What must be done before persons are allowed to work underneath or between suspended construction or demolition equipment?

Before any persons are allowed to work underneath or between suspended construction or demolition equipment, it is critical that the equipment must be blocked or cribbed in place. This precautionary measure is vital for ensuring safety while working in potentially hazardous environments where heavy machinery is involved. By blocking or cribbing the equipment, it is secured and cannot move or fall, thus drastically reducing the risk of injury to workers who may be underneath or in close proximity.

Blocking or cribbing provides stability to the equipment and safeguards against unintended movement caused by shifting loads or equipment failure. This is especially important in construction and demolition sites, where such risks are prevalent due to the nature of the work and the heavy loads being handled.

In contrast, marking equipment, checking for loose parts, or assuming no precautions are necessary do not adequately address the inherent dangers posed by suspended equipment. Proper blocking or cribbing is the only strategy that ensures a safe working environment for personnel underneath suspended loads.