3900_63.pdf

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

Air Traffic Organization Policy

ORDER

JO 3900.63

Effective Date:

04/06/2011

SUB J: Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Fall Protection Program

1. This order seeks to prevent accidents in the workplace by developing employee awareness and training related to workplace hazards. The order is designed to provide guidance to employees, including managers and supervisors, who are directly involved with work at elevated areas.

2. This order identifies the minimum requirements for the ATO Fall Protection Program; however, site-specific requirements may be more stringent based upon local risk assessments. The order applies to ATO personnel performing work at all elevated work areas, where hazards may exist on walking/working surfaces and areas used for access to elevated work areas.

3. The order also establishes roles and responsibilities for the implementation, management and accomplishment of the ATO Fall Protection Program.

4. Compliance with this order enforces the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's General Industry and Construction Standards and applicable Consensus Standards published by Consensus Organizations related to the ATO Fall Protection Program.

5. Due to the urgency to comply with the two-person rule to protect the safety of ATO employees, the Vice President, Technical Operations, issued interim guidance on December 30,2009, establishing the following requirements for fall protection:

a. Employees working at heights where medical emergency response is not readily available must be trained in First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

b. In addition, two persons are required for all climbs requiring fall protection and both must be trained in First Aid and CPR.

c. This training must be completed within 18 months of the publication of the ATO Fall Protection Program Order.

Hank Krakowski Chief Operating Officer

Distribution: Selected Air Traffic Organization Offices;

A-FAF-0 (MAX)

Initiated By: AJW-23

04/06/2011 JO 3900.63

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. General Information

1. Purpose of This Order 1-1

2. Audience 1-1

3. Where Can I Find This Order? 1-1

4. Policy 1-1

5. Scope and Application 1-1

Chapter 2. Roles and Responsibilities

1. Vice President, Technical Operations 2-1

2. Director, Air Traffic Control (ATC) Facilities 2-1

3. Manager, Fall Protection Program (EOSH Services, Headquarters) 2-1

4. Directors, Service Area (SA), Technical Operations 2-1

5. Service Center (SC) Planning and Requirements (P&R) Group Managers 2-1

6. SC Program Implementation Team Managers 2-1

7. SC Requirements Team Managers 2-1

8. SC Program Implementation Managers for Safety (PIM/OSH) 2-1

9. SC Planning and Requirements Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Requirements Specialists 2-1

10. District Managers (Technical Operations) 2-2

11. Safety and Environmental Compliance Managers (SECMs)/Environmental Protection Specialists (EPSs), and Engineering Services Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health (EOSH) Coordinators 2-2

12. System Support Center (SSC) Managers 2-3

13. Field Maintenance Program (FMP) Managers/Technical Support Center (TSC) Managers 2-4

14. Engineering Services (ES) Managers 2-5

15. Fall Protection Program Administrators 2-6

16. Employees 2-6

Chapter 3. Fall Protection Program Requirements

1. Hierarchy of Fall Protection Controls 3-1

2. Employee Training 3-1

3. Refresher Training 3-5

4. Trainer Qualifications 3-5

5. Physical Capabilities 3-7

6. First Aid/Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) 3-7

7. Environmental Conditions 3-7

8. Fall Protection Systems and Equipment 3-7

9. Fall Protection Program Implementation 3-10

Table of Contents (Continued)

10. Emergency Rescue 3-11

11. Fall Protection Procedures 3-14

Chapter 4. Administrative Information

1. Distribution 4-1

2. Definitions 4-1

Appendix A. Regulatory and Consensus Standards A-l Appendix B. Sample Letter to Emergency Rescue Services B-l Appendix C. Guidance for FAA Rescue Activities C-l Appendix D. Site Rescue Plan - Example D-l Appendix E. Standard Operating Procedures for Aerial Lifts and Bucket Trucks E-l Appendix F. Standard Operating Procedures for Manbaskets F-l Appendix G. Portable Ladders G-l Appendix H. Standard Operating Procedures for Scaffolding H-l Appendix I. Facility Fall Hazard Checklist 1-1 Appendix J. Work on Elevated Platforms J-l

List of Tables

Table

3-1. Climber Description Requirements 3-2 3-2. Climbing Trainer Requirements 3-6 3-3. Fall Protection Climbing Capabilities 3-15 G-l. Extension Ladder Requirements G-2

List of Figures

Figure

3-1. ATO Rescue Decision Tree 3-12 J-l. Guardrail Requirements J-2 in

Chapter 1. General Information

1. Purpose of This Order. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Air Traffic Organization (ATO) seeks to prevent accidents in the workplace by developing employee awareness and training related to workplace hazards. The ATO Fall Protection Program (FPP) is designed to provide guidance to employees, including managers and supervisors, who are directly and/or indirectly involved with work at elevated areas.

2. Audience. All ATO employees involved with work that takes place in elevated areas.

3. Where Can I Find This Order? You can find an electronic copy of this order on My FAA employee website. Select "Tools & Resources" then select "Orders & Notices."

4. Policy. It is the ATO policy that employees comply with the ATO FPP as part of an accident prevention program. This guidance represents the minimum requirements for the FPP. Site-specific requirements may be more stringent based upon local risk assessments.

5. Scope and Application. This FPP applies to FAA ATO personnel performing work at all elevated work areas, where hazards may exist on walking/working surfaces and areas used for access to elevated work areas.

