Jacks and blast nozzles

You must use a jack whose rated capacity is sufficient for the load and that rating must be permanently and legibly marked on the jack. See the requirement in 1910.244(a)(1)(i) and the marking requirement in 1910.244(a)(1)(ii).

• Check the jack’s marked rated load and compare it to the weight you intend to lift. Never exceed the rated capacity.
• Ensure the rating is permanent and legible (cast, stamped, or similar) as required by 1910.244(a)(1)(ii).
• If the load is near the jack’s capacity, use a larger-rated jack or multiple jacks designed and rated for the task.

If there is no firm foundation, you must block the base of the jack and, if the cap could slip against the load, place a block between the cap and the load. This is required by 1910.244(a)(2)(i).

• Use solid cribbing or blocking under the jack base to prevent sinking or tipping.
• Place a suitable block between the jack cap and the load whenever there is any chance the cap could slip to improve contact and prevent movement.

The operator must watch and keep the stop indicator clean so they can tell the jack’s travel limit and must not overrun that indicated limit. See 1910.244(a)(2)(ii).

• Before use, clean the stop indicator so markings are visible.
• While raising, observe the indicator and stop lifting when the limit is reached to avoid jack damage or failure.

You must crib, block, or otherwise secure the load immediately after it has been raised. This is required by 1910.244(a)(2)(iii).

• Never rely on the jack alone to support a raised load. Install cribbing or appropriate supports before working under or near the load.
• Make sure cribbing is stable, rated for the load, and positioned securely.

Yes. Hydraulic jacks exposed to freezing temperatures must be supplied with an adequate antifreeze liquid. See 1910.244(a)(2)(iv).

• Use fluids recommended by the jack manufacturer for low-temperature service.
• Follow manufacturer guidance for fluid type and change intervals to maintain safe hydraulic performance in freezing conditions.

All jacks must be properly lubricated at regular intervals as part of their maintenance. See 1910.244(a)(2)(v).

• Follow the jack manufacturer’s lubrication schedule and procedures.
• Keep a maintenance log or schedule to ensure lubrication is performed at consistent, documented intervals.

Each jack must be thoroughly inspected at times depending on service conditions but not less often than the listed minimums in the standard. See 1910.244(a)(2)(vi) and the specific schedules at 1910.244(a)(2)(vi)(a)-(c).

• Minimum inspection frequencies: once every 6 months for constant or intermittent use at one location (1910.244(a)(2)(vi)(a)); when sent out and when returned for jacks sent out of the shop (1910.244(a)(2)(vi)(b)); and immediately before and after use if subjected to abnormal load or shock (1910.244(a)(2)(vi)(c)).
• Inspect for oil leaks, damaged parts, worn threads, and other defects that could affect safe operation.

Repair or replacement parts must be examined for possible defects before being used. This is required by 1910.244(a)(2)(vii).

• Verify that replacement parts are the correct specification and fit the jack model.
• Inspect parts for cracks, deformation, or improper machining before installation.

Jacks that are out of order must be tagged accordingly and must not be used until repairs are made. See 1910.244(a)(2)(viii).

• Apply a clear “Out of Order” tag or equivalent and remove the jack from service area so employees cannot use it by mistake.
• Repair the jack per manufacturer instructions and re-inspect before returning to service.

Abrasive blast cleaning nozzles must have an operating valve that is held open manually, which means the operator must actively hold the valve open while blasting. See 1910.244(b).

• The valve must be designed so it requires continuous manual force (a “dead-man” type control) to stay open; it must not be left latched open unattended.
• This helps ensure the abrasive flow stops immediately if the operator releases the nozzle, improving safety.

Yes. A support must be provided on which the blast cleaning nozzle may be mounted when it is not in use, as required by 1910.244(b).

• The support prevents nozzle damage, accidental discharge, and tripping hazards when the nozzle is set down.
• Position the support so the nozzle is secure and cannot be knocked off or cause unintentional operation.

You may use multiple jacks only if each jack is rated for the portion of the load it will carry and the combined setup provides safe, stable support; do not exceed any jack’s rated load. The standard requires each jack used to have a sufficient rating and a legible permanent marking per 1910.244(a)(1)(i)-(ii).

• Calculate load distribution and ensure cribbing and blocking are designed to support the combined load safely.
• Have a competent person plan and supervise the lift; inspect all jacks per 1910.244(a)(2)(vi).
• Never rely solely on jacks for long-term support—secure the load with cribbing immediately after lifting per 1910.244(a)(2)(iii).

You must thoroughly inspect a jack immediately before and immediately after it is subjected to an abnormal load or shock, as required by 1910.244(a)(2)(vi)(c).

• Check for bent, cracked, or deformed components, hydraulic leaks, or other damage that could compromise safety.
• Take the jack out of service and tag it if any defect is found until repaired and re-inspected per 1910.244(a)(2)(vii)-(viii).

The employer is responsible for ensuring jacks are properly lubricated and inspected per the intervals in the standard; while 1910.244 requires lubrication and inspection schedules, it does not prescribe a specific recordkeeping format. See 1910.244(a)(2)(v) and 1910.244(a)(2)(vi).

• Assign a competent person to perform and document inspections and maintenance according to service conditions.
• Although the standard doesn’t require a specific written log, maintaining inspection and maintenance records is a good practice to demonstrate compliance.

Yes. The standard requires the operating valve "must be held open manually," which means the operator must actively hold the valve open while abrasive blasting; the valve should automatically close when the operator releases it. See 1910.244(b).

• This design reduces the risk of uncontrolled blasting and improves emergency stop capability when the operator releases the control.
• Ensure operators are trained to maintain proper body position and control while holding the nozzle and to use the support when the nozzle is not in use.

You may only use replacement parts after they have been examined for defects and are suitable; the standard requires examining repair or replacement parts for possible defects (1910.244(a)(2)(vii)) and tagging out jacks that are out of order until repaired (1910.244(a)(2)(viii)).

• If a non-original part is substituted, ensure it meets the jack manufacturer’s specifications and is free from defects before use.
• If you are unsure about suitability, keep the jack out of service, tag it, and obtain the correct part or manufacturer approval.

No. A jack is intended to lift and sustain loads; once a load is raised it must be cribbed, blocked, or otherwise secured immediately before anyone works under or around it, as required by 1910.244(a)(2)(iii) and the jack must be rated for the load per 1910.244(a)(1)(i).

• Never rely on a jack alone to support a load while people are under it; use proper cribbing or supports first.
• Use devices specifically designed and rated for positioning people when that is required; jacks are not a substitute.