Cal-OSHA Window Washing Regulations: What Property Managers and Workers Need to Know
Window washing is essential for maintaining the aesthetic and structural integrity of high-rise buildings. However, it’s a task that comes with significant safety risks, especially for workers suspended hundreds of feet in the air. To minimize these risks, California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal-OSHA) enforces strict regulations designed to ensure safety and compliance.
In this post, we’ll break down key Cal-OSHA window washing regulations and what they mean for property managers and window washing teams.
Why Are Window Washing Regulations Important?
Window washing often involves workers operating from suspended platforms or using rope descent systems, making it one of the riskiest jobs in building maintenance. Cal-OSHA regulations aim to:
- Protect Workers: Prevent falls and injuries by enforcing proper equipment use.
- Ensure Equipment Safety: Mandate regular inspections and certifications for all systems used in window washing.
- Hold Employers Accountable: Require adherence to safety protocols and worker training.
1. Equipment Inspections and Certifications
All suspended scaffolds, rope descent systems, and related safety components must undergo annual inspections and certifications by qualified professionals. This includes:
- Hoists and Platforms (swing stages, suspended scaffolds, permanent installations, adjustable platforms): Ensuring all moving parts and structural components are in safe operating condition.
- Anchors and Davits: Verifying load-bearing capabilities and stability.
- Wire Ropes and Lifelines: Checking for fraying, corrosion, or other signs of wear.
Additionally, property managers are required to complete an annual inspection and obtain certification (written assurance) that their building’s equipment is safe to use. This certification must be performed by an inspection company with a valid Scaffold Inspection and Testing (SIT) license, such as FEIS.
For detailed requirements, refer to Cal-OSHA General Requirements for All Window Cleaning Operations and Cal-OSHA Inspections and Tests.
2. OPOS Requirements for Window Washing
California’s Cal-OSHA regulations require property managers and employers to maintain an Operating Procedures Outline Sheet (OPOS) for window washing operations. The OPOS serves as a critical document outlining the safe use, inspection, and maintenance of window washing systems. Key components of an OPOS include:
- System Specifications: Detailed descriptions of the window washing equipment, including hoists, platforms (swing stages, suspended scaffolds, permanent installations), anchors, and davits.
- Operating Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for the safe operation of equipment, including setup, descent, and emergency protocols.
- Inspection and Maintenance Requirements: A schedule and checklist for routine inspections, maintenance, and certifications to ensure compliance with Cal-OSHA standards.
- Safety Measures: Specific guidelines for fall protection, lifeline use, and proper training requirements for window washing crews.
- Load and Weight Limits: Documentation of system capacity and weight distribution requirements to prevent overloading.
Who Prepares the OPOS?
The OPOS must be created or reviewed by a Cal-OSHA SIT license holder, like FEIS, to ensure compliance with state regulations. Check out our website to learn more about the expertise FEIS has in creating OPOS documentation.
For detailed requirements, refer to Cal-OSHA’s Appendix A: Operating Procedures Outline Sheet (OPOS)
3. Fall Protection Standards
Cal-OSHA emphasizes the critical importance of fall protection in all window washing operations. Facade access equipment, such as swing stages and suspended scaffolds, is often located in hard-to-reach areas on buildings. Setting up and rigging equipment in these areas poses significant safety risks, especially if workers are exposed to potential falls. Proper fall protection is not only essential for safety but also required for compliance with state regulations.
Key Requirements Include:
- Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS): Workers must use PFAS, including a full-body harness, shock-absorbing lanyards, and lifelines anchored to certified points.
- Anchorage Systems: Fall protection systems must be anchored to points capable of supporting at least 5,000 pounds per worker.
- Guardrails: Suspended platforms (swing stages, suspended scaffolds, permanent installations) should include guardrails where feasible to provide an additional layer of protection.
- Regular Inspections: All fall protection systems must be inspected before every use to identify wear, damage, or improper setup.
For detailed standards, refer to Cal-OSHA Title 8 Section 1670 – Personal Fall Arrest Systems.
To learn more about swing stages and their importance in facade access, check out our blog, What Are Swing Stages?
Here’s a couple pics of FEIS Technicians installing guardrail for safe access and use of rooftop anchors.
Conclusion
Window washing is a high-risk job, but with the right equipment, training, and compliance measures, it can be performed safely. By adhering to Cal-OSHA window washing regulations, property managers and employers can protect workers while avoiding costly fines or liabilities.
Need to certify your window washing equipment or ensure your OPOS is up to date? Contact FEIS today to schedule your inspection and compliance review.