1910.266(f)(1): Logging Machines Kept Serviceable and Inspected
Logging employers must make sure each machine, including one provided by a worker, is kept in serviceable condition and inspected before first use each workshift. Defects must be fixed or the machine replaced before work starts, and operating and maintenance instructions must be on the machine or in the work area and followed.
Key takeaways
- 1910.266(f)(1) is part of OSHA's general industry standards (29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart R).
- OSHA cited it 10 times in the last 3 years, in 9 inspections, with $21,415 in current penalties.
- Most citations: NC (5), HI (1), ID (1).
- Related part: 1910.266(f) Machines (18 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
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In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1910.266(f)(1) ("General requirements") is one requirement inside 1910.266 Logging operations, an OSHA general industry standard (Part 1910, Subpart R). It includes 3 sub-paragraphs. The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(1) General requirements. 10 citations
(i) The employer shall assure that each machine, including any machine provided by an employee, is maintained in serviceable condition. 2 citations
(ii) The employer shall assure that each machine, including any machine provided by an employee, is inspected before initial use during each workshift. Defects or damage shall be repaired or the unserviceable machine shall be replaced before work is commenced. 5 citations
(iii) The employer shall assure that operating and maintenance instructions are available on the machine or in the area where the machine is being operated. Each machine operator and maintenance employee shall comply with the operating and maintenance instructions. 3 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1910.266.
Export the list: 9 inspections cited 1910.266(f)(1) in the last 3 years, with employer, location, penalty and date.
Purple Belt, $59/moWhere and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 1 |
| 2024 | 1 |
| 2025 | 6 |
| 2026 | 2 |
Top states: NC (5), HI (1), ID (1), WV (1), NY (1)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| PINE CREEK LOGGING, LLC | HARVARD, ID | $9,034 |
| TRINITY TIMBER, INC. | HOOPA, CA | $3,500 |
| 159595 - STEVEN COLE | EDEN, NC | $3,000 |
| HAWAII HARDWOOD SERVICES LLC | PAHOA, HI | $2,679 |
| RICHARD DUTCHER | MIDDLETOWN, NY | $1,702 |
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A 5-minute crew talk on 1910.266(f)(1), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1910.266(f)(1).
Related parts of this rule
- 1910.266(f) Machines 18 citations
- 1910.266(f)(2) Machine operation 7 citations
- 1910.266(f)(3) Protective structures 1 citations
- 1910.266(f)(2)(viii) 1 citations
- 1910.266(f)(3)(xiv)
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Frequently asked questions
How often must logging machines be inspected?
Before initial use during each workshift.
Does this apply to machines I bring myself?
Yes. It applies to any machine, including one provided by an employee.
Where do the operating instructions need to be?
On the machine or in the area where it is operated, and operators and maintenance workers must follow them.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.266 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-11-06
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.