)(b), either general mechanical or local exhaust ventilation meeting the requirements of (1) of this section shall be provided whenever welding, cutting or heating is performed in a confined space.

(b) The means of access shall be provided to a confined space and ventilation ducts to this space shall be arranged in accordance with WAC 296-304-05011 (2)(a) and (b).

(c) When sufficient ventilation cannot be obtained without blocking the means of access, employees in the confined space shall be protected by air line respirators in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC, and an employee on the outside of such a confined space shall be assigned to maintain communication with those working within it and to aid them in an emergency.

(3) Welding, cutting or heating of metals of toxic significance.

(a) Welding, cutting or heating in any enclosed spaces aboard the vessel involving the metals specified in this subsection shall be performed with either general mechanical or local exhaust ventilation meeting the requirements of (1) of this section.

(i) Zinc-bearing base or filler metals or metals coated with zinc-bearing materials.

(ii) Lead base metals.

(iii) Cadmium-bearing filler materials.

(iv) Chromium-bearing metals or metals coated with chromium-bearing materials.

(b) Welding, cutting, or heating in any enclosed spaces aboard the vessel involving the metals specified in this subsection shall be performed with local exhaust ventilation in accordance with the requirements of (1) of this section or employees shall be protected by air line respirators in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.

(i) Metals containing lead, other than as an impurity, or metals coated with lead-bearing materials.

(ii) Cadmium-bearing or cadmium coated base metals.

(iii) Metals coated with mercury-bearing metals.

(iv) Beryllium-containing base or filler metals. Because of its high toxicity, work involving beryllium shall be done with both local exhaust ventilation and air line respirators.

(c) Employees performing such operations in the open air shall be protected by filter type respirators in accordance with the requirements of WAC 296-304-09003, except that employees performing such operations on beryllium-containing base or filler metals shall be protected by air line respirators in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC.

(d) Other employees exposed to the same atmosphere as the welders or burners shall be protected in the same manner as the welder or burner.

(4) Inert-gas metal-arc welding.

(a) Since the inert-gas metal-arc welding process involves the production of ultraviolet radiation of intensities of 5 to 30 times that produced during shielded metal-arc welding, the decomposition of chlorinated solvents by ultraviolet rays, and the liberation of toxic fumes and gases, employees shall not be permitted to engage in, or be exposed to the process until the following special precautions have been taken:

(i) The use of chlorinated solvents shall be kept at least two hundred feet from the exposed arc, and surfaces prepared with chlorinated solvents shall be thoroughly dry before welding is permitted on such surfaces.

(ii) Helpers and other employees in the area not protected from the arc by screening as provided in WAC 296-304-04011(5) shall be protected by filter lenses meeting the requirements of Tables I-1A and B (see below). When two or more welders are exposed to each other's arc, filter lens goggles of a suitable type meeting the requirements of WAC 296-304-09001 (1) and (3) shall be worn under welding helmets or hand shields to protect the welder against flashes and radiant energy when either the helmet is lifted or the shield is removed.

(iii) Welders and other employees who are exposed to radiation shall be suitably protected so that the skin is covered completely to prevent burns and other damage by ultraviolet rays. Welding helmets and hand shields shall be free of leaks and openings, and free of highly reflective surfaces.

(iv) When inert-gas metal-arc welding is being performed on stainless steel, the requirements of (3)(b) of this section shall be met to protect against dangerous concentrations of nitrogen dioxide.

(5) General welding, cutting and heating.

(a) Welding, cutting and heating not involving conditions or materials described in (2), (3) or (4) of this section may normally be done without mechanical ventilation or respiratory protective equipment, but where, because of unusual physical or atmospheric conditions, an unsafe accumulation of contaminants exists, suitable mechanical ventilation or respiratory protective equipment shall be provided.

(b) Employees performing any type of welding, cutting or heating shall be protected by suitable eye protective equipment in accordance with the requirements of Tables I-1A and B (see below)..

(6) Residues and cargos of metallic ores. Residues and cargos of metallic ores of toxic significance shall be removed from the area or protected from the heat before welding, cutting or heating is begun.

  TABLE I-1A

FILTER LENSES FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIANT ENERGY

** These values apply where the actual arc is clearly seen. Lighter filters may be used when the arc is hidden by the workplace.

TABLE I-1B

FILTER LENSES FOR PROTECTION AGAINST RADIANT ENERGY

As a rule of thumb, start with a shade that is too dark to see the weld zone. Then go to a lighter shade which gives sufficient view of the weld zone without going below the minimum. In oxyfuel gas welding or cutting where the torch produces a high yellow light, it is desirable to use a filter lens that absorbs the yellow or sodium line in the viable light of the (spectrum) operation.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 05-03-093 (Order 04-41), § 296-304-04001, filed 01/18/05, effective 03/01/05. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 03-04-099 (Order 02-31), § 296-304-04001, filed 02/04/03, effective 08/01/03. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-04001, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-04001, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 74-25, § 296-304-04001, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-04003 Fire prevention. (Note: This section was repealed effective 12/01/05)

WAC 296-304-04005 Welding, cutting and heating in way of preservative coatings.

