Michigan Administrative Code
Department - Labor and Economic Opportunity
MIOSHA
General Industry and Construction Safety and Occupational Health Standards
General Industry Safety Standards
Part 57 - OIL AND GAS DRILLING AND SERVICING OPERATIONS
WIRELINE SERVICE
Section R. 408.15753 - Gin poles and rope falls

(1) A gin pole shall be properly attached to the wellhead or Christmas tree with a chain and ratchet load binder in a manner that prevents movement when the load is being handled. A chain and ratchet binder used to attach the gin pole to the wellhead or Christmas tree shall be of a proper size and strength to support the anticipated load to be handled.

(2) When the gin pole and rope falls are being used to lift the lubricator or any other heavy object, the load shall be pulled from as near a vertical position as practicable.

(3) A splice shall not be permitted in the entire length of rope of a rope fall, except where the dead end is tied off.

(4) The rope shall be inspected at the beginning of each job to assure that it has not been partially cut, frayed, or exposed to chemicals that may weaken it. A rope that has been weakened by being cut or frayed or that has been in contact with damaging chemicals shall be immediately replaced.

(5) The blocks of a rope fall shall be inspected at the beginning of each job for shaft wear, the condition of bearings, or damaged or severely worn sheaves that may cause rope damage. A block that shows excess wear or damage shall be immediately replaced.

(6) A wire sling or equivalent that has been inspected for defects before installation shall be used for the purpose of securing the lower wire line sheave. The sheave shall be attached to a primary rig beam, blowout preventer, or permanent stable fixture.

(7) A pin used in the makeup of a sheave wheel shall be secured with a cotter pin or safety-type pin.