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Chapter 2. Roles and Responsibilities

1. Vice President, Technical Operations must ensure that the overall implementation of the Program is accomplished and managed for the ATO.

2. Director, Air Traffic Control (ATC) Facilities must ensure that the overall implementation of the Program is accomplished and managed for each Service Area within the ATO.

3. Manager, Fall Protection Program (EOSH Services, Headquarters) must provide technical requirements and resources to ensure the overall implementation of the Program is accomplished and managed for the ATO.

4. Directors, Service Area (SA), Technical Operations must ensure that the overall implementation of the Program is accomplished and managed for the Service Area within the ATO.

5. Service Center (SC) Planning and Requirements (P&R) Group Managers must provide oversight of the P&R teams to ensure support to the Directors with regard to the Program.

6. SC Program Implementation Team Managers must ensure that implementation of the Program is managed and accomplished.

7. SC Requirements Team Managers must ensure that all fall protection needs are appropriately identified, evaluated for validation, prioritized and submitted to Service Units for funding.

8. SC Program Implementation Managers for Safety (PIM/OSH) must:

a. Ensure that sufficient resources are requested to continually support the effectiveness of the

FPP.

b. Advise management of issues or concerns related to the implementation of the FPP.

c. Serve as, or designate, Fall Protection Program Administrators to manage and ensure implementation of the FPP.

9. SC Planning and Requirements Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Requirements Specialists must:

a. Oversee the technical requirements of the FPP to ensure it remains updated with the most current FAA requirements, OSHA standards and industry standards.

b. Serve as subject matter experts to Directors of Operations regarding the technical requirements of the FPP.

c. Assist the Service Area/Center Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health (EOSH) Professionals in establishing technical requirements for training required by the FPP.

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d. Analyze, evaluate and resolve fall hazards and unsafe condition complaints regarding fall protection that were not resolved at the field and District levels.

e. Maintain state-of-the-art knowledge on available fall protection equipment to facilitate related evaluations and provide recommendations for equipment selection.

f. Coordinate and evaluate appropriate training materials and courses.

g. Facilitate periodic program evaluations and audits of the FPP; maintain all program evaluations for five years from the date of the evaluation.

h. Ensure accident investigations are conducted by a Competent Person in accordance with FAA Order 3900.19, Chapter 7, Mishap Reporting and Investigation.

i. As requested, review design drawings to ensure fall protection compliance.

10. District Managers (Technical Operations) must:

a. Ensure implementation, and maintain compliance, of the FPP throughout the District.

b. Ensure that two trained persons are available for every climb in accordance with Section 3-11(b)(1).

c. Ensure all project design documents are reviewed for fall protection issues.

d. Ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) and other fall protection equipment are available at District/System Support Center work locations, where required.

e. Ensure that all personnel are trained to the appropriate level for assigned tasking, and that all training is recorded in the appropriate system of record.

f. Ensure routine maintenance is performed on elevated work areas as outlined in applicable FAA maintenance orders.

g. Ensure required information, as described in Appendix I, related to elevated work areas is updated and maintained in the appropriate database.

11. Safety and Environmental Compliance Managers (SECMs)/Environmental Protection Specialists (EPSs), and Engineering Services Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health (EOSH) Coordinators must:

a. Serve as designated point of contact and provide oversight for fall protection activities in their areas of responsibility.

b. Assist in coordinating appropriate fall protection training for employees that are expected to perform maintenance or work activities at elevated work areas.

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c. Select and validate the purchase of all fall protection equipment.

d. Assist with the development of local procedures and rescue plans in accordance with this FPP.

e. Assist in the resolution of unsafe condition complaints regarding fall protection and elevate those that cannot be resolved at the field level to the Requirements OSH Specialist.

f. Assist in the completion of facility fall hazard checklists for all elevated work platforms, ladders and towers that require climbing, when requested. (See Appendix I).

g. Maintain proficiency in the overall FPP and all its elements, and receive formal training as a Competent Person.

h. As requested, review design drawings to ensure fall protection compliance.

i. As requested, perform review of contractors' FPPs to ensure fall protection compliance when contractors are working at FAA facilities.

12. System Support Center (SSC) Managers must:

a. Implement the FPP at all facilities occupied and/or maintained by Technical Operations employees where fall protection considerations have been identified or assumed.

b. Ensure that two trained persons are available for every climb in accordance with Section 3-11(b)(1).

c. Ensure that facility fall hazard checklists are completed for all elevated work platforms, ladders and towers that require climbing, with assistance from the SECM, where needed.

d. Ensure the facility fall hazard checklist information is entered into the Tower Inspection database maintained by the Unstaffed Infrastructure Sustainment (UIS) Tower and Platform Database Group.

e. Ensure all information related to fall protection installation upgrades, modifications and renovations are updated in the UIS Tower Inspection database.

f. Ensure rescue plans are developed, are current and have been reviewed by a Competent Person.

g. As applicable, ensure that a Competent Person reviews the written procedures and strategies submitted from a responding emergency rescue services organization and ensure they are capable to perform rescue at the applicable facilities.

h. Ensure employees who climb and utilize fall protection equipment have received the appropriate level of training.

