Michigan Administrative Code
Department - Labor and Economic Opportunity
MIOSHA
General Industry and Construction Safety and Occupational Health Standards
Construction Safety and Health Standard
Part 8 - HANDLING AND STORAGE OF MATERIALS
Section R. 408.40818 - General provisions; storage

(1) All material shall be stacked, racked, blocked, interlocked, or otherwise secured to prevent sliding, falling, or collapse during storage or transit.

(2) Structural steel, poles, pipe, bar stock, and other cylindrical materials, unless racked, shall be stacked and blocked so as to prevent spreading or tilting.

(3) The maximum safe load limit in pounds per square foot of a floor or roof of a building shall be conspicuously posted in all storage areas, except when a storage area is on a floor or slab on grade. The maximum safe load limit shall not be exceeded. Posting is not required for storage areas in all single-family residential structures and woodframed multi-family residential structures.

(4) Storage areas, aisles, and passageways shall be kept free of the accumulation of materials that constitutes a hazard to the movement of material-handling equipment and employees. Such areas shall be kept in good repair.

(5) If a difference in road or work levels exists, ramps, grading, or blocking shall be provided to ensure the safe movement of material-handling equipment.

(6) A railcar, truck, or semitrailer shall be chocked or otherwise secured during loading and unloading if the movement of a railcar, truck, or trailer could create a hazard for the employee.

(7) While roofing work is being performed, materials and equipment shall not be stored within 6 feet (1.8 m) of a roof edge, unless guardrails are erected at the roof edge.

(8) Material stored inside buildings under construction shall not be placed within 6 feet of any hoistway or inside floor openings, nor within 10 feet of an exterior wall that does not extend above the top of the material stored.

(9) Noncompatible materials shall be segregated in storage.

(10) Storage areas shall be kept free from accumulation of materials that constitute hazards from tripping, fire, explosion, or pest harborage. Vegetation control shall be exercised when necessary.

(11) Materials shall not be stored on scaffolds or runways in excess of supplies needed for immediate operations.

(12) Portable and powered dockboards shall be strong enough to carry the load imposed on them.

(13) Portable dockboards shall be secured in position by being anchored and equipped with devices that will prevent slipping.

(14) Handholds, or other effective means, shall be provided on portable dockboards to permit safe handling.

(15) Positive protection shall be provided to prevent railroad cars from being moved while dockboards or bridge plates are in position.