CONSTRUCTION DIVISION MEMORANDUM
GENERAL SUBJECT: SAFETY	NUMBER: CD-95-11
SPECIFIC SUBJECT: JOBSITE SAFETY	DATE: AUGUST 3, 1995
	Original w/Signature on file in Construction Division
	C. F. GEE
	CONSTRUCTION ENGINEER
DIRECTED TO - DISTRICT ADMINISTRATORS
Jobsite safety is a primary concern on all VDOT constructionand maintenance projects. VDOT and Contractor personnel must becontinually aware of their surroundings and of the inherentdangers associated with highway construction. The hazards presentduring construction and maintenance operations may pose threatsto the public as well. VDOT personnel should ensure that alloperations are accomplished in accordance with Virginia andFederal OSHA regulations at all times.
It is evident that VDOT and Contractor personnel generally doan exceptional job maintaining traffic utilizing VDOT Road andBridge Specifications and the Manual of Uniform Traffic ControlDevices (MUTCD), thereby protecting the public. However, the useof cranes in close proximity to public travelways is notreceiving the attention to safety that is expected.
It is imperative that all safety standards for cranes bestrictly adhered to, including but not limited to the following:
1. Crane swing radius to be clearly defined and maintained.The use of barricades, safety fence and/or tape is acceptable forthis.
2. All rigging to be inspected frequently and replaced asnecessary. Frequency to depend upon the current operations.
Example: Cranes performing light lift operations (small forms,light rebar placement etc.) may require inspection weekly. Piledriving, clamshell/dragline work, structural steel placementwould require a minimum of daily inspections.
OSHA requires an inspection log be kept on the machine at alltimes.
3. Trained ground personnel are to be used to signal craneoperators during lift operations.
4. The area under the boom of a crane shall be kept free ofall personnel during crane operations.
Example: Pile driving generally requires the use of"swinging leads" to guide the pile hammer. Swingingleads are suspended by one running line attached at the top ofthe framework by a becket or other suitable device. The hammer isgenerally suspended from a second running line, again attachedwith becket. These running lines are subjected to enormous stressresulting in increased wear. While it is doubtful that a wellmaintained crane would experience a rope failure, the possibilityincreases substantially during this type of operation. Therefore,the passage of personnel, vehicles etc. under the crane boom willbe prohibited.
5. Lifting personnel with a crane will be done with OSHAapproved personnel baskets. Riding "the ball" or othernon-approved platforms will be prohibited.
The guidelines listed above are very basic in nature and shallbe adhered to at all times. For further information contact thelocal district safety officer and/or the Compliance Officer with VOSHA.

WDM:rg