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i. Ensure that fall protection equipment is provided, properly used, maintained, and inspected at least annually by a Competent Person or an Authorized Inspector (other than the user).

j . Ensure annual inspections are documented and maintained for the life of the equipment.

k. Ensure that defective or impacted fall protection equipment that has been identified by trained FAA personnel is removed from service, rendered unusable, disposed of as solid waste, and replaced. If needed, the manager may consult a Competent Person or Authorized Inspector regarding the equipment's integrity.

1. Prohibit climbing on any structures deemed unsafe by a Competent Person where appropriate signage is posted.

m. Ensure routine maintenance is performed on elevated work areas outlined in applicable FAA maintenance orders, including annual inspections by people trained to conduct those inspections.

n. Report any falls or near misses in accordance with accident reporting requirements in FAA Order 3900.19, and report via FAA Form 3900-6.

o. Ensure that contractors working at FAA sites for which the SSC has oversight responsibilities have independent FPPs and comply with all applicable federal and state OSHA requirements.

p. Ensure fall rescue equipment is inspected at least annually by a Competent Person or Authorized Rescuer. Inspection information must be documented locally (e.g., SSC, District, etc.).

13. Field Maintenance Program (FMP) Managers/Technical Support Center (TSC) Managers must:

a. Ensure all fall protection installations, upgrades, modifications and renovations are reported to the SSC Manager.

b. Ensure that two trained persons are available for every climb in accordance with Section 3-11(b)(1).

c. Ensure compliance with the rescue requirements detailed in this FPP.

d. Ensure all information related to fall protection installation upgrades, modifications and renovations are updated in the UIS Tower Inspection database.

e. Ensure employees who climb and utilize fall protection equipment have received the appropriate level of training.

f. Ensure that fall protection equipment is provided, properly used, and maintained.

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g. Ensure that defective or impacted fall protection equipment that has been identified by trained FAA personnel is removed from service, rendered unusable, disposed of as solid waste, and replaced.

If needed, the manager may consult a Competent Person or Authorized Inspector regarding the equipment's integrity.

h. As requested, ensure routine maintenance is performed on elevated workplaces

i. Report any falls or near misses in accordance with accident reporting requirements in FAA Order 3900.19, and report via FAA Form 3900-6.

j . Ensure annual inspections are conducted on fall protection equipment by a Competent Person or an Authorized Inspector (other than the user).

k. Ensure annual inspections are documented and maintained for the life of the equipment.

1. Ensure fall rescue equipment is inspected at least annually by a Competent Person or Authorized Rescuer. Inspection information must be documented locally (e.g., SSC, District, etc.).

14. Engineering Services (ES) Managers must:

a. Ensure all fall protection installations, upgrades, modifications and renovations are reported to the SSC Manager.

b. Ensure that two trained persons are available for every climb in accordance with Section 3- 11(b)(1).

c. Ensure that when a project involves an elevated work area, rescue plans are developed in compliance with the rescue requirements detailed within this FPP.

d. Ensure all information related to fall protection installation upgrades, modifications and renovations are updated in the UIS Tower Inspection database.

e. Ensure employees who climb and utilize fall protection equipment have received the appropriate level of training.

f. Ensure that fall protection equipment is provided, properly used, maintained, and inspected annually by a Competent Person or an Authorized Inspector (other than the user).

g. Ensure annual inspections are documented and maintained for the life of the equipment.

h. Ensure that defective or impacted fall protection equipment that has been identified by properly trained FAA personnel is removed from service, rendered unusable, disposed of as solid waste, and replaced. If needed, the manager may consult a Competent Person or Authorized Inspector regarding the equipment's integrity.

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i. Report any falls or near misses in accordance with accident reporting requirements in FAA Order 3900.19, and report via FAA Form 3900-6.

j . Submit project design documents that require work or maintenance activities at elevated work areas above four feet to the EOSH Coordinator for review.

k. Ensure, with the assistance of the EOSH Coordinator, that all projects meet OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D and 1926 Subpart M.

1. Prior to any new construction projects, ensure the construction requirements of the FPP are incorporated into the design and acquisition phases.

m. Identify and resolve non-compliant fall protection issues of renovation projects prior to project execution.

n. Ensure that specifications, solicitations, requests for proposal and contract documents contain clauses requiring contractor fall protection programs for applicable projects.

o. Ensure that contractors working at FAA sites for which ES has oversight responsibilities have independent FPPs and comply with all applicable federal and state OSHA requirements.

p. Ensure fall rescue equipment is inspected at least annually by a Competent Person or Authorized Rescuer. Inspection information must be documented locally (e.g., SSC, District, etc.).

15. Fall Protection Program Administrators must assist the SA field offices and work units with managing and implementing the FPP.

16. Employees must:

a. Notify manager/supervisor prior to conducting work activities that involve tasks on elevated work platforms, ladders or scaffolds to ensure climbs are planned and all hazards are addressed.

b. Notify manager/supervisor of any observed safety deficiencies. If any safety deficiencies are identified prior to or during a climbing operation, suspend any further activity and notify the manager/supervisor immediately. If the manager/supervisor is not immediately available, cease any further activity until contact is made.

c. Attend proper level of training prior to working at elevated work areas in accordance with the

FPP.

d. Properly wear, maintain, store, and use the appropriate fall protection equipment.

e. Inspect fall protection equipment prior to each use, and verify inspection is performed annually by a Competent Person or by an Authorized Inspector (other than the user).

