Hoisting Personnel
OSHA 1926.1431 — Complete Breakdown for NCCCO Certification
Why 1926.1431 Is Different
OSHA 1926.1431 governs the use of cranes and derricks to hoist employees in a personnel platform (commonly called a man basket or work platform). This standard exists because lifting people with a crane is considered an operation of last resort — it is only permitted when no other safe means of access (ladder, scaffold, aerial lift, stairway, etc.) is feasible.
The requirements of 1926.1431 are among the most detailed and strictly enforced in all of Subpart CC. NCCCO exams test this section heavily because it involves direct life-safety consequences. The trial lift, proof test, platform construction, and fall protection requirements are common exam topics.
⚠ CRITICAL EXAM NOTE
Personnel hoisting is only permitted when no other safe means of access exists. Using a crane to hoist personnel when a ladder or aerial lift is available is an OSHA violation. This "last resort" requirement is tested directly on the NCCCO exam.
OSHA 1926.1431 — Section-by-Section Breakdown
Top 10 Requirements to Know for the Exam
No Safe Alternative
Hoisting personnel with a crane is ONLY permitted when no other safe means of access exists — ladder, scaffold, aerial lift, etc. The employer must document why alternatives are infeasible.
Trial Lift Required
A trial lift loaded to at least the intended personnel load must be performed before EVERY personnel hoist at each new crane location.
5-Minute Proof Hold
The loaded platform must be raised at least 1 foot and held for a minimum of 5 minutes to verify stability before any person enters.
Personal Fall Protection
All occupants must wear PFAS/PFRS anchored to the platform structure — NEVER to the crane hook, ball, or load line.
Operator at Controls Always
The crane operator must remain at the controls at all times while personnel are in the platform. No exceptions.
Two-Way Communication
Continuous two-way communication between the operator and personnel in the platform must be maintained throughout the entire operation.
Anti-Two-Block Required
The crane must have a functioning anti-two-block device. If it was originally equipped with one and it's broken, the lift cannot proceed.
Tag Lines Required
Tag lines must be used to control the platform unless the use of tag lines creates a greater hazard.
Stop Signal = Stop
The operator must immediately stop all crane motion upon receiving any stop signal from any person, regardless of source.
Pre-Lift Meeting
A pre-lift meeting including all involved parties (operator, signal person, hoisted employees) must be held before work begins.
Trial Lift & Proof Test — Quick Reference
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Minimum lift height | 1 foot off the ground |
| Hold duration | 5 minutes minimum |
| Load required | At least the intended personnel and equipment load |
| When required | Before EVERY personnel lift at each new crane location and after configuration changes |
| Who inspects after | A qualified person |
| Certification required | Qualified person must certify IN WRITING |
⚡ EXAM TIP: "5 minutes" and "1 foot" are frequently tested — know both numbers cold
Test Your Knowledge
25 questions covering the full scope of OSHA 1926.1431 — platform requirements, trial lifts, fall protection, prohibited actions, pre-lift meetings, and emergency procedures. Detailed explanations for every answer.