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OSHA Offers Logging Rule Clarifications This summer, FRA submitted queries to the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration seeking clarification on apparent ambiguities in OSHA's Logging Rule, in view of recent enforcement actions. A summary of points at issue follows. Foot Protection - OSHA states that heavy-duty leather and rubber logging boots are insufficient, in themselves, to meet OSHA's chain saw foot protection requirement. The footwear must include a "recognized cut-resistant material," whether built directly into a boot or worn over or inside a boot, although footwear need not be approved by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). However, in view of possible ambiguities in what constitutes "recognized cut-resistant material," FRA continues to recommend that chain saw operators look for protective footwear certified by such an NRTL, such as Underwriters' Laboratories. Chain Saw Fuel Containers - OSHA clarifies that chain saw operators may use any fuel container "approved by a National Recognized Testing Laboratory . . . or the Department of Transportation." The vented five-gallon safety can used for transporting fuel and combustible liquids in other applications is not required for in-woods chain saw refueling. Maintaining Hinge Wood - OSHA affirms that it is acceptable to bore out the center of hinge wood during manual felling, to prevent fiber pull, provided the remaining hinge wood is sufficient to guide the tree's fall safely to the ground. To view OSHA's full response, with FRA comments, please click here. Return to Public Policy Archive Forest Resources Association
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