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f. Identify defective equipment and equipment that has been impacted by a fall, and return it to his or her supervisor and request a replacement.

g. Be familiar, and comply with, site-specific rescue plans, including available means of communication.

h. Assess their ability to safely climb the day of the task per Section 3-5.

i. Return personally-issued fall protection equipment to the appropriate Front Line Manager upon leaving the Agency.

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Chapter 3. Fall Protection Program Requirements

1. Hierarchy of Fall Protection Controls. Personnel will consider the following controls, in order, when selecting fall protection.

a. Hazard Elimination. The hazard or process is redesigned to eliminate the worker's exposure to the hazard. Special training is not required, and the worker does not actively have to apply fall protection. Examples of hazard elimination include installing a tilt-down tower, relocating junction boxes to a height lower than 4 feet from the ground or installing a telescoping support pole that allows work on mounted equipment to be performed at ground level.

b. Fall Hazard Prevention. The hazard is mitigated by a barricade preventing workers from reaching the fall hazard; this method is considered a Passive Fall Protection System (passive systems).

Fall hazard prevention is the most versatile hazard resolution method since specialized training is not required, no equipment is required and the worker does not actively have to apply fall protection.

Examples of fall hazard prevention are guardrails on rooftops or work platforms, hole/well covers and roof edge parapet walls, providing they meet the OSHA setback and construction requirements.

c. Fall Restraint. A fall protection system that is utilized to restrain the worker's movement to a point where they cannot access the fall hazard. Fall restraint systems are considered the most preferred of the Active Fall Protection Systems (active systems). Training is required to recognize the hazard and correctly utilize the system. All of these systems require the worker to don a full body harness while using the system. Examples of fall restraint are a restraint system that includes an anchor point and a fixed-length lanyard which keep a worker from the roof edge, or a fixed-length lanyard that is attached to a worker inside the bucket of an aerial lift.

d. Fall Arrest. A secondary system that is used to stop a fall after it has started. These systems allow workers to traverse vertical and horizontal work areas to perform work safely at most locations.

Training is required to recognize the hazard, correctly use the system and to develop and/or review a rescue plan. Examples of fall arrest systems include ladder climbing devices, energy absorbing lanyards, 100% tie-off/Y-lanyard, self-retracting lanyards/lifelines, vertical lifelines and rope grabs.

All fall arrest systems require the worker to don a full body harness while using the system.

e. Administrative Controls. Procedures implemented when the risk of a fall hazard cannot be mitigated. These are typically used on rooftops with unprotected sides and edges where there is no means to affix a fall restraint system. Examples of administrative controls/techniques are specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and warning line systems.

2. Employee Training. The training curriculum must comply with the current national EOSH training standards. Periodic assessments of the effectiveness of user training must be conducted at least annually by a Competent Person to assist the FPP Administrator in determining whether additional employee training and retraining is necessary. Training and refresher courses may be combined as long as the course content requirements are met. Climber categories, duties, prerequisites, and refresher training are listed in Table 3-1, Climber Description Requirements.

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Table 3-1: Climber Description Requirements

» ." ''CAXBGOSy- , Authorized Person Level I (Equivalent to Authorized Climber and Oualified Climber):

A person who performs any of the duties specified for this category. Then after meeting the prerequisite, has successfully completed the Authorized Person Level I training.

Authorized Person Level II (Equivalent to Expert Climber):

A person who performs any of the duties specified for this category. Then, after meeting the prerequisite, has successfully completed Authorized Person Level II training.

Authorized Inspector:

A person who performs any of the duties specified for this category. Then, after meeting the prerequisites, has successfully completed the Authorized Inspector training.

Competent Person:

A person who performs any of the duties specified for this category. Then, after meeting the prerequisites identified, has successfully completed Competent Person training.

-" . * „ JPIIPHS ' . ^ * i

Climbs standard structures equipped with compliant ladder safety systems (LSSs) mounted onto fixed ladders.

Performs maintenance tasks that require access to rooftops and elevated work platforms with fall protection systems (e.g., guardrail).

Uses fall restraint.

Performs duties as Authorized Person Level I.

Performs maintenance and construction work.

Uses work positioning.

Sets up and uses fall restraint systems.

May climb structures using 100% tie-off lanyard when structure is not equipped with compliant fall protection systems or when climbing off ladder.

Performs inspection of individually-issued personal fall protection equipment. Identifies deficiencies in specific equipment during annual inspections, properly documents the inspection findings and prevents the use of defective, damaged or improperly maintained equipment.

Identifies, evaluates and addresses existing and potential fall hazards.

Provides program oversight and selects personal protective equipment, rescue, and fall protection systems, including pre-designed anchorages and fall restraint systems.

Inspects fall protection equipment and systems, if job duties require.

Has successfully completed First Aid/CPR training. *

Level I refresher training is required every 2 years, minimum.

Has successfully completed First Aid/CPR training.*

Level II refresher training is required every 2 years, minimum.

Has successfully completed Authorized Climber Level II.

Has successfully completed First Aid/CPR training. *

Has successfully completed Authorized Person Level II training.

Competent Person refresher training is required every 2 years.

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04/06/2011 JO 3900.63 JO 3900.63

Table 3-1 Continued

CATtGORY

Qualified Person:

A person who performs any of the duties specified for this category. Then, after meeting the prerequisites identified, has successfully completed Qualified Person training.

