Overhead and gantry cranes - Virginia

Virginia follows federal OSHA regulations for overhead and gantry cranes.   

There are state-specific requirements for surface and underground mineral mining. They are as follows:

• Overhead crane equipment. Overhead cranes with operator cabs must be provided with:
  • Bumpers at each end of each rail;
  • Automatic switches to halt up-travel of the blocks before they strike the hoist;
  • Effective audible warning signals within easy reach of the operator; and
  • A means to lock out the disconnect switch (4 VAC 25-40-2650).
• Overhead crane bridges. In addition, no person may work from or travel on the bridge of an overhead crane unless the bridge is provided with substantial foot-walks with toe-boards and railing the length of the bridge (4 VAC 25-40-2660).
• Riding on loads or hooks. Personnel must not ride on loads being moved by cranes, nor may they ride the hoisting hooks unless such method eliminates a greater hazard (4 VAC 25-40-2620).