(1) Before welding, cutting or heating is commenced on any surface covered by a preservative coating whose flammability is not known, a test shall be made by a competent person to determine its flammability. Preservative coatings shall be considered to be highly flammable when scrapings burn with extreme rapidity.

(2) Precautions shall be taken to prevent ignition of highly flammable hardened preservative coatings. When coatings are determined to be highly flammable they shall be stripped from the area to be heated to prevent ignition. A 1 1/2-inch or larger fire hose with fog nozzle, which has been uncoiled and placed under pressure, shall be immediately available for instant use in the immediate vicinity, consistent with avoiding freezing of the hose.

(3) Protection against toxic preservative coatings.

(a) In enclosed spaces all surfaces covered with toxic preservatives shall be stripped of all toxic coatings for a distance of at least 4 inches from the area of heat application or the employees shall be protected by air line respirators meeting the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC, Respirators.

(b) In the open air employees shall be protected by a filter type respirator in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-842 WAC, Respirators.

(4) Before welding, cutting or heating is commenced in enclosed spaces on metals covered by soft and greasy preservatives, the following precautions shall be taken:

(a) A competent person shall test the atmosphere in the space to ensure that it does not contain explosive vapors, since there is a possibility that some soft and greasy preservatives may have flash points below temperatures which may be expected to occur naturally. If such vapors are determined to be present, no hot work shall be commenced until such precautions have been taken as will ensure that the welding, cutting or heating can be performed in safety.

(b) The preservative coatings shall be removed for a sufficient distance from the area to be heated to ensure that the temperature of the unstripped metal will not be appreciably raised. Artificial cooling of the metal surrounding the heated area may be used to limit the size of the area required to be cleaned. The prohibition contained in WAC 296-304-03005 (2)(b) shall apply.

(5) Immediately after welding, cutting or heating is commenced in enclosed spaces on metal covered by soft and greasy preservatives, and at frequent intervals thereafter, a competent person shall make tests to ensure that no flammable vapors are being produced by the coatings. If such vapors are determined to be present, the operation shall be stopped immediately and shall not be resumed until such additional precautions have been taken as are necessary to ensure that the operation can be resumed safely.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 07-03-163 (Order 06-30), § 296-304-04005, filed 01/24/07, effective 04/01/07. Statutory Authority: Chapter 49.17 RCW. 95-04-006, § 296-304-04005, filed 1/18/95, effective 3/10/95; 93-19-142 (Order 93-04), § 296-304-04005, filed 9/22/93, effective 11/1/93; Order 74-25, § 296-304-04005, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-04007 Welding, cutting and heating of hollow metal containers and structures not covered by WAC 296-304-02003.

(1) Drums, containers, or hollow structures which have contained toxic or flammable substances shall, before welding, cutting, or heating is undertaken on them, either be filled with water or thoroughly cleaned of such substances and ventilated and tested.

(2) Before heat is applied to a drum, container, or hollow structure, a vent or opening shall be provided for the release of any built-up pressure during the application of heat.

(3) Before welding, cutting, heating or brazing is begun on structural voids such as skegs, bilge keels, fair waters, masts, booms, support stanchions, pipe stanchions or railings, a competent person shall inspect the object and, if necessary, test it for the presence of flammable liquids or vapors. If flammable liquids or vapors are present, the object shall be made safe.

(4) Objects such as those listed in (3) of this section shall also be inspected to determine whether water or other nonflammable liquids are present which, when heated, would build up excessive pressure. If such liquids are determined to be present, the object shall be vented, cooled, or otherwise made safe during the application of heat.

(5) Jacketed vessels shall be vented before and during welding, cutting or heating operations in order to release any pressure which may build up during the application of heat.

[Order 76-7, § 296-304-04007, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-04007, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-04009 Gas welding and cutting.

(1) Transporting, moving and storing compressed gas cylinders.

(a) Valve protection caps shall be in place and secure. Oil shall not be used to lubricate protection caps.

(b) When cylinders are hoisted, they shall be secured on a cradle, slingboard or pallet. They shall not be hoisted by means of magnets or choker slings.

(c) Cylinders shall be moved by tilting and rolling them on their bottom edges. They shall not be intentionally dropped, struck, or permitted to strike each other violently.

(d) When cylinders are transported by vehicle, they shall be secured in position.

(e) Valve protection caps shall not be used for lifting cylinders from one vertical position to another. Bars shall not be used under valves or valve protection caps to pry cylinders loose when frozen. Warm, not boiling, water shall be used to thaw cylinders loose.

(f) Unless cylinders are firmly secured on a special carrier intended for this purpose, regulators shall be removed and valve protection caps put in place before cylinders are moved.

(g) A suitable cylinder truck, chain, or other steadying device shall be used to keep cylinders from being knocked over while in use.

(h) When work is finished, when cylinders are empty or when cylinders are moved at any time, the cylinder valves shall be closed.

