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Chapter 296-878 WAC

Last Update: 6/2/20

SAFETY STANDARDS FOR WINDOW CLEANING

WAC Sections

HTMLPDF296-878-099Definitions.
HTMLPDF296-878-100Scope.
HTMLPDF296-878-10005Summary.
HTMLPDF296-878-110Training.
HTMLPDF296-878-11005Train workers to use window-cleaning equipment.
HTMLPDF296-878-120Building surfaces and fixtures.
HTMLPDF296-878-12005Make sure building surfaces and fixtures are safe to use.
HTMLPDF296-878-130Inspection procedures.
HTMLPDF296-878-13005Inspect the area to be cleaned.
HTMLPDF296-878-13010Inspect window-cleaning equipment before use.
HTMLPDF296-878-140Develop site-specific service and emergency plans.
HTMLPDF296-878-14005Develop a site-specific service and emergency recovery plan for window-cleaning operations.
HTMLPDF296-878-150Equipment.
HTMLPDF296-878-15005Select and use appropriate equipment.
HTMLPDF296-878-15015Select appropriate rope for suspended equipment.
HTMLPDF296-878-15020Select appropriate carabiners.
HTMLPDF296-878-15025Use fall protection equipment.
HTMLPDF296-878-160Warning signs and barricades.
HTMLPDF296-878-16005Provide warning signs and barricades when suspended equipment is used.
HTMLPDF296-878-170Power line clearances.
HTMLPDF296-878-17005Maintain clearance between window cleaners and power lines.
HTMLPDF296-878-180Window-cleaners' belts and anchors.
HTMLPDF296-878-18005Select appropriate window-cleaners' belts and anchors.
HTMLPDF296-878-18010Inspect the anchors you plan to use for window cleaning.
HTMLPDF296-878-18015Use window-cleaners' belts safely.
HTMLPDF296-878-18020Move safely on the outside of buildings.
HTMLPDF296-878-190Boatswains' chairs.
HTMLPDF296-878-19005Select appropriate boatswains' chairs.
HTMLPDF296-878-19010Safely use boatswains' chairs rigged with a block and tackle.
HTMLPDF296-878-200Rope descent systems.
HTMLPDF296-878-20005Select appropriate rope descent systems.
HTMLPDF296-878-20010Safely use rope descent systems.
HTMLPDF296-878-20015Safely use rope descent devices.
HTMLPDF296-878-210Equipment prohibited.
DISPOSITION OF SECTIONS FORMERLY CODIFIED IN THIS TITLE
296-878-21005Prohibit equipment from use. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-21005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-21005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.] Repealed by WSR 20-12-091, filed 6/2/20, effective 10/1/20. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW.
296-878-220Definitions. [Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-220, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.] Repealed by WSR 14-09-095, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW.


PDF296-878-099

Definitions.

Anchor, window-cleaner's belt. Fall-preventing attachment points for direct attachment of the terminal portion of a window-cleaner's belt.
Belt terminal. That part of the safety belt that is attached to the anchor during the window-cleaning operation.
Block and tackle. A lifting device consisting of one or more pulley blocks reeved with chains, wire ropes, or fiber ropes used solely for raising and lowering a load or moving a load horizontally.
Boatswain's chair. A single-point adjustable suspension scaffold consisting of a seat or sling designed to support one worker in a sitting position.
Capstan device. An upright, spool-shaped cylinder used for hoisting or lifting weights that is turned by a motor or by hand.
Carabiner. An oblong metal ring with an openable spring-hinged side, used to clip a rope to an anchoring device.
Competent person. One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings, or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
Drop (drop zone). A vertical area or work zone accessed by the worker or piece of equipment during one descent.
Drop line. A vertical line from a fixed anchorage, independent of the work surface.
Fixture. Attachments, anchors, anchorages, tie backs or support equipment permanently dedicated to a given site.
Grade. Means the ground, floor, sidewalk, roof, or any level surface that is considered a safe place to work.
Lanyard. A flexible line to secure a wearer of a safety belt or harness to a drop line, lifeline or fixed anchorage.
Mullion. A slender, vertical dividing bar between windows, panels, etc.
Primary support/suspension. A working line or approved anchorage used for attachment of a working line.
Qualified person. A person is qualified if they have one of the following:
(1) Extensive knowledge, training, and experience about the subject matter, work, or project;
(2) A recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing;
(3) Successful demonstration of problem solving skills in connection with the subject, work, or project.
Rated capacity. The combined weight of workers, tools, equipment, and other materials that the device is designed and installed to lift and support.
Rope descent system (RDS). An assembly of components that allows the operator to control the rate of descent at any time. A rope descent system includes the following components:
(1) Suspension devices;
(2) Certified roof anchorages;
(3) Primary support ropes or lines;
(4) The descent device;
(5) Carabiners or shackles;
(6) A seatboard or boatswain's chair.
Terminal strap. The strap or rope attached to the waist band on one end, and to the belt terminals on the other end.
Window cleaning. Cleaning, wiping, restoring or other methods of cleaning windows.
Working line. A rope suspended from an anchorage and used to access parts of a building.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-099, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14.]



