Earlier this month, the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration issued final regulations addressing the use of cranes and derricks in construction. The new rules replace the previous regulations, which had not been significantly amended for 40 years. The rule revision was prompted by a recent number of fatalities involving crane erection and use, including a highly publicized string of construction crane collapses in New York City.

The new regulations impose standards for operator training and certification. They also address crane set-up and disassembly, including mandatory periodic inspections of crane and derrick integrity. The rules also update the list of acceptable technology, including synthetic sling materials. They apply new requirements intended to reduce the risk of electrocution, overturn, and collision accidents.

The new regulations take effect on November 8. The full rulemaking can be found at www.osha.gov/cranes-derricks/index.html.