Understanding OSHA 1910.66(f)(3)(i)(I): Manual Braking Systems in Government Facilities
In government facilities, the safety of employees working at heights is paramount. OSHA standard 1910.66(f)(3)(i)(I) specifically addresses the need for manual or automatic braking or locking systems on manually propelled carriages. This regulation ensures that workers are protected from the risks associated with unintentional movement of these carriages.
What Does the Regulation Require?
OSHA 1910.66(f)(3)(i)(I) mandates that all manually propelled carriages must be equipped with a system that prevents them from moving unintentionally. This could be a manual braking system, an automatic locking mechanism, or an equivalent safety feature. The goal is to ensure that workers can safely perform their tasks without the risk of the carriage moving unexpectedly.
Application in Government Facilities
Government facilities, like any other workplace, must comply with OSHA regulations to ensure the safety of their employees. This includes adhering to 1910.66(f)(3)(i)(I) for any manually propelled carriages used within their operations. Whether it's a maintenance crew working on a federal building or a team conducting inspections, the safety of the equipment they use is non-negotiable.
Ensuring Compliance
To comply with this regulation, government facilities should:
- Regularly inspect and maintain the braking or locking systems on all manually propelled carriages.
- Train employees on the proper use and maintenance of these systems.
- Implement a system for reporting and addressing any issues with the carriages promptly.
By following these steps, government facilities can not only meet OSHA standards but also create a safer working environment for their employees.
Real-World Application
I've seen firsthand how crucial these systems are. On a job site at a government facility, we encountered a situation where a manually propelled carriage started to move unexpectedly. Fortunately, the braking system kicked in, preventing a potential accident. This incident underscores the importance of having reliable braking or locking systems in place.
Resources for Further Learning
For those looking to dive deeper into OSHA regulations and safety standards for government facilities, the following resources are invaluable:
- OSHA 1910.66 - Powered Platforms, Manlifts, and Vehicle-Mounted Work Platforms
- CDC NIOSH - Falls in the Workplace
These resources provide detailed information and guidelines to help ensure compliance and enhance workplace safety.