PDF296-878-100

Scope.

These rules apply to all window-cleaning activities performed on the inside or outside of a building in which the window cleaner is working from a level that is located more than forty-eight inches above grade.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-100, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-10005

Summary.

Your responsibility: Make sure workers clean windows safely, and properly use and maintain their window-cleaning equipment.
Important:
Window-cleaning equipment includes window-cleaner's belts, boatswains' chairs, rope descent systems, ladders, supported scaffolds, and the support equipment used to suspend employees cleaning windows.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-10005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 07-03-163, § 296-878-10005, filed 1/24/07, effective 4/1/07; WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-10005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-110

Training.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Train workers to use window-cleaning equipment
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-110, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-110, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-11005

Train workers to use window-cleaning equipment.

(1) You must provide the following training to workers before they use window-cleaning equipment on the job:
(a) Proper care and maintenance of the equipment;
(b) Review manufacturer's instructions for proper equipment use;
(c) Methods for inspection, assembly, and dismantling of components;
(d) Identify anchorages;
(e) A complete understanding of safe working conditions;
(f) How employees will be rescued.
(2) You must provide additional training to workers using window-cleaners' belts in all the following areas:
(a) How to select the proper-sized belt;
(b) How to use anchors and terminals;
(c) How to deal with obstructions and slippery/wet surfaces.
(3) You must provide additional training to workers using boatswains' chairs and rope descent systems in all the following areas:
(a) Proper rigging practices;
(b) Fall arrest requirements;
(c) Proper methods of descending;
(d) The effects of wind on window-cleaning operations when a worker is suspended;
(e) Proper methods of hoisting for ascents.
(4) You must document the training by recording all of the following:
(a) The name and signature of the trainer/educator;
(b) The name and signature of the student;
(c) The subjects in which the workers were trained;
(d) The date of the training;
(e) The location of the training.
Note:
You do not need a specialized educator to provide training. You may use a qualified person to conduct the training. A qualified person is defined as a person who has:
 
1. Extensive knowledge, training, and experience about the subject matter, work, or project;
 
2. A recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing;
 
3. Successful demonstration of problem solving skills in connection with the subject, work, or project.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-11005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-11005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-120

Building surfaces and fixtures.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Make sure building surfaces and fixtures are safe to use
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-120, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-120, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-12005

Make sure building surfaces and fixtures are safe to use.

You must make sure building surfaces and fixtures are safe to be used before you begin the window-cleaning operation. This includes:
(1) Guardrails, parapets, cornices and other building surfaces used to support suspended loads;
(2) Permanently installed fixtures used as anchorages and tiebacks;
(3) Window-cleaning equipment support systems permanently dedicated to the building.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-12005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-12005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-130

Inspection procedures.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Inspect the area to be cleaned
Inspect window-cleaning equipment before use
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-130, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-130, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-13005

Inspect the area to be cleaned.

(1) You must inspect the building before cleaning to make sure there are no areas that can damage worker fall protection equipment and window-cleaning equipment. Inspect:
(a) Sharp edges of parapets;
(b) Window frames;
(c) Open projected windows;
(d) Cornices;
(e) Overhangs;
(f) Any other areas that may abrade, sever, weaken, or damage the equipment.
(2) You must make sure all working surfaces are safe and free from hazards such as:
(a) Grease;
(b) Oil;
(c) Other slippery substances.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-13005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-13005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-13010

Inspect window-cleaning equipment before use.

