New amendments to Title 8, California Code of Regulations section 1716.2 will affect all of California’s residential framing and light gage (sic) steel frame construction contractors (and many of their subs). And the new regulation becomes effective this Friday, August 6th!

But you wouldn’t know that by going to Cal/OSHA’s website, because Title 8, California Code of Regulations section 1716.2 has not been posted there yet.

However, to quote someone in the news last week, Hope is On the Way! You can get a copy of the new reg by fax or e-mail from us. Call us at 707-431-7900 or e-mail Lynn@walterlaw.com.

In the meantime, here are some highlights:

1. The fall protection threshold is now 15 feet for all framing operations. Sections 1669, 1670 and 1671 no longer apply to residential framing or light steel work under 15 feet.

2. The regulation provides a broad definition of residential framing activities.

3. For starter boards, roof sheathing and installation of fascia boards, the 15 foot threshold will be measured from the eave of the roof, not from higher up.

4. Work can be done from outside end trusses and rafters without fall protection if the work (for example, nailing fascia boards) is of short duration with limited exposure, is done by a “qualified” person, and a determination is made that the hazards of rigging safety devices exceed the hazards of the work.

5. Work on top plates, joists and roof structures over 15 feet can be done without fall protection if the members are on 24 inch centers and braced, or when joists are laid on their sides with 24 inch centers or within 24 inches of the top plate or another support.

6. Window opening guard rails can be removed for the immediate installation of window components. This eliminates a “gotcha” in the old regulations which made every window installation on the second floor and higher a violation.