Figure 1: Workers equipped with full body harnesses, lanyards and oversized snaphooks.


Figure 2: Workers protected with lifejackets (PFDs) while docking and boarding barge.


Figure 3: Clamp-on guardrail protecting open side of platform.

Potential Hazards:

• Falls to solid surfaces
• Falls into water
• Slips, trips, and falls

Requirements and Example Solutions:

• If fall hazards are identified through the Hazard Assessment required in 1915.152(b), employees must be protected from falls by the use of personal fall protection equipment. [29 CFR 1915.152(a)] See Shipbreaking Fall Protection. See also Figure 1.
• Personal flotation devices must be used when boarding, leaving, or working from small boats or floats. [29 CFR 1915.77(e) and 29 CFR 1915.158(a)]
• Good housekeeping must be maintained at all times. [29 CFR 1915.91(a) and (b)] See Figure 2.
• The minimum walking surface on gangways, cat walks, and temporary decking is 20 inches wide. [29 CFR 1915.74(a)(1), 29 CFR 1915.74(b), 29 CFR 1915.75(a), 29 CFR 1915.75(g)]
• Typical guardrails are 42 inches high with a mid-rail. [29 CFR 1915.75(b)] See Figure 3.