814 Heavy Equipment Safety

Glossary

A

A/D Director. An individual who meets the requirements for an Assembly/Disassembly director under this subpart, regardless of formal job title or management status.
American National Standards Institute (ANSI). A private, non-profit organization that oversees the development of voluntary consensus standards for safety, equipment, and workplace practices in the U.S.
Articulating Crane. A crane with a boom made of folding, pin-connected structural members that can be extended or retracted using hydraulic cylinders.
Assembly/Disassembly. The process of putting together or taking apart equipment covered under this standard. For tower cranes, "erecting and climbing" replaces "assembly," and "dismantling" replaces "disassembly." Increasing crane height is considered erection.
Assist Crane. A crane used to help in the assembly or disassembly of another crane.
Attachments. Devices that expand the capabilities of equipment. Examples include augers, drills, magnets, pile-drivers, and personnel platforms.
Audible Signal. A signal conveyed through a distinct sound or series of sounds, such as those made by a bell, horn, or whistle.

B

Backhoe Loader. A versatile piece of heavy equipment with a digging bucket on the back and a loading bucket on the front, commonly used for excavation, trenching, and loading materials.
Blocking. Also known as "cribbing," this refers to wood or other materials used to support equipment or components and distribute loads to the ground. Commonly used under outrigger floats and boom sections during assembly/disassembly.
Blind Spot. An area around heavy equipment or vehicles that cannot be seen directly by the operator, posing a serious risk to nearby workers and requiring the use of mirrors, cameras, or spotters.
Boatswain's Chair. A single-point adjustable suspension scaffold made of a seat or sling designed to support one employee in a sitting position, possibly integrated with a full body harness.
Bogie. Also referred to as a "travel bogie," it is an assembly used in tower cranes to distribute loads across multiple wheels or axles.
Boom (Equipment Other Than Tower Crane). An inclined structural member that supports the upper hoisting tackle on a crane or derrick. It may be extendible or fixed, and categorized as hydraulic, cantilevered, latticed, cable-supported, or articulating.
Boom (Tower Cranes). On tower cranes, a fixed horizontal structure is called a jib, while a movable one is called a boom.
Boom Angle Indicator. A device that measures the angle of the boom relative to the horizontal plane.
Boom Hoist Limiting Device. A safety device that disengages boom hoist power at a preset angle and activates brakes or valves to prevent downward movement of the boom.
Boom Length Indicator. A system or marking that shows the length of the permanent boom or includes extensions/attachments, often computer-based.
Boom Lift. A type of aerial lift with an extendable arm used to raise workers to high, hard-to-reach places, often used for maintenance, construction, and electrical work.
Boom Stop. Devices that restrict a boom from exceeding a maximum angle and prevent it from toppling backward. Types include belly straps, telescoping stops, and backstops.
Boom Suspension System. A system of pendants, ropes, sheaves, and hardware that supports the boom tip and adjusts the boom angle.
Bucket Capacity. The maximum volume of material that a loader or excavator bucket can hold, typically measured in cubic yards or cubic meters.
Builder. The person or entity that constructs or manufactures the equipment.
Bulldozer. A powerful tracked machine with a large front blade used to push soil, sand, rubble, or debris during construction or demolition tasks.

C

Center of Gravity. The point at which the entire weight of a machine or object is concentrated; critical for understanding stability during lifting or traveling with heavy equipment.
Climbing. The process of increasing the height of a tower crane by adding sections (top climbing) or raising the entire crane within a structure (inside climbing).
Come-a-long. A mechanical tool, usually with a chain or cable, used to move materials using leverage.
Compactor. A machine used to compress or compact soil, asphalt, or waste materials to increase stability or reduce volume. Common types include plate compactors and road rollers.
Confined Space. A space that is not designed for continuous occupancy and has limited means of entry or exit, such as tanks, manholes, or trenches. Requires special safety procedures before entry.
Crane. A tall, heavy machine used to lift and move materials horizontally and vertically, including tower cranes, mobile cranes, and crawler cranes.

D

Dedicated Channel. A communication line designated by the employer to one signal person and crane/derrick, or a coordinated group, for exclusive communication during crane operations.
Dedicated Pile-Driver. A machine designed solely for pile-driving tasks, typically capable of both hoisting materials and driving them into place.
Dedicated Spotter (Power Lines). A qualified individual whose sole responsibility is to monitor the distance between equipment and power lines to prevent contact or encroachment.
Directly Under the Load. A situation where part or all of an employee is positioned beneath a suspended load, posing a risk of injury or fatality if the load drops.
Dismantling. The process of taking apart crane components, including partial disassembly such as shortening a boom or replacing parts.
Drum Rotation Indicator. A device that shows the direction and speed at which a hoist drum is rotating, assisting in controlled load movement.
Dump Truck. A heavy-duty vehicle with a hydraulic bed used for transporting and dumping loose materials such as sand, gravel, or demolition debris.

