OSHA Revokes Open Fires Standard for Marine Terminals

OSHA Revokes Open Fires Standard

OSHA has revoked its standard on open fires in marine terminals. A final rule published April 28 states that when the Marine Terminals Standards were first issued in 1983, affected employees made open fires in drums or similar containers to stay warm when exposed to the elements. According to Safety+Health Magazine, the agency determined this practice is no longer typical.

Reasons Cited by OSHA

The final rule notes that workers in marine terminals are not exposed to the elements in the same manner as in the past. The agency states that employees now have access to innovations such as heated jackets that were not available more than 40 years ago. OSHA also concluded that open fires are not likely to become prevalent again without the prohibition in place.

Citation History and Effective Date

OSHA reported no records of citations for violations of the standard. Its accessible records extend back to 2012, and the agency received no public comment or evidence of earlier citations. The final rule went into effect immediately upon publication.

Additional Revocation on House Falls

On April 17, OSHA revoked its standard on house falls in marine terminals. The agency cited changes in how the industry moves cargo as the basis for this action. According to Safety+Health Magazine, both revocations address standards that no longer reflect current operations.