Authorized Rescuer:

A person who performs any of the duties specified for this category. Then, after meeting the prerequisites identified, has successfully completed Authorized Rescuer training.

; . ' " »ufns Designs, analyzes, evaluates and specifies anchorages, fall protection systems and rescue systems.

Performs rescue at elevated work areas.

Recognized degree or professional certificate and extensive knowledge and experience in the fall protection and rescue field.

Physically capable.

Has successfully completed Authorized Person Level II training and has climbing experience.

Authorized Rescuer formal refresher training every two (2) years.

Competency demonstrated at least annually

* First Aid/CPR refresher training frequency must meet the requirements of the provider (American Red Cross, American Heart Association, etc.) or a minimum of every 2 years.

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a. Qualified Persons must:

(1) Oversee and approve the installation and use of horizontal lifelines and anchorages utilized by FAA personnel.

(2) Develop or design administrative techniques (e.g., SOPs) and/or plans when other options are not feasible.

(3) Participate in the investigation of incidents related to falls from elevated work areas.

b. Authorized Inspectors must inspect individually-issued personal fall protection equipment and ensure inspections are documented.

c. Competent Persons must:

(1) Select all fall protection equipment in area of responsibility.

(2) Advise and approve the use of self-retracting lanyard/lifelines and vertical lifelines for specific applications.

(3) Develop or design administrative techniques (e.g., SOPs) and/or plans when other options are not feasible.

(4) Assist in the investigation of incidents related to falls from elevated work areas.

(5) Inspect individually-issued personal fall protection equipment and ensure inspections are documented.

(6) Perform a workplace assessment of hazards and conditions to determine configuration of fall protection systems such as fall arrest, climbing protection, rescue, and evacuation.

(7) Identify existing and potential hazards associated with elevated work areas.

(8) Identify fall protection procedures for elevated work areas.

(9) Assist in conducting an inventory of all elevated work areas.

(10) Assist in development of written site specific fall protection procedures and rescue plans based on the findings from the completed facility fall hazard checklist.

(11) Utilize the hierarchy of fall protection controls to minimize hazards associated with elevated work areas.

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d. Authorized

(1) Ensure rescue equipment is available and ready for immediate use at the facility when climbing activities are being performed.

(2) Remain on the ground, while another employee is working at an elevated work area, until called upon to perform a rescue.

(3) Remain in visual and audible range of the climber at all times.

3. Refresher Training.

a. Authorized Person Level I and Authorized Person Level II refresher training, during which the climber will demonstrate the proper use of equipment and perform a climb, is required every (2) years or whenever:

(1) Job duties change,

(2) Changes in the workplace or changes in the types of fall protection systems or equipment used render the previous training obsolete, or

(3) Site observations or evaluation determines inadequacies in the employee's subject matter knowledge.

b. Competent Person refresher training will be required every two (2) years.

c. Qualified Person does not require refresher training at established intervals; however, he/she must stay current with fall protection and rescue knowledge through continuing education.

d. Authorized Rescuers must attend formal refresher training every two (2) years. They must also demonstrate rescue competency at least annually as evaluated by another authorized rescuer. (To demonstrate competency, authorized rescuers must complete a written examination and a mock rescue using each rescue system they are authorized to operate.)

4. Trainer Qualifications. Trainers must meet the requirements as outlined in Table 3-2 on the next page. Contact the P&R OSH Specialist for additional information on applicable training standards.

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Table 3-2: Climbing Trainer Requirements

COURSE Train

Authorized Person Level I and Authorized Person Level II

Authorized Inspector and Competent Person

Qualified Person

Authorized Rescuer

'^IMNWGRl^UI^iffiPp,, """*' . ,

• Instructor must have current First Aid/CPR certification.

• Instructor must be trained as a Competent Person.

• FAA employees should complete Facility Instructor Training (FIT) FAA Course 10501, or as approved by the Service Center OSH Requirements Manager or designee. (Contact the local training manager for information on FIT training requirements.)

• Instructor must have current First Aid/CPR certification.

• Instructor must be trained as a Competent Person.

• FAA employees should complete Facility Instructor Training (FIT) FAA Course 10501, or as approved by the Service Center OSH Requirements Manager or designee. (Contact the local training manager for information on FIT training requirements.)

• Instructor must have current First Aid/CPR certification.

• Instructor must be trained as a Qualified Person.

• FAA employees should complete Facility Instructor Training (FIT) FAA Course 10501, or as approved by the Service Center OSH Requirements Manager or designee. (Contact the local training manager for information on FIT training requirements.)

• Authorized instructor, supervisor or manager trained as a Competent Person with experience in OSH and training. Instructor must have completed Facility Instructor Training (FIT) FAA Course 10501, or as approved by the FPP Administrator. The instructor must also:

• Be an Authorized Rescuer on appropriate equipment.

• Be familiar with rescue equipment.

• Possess current First Aid/CPR certification (Note: At a minimum, at least one trainer per class must be First Aid/CPR trained with current certification.)

• FAA68000138 (2 year certification) or FAA68000139 (3 year certification), First Aid.

• FAA68000140 (annual certification) or FAA68000141 (2 year certification), CPR.

• FAA68000144 (Initial) or FAA68000145 (Refresher), Fall Protection - Authorized Person Level II and has climbing experience.

• Engineering degree or extensive knowledge.

• FAA68000133 (Initial) or FAA68000145 (Refresher) Fall Protection - Authorized Person Level

II.