(1) You must store your window-cleaning equipment in a way that:
(a) Is easy to get to, inspect, and safely take out for use;
(b) Provides protection from moisture, sunlight, or corrosion.
(2) You must make sure a competent person inspects these items before each use:
(a) Window-cleaners' belts;
(b) Boatswains' chairs;
(c) All components of rope descent systems;
(d) Suspension devices;
(e) Certified roof anchorages;
(f) Primary support ropes or lines;
(g) The descent device;
(h) Carabiners or shackles;
(i) A seatboard or boatswain's chair;
(j) Wear points on rope descent system components exposed to constant friction.
(3) You must make sure you do not use any piece of window-cleaning equipment with defects.
(a) Prohibit makeshift repairs to any piece of window-cleaning equipment;
(b) Label any piece of window-cleaning equipment that is defective "dangerous, do not use."
(4) You must secure any padding or softeners so they do not come loose from:
(a) The surface of the building;
(b) The rope if not attached to the building.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-13010, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-13010, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-140

Develop site-specific service and emergency plans.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Develop a site-specific service and emergency recovery plan for window-cleaning operations
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-140, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-140, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-14005

Develop a site-specific service and emergency recovery plan for window-cleaning operations.

(1) You must make sure that a qualified person develops a written plan for each location to be cleaned that identifies:
(a) Hazardous areas;
(b) Drop zones;
(c) Safety features;
(d) Methods for emergency recovery of workers working from suspended equipment, or other types of installations, in the event of equipment failure or any other kind of disability.
(2) You must keep the plan at the work site during the entire cleaning operation.
Note:
You may use an outside service for rescue and recovery (such as a fire department) if:
 
1. The rescue personnel will be able to reach the victims without undue delay;
 
2. They have the necessary equipment to retrieve the victims;
 
3. They are trained and proficient in high angle rescue techniques.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-14005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-14005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-150

Equipment.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Select and use appropriate equipment
Select appropriate rope for suspended equipment
Select appropriate carabiners
Use fall protection equipment
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-150, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-150, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-15005

Select and use appropriate equipment.

(1) You must make sure that all equipment provided to workers for window-cleaning operations is engineered, designed, and intended for use in commercial applications.
Note:
Equipment that is designed or labeled for recreational use or rescue use only is prohibited for use in window-cleaning operations.
(2) You must make sure that the window-cleaning equipment is not altered unless it is specifically approved in writing by the original manufacturer or a registered professional engineer.
(3) You must provide manufacturer's instructions to employees for all window-cleaning equipment they will use.
Reference:
Use Table 1 for other window-cleaning equipment requirements.
Table 1
Other Window-Cleaning Equipment
If you use:
Then follow all requirements in:
Portable ladders
Chapter 296-876 WAC, Ladders, portable and fixed
Supported scaffolds
Chapter 296-24 WAC, Scaffolds
Suspension ropes and lifelines
Powered and manual hoists
Suspended scaffold equipment
Chapter 296-24 WAC, Scaffolds
Single and multipoint adjustable suspension scaffolds
Chapter 296-24 WAC, Scaffolds
Powered platforms
Chapter 296-24 WAC, PART J-3, Powered platforms
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 16-23-141, § 296-878-15005, filed 11/22/16, effective 12/23/16. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-15005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-15005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-15015

Select appropriate rope for suspended equipment.

You must make sure all rope used for suspended equipment has a minimum breaking strength of five thousand pounds.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-15015, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-15015, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-15020

Select appropriate carabiners.

(1) You must use carabiners for connecting hardware or attaching boatswains' chairs, descent devices, and lifelines to anchors.
(2) You must use carabiners with a minimum tensile load of five thousand pounds.
(3) You must make sure carabiners are either manual or auto-locking.
Note:
You may secure a rope to an anchor with a knot if normal daily use of the rope will not decrease its initial breaking strength below five thousand pounds.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-15020, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-15020, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-15025

Use fall protection equipment.

(1) You must make sure the fall arrest system meets the requirements of chapter 296-880 WAC, Unified safety standards for fall protection.
(2) You must use and inspect fall arrest equipment in accordance with the requirements of chapter 296-880 WAC, Unified safety standards for fall protection.
(3) You must make sure workers operating powered platforms wear and use a fall arrest system.
(4) You must make sure the boatswain's chair or rope descent system is connected at all times to the suspension line.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 20-12-091, § 296-878-15025, filed 6/2/20, effective 10/1/20; WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-15025, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-15025, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-160

Warning signs and barricades.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Provide warning signs and barricades when suspended equipment is used
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-160, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-160, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-16005

Provide warning signs and barricades when suspended equipment is used.

(1) You must place warning signs below suspended equipment.
(2) You must block the ground area with barricades directly under or next to the work zone.
(3) You must assign a competent person to decide if additional protection is necessary.
(4) You must make sure all tools used by the worker are attached to the worker, seatboard, or boatswain's chair.
Reference:
Rules for protecting workers from overhead hazards are listed in WAC 296-800-16055. Make sure your employees use appropriate head protection.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-16005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-16005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-170

Power line clearances.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Maintain clearance between window cleaners and power lines
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-170, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-170, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-17005

Maintain clearance between window cleaners and power lines.

