Interpretation ID: nht87-2.45

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 07/09/87

FROM: LEO CAREY, DIRECTOR, OSHA DIRECTORATE OF FIELD OPERATIONS

TO: BETH WHITMAN -- KEN-TOOL

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED 02/11/88 FROM ERIKA Z JONES TO BETH WHITMAN; REDBOOK A31, STANDARD 110, 120; SA 19AR; STEELHAMMERS 2J; SA 29AR STEELHAMMERS 2J; LETTER DATED 01/21/87 FROM SL LEPOSKY TO DISTRIBUTORS; UNDATED LETTER FROM SL LEPOSKY TO AL L DISTRIBUTORS AND SALESMEN RE NON USE OF DUCK BILLED STEEL TIRE HAMMERS

TEXT: Dear Ms. Whitman:

This is in response to your letter of May 28, 1987, concerning the use of "steel duck billed hammers" for farm and truck tire repair and service, and confirms the telephone discussion with Mr. Bode of our staff.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does not prohibit the proper use of a steel duck billed hammer for servicing wheels used on large vehicles such as trucks, tractors, trailers, buses and off-road machines.

Under the OSHA regulations at 29 CFR 1910.177(d)(6), employers are required to furnish and assure that only tools recommended in the rim manual for the type of wheel being serviced are used to service rim wheels. Further, under 29 CFR 1910.177(f)(8), th e regulations specify that: No attempt shall be made to correct the seating of side and lock rings by hammering, striking or forcing the components while the tire is pressurized.

If we may be of further assistance, please contact us.