• FAA68000138 (2 year certification) or FAA68000139 (3 year certification), First Aid.

• FAA68000140 (annual certification), or FAA68000141 (2 year certification), CPR.

* TMflWQMraaa©

• Qualified vendor or State/Federal training class.

• Instructor-led training class.

• Qualified vendor or State/Federal training class.

• Instructor-led training class.

• Qualified vendor or State/Federal training class.

• Instructor-led training class.

• Qualified vendor or State/Federal training class.

• Instructor-led training class.

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5. Physical Capabilities.

a. Prior to each climb, climbers must conduct a self-assessment as to their fitness to climb.

b. Climbers may refuse to climb for any physical, psychological or medical reasons.

6. First Aid/Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

a. Employees that perform climbing activities must have current First Aid/CPR certification as required by 29 CFR 1910.151 and 29 CFR 1910.268.

b. First Aid/CPR refresher training must meet the requirements of the provider (American Red Cross, American Heart Association, etc.) or a minimum of every two (2) years.

c. All fall protection trainers (FAA or Contractor) must be First Aid/CPR trained.

7. Environmental Conditions.

a. Evaluate weather conditions the day of the climb. If inclement weather is expected, consideration should be given to postponing climbing until the weather has improved to a point that the climber feels secure to climb.

b. Do not climb during lightning, icy conditions, high winds, extreme temperatures or any other atmospheric conditions that may be dangerous to life or health.

c. Climbers must assess wind conditions and postpone climbing activities if the following conditions exist:

(1) The climbers would be exposed to winds that may blow them from elevated locations, or

(2) The climbers could lose control of equipment or materials.

8. Fall Protection Systems and Equipment.

a. Personal fall protection equipment will be provided for each affected FAA employee at no cost to the employee. Employees are not permitted to use personally procured fall protection equipment.

b. All personal fall arrest equipment must meet the current American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard Z359.

c. All Ladder Safety Systems (LSS) must meet the current requirements of ANSI standard A14.3. Tubular notched rails are prohibited, must not be used, and must be replaced with an approved LSS as soon as practicable.

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d. All equipment used for work positioning must meet ANSI Z359, Al0.32 or equivalent standards unless approved by a Competent Person.

e. FAA contractors must provide their own fall protection equipment which meets ANSI Z359 requirements.

f. Aluminum carabiners, snaphooks, lanyards, etc., and full body harnesses with aluminum hardware are prohibited, unless the components are stamped ANSI-Z359.1 and 3,600 pound gate-load rating. If a component does not have the appropriate ANSI rating and 3,600 pound gate-load rating stamped into the aluminum, the equipment containing that component will be removed from service.

Replacements will be provided as soon as practicable.

g. Equipment provided is based on training and anticipated work tasks and must consist of the following:

(1) Full Body Harness.

a) A standard body harness and lanyard is designed to support a maximum combined weight (person and equipment) of up to 310 pounds, and

b) A minimum combined weight of 130 pounds.

(2) Climbing Helmet with Chinstrap.

a) At a minimum, a Type I climbing helmet with a three-point chinstrap that meets current ANSI Z89.1 standard is required.

b) The ANSI Z89.1 Type II helmet provides additional protection against side impact and is strongly encouraged.

c) For activities involving potential exposure to electrical hazards, Class E (up to 20,000V) or G (up to 2,200V) helmets must be worn.

(3) Energy Absorbing Lanyard

(4) Anchor Strap (also known as tie-off adapter or connector)

(5) Work Positioning Lanyard

(6) 100% Tie-Off Lanyard (also known as a Y -lanyard)

(7) Connectors and/or Carabiners

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Note: If combined weight exceeds 310 pounds or is less than 130 pounds, contact the FPP Admmistrator for guidance on selection of appropriate PFAS. This also applies when wearing bulky winter and cold weather clothing under a PFAS.

h. Body Belts and Lineman's Belts are prohibited for use as fall protection devices.

i. Equipment Inspections and Maintenance.

(1) ATO policy is to replace all synthetic fall protection equipment such as full body harnesses, lanyards, etc., ten (10) years from the date of manufacture, as indicated on the equipment label, or sooner, if determined during inspection.

(2) Fall protection equipment that was used to arrest a fall or fails inspection must be destroyed and discarded. Exception: If a self-retracting lanyard/lifeline was used to arrest a fall or fails inspection, return it to the manufacturer for inspection and re-certification.

(3) All equipment must be inspected by the climber before each use for wear, damage, and other deterioration.

(4) Alterations (e.g., permanent markings, removal of straps and labels, etc.) to PFAS are prohibited.

(5) All personal fall arrest systems and climbing equipment must be inspected annually by a Competent Person or by an Authorized Inspector. Persons performing annual inspections cannot inspect his/her own equipment. This inspection data must be documented and maintained at a location determined by the employee's manager for the life of the equipment. It is recommended that the annual inspection be tracked along with other preventative maintenance tasks.

(6) All fall rescue equipment must be inspected annually by a Competent Person or Authorized Rescuer.

(7) All personal fall arrest systems and ladder safety systems (LSSs) must be maintained in good operating condition in accordance with manufacturers' specifications and applicable preventative maintenance tasks (e.g., Maintenance Management Systems (MMS), Simplified Automated Logging (SAL), etc.).

