1926.305(c): Blocking Under Jacks
When a firm foundation is needed, the base of a jack must be blocked or cribbed. Where the metal cap of the jack could slip, a wood block must be placed between the cap and the load.
Key takeaways
- 1926.305(c) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart I).
- OSHA cited it 2 times in the last 3 years, in 2 inspections, with $10,012 in current penalties.
- 1 death is linked to inspections that cited this rule.
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.305(c) ("Blocking") is one requirement inside 1926.305 Jacks—lever and ratchet, screw, and hydraulic, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart I). 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
(c) Blocking. When it is necessary to provide a firm foundation, the base of the jack shall be blocked or cribbed. Where there is a possibility of slippage of the metal cap of the jack, a wood block shall be placed between the cap and the load. 2 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.305.
Injuries linked to this rule
1 death is linked to inspections where OSHA cited 1926.305(c).
On January 8, 2024, a three man teardown crew was in the process of preparing a mobile home for transport by semi-truck to another mobile home park. At approximately 10:00 a.m., the crew was preparing to lift the mobile home from its foundation, which consisted…
Where and how often it was cited
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OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1926.305(c).
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Frequently asked questions
When must a jack base be blocked or cribbed?
When it is necessary to provide a firm foundation.
What prevents the jack cap from slipping?
A wood block placed between the cap and the load.
Is this required every time?
The wood block is required where there is a possibility of slippage of the metal cap.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.305 (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 2026-10-19
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.