(i) Acetylene cylinders shall be secured in an upright position at all times except, if necessary, for short periods of time while cylinders are actually being hoisted or carried.

(2) Placing cylinders.

(a) Cylinders shall be kept far enough away from the actual welding or cutting operation so that sparks, hot slag or flame will not reach them. When this is impractical, fire resistant shields shall be provided.

(b) Cylinders shall be placed where they cannot become part of an electrical circuit. Electrodes shall not be struck against a cylinder to strike an arc.

(c) Fuel gas cylinders shall be placed with valve end up whenever they are in use. They shall not be placed in a location where they would be subject to open flame, hot metal, or other sources of artificial heat.

(d) Cylinders containing oxygen or acetylene or other fuel gas shall not be taken into confined spaces.

(3) Treatment of cylinders.

(a) Cylinders, whether full or empty, shall not be used as rollers or supports.

(b) No person other than the gas supplier shall attempt to mix gases in a cylinder. No one except the owner of the cylinder or person authorized by him shall refill a cylinder. No one shall use a cylinder's contents for purposes other than those intended by the supplier. Only cylinders bearing Interstate Commerce Commission identification and inspection markings shall be used.

(c) No damaged or defective cylinder shall be used.

(4) Use of fuel gas. The employer shall thoroughly instruct employees in the safe use of fuel gas, as follows:

(a) Before connecting a regulator to a cylinder valve, the valve shall be opened slightly and closed immediately. (This action is generally termed “cracking” and is intended to clear the valve of dust or dirt that might otherwise enter the regulator.) The person cracking the valve shall stand to one side of the outlet, not in front of it. The valve of a fuel gas cylinder shall not be cracked where the gas would reach welding work, sparks, flame or other possible sources of ignition.

(b) The cylinder valve shall always be opened slowly to prevent damage to the regulator. To permit quick closing, valves on fuel gas cylinders shall not be opened more than 1 1/2 turns. When a special wrench is required, it shall be left in position on the stem of the valve while the cylinder is in use so that the fuel gas flow can be shut off quickly in case of emergency. In the case of a manifolded or coupled cylinders, at least one such wrench shall always be available for immediate use. Nothing shall be placed on top of a fuel gas cylinder, when in use, which may damage the safety device or interfere with the quick closing of the valve.

(c) Fuel gas shall not be used from cylinders through torches or other devices which are equipped with shut-off valves without reducing the pressure through a suitable regulator attached to the cylinder valve or manifold.

(d) Before a regulator is removed from a cylinder valve, the cylinder valve shall always be closed and the gas released from the regulator.

(e) If, when the valve on a fuel gas cylinder is opened, there is found to be a leak around the valve stem, the valve shall be closed and the gland nut tightened. If this action does not stop the leak, the use of the cylinder shall be discontinued, and it shall be properly tagged and removed from the vessel. In the event that fuel gas should leak from the cylinder valve rather than from the valve stem and the gas cannot be shut off, the cylinder shall be properly tagged and removed from the vessel. If a regulator attached to a cylinder valve will effectively stop a leak through the valve seat the cylinder need not be removed from the vessel.

(f) If a leak should develop at a fuse plug or other safety device, the cylinder shall be removed from the vessel.

(5) Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds.

(a) Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds shall bear the name of the substance they contain in letters at least one (1) inch high which shall be either painted on the manifold or on a sign permanently attached to it.

(b) Fuel gas and oxygen manifolds shall be placed in safe and accessible locations in the open air. They shall not be located within enclosed spaces.

(c) Manifold hose connections, including both ends of the supply hose that lead to the manifold, shall be such that the hose cannot be interchanged between fuel gas and oxygen manifolds and supply header connections. Adapters shall not be used to permit the interchange of hose. Hose connections shall be kept free of grease and oil.

(d) When not in use, manifold and header hose connections shall be capped.

(e) Nothing shall be placed on top of a manifold, when in use, which will damage the manifold or interfere with the quick closing of the valves.

(6) Hose.

(a) Fuel gas hose and oxygen hose shall be easily distinguishable from each other. The contrast may be made by different colors or by surface characteristics readily distinguishable by the sense of touch. Oxygen and fuel gas hoses shall not be interchangeable. A single hose having more than one gas passage, a wall failure of which would permit the flow of one gas into the other gas passage, shall not be used.

(b) When parallel sections of oxygen and fuel gas hose are taped together, not more than 4 inches out of 8 inches shall be covered by tape.

(c) All hose carrying acetylene, oxygen, natural or manufactured fuel gas, or any gas or substance which may ignite or enter into combustion or be in any way harmful to employees, shall be inspected at the beginning of each shift. Defective hose shall be removed from service.

(d) Hose which has been subjected to flashback or which shows evidence of severe wear or damage shall be tested to twice the normal pressure to which it is subject, but in no case less than two hundred psi. Defective hose or hose in doubtful condition shall not be used.

(e) Hose couplings shall be of the type that cannot be unlocked or disconnected by means of a straight pull without rotary motion.

(f) Boxes used for the stowage of gas hose shall be ventilated.

(7) Torches.