(8) Defective personal fall protection equipment must be rendered unusable, destroyed, and replaced prior to use for climbing activities.

j . Modifications and Usage.

(1) No modifications can be made to fall protection systems and elevated work areas without technical direction from a Qualified Person.

(2) Installation of unique fall protection systems (e.g., horizontal lifelines) must be approved by a Qualified Person.

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k. Ladder cages are prohibited for fixed ladders that are 20 feet in height or greater unless approved by the Fall Protection Program Administrator.

9. Fall Protection Program Implementation.

a. General Requirements.

(1) The FAA policy for performing work at an elevated work area at or above four feet above the next lower level requires fall protection procedures, approved training and PPE.

(2) All structures that require the use of fall protection equipment must be inspected according to FAA Order 6930.25, Maintenance of Structure and Buildings, procedures indicated in this order (including Appendix I), and FAA Order 6950.18, Maintenance of Electrical Distribution Systems.

(3) To ensure program integrity and implementation, periodic program evaluations must be conducted at the discretion of the FPP Administrator. Evaluations and/or findings must be maintained with other pertinent FPP recordkeeping data.

(4) SSCs/FMP/Engineering Services must work with a Competent Person to facilitate the following:

a) Identify existing and potential hazards associated with elevated work areas.

b) Develop written site-specific fall protection procedures and rescue plans based on data compiled from the facility fall hazard checklists.

c) Utilize the hierarchy of fall protection controls to minimize hazards associated with elevated work areas.

(5) SSCs/FMP/Engineering Service Centers must work with a Qualified Person for design of specialized fall protection systems.

(6) SSCs/FMP/Engineering Service Centers must ensure that surveys of all elevated work areas are conducted (see Appendix I).

b. Incident Investigations.

(1) All fall-related incidents must be reported to the FPP Administrator and SECM.

(2) Ensure accident investigations are conducted by a Competent Person in accordance with FAA Order 3900.19, Chapter 7, Mishap Reporting and Investigation.

(3) All incidents must be investigated promptly and must consider all factors that contributed to the event, including but not limited to:

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a) a review of policies, procedures and training,

b) available fall hazard surveys,

c) equipment and related systems, and

d) general communication.

(4) All activities affecting the site or equipment involved in the incident must cease until the incident investigator permits activities to resume.

(5) Site and equipment must be secured until the investigator permits activities to resume.

c. Facilities, Systems and Equipment Acquisitions.

(1) Fall protection requirements must be incorporated as early as possible in all design, acquisition, construction, renovation, maintenance, and other projects and programs.

(2) New facilities or existing facilities that receive upgrades must have fall protection equipment built into the systems that meet or exceed OSHA and ANSI requirements. Examples include installing:

a) Permanent compliant anchor points and/or ladder safety systems prior to commissioning; and

b) OSHA-compliant parapets or guardrails on rooftops or elevated work platforms where employees must approach the perimeter.

(3) A Qualified Person or a Competent Person and, as appropriate, planners and engineers must ensure that designs and plans indicate locations and types of fall protection systems to be installed, and that approved fall protection systems and/or components are permanently identified prior to 100% design.

10. Emergency Rescue.

a. OSHA requires that "The employer shall provide for prompt rescue of employees in the event of a fall or shall assure that employees are able to rescue themselves" (29 CFR 1926.502 (d)(20)).

b. ATO Rescue Plans.

(1) A formal rescue plan is required for all facilities where there is elevated work and a climber may need rescue. Self-rescue is the primary option, but the rescue plan must outline all of the rescue procedures for that facility.

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(2) A sample rescue plan is available in Appendix D, Site Rescue Plan - EXAMPLE.

c. Prior to issuing the formal, site-specific rescue plans, each SSC Supervisor must validate the plans by receiving local authorities' written confirmation of their response capabilities.

(See Appendix B)

d. The Engineering Services Manager must ensure that a rescue plan, when applicable, is in place for his/her personnel at construction and renovation projects and available for review by employees at a known location. (See Appendix D)

e. All equipment used for rescue must meet applicable consensus standards and the approval of the FPP Administrator.

f. ATO Rescue Hierarchy. There are four rescue options in the ATO. Choosing which option to use depends on the condition of the fallen climber and the availability of rescue services. Figure 3-1, ATO Rescue Decision Tree, is a simplified decision-making tool. Each of the rescue options are more fully described in the text below Figure 3-1.

Figure 3-1: ATO Rescue Decision Tree

Is the fallen climber able to regain contact with the tower and safely descend tower?

No r

Is emergency service with annrnnnatp rpsrnp rnnahtlitips ah\p to arrive on site w ithin 15 minutes'?

Yes

Yes

Self-rescue (see Section 10f(l))

Emergency service rescue (see Section 10f(2))

FAA Rescue (see Section 10f(3)) or

Contract Rescue (see Section 10f(4))

(1) Self-Rescue.

a) Self-rescue is the primary method for a fallen climber to descend a structure. If the work activity or the structure allows the climber to maintain hand or foot contact, and he/she is physically able, then self-rescue is the recommended option.

b) Self-rescue may be performed using the following methods:

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1) Grabbing onto any part of the tower, repositioning, and then climbing down while remaining attached to the structure using a fall protection system.

2) Utilizing a rescue system that allows for self-rescue, provided the climber has received previous training and demonstrated proficiency (validated by the instructor) on the self-rescue procedure.

