OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewTools - Hand and PowerMedium
A construction worker is using a hydraulic jack to lift a heavy steel beam. After the beam has been raised to the desired height, what is the most critical next step to ensure worker safety according to OSHA standards?
- APlace cribbing or blocking securely under the lifted load.
- BLeave the hydraulic jack in place and monitor for pressure drops.
- CRemove the hydraulic jack to prevent accidental lowering.
- DImmediately lower the beam to verify the jack's stability.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Place cribbing or blocking securely under the lifted load.
OSHA requires that a lifted load must be immediately secured by cribbing or blocking once it reaches the desired height. Relying solely on hydraulic pressure is unsafe due to potential leaks or mechanical failure.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Monitoring the jack is insufficient; mechanical support is required to secure the load against hydraulic failure.
- C. Removing the jack without first securing the load with blocking would cause the load to fall.
- D. Lowering the beam immediately is counterproductive to the task and doesn't secure the load.
Hydraulic Lifted Load Support
Any load lifted by hydraulic jacks or similar equipment must be immediately and securely supported by independent mechanical means, such as cribbing or blocking, once it reaches the desired height, to prevent accidental lowering.
- Hydraulic systems can fail.
- Mechanical support (cribbing) is essential.
- Prevents load from falling unexpectedly.
Memory trick: Lift it high, then block it tight, for safety's sake, day and night.