(a) Clogged torch tip openings shall be cleaned with suitable cleaning wires, drills or other devices designed for such purpose.

(b) Torches shall be inspected at the beginning of each shift for leaking shutoff valves, hose couplings, and tip connections. Defective torches shall not be used.

(c) Torches shall be lighted by friction lighters or other approved devices, and not by matches or from hot work.

(8) Pressure regulators. Oxygen and fuel gas pressure regulators including their related gauges shall be in proper working order while in use.

[Order 74-25, § 296-304-04009, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-04011 Arc welding and cutting.

(1) Manual electrode holders.

(a) Only manual electrode holders which are specifically designed for arc welding and cutting and are of a capacity capable of safely handling the maximum rated current required by the electrodes shall be used.

(b) Any current carrying parts passing through the portion of the holder which the arc welder or cutter grips in his hand, and the outer surfaces of the jaws of the holder, shall be fully insulated against the maximum voltage encountered to ground.

(2) Welding cables and connectors.

(a) All arc welding and cutting cables shall be of the completely insulated, flexible type, capable of handling the maximum current requirements of the work in progress, taking into account the duty cycle under which the arc welder or cutter is working.

(b) Only cable free from repair or splices for a minimum distance of ten feet from the cable end to which the electrode holder is connected shall be used, except that cables with standard insulated connectors or with splices whose insulating quality is equal to that of the cable are permitted.

(c) When it becomes necessary to connect or splice lengths of cable one to another, substantial insulated connectors of a capacity at least equivalent to that of the cable shall be used. If connections are effected by means of cable lugs, they shall be securely fastened together to give good electrical contact, and the exposed metal parts of the lugs shall be completely insulated.

(d) Cables in poor repair shall not be used. When a cable, other than the cable lead referred to in (b), becomes worn to the extent of exposing bare conductors, the portion thus exposed shall be protected by means of rubber and friction tapes or other equivalent insulation.

(3) Ground returns and machine grounding.

(a) A ground return cable shall have a safe current carrying capacity equal to or exceeding the specified maximum output capacity of the arc welding or cutting unit which it services. When a single ground return cable services more than one unit, its safe current carrying capacity shall equal or exceed the total specified maximum output capacities of all the units which it services.

(b) Structures or pipe lines, except pipelines containing gases or flammable liquids or conduits containing electrical circuits, may be used as part of the ground return circuit, provided that the pipe or structure has a current carrying capacity equal to that required by (2).

(c) When a structure or pipe line is employed as a ground return circuit, it shall be determined that the required electrical contact exists at all joints. The generation of an arc, sparks or heat at any point shall cause rejection of the structure as a ground circuit.

(d) When a structure or pipe line is continuously employed as a ground return circuit, all joints shall be bonded, and periodic inspections shall be conducted to ensure that no condition of electrolysis or fire hazard exists by virtue of such use.

(e) The frames of all arc welding and cutting machines shall be grounded either through a third wire in the cable containing the circuit conductor or through a separate wire which is grounded at the source of the current. Grounding circuits, other than by means of the vessel's structure, shall be checked to ensure that the circuit between the ground and the grounded power conductor has resistance low enough to permit sufficient current to flow to cause the fuse or circuit breaker to interrupt the current.

(f) All ground connections shall be inspected to ensure that they are mechanically strong and electrically adequate for the required current.

(4) Operating instructions. Employers shall instruct employees in the safe means of arc welding and cutting as follows:

(a) When electrode holders are to be left unattended, the electrodes shall be removed and the holders shall be so placed or protected that they cannot make electrical contact with employees or conducting objects.

(b) Hot electrode holders shall not be dipped in water, since to do so may expose the arc welder or cutter to electric shock.

(c) When the arc welder or cutter has occasion to leave his work or to stop work for any appreciable length of time, or when the arc welding or cutting machine is to be moved, the power supply switch to the equipment shall be opened.

(d) Any faulty or defective equipment shall be reported to the supervisor.

(5) Shielding. Whenever practicable, all arc welding and cutting operations shall be shielded by noncombustible or flame-proof screens which will protect employees and other persons working in the vicinity from the direct rays of the arc.

[Order 74-25, § 296-304-04011, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-04013 Uses of fissionable material in ship-breaking, shipbuilding and ship repairing.

(1) In ship-breaking, shipbuilding and ship repairing and related activities involving the use of and exposure to sources of ionizing radiation not only on conventionally powered but also on nuclear powered vessels, the applicable provisions of the Atomic Energy Commission's Standards for Protection Against Radiation (10 CFR Part 20), relating to protection against occupational radiation exposure, shall apply.

(2) Any activity which involves the use of radioactive material, whether or not under license from the Atomic Energy Commission, shall be performed by competent persons specially trained in the proper and safe operation of such equipment. In the case of materials used under commission license, only persons actually licensed, or competent persons under direction and supervision of the licensee, shall perform such work.

[Order 76-7, § 296-304-04013, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-04013, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-050 Scaffolds, ladders and other working surfaces-Scope and application. 

