By Ken Klein, Executive Vice President, Outdoor Advertising Association of America
A new federal rule affecting billboard climbers took effect January 17, 2017.
As an immediate step on behalf of the billboard industry, OAAA asked the US Department of Labor to clarify key parts of the complex new rule. On January 19, OAAA sent a request for “formal interpretation” of key points (click here for the OAAA letter). Billboard managers responsible for operations and safety told OAAA they want clarification on:
- What qualifies as a “personal fall-arrest system” for billboard climbers
- Requirements for climbing fixed ladders over 24-feet
- Where does the 24-foot measurement begin for fixed ladders on upper structures near a billboard face
- A definition of “medical fitness”
Click here for OAAA’s Q&A on the new rule.
Obtaining clarification of federal rules can take months or more than a year. Therefore, OAAA is pushing for a prompt reply from the Department of Labor’s Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA).
On January 16, Bill Whitehart of Whitehead Outdoor Advertising based in Winton-Salem, NC, wrote to his representative in Congress: “I respectfully ask that you help our industry get answers from the Department of Labor on a timely basis.” (click here for Whiteheart letter)
OAAA Chairman Bill Reagan Sr. (Reagan Outdoor Advertising) and OAAA staff met with Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) on January 19 to relay concerns about the new OSHA rule. Foxx is chairwoman of the House committee that deals with labor issues.
Paid Ad