E

Earthmoving Equipment. A general category of heavy machinery used to excavate, move, and grade soil and rock, including bulldozers, graders, and excavators.
Electrical Contact. Occurs when equipment, objects, or persons come into contact with or close proximity to energized conductors, allowing electrical current to pass through.
Emergency Stop (E-Stop). A button or control feature designed to immediately shut down equipment in case of an emergency to prevent injury or damage.
Employer-Made Equipment. Floating cranes/derricks specifically designed and built by an employer for their own use, typically without commercial manufacturing or distribution.
Encroachment. When any part of a crane or its load enters the minimum required clearance from a power line, violating safe approach distance regulations.
Equipment. Any machinery or device covered by this subpart, including cranes, hoists, derricks, and related attachments or components.
Equipment Criteria. The manufacturer’s specified instructions, limitations, warnings, and requirements for safe use and maintenance of equipment.
Equipment Inspection Checklist. A documented list used to verify the operational safety and condition of heavy equipment before use, including checks for brakes, lights, fluids, and tires.
Excavator. A large piece of machinery with a bucket attached to a hydraulic arm used for digging trenches, foundations, and removing debris; can rotate 360 degrees.

F

Fall Arrest System. A system designed to stop a worker in the event of a fall, typically consisting of a full-body harness, anchor point, and a shock-absorbing lanyard or self-retracting lifeline.
Fall Protection Equipment. Includes guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, safety nets, positioning devices, and fall restraint systems designed to protect workers from falling.
Fall Restraint System. A fall protection system that prevents a user from reaching a fall hazard, using a body harness or belt connected to an anchorage.
Fall Zone. The area beneath and around a suspended load where there is a risk of injury due to falling materials during lifting operations.
Flange Points. Contact points where a wire rope changes layers against the flanges of a hoist drum, often requiring inspection for wear and alignment.
Floating Cranes/Derricks. Equipment designed by a manufacturer or employer for marine use, typically mounted on a barge, pontoons, or vessel.
For Example. A phrase meaning "one example, although there are others"; used to clarify without limiting possibilities.
Forklift. A powered industrial truck used for lifting, carrying, and stacking materials, especially in warehouses and on construction sites with pallets or heavy items.
Free Fall (of the Load Line). A condition where only the brake controls the descent of the load line, and the drive mechanism is not engaged.
Free Surface Effect. The uncontrolled movement of liquid in compartments, which can reduce the stability of floating platforms or vessels used with crane equipment.

G

Grader. A construction machine with a long blade used to create a flat surface, typically in road construction and maintenance. Also known as a motor grader.
Ground Conditions. The physical properties and stability of soil or terrain where equipment is operated; poor ground conditions can lead to equipment tipping or collapse.

H

Hard Hat. A helmet worn on construction sites to protect the head from falling objects, electrical hazards, and impact injuries.
Hazard Assessment. A systematic process of identifying potential hazards in the workplace and determining appropriate control measures to eliminate or reduce risks.
Hazard Communication. A system of informing workers about the presence of hazardous substances, typically through labels, safety data sheets (SDS), and training programs.
High-Visibility Clothing. Safety apparel designed with reflective or fluorescent materials to make workers visible in low-light or high-traffic environments.

I

Impact Wrench. A power tool commonly used in heavy equipment maintenance and assembly, designed to deliver high torque output for tightening or loosening fasteners with minimal effort.
Include/Including. Indicates "including, but not limited to," ensuring that additional items may be implied beyond those listed.
Inspection Tag. A visible label or tag placed on equipment to indicate its inspection status, including the date inspected, results, and the name of the inspector. Helps ensure regular safety checks are performed.
Insulating Link/Device. An insulating component that prevents electrical current flow, listed or accepted by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.7.

J

Jackhammer. A pneumatic or electric tool used to break up concrete, pavement, or rock; often used in conjunction with heavy machinery on demolition or road construction projects.
Jib Stop. Also known as a jib backstop, a device that limits the upward movement of a fixed or luffing jib to prevent over-travel or toppling.
Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). A safety process that breaks down each task into steps, identifies potential hazards, and outlines control measures to prevent injury or incidents during job performance.

K

Kill Switch. A safety mechanism on heavy equipment that allows for immediate shutdown of the machine in the event of an emergency to prevent injury or damage.