(1) You must maintain clearances between window cleaners and power lines as indicated in Tables 2 and 3.
Table 2
Minimum Clearances from Power Lines – Insulated Lines
Voltage
Minimum distance
Alternatives
Less than 300 volts
3 feet (0.9 m)
----
300 volts to 50 kv
10 feet (3.1 m)
----
More than 50 kv
10 feet (3.1 m) plus 0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv over 50 kv
2 times the length of the line insulator, but never less than 10 feet (3.1 m)
Table 3
Minimum Clearances from Power Lines – Uninsulated Lines
Voltage
Minimum distance
Alternatives
Less than 50 kv
10 feet (3.1 m)
----
More than 50 kv
10 feet (3.1 m) plus 0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv over 50 kv
2 times the length of the line insulator, but never less than 10 feet (3.1 m)
(2) You must follow these procedures when window cleaners need to get closer to power lines than allowed in Tables 2 and 3:
(a) Notify the utility company or electrical system operator of the need to work closer than the minimum clearances to power lines before starting the work;
(b) Begin the work only when the utility company or electrical system operator has deenergized or relocated the lines, or installed protective coverings to prevent accidental contact with the lines.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-17005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-17005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-180

Window-cleaners' belts and anchors.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Select appropriate window-cleaners' belts and anchors
Inspect the anchors you plan to use for window cleaning
Use window-cleaners' belts safely
Move safely on the outside of buildings
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-180, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-180, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-18005

Select appropriate window-cleaners' belts and anchors.

You must make sure window-cleaners' belts and anchors conform to the:
(1) Design, manufacture, and maintenance requirements of ANSI/IWCA 1-14.1-2001; and
(2) Manufacturer's specifications.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-18005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-18005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-18010

Inspect the anchors you plan to use for window cleaning.

(1) You must make sure you do not use anchors if they:
(a) Appear to be damaged;
(b) Appear deteriorated;
(c) Appear to be worn;
(d) Appear to be loose;
(e) Appear to be unsecured to the building or window frame;
(f) Will not allow the belt terminal to easily slip over the anchor head.
(2) You must use window-cleaner's belts only if:
(a) The area to be cleaned is safe;
(b) All anchors intended for use are safe.
(3) You must make sure window ledges and frames will not impair the safe use of the window-cleaner's belt.
Note:
If unsafe anchors are found, report them to the building owner or manager and do not use them.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-18010, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-18010, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-18015

Use window-cleaners' belts safely.

(1) You must make sure workers do not extend more than one arm beyond the window sash when cleaning windows from inside a building.
(2) You must attach one belt terminal to an anchor before you put more than one arm outside the window.
(3) You must pull on the terminal strap and look for signs of damage to the anchor.
(4) You must attach both belt terminals to anchors before climbing out the window.
(5) You must keep all belt terminals attached during the entire cleaning operation.
(6) You must make sure the worker keeps one terminal attached to an anchor when reentering the window and until the worker is inside.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-18015, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-18015, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-18020

Move safely on the outside of buildings.

You must make sure you travel on the outside of the building only when:
(1) You keep at least one window-cleaner's belt terminal attached at all times;
(2) The anchors are not more than forty-eight inches apart.
Note:
Anchors can be up to seventy-two inches apart if:
 
1. The sill or ledge is continuous;
 
2. The sill or ledge is at least twelve inches wide;
 
3. The sill or ledge has a slope less than five degrees;
 
4. There is at least six inches of window sill in front of the mullions.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-18020, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-18020, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-190

Boatswains' chairs.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Select appropriate boatswains' chairs
Safely use boatswains' chairs rigged with a block and tackle
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-190, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-190, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-19005

Select appropriate boatswains' chairs.

(1) You must make sure that when you use a block and tackle, it is the correct size, including:
(a) Correctly sized ball bearings or bushed blocks;
(b) Safety hooks;
(c) Eye-spliced rope;
(d) A minimum breaking strength of five thousand pounds.
(2) You must make sure all rope used with a boatswain's chair has a minimum breaking strength of five thousand pounds, including rope used for:
(a) Suspension;
(b) Block and tackle;
(c) Seat slings.
(3) You must make sure the ropes on boatswain's chair seat slings:
(a) Are reeved through the four corner holes in the seat;
(b) Cross each other on the underside of the seat;
(c) Are rigged so the chair cannot slip out of a level position.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-19005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-19005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-19010

Safely use boatswains' chairs rigged with a block and tackle.

