Text For Citation: 02 Item/Group: 001 Hazard:

29 CFR 1910.27(b)(2)(iv): The employer does not ensure that the rope descent system is inspected at the start of each work shift that it is to be used. The employer does not ensure that damaged or defective equipment is removed from service immediately and replaced. The employer routinely fails to ensure that excessively worn or defective rope descent system components are removed from service, as required by the standard. This violation was observed on October 23, 2023, when employees were instructed to perform RDS window cleaning operations at 100 Summer Street, Boston, MA. 02110. To abate this violation, the employer must ensure that affected employees inspect, and only use rope descent system equipment that is in good condition and ensure employees remove any defective equipment immediately from service. Pursuant to 29 CFR 1903.19, the employer must submit documents describing the steps it is taking to ensure compliance; including an explanation of how these steps protect employees from equipment failure that would result in a fall.