All sections of this chapter which include WAC 296-304-050 in the section number apply to scaffolds, ladders and other working surfaces.

[Order 74-25, § 296-304-050, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-05001 Scaffolds or staging.

(1) General requirements.

(a) All scaffolds and their supports whether of lumber, steel or other material, shall be capable of supporting the load they are designed to carry with a safety factor of not less than four.

(b) All lumber used in the construction of scaffolds shall be spruce, fir, long leaf yellow pine, Oregon pine or wood of equal strength. The use of hemlock, short leaf yellow pine, or short fiber lumber is prohibited.

(c) Lumber dimensions as given are nominal except where given in fractions of an inch.

(d) All lumber used in the construction of scaffolds shall be sound, straight-grained, free from cross grain, shakes and large, loose or dead knots. It shall also be free from dry rot, large checks, worm holes or other defects which impair its strength or durability.

(e) Scaffolds shall be maintained in a safe and secure condition. Any component of the scaffold which is broken, burned or otherwise defective shall be replaced.

(f) Barrels, boxes, cans, loose bricks, or other unstable objects shall not be used as working platforms or for the support of planking intended as scaffolds or working platforms.

(g) No scaffold shall be erected, moved, dismantled or altered except under the supervision of competent persons.

(h) No welding, burning, riveting or open flame work shall be performed on any staging suspended by means of fiber rope.

(i) Lifting bridles on working platforms suspended from cranes shall consist of four legs so attached that the stability of the platform is assured.

(j) Unless the crane hook has a safety latch or is moused, the lifting bridles on working platforms suspended from cranes shall be attached by shackles to the lower lifting block or other positive means shall be taken to prevent them from becoming accidentally disengaged from the crane hook.

(2) Independent pole wood scaffolds.

(a) All pole uprights shall be set plumb. Poles shall rest on a foundation of sufficient size and strength to distribute the load and to prevent displacement.

(b) In light-duty scaffolds not more than 24 feet in height, poles may be spliced by overlapping the ends not less than 4 feet and securely nailing them together. A substantial cleat shall be nailed to the lower section to form a support for the upper section except when bolted connections are used.

(c) All other poles to be spliced shall be squared at the ends of each splice, abutted, and rigidly fastened together by not less than two cleats securely nailed or bolted thereto. Each cleat shall overlap each pole end by at least 24 inches and shall have a width equal to the face of the pole to which it is attached. The combined cross sectional area of the cleats shall be not less than the cross sectional area of the pole.

(d) Ledgers shall extend over two consecutive pole spaces and shall overlap the poles at each end by not less than 4 inches. They shall be left in position to brace the poles as the platform is raised with the progress of the work. Ledgers shall be level and shall be securely nailed or bolted to each pole and shall be placed against the inside face of each pole.

(e) All bearers shall be set with their greater dimension vertical and shall extend beyond the ledgers upon which they rest.

(f) Diagonal bracing shall be provided between the parallel poles, and cross bracing shall be provided between the inner and outer poles or from the outer poles to the ground.

(g) Minimum dimensions and spacing of members shall be in accordance with Table E-1 in WAC 296-304-07011.

(h) Platform planking shall be in accordance with the requirements of (8) of this section.

(i) Backrails and toeboards shall be in accordance with the requirements of (9) of this section.

(3) Independent pole metal scaffolds.

(a) Metal scaffold members shall be maintained in good repair and free of corrosion.

(b) All vertical and horizontal members shall be fastened together with a coupler or locking device which will form a positive connection. The locking device shall be of a type which has no loose parts.

(c) Posts shall be kept plumb during erection and the scaffold shall be subsequently kept plumb and rigid by means of adequate bracing.

(d) Posts shall be fitted with bases supported on a firm foundation to distribute the load. When wooden sills are used, the bases shall be fastened thereto.

(e) Bearers shall be located at each set of posts, at each level, and at each intermediate level where working platforms are installed.

(f) Tubular bracing shall be applied both lengthwise and crosswise as required.

(g) Platform planking shall be in accordance with the requirements of (8) of this section.

(h) Backrails and toeboards shall be in accordance with the requirements of (9) of this section.

(4) Wood trestle and extension trestle ladders.

(a) The use of trestle ladders, or extension sections or base sections of extension trestle ladders longer than 20 feet is prohibited. The total height of base and extension may, however, be more than 20 feet.

(b) The minimum dimensions of the side rails of the trestle ladder, or the base sections of the extension trestle ladder, shall be as follows:

(i) Ladders up to and including those 16 feet long shall have side rails of not less than 1 5/16 x 2 3/4 inch lumber.

(ii) Ladders over 16 feet long and up to and including those 20 feet long shall have side rails of not less than 1 5/16 x 3 inch lumber.

(c) The side rails of the extension section of the extension trestle ladder shall be parallel and shall have minimum dimensions as follows:

(i) Ladders up to and including 12 feet long shall have side rails of not less than 1 5/16 x 2 1/4 inch lumber.

(ii) Ladders over 12 feet long and up to and including those 16 feet long shall have side rails of not less than 1 5/16 x 2 1/2 inch lumber.

