Industry - Standards
In 1991 the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) realized that the window cleaning industry needed regulations regarding the use of Rope Descending Systems. While the 8 steps outlined in the subsequent regulation were helpful in creating safety standards, the window cleaning trade realized the need to develop more detailed standards that covered proper rigging of safety lines and other components on commercial roofs.
The window cleaning industry teamed with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop and publish in 2001 the ANSI I-14.1 safety standard. The I-14.1 applies to devices on a roof that must be used to support personnel and equipment as they suspend over the side of your building for either window washing or building maintenance as well as for personnel working within six feet of the edge of a roof. All workers working "at height" must have fall protection in addition to any suspension system used. "At height" is three stories or higher. ANSI/IWCA I-14.1 implies that both building owner and contractor are responsible for safety. However, the building owner's responsibility is to provide a safe workplace for employees and for contracted services.
OSHA mandates roof safety anchors are required where suspended work occurs. The requirement is one line for the decent device and a separate line for safety decent. OSHA is currently referencing the I-14.1 standard and is considering adopting I-14 language as their standard.