OSHA Hazard Information Bulletins
October 16, 1989
| MEMORANDUM FOR: |
REGIONAL ADMINISTRATORS |
| THROUGH: |
LEO CAREY
Director
Office of Field Programs |
| FROM: |
EDWARD BAIER
Director
Directorate of Technical Support |
| SUBJECT: |
Safety Hazard Information Bulletin on Superman and
Xtraman portable Hoists |
The Atlanta Regional Office has brought to our attention potential hazards
involved with the use of a portable hoist marketed variously as the "Xtraman"
or "Superman" device. The hoist has an adjustable fulcrum and relies on the
operator himself as the counterweight. (See attached "Superman" brochure).
A fatality occurred with the use of an "Xtraman" unit when it tipped upward
at the edge of a roof and made contact with a power line.
No OSHA or consensus standards apply specifically to a device of this type.
Even though the manufacturer advises caution in determining boom length for
given operator and load masses, it is evident that a change in either without
proper adjustment of the boom length could be catastrophic. Since the hoist
must be assembled for each task, there is a higher than usual risk of human
error. Potential unsafe conditions include improper positioning of the
fulcrum, failure to assure that all components are properly locked in place,
and failure to block or lock the wheels to prevent movement. Moreover, using
the device on an inclined surface requires additional precautions to assure
worker safety.
Please distribute this bulletin to all Area Offices, State Plan States and
Consultation Projects.
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