(iii) Ladders over 16 feet long and up to and including those 20 feet long shall have side rails of not less than 1 5/16 x 3 inch lumber. (Rev. 2-17-76)

(d) Trestle ladders and base sections of extension trestle ladders shall be so spread that when in an open position the spread of the trestle at the bottom, inside to inside, shall be not less than 5 1/2 inches per foot of the length of the ladder.

(e) The width between the side rails at the bottom of the trestle ladder or of the base section of the extension trestle ladder shall be not less than 21 inches for all ladders and sections 6 feet or less in length. For longer lengths of ladder the width shall be increased at least 1 inch for each additional foot of length. The width between the side rails of the extension section of the trestle ladder shall be not less than 12 inches.

(f) In order to limit spreading, the top ends of the side rails of both the trestle ladder and of the base section of the extension trestle ladder shall be beveled, or of equivalent construction, and shall be provided with a metal hinge.

(g) A metal spreader or locking device to hold the front and back sections in an open position, and to hold the extension section securely in the elevated position, shall be a component of each trestle ladder or extension trestle ladder.

(h) Rungs shall be parallel and level. On the trestle ladder, or on the base section of the extension trestle ladder, rungs shall be spaced not less than 8 inches nor more than 18 inches apart; on the extension section of the extension trestle ladder, rungs shall be spaced not less than 6 inches nor more than 12 inches apart.

(i) Platform planking shall be in accordance with the requirements of (8) of this section, except that the width of the platform planking shall not exceed the distance between the side rails.

(j) Backrails and toeboards shall be in accordance with the requirements of (9) of this section.

(5) Painters' suspended scaffolds.

(a) The supporting hooks of swinging scaffolds shall be constructed to be equivalent in strength to mild steel or wrought iron, shall be forged with care, shall be not less than 7/8 inch in diameter, and shall be secured to a safe anchorage at all times.

(b) The ropes supporting a swinging scaffold shall be equivalent in strength to first-grade 3/4 inch diameter manila rope properly rigged into a set of standard 6 inch blocks consisting of at least one double and one single block.

(c) Manila and wire ropes shall be carefully examined before each operation and thereafter as frequently as may be necessary to ensure their safe condition.

(d) Each end of the scaffold platform shall be supported by a wrought iron or mild steel stirrup or hanger, which in turn is supported by the suspension ropes.

(e) Stirrups shall be constructed so as to be equivalent in strength to wrought iron 3/4 inch in diameter.

(f) The stirrups shall be formed with a horizontal bottom member to support the platform, shall be provided with means to support the guardrail and midrail and shall have a loop or eye at the top for securing the supporting hook on the block.

(g) Two or more swinging scaffolds shall not at any time be combined into one by bridging the distance between them with planks or any other form of platform.

(h) No more than two persons shall be permitted to work at one time on a swinging scaffold built to the minimum specifications contained in this section. Where heavier construction is used, the number of persons permitted to work on the scaffold shall be determined by the size and the safe working load of the scaffold.

(i) Backrails and toeboards shall be in accordance with the requirements of (9) of this section.

(j) The swinging scaffold platform shall be one of the three types described in (k), (l), and (m) of this section.

(k) The ladder-type platform consists of boards upon a horizontal ladder-like structure, referred to herein as the ladder, the side rails of which are parallel. If this type of platform is used the following requirements shall be met:

(i) The width between the side rails shall be no more than 20 inches.

(ii) The side rails of ladders in ladder-type platforms shall be equivalent in strength to a beam of clear straight-grained spruce of the dimensions contained in Table E-2 in WAC 296-304-07011.

(iii) The side rails shall be tied together with tie rods. The tie rods shall be not less than 5/16 inch in diameter, located no more than 5 feet apart, pass through the rails, and be riveted up tight against washers at both ends.

(iv) The rungs shall be of straight-grained oak, ash, or hickory, not less than 1 1/8 inches diameter, with 7/8 inch tenons mortised into the side rails not less than 7/8 inch and shall be spaced no more than 18 inches on centers.

(v) Flooring strips shall be spaced no more than 5/8 inch apart except at the side rails, where 1 inch spacing is permissible.

(vi) Flooring strips shall be cleated on their undersides.

(l) The plank-type platform consists of planks supported on the stirrups or hangers. If this type of platform is used, the following requirements shall be met:

(i) The planks of plank-type platforms shall be not less than 2 x 10 inch lumber.

(ii) The platform shall be no more than 24 inches in width.

(iii) The planks shall be tied together by cleats of not less than 1 x 6 inch lumber, nailed on their undersides at intervals of not more than 4 feet.

(iv) The planks shall extend not less than 6 inches nor more than 18 inches beyond the supporting stirrups.

(v) A cleat shall be nailed across the platform on the underside at each end outside the stirrup to prevent the platform from slipping off the stirrup.

(vi) Stirrup supports shall be not more than 10 feet apart.