L

Land Crane/Derrick. Equipment not originally designed for marine use, such as attachment to barges or pontoons.
List. The angle of inclination about the longitudinal axis of a floating platform, such as a barge or pontoon.
Loader. A machine with a large front-mounted bucket used to scoop, lift, and move materials such as dirt, gravel, or debris. Variants include skid steer loaders and wheel loaders.
Load. Refers to the object(s) being hoisted and/or the total weight being lifted, including any slings, shackles, or rigging devices.
Load Chart. A diagram or table provided by equipment manufacturers that shows the safe lifting capacity of a crane or lifting machine based on boom length, radius, and angle.
Load Moment Indicator. A system that senses the load and radius to indicate the percentage of rated capacity being used. Also known as a rated capacity indicator.
Load Moment Limiter. A system that automatically prevents overload by disabling equipment functions that would increase load beyond rated capacity. Also known as a rated capacity limiter.
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO). A safety protocol that ensures equipment is properly shut down and cannot be started up again until maintenance or repair work is completed.
Locomotive Crane. A crane mounted on a railcar, designed to travel on railroad tracks for material handling in rail-based environments.

M

Marine Hoisted Personnel Transfer Device. A specialized device, like a transfer net, used to safely move employees to and from marine worksites via crane or hoist.
Marine Worksite. A construction location situated on, over, or adjacent to a body of water where marine equipment is used.
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). A document that provides detailed information about the properties, handling, and emergency procedures for hazardous materials used in the workplace. Replaced by SDS under OSHA’s HazCom standard.
Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). A U.S. federal agency that enforces safety and health regulations in mining operations, similar to OSHA’s role in general industry and construction.
Mobile Crane. A crane mounted on a truck or crawler base, designed for lifting heavy loads and easily transported between job sites.
Moving Point-to-Point. Describes the time during which an employee is walking to or from a work station, not actively working but exposed to potential hazards.
Multi-Purpose Machine. Equipment that can be configured in multiple ways, one of which allows suspended load lifting with a winch or hook. Covered under this subpart when used for hoisting.

N

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). A U.S. government agency responsible for conducting research and making recommendations to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses.
Nationally Recognized Accrediting Agency. An independent organization recognized as competent to accredit testing entities, such as ANSI or the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.
Nonconductive. Describes a material or object that resists electrical current and does not become energized under normal environmental conditions.

O

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). A federal agency under the U.S. Department of Labor that sets and enforces standards to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for employees.
Operational Aids. Devices that assist crane operators by providing safety information or automatically controlling crane functions, such as boom angle indicators or load moment indicators.
Operational Controls. Levers, switches, pedals, or other devices used by the operator to control crane or equipment functions.
Operator. The individual who is operating the equipment, such as a crane, hoist, or aerial lift.
Operator Cab. The enclosed space from which the operator controls the equipment, usually fitted with controls, monitors, and safety features.
Outriggers. Extendable supports on heavy equipment such as cranes or bucket trucks that increase stability and prevent tipping during lifting operations.
Overhead and Gantry Cranes. Includes bridge cranes, semigantry, cantilever, and wall cranes used for lifting along fixed paths, regardless of their mobility method.
Overhead Power Line Safety. A set of practices to prevent contact between equipment and energized power lines, including maintaining minimum approach distances and using spotters or insulating barriers.

P

Paragraph. Refers to a specific paragraph within a regulatory section unless otherwise specified in the document.
Pendants. Components of a boom suspension system, either bar or wire type, used to connect parts and adjust length without re-spooling cable.
Permit-Required Confined Space. A confined space that contains or has the potential to contain a serious hazard such as toxic substances or engulfment, requiring a special entry permit and safety procedures.
Personal Fall Limiter (PFL). A type of fall protection device that automatically locks and limits the distance a worker can fall, often used in aerial lifts or when working at height.
Personal Fall Arrest System. A system used to arrest an employee in a fall, consisting of a body harness, connectors, anchor point, and possibly lifelines or deceleration devices.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Gear worn to reduce risk of injury or exposure to hazards, including gloves, helmets, goggles, steel-toed boots, and respirators.
Portal Crane. A crane mounted on a gantry structure, which may be fixed or mobile, typically used in industrial and port operations for heavy lifting.
Power Lines. Overhead electric transmission and distribution lines that pose a risk of electrocution when working nearby with equipment like cranes.
Pre-Operational Check. A required inspection of heavy equipment before use to ensure all components are in safe working order and to identify any maintenance issues.
Procedures. Include instructions, warnings, protocols, and specifications required for the safe operation and maintenance of equipment.
Proximity Alarm. A safety device that warns when equipment comes too close to power lines or other hazards. Must be approved by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory.

Q

Qualified Evaluator (Not a Third Party). An employee of the signal person’s employer who is competent to assess qualifications under this subpart.
Qualified Evaluator (Third Party). An independent entity recognized for assessing whether an individual meets qualification requirements for a signal person.
Qualified Person. An individual who has proven—by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience—the ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, work, or project.
Qualified Rigger. A rigger who meets the definition of a qualified person and is competent in rigging procedures and load handling.
Quick Coupler. A device that allows attachments on heavy machinery (such as buckets or breakers) to be changed quickly and safely without the use of hand tools.

