1910.179(l)(3)(i): Fix Overhead Crane Problems Before Use
Any unsafe conditions found by the inspections required in paragraph (j) must be corrected before operation of the overhead crane resumes. Adjustments and repairs must be done only by designated personnel.
Key takeaways
- 1910.179(l)(3)(i) is part of OSHA's general industry standards (29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart N).
- OSHA cited it 36 times in the last 3 years, in 36 inspections, with $293,890 in current penalties.
- Most citations: VA (8), OH (5), WI (4).
- Related part: 1910.179(l) Maintenance (107 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1910.179(l)(3)(i) is one requirement inside 1910.179 Overhead and gantry cranes, an OSHA general industry standard (Part 1910, Subpart N). 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
(i) Any unsafe conditions disclosed by the inspection requirements of paragraph (j) of this section shall be corrected before operation of the crane is resumed. Adjustments and repairs shall be done only by designated personnel. 36 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1910.179.
Where and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 3 |
| 2024 | 17 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 3 |
Top states: VA (8), OH (5), WI (4), PA (4), TN (3)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| SMITH-MIDLAND CORPORATION | MIDLAND, VA | $79,375 |
| VTCU, CORP. | POCATELLO, ID | $16,550 |
| W&W-AFCO STEEL, LLC | LITTLE ROCK, AR | $16,131 |
| GREEN-MEADOWS PAPER COMPANY | MASSILLON, OH | $16,131 |
| AMSTED RAIL | KEOKUK, IA | $15,625 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1910.179(l)(3)(i), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1910.179(l)(3)(i).
Related parts of this rule
- 1910.179(l) Maintenance 107 citations
- 1910.179(l)(3) Adjustments and repairs 98 citations
- 1910.179(l)(3)(iii) 55 citations
- 1910.179(l)(1) Preventive maintenance 6 citations
Get your crew competent
Trainers on Black Belt Safety: Marc Harvey, Dana Reyes
Trainers and suppliers: feature your business on this rule for $25/month.
Frequently asked questions
Can a crane be used with an unsafe condition found in inspection?
No. Unsafe conditions disclosed by paragraph (j) inspections must be corrected before operation resumes.
Who can make crane adjustments and repairs?
Only designated personnel.
Which inspections does this refer to?
The inspection requirements of 1910.179(j).
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.179 (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 2026-10-21
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.