(1) You must make sure the rated capacity or the maximum intended load, whichever is less, is not exceeded.
(2) You must make sure the suspension rope stays vertical between the boatswain's chair and suspension device unless all of these requirements are met:
(a) The rigging has been designed by a qualified person;
(b) The scaffold can be easily reached by rescuers;
(c) The suspension rope is protected from damage when a change in direction occurs;
(d) The scaffold will not swing and contact another surface.
(3) You must make sure a suspension height of seventy-five feet above grade or building setback is not exceeded.
EXEMPTION:
Suspension height may be up to one hundred thirty feet above grade or building setback if the boatswain's chair block and tackle has all of the following:
 
1. An automatic braking system;
 
2. A design that minimizes the amount of force required to raise or lower the suspended worker;
 
3. An automatic braking system that automatically maintains an elevation when no force is applied to the tackle;
 
4. A system that does not slip.
(4) You must prohibit tying any kind of knot in a block and tackle system to maintain elevation.
(5) You must make sure another worker is stationed below any boatswain's chair rigged with a block and tackle who can assist the suspended employee.
(6) You must make sure workers do not attempt to increase the work area by swinging, swaying, or other maneuvers.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-19010, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-19010, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-200

Rope descent systems.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Select appropriate rope descent systems
Safely use rope descent systems
Safely use rope descent devices
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-200, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-200, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-20005

Select appropriate rope descent systems.

(1) You must make sure the rope descent system is designed, used, and maintained according to:
(a) ANSI/IWCA 1-14.1-2001;
(b) The manufacturer's instructions.
(2) You must make sure the rope descent system has been manufactured and is intended to be used for window cleaning.
Note:
Equipment that is designed or labeled for recreational use or rescue use only is prohibited for use in window-cleaning operations.
(3) You must make sure the rope descent system components are compatible and have a minimum tensile strength of five thousand pounds. This does not apply to the seatboard.
(4) You must make sure the rope descent system has specific use instructions for each component.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-20005, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-20005, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-20010

Safely use rope descent systems.

(1) You must make sure workers use extreme care when using rope descent equipment around electrical service, heat sources, and turbulent areas, such as air vents.
(2) You must connect the seatboard or boatswain's chair to the descent device with a manual- or auto-locking carabiner.
(3) You must make sure workers are positioned in the seatboard or boatswain's chair before being suspended.
(4) You must make sure workers do not reach more than six feet in any direction as measured from a centerline straight down from where the suspension rope bears on the building.
(5) You must make sure workers do not descend rapidly, swing excessively, or stop suddenly.
(6) You must make sure that, in addition to the suspended worker, there is one other person at the job site who is skilled in using the rope descent system and rescue procedures.
(7) You must make sure you do not exceed a three hundred-foot height of descent as measured from grade or building setback unless the windows cannot be safely and practicably accessed by other means.
(8) You must make sure your site-specific service plan addresses the following hazards for descents over one hundred thirty feet as measured from grade or building setback:
(a) Sudden weather changes, such as wind gusts, micro bursts, or tunneling wind currents;
(b) Inability of the rope descent system to function without using excessive force;
(c) Workers suspended for long periods of time;
(d) Rerigging and movement of main suspension and safety lines.
(9) You must stabilize workers suspended from a rope descent system whenever the descent is higher than one hundred thirty feet, as measured from grade or building setback.
(10) You must prohibit workers from working when wind speed makes any stabilization equipment ineffective.
Note:
Provisions for stabilizing workers may include:
 
1. Continuous stabilization, such as mullion tracks;
 
2. Intermittent stabilization, such as detent pins/buttons;
 
3. Work station stabilization, such as suction cups.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-20010, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060. WSR 10-08-069, § 296-878-20010, filed 4/6/10, effective 6/1/10; WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-20010, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-20015

Safely use rope descent devices.

(1) You must make sure the rated capacity or the maximum intended load, whichever is less, is not exceeded.
(2) You must make sure the descent device manufacturer's specifications for rope diameter and construction are followed.
(3) You must make sure the rope is rigged through the descent device for a controlled rate of descent.
(4) You must make sure the attachment point on the descent device is one piece with no gates or openings.
(5) You must make sure the descent device will remain stationary when positive action is taken.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-20015, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-20015, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]



PDF296-878-210

Equipment prohibited.

Summary
You must meet the requirements…
in this section:
Prohibit equipment from use
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060, and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 14-09-095, § 296-878-210, filed 4/22/14, effective 7/1/14. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. WSR 02-22-027, § 296-878-210, filed 10/28/02, effective 1/1/03.]