R

Range Control Limit Device. A safety feature that restricts boom or jib movement beyond a set plane to prevent hazardous operation.
Range Control Warning Device. A device that alerts the operator when the boom or jib approaches a preset operational limit.
Rated Capacity. The maximum weight a crane or lifting device is permitted to handle under specific conditions, as specified by the manufacturer.
Rearview Camera System. A safety feature installed on heavy equipment that provides a live video feed to help operators see behind the machine and avoid collisions.
Repetitive Pickup Points. Situations where a wire rope is frequently spooled over the same small drum area during repeated lifting cycles.
Road Roller. A compactor-type vehicle used to smooth and compress asphalt, gravel, or soil during the construction of roads and foundations.
Running Wire Rope. A wire rope that moves over sheaves or drums during operation, commonly used in crane hoisting systems.
Runway. A firm, level surface designated as a path of travel for equipment, especially cranes, during lifting or platform movement.

S

Safe Load Indicator (SLI). An electronic safety system used in cranes and lifting equipment to monitor and alert the operator if the load exceeds safe operating limits.
Safety Audit. A formal inspection and evaluation of a workplace to ensure compliance with safety standards, regulations, and practices.
Scissor Lift. A type of aerial work platform that moves vertically using a folding support structure, allowing safe elevation of workers to perform tasks at height.
Section. Refers to a specific portion of the regulatory subpart being referenced unless otherwise indicated.
Signal Person. A trained worker who communicates with equipment operators using standard hand signals or radios to ensure safe operation when the operator's view is obstructed.
Site-Specific Safety Plan (SSSP). A written document that outlines the health and safety procedures, hazard controls, emergency response plans, and responsibilities for a particular worksite.
Skid Steer Loader. A compact, highly maneuverable machine with lift arms used for digging, lifting, and moving materials in tight spaces.
Sloping and Benching. Excavation techniques used to prevent trench or excavation wall collapse by cutting the walls back at an angle (sloping) or by creating stepped levels (benching).
Special Hazard Warnings. Alerts related to specific jobsite hazards, such as proximity to power lines or unstable ground.
Spotter. A designated person who assists heavy equipment operators by guiding them in blind spots or congested areas to prevent accidents and ensure safe operations.
Stability (Flotation Device). The tendency of a barge, pontoon, or floating platform to return to an upright position after tilting due to an external force.
Stability Triangle. A concept used in forklift safety that describes the three-point area of support. Staying within the triangle helps prevent tip-overs.
Standard Method. Refers to the official hand signal protocol found in Appendix A of this subpart.
Subpart N (OSHA Standard). The section of OSHA’s construction regulations (29 CFR 1926) that covers materials handling, storage, use, and disposal — including hoisting, rigging, and lifting equipment requirements.
Such As. Means "such as, but not limited to," indicating the list that follows is not exhaustive.

T

Telehandler. A machine with a telescopic boom that can extend forward and upward, often equipped with forks or buckets to lift materials to hard-to-reach places.
Toolbox Talk. A brief safety meeting held on site to discuss specific hazards, procedures, or updates related to the day’s work.
Trench Box. A protective structure placed in trenches to prevent cave-ins and protect workers working below ground level. Also known as a trench shield.
Trencher. A piece of equipment used to dig narrow trenches for laying pipes, cables, or drainage. Comes in walk-behind or ride-on models for different project sizes.

U

Undercarriage. The lower section of tracked heavy equipment such as bulldozers or excavators, including components like tracks, rollers, and idlers that provide movement and stability.
Utility Locator. A device used to detect underground utilities such as electrical lines, water pipes, and gas lines before excavation, helping prevent damage and ensure worker safety.

V

Vibration Exposure. The physical exposure operators experience from prolonged use of vibrating equipment or machinery, which may contribute to health issues such as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).
Visibility Aids. Equipment or accessories such as mirrors, backup cameras, and proximity sensors that help operators detect people or obstacles in blind spots to reduce collision risk.

W

Wheel Excavator. A type of excavator equipped with wheels instead of tracks, offering increased mobility and speed on paved or finished surfaces. Ideal for urban construction and roadwork.
Wheel Loader. A type of front-end loader with wheels instead of tracks, used to move or load materials such as dirt, gravel, or snow. Offers higher speed and mobility than tracked loaders.

X

X-ray Testing. A non-destructive testing method used to inspect welds and structural components on heavy equipment for internal flaws or defects without damaging the material.

Y

Yaw Control. A function in certain heavy equipment (such as cranes or booms) that enables rotational movement on a vertical axis, allowing precise positioning or swing control.

Z

Zero Tail Swing Excavator. A compact excavator designed so that the housing does not extend beyond the tracks when rotating, making it ideal for confined or urban job sites.