View Rule

View EO 12866 Meetings Printer-Friendly Version     Download RIN Data in XML

DOL/OSHA RIN: 1218-AC51 Publication ID: Spring 2014 
Title: Preventing Backover Injuries and Fatalities 
Abstract: OSHA published an RFI (77 FR 18973; March 29, 2012) that sought information on two subjects: 1) preventing backover injuries; and 2) the hazards and risks of reinforcing concrete operations in construction, including post-tensioning. Backing vehicles and equipment are common causes of struck-by injuries and can also cause caught-between injuries when backing vehicles and equipment pin a worker against an object. Struck-by injuries and caught-between injuries are two of the four leading causes of workplace fatalities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2011, 75 workers were fatally backed over while working. While many backing incidents can prove to be fatal, workers can suffer severe, non-fatal injuries as well. A review of OSHA's Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) database found that backing incidents can result in serious injury to the back and pelvis, fractured bones, concussions, amputations, and other injuries. Emerging technologies in the field of backing operations may prevent incidents. The technologies include cameras and proximity detection systems. The use of spotters and internal traffic control plans can also make backing operations safer. The Agency has held stakeholder meetings on backovers, and is conducting site visits to employers. Current rules regarding reinforcing steel and post-tensioning activities may not adequately address worker hazards in work related to post-tensioning and reinforcing steel. Both are techniques for reinforcing concrete and are generally used in many types of construction. OSHA's IMIS data indicates that 31 workers died while performing work on or near post-tensioning operations or reinforcing steel between 2000 and 2009. Currently, workers performing steel reinforcing suffer injuries caused by unsafe material handling, structural collapse, and impalement by protruding reinforcing steel dowels, among other causes. Employees involved in post-tensioning activities are at risk for incidents caused by the misuse of post-tensioning equipment and improper training. The Agency is continuing to seek information about injuries and hazards of reinforcing steel operations. 
Agency: Department of Labor(DOL)  Priority: Economically Significant 
RIN Status: Previously published in the Unified Agenda Agenda Stage of Rulemaking: Prerule Stage 
Major: Undetermined  Unfunded Mandates: No 
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined     (To search for a specific CFR, visit the Code of Federal Regulations.)
Legal Authority: 29 USC 655(b)   
Legal Deadline:  None
Timetable:
Action Date FR Cite
Request for Information  03/29/2012  77 FR 18973   
Comment Period End  07/27/2012 
Analyze Comments (Concrete)  05/00/2014 
Initiate SBREFA (Backovers)  08/00/2014 
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes  Government Levels Affected: Undetermined 
Small Entities Affected: Businesses  Federalism: No 
Included in the Regulatory Plan: No 
RIN Data Printed in the FR: Yes 
Agency Contact:
Dean McKenzie
Director, Directorate of Construction
Department of Labor
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
200 Constitution Avenue NW., FP Building, Room N-3468,
Washington, DC 20210
Phone:202 693-2020
Fax:202 693-1689
Email: mckenzie.dean@dol.gov