(m) The beam-type platform consists of longitudinal side stringers with cross beams set on edge and spaced not more than 4 feet apart on which longitudinal platform planks are laid. If this type platform is used the following requirements shall be met:

(i) The side stringers shall be of sound, straight-grained lumber, free from knots, and of not less than 2 x 6 inch lumber, set on edge.

(ii) The stringers shall be supported on the stirrups with a clear span between stirrups of not more than 16 feet.

(iii) The stringers shall be bolted to the stirrups by U-bolts passing around the stirrups and bolted through the stringers with nuts drawn up tight on the inside face.

(iv) The ends of the stringers shall extend beyond the stirrups not less than 6 inches nor more than 12 inches at each end of the platform.

(v) The platform shall be supported on cross beams of 2 x 6 inch lumber between the side stringers securely nailed thereto and spaced not more than 4 feet on centers.

(vi) The platform shall be not more than 24 inches wide.

(vii) The platform shall be formed of boards 7/8 inch in thickness by not less than 6 inches in width, nailed tightly together, and extending to the outside face of the stringers.

(viii) The ends of all platform boards shall rest on the top of the cross beams, shall be securely nailed, and at no intermediate points in the length of the platform shall there by any cantilever ends.

(6) Horse scaffolds.

(a) The minimum dimensions of lumber used in the construction of horses shall be in accordance with Table E-3 in WAC 296-304-07011.

(b) Horses constructed of materials other than lumber shall provide the strength, rigidity and security required of horses constructed of lumber.

(c) The lateral spread of the legs shall be equal to not less than one-third of the height of the horse.

(d) All horses shall be kept in good repair, and shall be properly secured when used in staging or in locations where they may be insecure.

(e) Platform planking shall be in accordance with the requirements of (8) of this section.

(f) Backrails and toeboards shall be in accordance with (9) of this section.

(7) Other types of scaffolds.

(a) Scaffolds of a type for which specifications are not contained in this section shall meet the general requirements of (1), (8) and (9) of this section, shall be in accordance with recognized principles of design and shall be constructed in accordance with accepted standards covering such equipment.

(8) Scaffold or platform planking.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in (5)(k) and (m), platform planking shall be of not less than 2 x 10 inch lumber. Platform planking shall be straight-grained and free from large or loose knots and may be either rough or dressed.

(b) Platforms of staging shall be not less than two 10 inch planks in width except in such cases as the structure of the vessel or the width of the trestle ladders make it impossible to provide such a width.

(c) Platform planking shall project beyond the supporting members at either end by at least 6 inches but in no case shall project more than 12 inches unless the planks are fastened to the supporting members.

(d) Table E-4 in WAC 296-304-07011 shall be used as a guide in determining safe loads for scaffold planks.

(9) Backrails and toeboards.

(a) Scaffolding, staging, runways, or working platforms which are supported or suspended more than 5 feet above a solid surface, or at any distance above the water, shall be provided with a railing which has a top rail whose upper surface is from 42 to 45 inches above the upper surface of the staging, platform, or runway and a midrail located half way between the upper rail and the staging, platform, or runway.

(b) Rails shall be of 2 x 4 inch lumber, flat bar or pipe. When used with rigid supports, taut wire or fiber rope of adequate strength may be used. If the distance between supports is more than 8 feet, rails shall be equivalent in strength to 2 x 4 inch lumber. Rails shall be firmly secured. Where exposed to hot work or chemicals, fiber rope rails shall not be used.

(c) Rails may be omitted where the structure of the vessel prevents their use. When rails are omitted employees working more than 5 feet above solid surfaces shall be protected by safety belts and life lines meeting the requirements of WAC 296-304-09021(2), and employees working over water shall be protected by personal flotation devices meeting the requirements of WAC 296-304-09017(1).

(d) Employees working from swinging scaffolds which are triced out of a vertical line below their supports or from scaffolds on paint floats subject to surging, shall be protected against falling toward the vessel by a railing or a safety belt and line attached to the backrail.

(e) When necessary, to prevent tools and materials from falling on men below, toeboards of not less than 1 x 4 inch lumber shall be provided.

(10) Access to staging.

(a) Access from below to staging more than 5 feet above a floor, deck or the ground shall consist of well secured stairways, cleated ramps, fixed or portable ladders meeting the applicable requirements of WAC 296-304-05003 or rigid type noncollapsible trestles with parallel and level rungs.

(b) Ramps and stairways shall be provided with 36-inch handrails with midrails.

(c) Ladders shall be so located or other means shall be taken so that it is not necessary for employees to step more than one foot from the ladder to any intermediate landing or platform.

(d) Ladders forming integral parts of prefabricated staging are deemed to meet the requirements of these regulations.

(e) Access from above to staging more than 3 feet below the point of access shall consist of a straight, portable ladder meeting the applicable requirements of WAC 296-304-05003 or a Jacob's ladder properly secured, meeting the requirements of WAC 296-304-05007(4).

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 03-04-099 (Order 02-31), § 296-304-05001, filed 02/04/03, effective 08/01/03. Order 76-7, § 296-304-05001, filed 3/1/76; Order 74-25, § 296-304-05001, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-05003 Ladders.