(2) Emergency Service Rescue.

a) Emergency Service Rescue is summoning emergency services (911 if available, fire department number, etc.) to rescue a climber.

b) In all instances of Emergency Service Rescue, the rescue option must be coordinated with the entity utilized prior to being selected to ensure the entity's capabilities meet the rescue requirements and is properly trained in high angle rescue, or equivalent, indicated within this FPP. Appendix B is a sample emergency services letter; Appendix D is a sample rescue plan.

c) When self-rescue is not an option for a fallen climber, summon emergency services, where available.

d) If an FAA-trained Authorized Rescuer is on site with rescue equipment, and the site-specific rescue plan identifies Emergency Service Rescue as the selected option, the FAA rescuer may perform an FAA Rescue (see below) instead of the Emergency Service Rescue, as long as emergency services is contacted prior to initiating the rescue. FAA Rescue will only be exercised if the rescuer deems the situation warrants immediate rescue.

(3) FAA Rescue.

a) FAA Rescue is required when emergency services cannot arrive on site within 15 minutes.

b) Rescues are to be performed only by FAA employees trained as Authorized Rescuers.

c) A site-specific rescue plan must be developed for, and implemented at, each affected site and must include procedures for trained FAA Authorized Rescuers using pre-packaged rescue systems in accordance with Appendix D.

d) Rescue equipment will be made available for all Authorized Rescuers.

e) Emergency services (e.g., ambulance) contact information is required in the site rescue plan.

(4) Contract Rescue. Rescue services provided onsite via contract.

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a) Contract rescue is needed if self-rescue is not feasible, and emergency services and FAA rescue are not available. A site-specific rescue plan must be developed for, and implemented at, each affected site.

b) The site-specific rescue plan must include procedures for rescue services in accordance with Appendices B and D.

c) Emergency Services (e.g., ambulance) contact information is required in the site rescue plan.

11. Fall Protection Procedures.

a. Fall protection must be provided when accessing any elevated work area that has an exposed edge or floor opening 4 feet or more higher than the adjacent floor or ground level. Fall protection must also be provided to any employee who climbs towers or structures, as identified within this FPP document.

b. Climbing Requirements. (Also see Table 3-1)

(1) All climbs require a second person on site with current First Aid/CPR certification and climbing training.

(2) The site-specific rescue plan must be reviewed by all climbers prior to climbing.

(3) Both climbers must have proper fall protection equipment and the appropriate level of training.

(4) Positive communication must be established between the climber and the second person.

(5) The second person must be able to perform rescue or summon rescue and/or medical services.

(6) Second Person (Ground Person) Requirements. The second person must be:

a) An Authorized Person Level I or II for the following climbs:

1) The climber will be utilizing a functional LSS; or

2) The climber will be utilizing a functional LSS and transitioning into a platform with a compliant guardrail system.

b) An Authorized Rescuer for the following climbs:

1) The climber utilizes a LSS to access and work on a platform with non-compliant guardrails, when the function of the guardrails is compromised (leaning over or through the guardrail), or the condition of the guardrails is unknown;

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2) The climber utilizes a 100% tie-off lanyard;

3) The climber climbs off of the ladder or detaches from the LSS;

4) The climber climbs a structure without a ladder or functional LSS; or

5) The climber works on an elevated platform without guardrails.

(7) The second person may be trained as an Authorized Person Level II for climbs listed in (6b) above if professional emergency rescue services can be on site in less than 15 minutes.

_^ Table 3-3: Fall Protection Climbing Capabilities ÂeflvMy :,CHW)#fratamg el

• ••iS^JS-..:-.. -*. • * & & £ -i«

Second (Ground) EersMTrai^g

Climbing a structure with a functional LSS to a protected platform with compliant guardrails.

Authorized Person Level I or II.

Authorized Person Level I or II.

Climbing a structure with a functional LSS to a platform with non-compliant guardrails, the function of the guardrails is compromised (leaning over or through the guardrail), or the condition of the guardrails is unknown.

Authorized Person Level II.

Authorized Rescuer.*

Climbers utilize 100% tie-off lanyards.

Climbers climb off of the ladder or detach from the LSS.

Climbers work on an elevated platform without guardrails.

Climbing a structure without a ladder or functional LSS.

Authorized Person Level II

Authorized Rescuer.*

*The second person may be a trained as an Authorized Person Level II instead of an Authorized Rescuer if professional emergency rescue services are available within 15 minutes.

c. Elevated Platforms.

(1) Employees must establish fall restraint systems for any work involving leaning over or through the guardrails as the first option for fall protection.

(2) If fall restraint is not possible, utilize fall arrest with an energy-absorbing lanyard.

(3) Poles. Work on poles must be performed utilizing the following hierarchy:

(a) Where accessible, aerial lifts must be utilized for all work at elevated work areas on poles.

(b) Where not accessible with aerial lifts, OSHA-compliant fixed ladders must be installed. An LSS is required for fixed ladders over 20 feet.

(c) FAA personnel must not climb poles unless the poles are equipped with OSHA-compliant fixed ladders.

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(d) When a pole requires replacement, it must be replaced with a tilt-down type tower.

(4) Roof Work. Employees must follow related service area policies when working on rooftops or unprotected elevated work platforms.

d. Hatches and Other Openings at Elevated Walking/Working Areas.

(1) Employees must be protected from…