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Subchapter 13. Logging and Sawmill Safety Orders
Article 4. Signals and Communication Systems

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§6270. Signal Systems.



General.
(a) Standard yarding system whistle signals or an approved alternate communication system shall be used at cable logging operations.
(b) When whistles are used, whistle signals contained in Appendix A shall be used.
(c) Additional signals may be adopted for an unusual or new situation not covered in the standard signals, and shall be used only for that specific situation.
(d) All employees shall be informed of the new signals.
(e) The list of standard signals and alternate signal system in use shall be available in the yarder cab and shall be posted or made available to the crews.
(f) All signals shall be thoroughly understood by the crew.
(g) Each unit of the signal or control system in use shall be tested daily before operations begin.
(h) Audible signals used for test purposes shall not include signals used for movement of lines or materials.
(i) Machine operators shall not move any logs, loads, or rigging unless:
(1) The signal received is clear and distinct; if in doubt, the operator shall repeat the signal as understood and wait for confirmation.
(2) All crew members are in the clear and alert to signals at all times.
(j) A whistle, horn, or other signaling device, clearly audible and distinguishable to all persons in the affected area, shall be installed and used on all machines operating as yarders, swings, loaders, or tree pullers.
(k) When radio transmission or other means of signal control is used, it shall activate the audible signaling device at the machine. Audible signals are not necessary on grapple or other yarding systems in which employees are not exposed to logs or rigging movement.
(l) Only one member of any crew shall give signals where chokers are being set. Any person is authorized to give a stop signal when a worker is in danger or an emergency condition is apparent.
(m) Hand signals are permitted only when in plain sight of and within 300 feet of the operator.
(n) Hand signals may be used at any time as an emergency stop signal.
(o) Throwing of any type of material as a signal is strictly prohibited.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
HISTORY
1. Amendment of subsection (c) filed 2-6-85; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 85, No. 6).
2. Amendment of subsection (e) and repealer of subsection (p) filed 10-24-01; operative 11-23-01 (Register 2001, No. 43).

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