(1) General requirements.

(a) The use of ladders with broken or missing rungs or steps, broken or split side rails, or other faulty or defective construction is prohibited. When ladders with such defects are discovered, they shall be immediately withdrawn from service. Inspection of metal ladders shall include checking for corrosion of interiors of open end, hollow rungs.

(b) When sections of ladders are spliced, the ends shall be abutted, and not fewer than 2 cleats shall be securely nailed or bolted to each rail. The combined cross sectional area of the cleats shall be not less than the cross sectional area of the side rail. The dimensions of side rails for their total length shall be those specified in (2) or (3) of this section.

(c) Portable ladders shall be lashed, blocked or otherwise secured to prevent their being displaced. The side rails of ladders used for access to any level shall extend not less than 36 inches above that level. When this is not practical, grab rails which will provide a secure grip for an employee moving to or from the point of access shall be installed.

(d) Portable metal ladders shall be of strength equivalent to that of wood ladders. Manufactured portable metal ladders provided by the employer shall be in accordance with the provisions of the United States of America Standard Safety Code for Portable Metal Ladders, A14.2-1972.

(e) Portable metal ladders shall not be used near electrical conductors nor for electric arc welding operations.

(f) Manufactured portable wood ladders provided by the employer shall be in accordance with the provisions of the United States of America Standard Safety Code for Portable Wood Ladders, A-14-1-1968.

(2) Construction of portable wood cleated ladders up to 30 feet in length.

(a) Wood side rails shall be made from west coast hemlock, eastern spruce, Sitka spruce, or wood of equivalent strength. Material shall be seasoned, straight-grained wood, and free from shakes, checks, decay or other defects which will impair its strength. The use of low density woods is prohibited.

(b) Side rails shall be dressed on all sides, and kept free of splinters.

(c) All knots shall be sound and hard. The use of material containing loose knots is prohibited. Knots shall not appear on the narrow face of the rail and, when in the side face, shall be not more than 1/2 inch in diameter or within 1/2 inch of the edge of the rail or nearer than 3 inches to a tread or rung.

(d) Pitch pockets not exceeding 1/8 inch in width, 2 inches in length and 1/2 inch in depth are permissible in wood side rails, provided that not more than one such pocket appears in each 4 feet of length.

(e) The width between side rails at the base shall be not less than 11 1/2 inches for ladders 10 feet or less in length. For longer ladders this width shall be increased at least 1/4 inch for each additional 2 feet in length.

(f) Side rails shall be at least 1 5/8 x 3 5/8 inches in cross section.

(g) Cleats (meaning rungs rectangular in cross section with the wide dimension parallel to the rails) shall be of the material used for side rails, straight-grained and free from knots. Cleats shall be mortised into the edges of the side rails 1/2 inch, or filler blocks shall be used on the rails between the cleats. The cleats shall be secured to each rail with three 10d common wire nails or fastened with through bolts or other fasteners of equivalent strength. Cleats shall be uniformly spaced not more than 12 inches apart.

(h) Cleats 20 inches or less in length shall be at least 25/32 x 3 inches in cross section. Cleats over 20 inches but not more than 30 inches in length shall be at least 25/32 x 3 3/4 inches in cross section.

(3) Construction of portable wood cleated ladders from 30 to 60 feet in length.

(a) Ladders from 30 to 60 feet in length shall be in accordance with the specifications of (2) of this section with the following exceptions:

(i) Rails shall be of not less than 2 x 6 inch lumber.

(ii) Cleats shall be of not less than 1 x 4 inch lumber.

(iii) Cleats shall be nailed to each rail with five 10d common wire nails or fastened with through bolts or other fastenings of equivalent strength.

[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, .040, .050, and .060. 07-03-163 (Order 06-30), § 296-304-05003, filed 01/24/07, effective 04/01/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 03-04-099 (Order 02-31), § 296-304-05003, filed 02/04/03, effective 08/01/03. Order 74-25, § 296-304-05003, filed 5/7/74.]

WAC 296-304-05005 Guarding of deck openings and edges.

(1) When employees are working in the vicinity of flush manholes and other small openings of comparable size in the deck and other working surfaces, such openings shall be suitably covered or guarded to a height of not less than 30 inches, except where the use of such guards is made impracticable by the work actually in progress.

(2) When employees are working around open hatches not protected by coamings to a height of 24 inches or around other large openings, the edge of the opening shall be guarded in the working area to a height of 36 to 42 inches, except where the use of such guards is made impracticable by the work actually in progress.

(3) When employees are exposed to unguarded edges of decks, platforms, flats, and similar flat surfaces, more than 5 feet above a solid surface, the edges shall be guarded by adequate guardrails meeting the requirements of WAC 296-304-05001 (9)(a) and (b), unless the nature of the work in progress or the physical conditions prohibit the use or installation of such guardrails.

(4) When employees are working near the unguarded edges of decks of vessels afloat, they shall be protected by buoyant personal flotation devices, meeting the requirements of WAC 296-304-09017(1).

(5) Sections o