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Ordinance on Industrial Safety and Health
Ministry of Labour Ordinance No. 32 of September 30, 1972

Latest Amendments:
Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Ordinance No. 47 of March 30, 2007
In Japanese

Update : 2008.03.28

Part II Safety Standards

Chapter II Construction Machine, etc

Section 1 Vehicle Type Construction Machine
Subsection 1 Structure

Article 152 (Providing of Front Lamp)
  • (1) The employer shall provide a vehicle type construction machine with a front lamp. However, this shall not apply to a vehicle type construction machine used at a place maintaining necessary illumination for carrying out the work safely.
Article 153 (Head Guard)
  • (1) The employer shall, when using a vehicle type construction machine (limited to a bulldozer, a tractor shovel, a muck loader, a power shovel, a drag shovel and a breaker) in a place where it is liable to cause dangers to workers due to falling of rocks, etc., provide the said vehicle type construction machine with a sound head guards.

Section 1 Vehicle Type Construction Machine
Subsection 2 Prevention of Dangers Pertaining to the Use of a Vehicle Type Construction Machine

Article 154 (Investigation and Record)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle type construction machine, investigate in advance the landform and condition of the nature of the soil, etc., of the place pertaining to the said work in order to prevent workers from dangers due to falling of the said machine, collapse of natural ground, etc., and record the result of the investigation.
Article 155 (Work Plan)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle type construction machine, establish in advance a work plan in conformity with what is known by the investigation pursuant to the provision of preceding Article, and carry out the work by the said work plan.
  • (2) The work plan set forth in the preceding paragraph shall be the one describing the following matters:
    • (i) The type and capability of the vehicle type construction machine to be used.
    • (ii) The travelling route of the vehicle type construction machine.
    • (iii) The work method by the vehicle type construction machine.
  • (3) The employer shall, when having established the work plan set forth in paragraph (1), make the matters set forth in item (ii) and (iii) of the preceding paragraph known to the workers concerned.
Article 156 (Speed Limit)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle type construction machine (excluding the one having maximum speed of10 km/h or less), in advance, set the appropriate speed limit for the vehicle type construction machine corresponding to the landform and conditions of nature of the soil, etc., of the place pertaining to the said work and carry out the work by the set speed limit.
  • (2) The operator of the vehicle type construction machine set forth in the preceding paragraph shall not operate the vehicle type construction machine at speeds exceeding the speed limit set forth in the same paragraph.
Article 157 (Prevention of Falling, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle type construction machine, take necessary measures for the travelling route of the said machine etc., such as preventing collapse of shoulder and uneven settling of the ground, and maintaining the necessary width in order to prevent workers from dangers due to overturning or falling of the said machine.
  • (2) The employer shall, in the case where the work using a vehicle type construction machine is carried out at road shoulder, inclined place, etc., and when it is liable to cause dangers to workers due to overturning or falling of the said machine, arrange a guide, and have the said person guide the said machine, etc.
  • (3) The operator of a vehicle type construction machine set forth in the preceding paragraph shall follow the instructions given by the guide set forth in the same paragraph.
Article 158 (Prevention of Workers Being Hit)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle type construction machine, not allow a worker to enter a place, which is liable to cause dangers to workers due to being hit by the vehicle type construction machine during operation. However, this shall not apply to when arranging a guide and having the said person guide the said machine, etc.
  • (2) The operator of the vehicle type construction machine set forth in the preceding paragraph shall follow the instruction given by guide set forth in the proviso of the same paragraph.
Article 159 (Signals)
  • (1) The employer shall, when placing a guide for operation of a vehicle type construction machine, set fixed signals and have the said guide give the signals.
  • (2) The operator of the vehicle type construction machine set forth in the preceding paragraph shall follow the signals set forth in the same paragraph.
Article 160 (Measures to Be Taken in the Case of Leaving the Operating Station )
  • (1) The employer shall, when the operator of a vehicle type construction machine leaves the operating station, have the said operator take the following measures:
    • (i) To lower a working device of a bucket, ripper, etc., on the ground.
    • (ii) To stop a prime mover and take measures such as setting the brake in order to prevent a vehicle type construction machine from breaking into a run.
  • (2) The operator set forth in the preceding paragraph shall take measures listed in each item of the same paragraph when leaving the operating station of the vehicle type construction machine.
Article 161 (Transfer of Vehicle Type Construction Machine)
  • (1) The employer shall, when using a loading plate, fills, etc., in the case where a vehicle type construction machine is loaded to a truck, etc., or unloaded from a truck, etc., by self-propelling or towing for transferring the said machine, comply with the following provisions in order to prevent dangers due to overturning, falling, etc. of the said machine:
    • (i) To load or unload at a level and firm place.
    • (ii) When using a loading plate, to use the one with a sufficient length, width and strength, and fix it securely with appropriate incline.
    • (iii) When using fills or a temporary stand, etc., to secure a sufficient width, strength and appropriate incline.
Article 162 (Restriction of Riding)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle type construction machine, not allow a worker to ride on places other than the seat.
Article 163 (Restriction of Use)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle type construction machine, abide stability, the maximum working load, etc., decided on the basis of its structure in order to prevent workers from dangers due to overturning, destruction of working device of an arm or a boom, etc.
Article 164 (Restriction on the Use for Other than Main Purpose)
  • (1) The employer shall not use a vehicle type construction machine for other than its main purpose of lifting a load by a power shovel, raising or lowering a worker by a clamshell, etc.
  • (2) The provisions of the preceding paragraph shall not apply to the following cases:
    • (i) The case falling under all of followings, in the case where the load lifting work is carried out:
      • (a) When it is unavoidable due to the nature of the work or necessary for the safe implementation of the work.
      • (b) When metal parts of a hook and a shackle or any other hoisting parts falling under all of following conditions are fitted to work device such as an arm and a bucket:
        • i.) To have sufficient strength corresponding to the load to be burdened.
        • ii.) To be unlikely to cause danger of the load falling from the said parts due to the use of a latch, etc.
        • iii.) To being unlikely to cause coming off from the work device.
    • (ii) In the case where works other than lifting a load is carried out, and when it is unlikely to cause dangers to the workers.
  • (3) The employer shall, when carrying out the load lifting work falling under (a) and (b) of item (i) of the preceding paragraph, take the following measures to prevent workers from dangers due to hit by the lifted load, falling of the lifted load and overturning or falling of the vehicle type construction machine:
    • (i) To set fixed signals for load lifting work, designate a person who gives the signals and have the said person give the signals.
    • (ii) To carry out the work on a level place.
    • (iii) Not to allow workers to enter the place where it is liable to cause dangers to workers due to hit by load or falling of the load.
    • (iv) Not to apply the load exceeds the maximum load established corresponding to the structure and material of the said vehicle type construction machine.
    • (v) To use a wire rope falling under all of following conditions in the case where the wire rope is used as the slinging equipment:
      • (a) Those with a safety coefficient (meaning a safety coefficient prescribed by paragraph (2) of Article 213 of the Crane Ordinance) of 6 or more.
      • (b) Those with less than 10% of the element wires (excluding filler wires) of which are cut in one strand.
      • (c) Those with the reduction ratio of a diameter7 %or less of the normal diameter.
      • (d) Those without kink.
      • (e) Those without marked deformation or corrosion.
    • (vi) To use a suspension chain falling under all of followings in the case where the suspension chain is used as a suspension device:
      • (a) Those with a safety coefficient (meaning a safety coefficient prescribed by paragraph (2) of Article 213-2 of the Crane Ordinance) equal to or above the number listed in i.) or ii.) below corresponding to the category of chain listed in i.) or ii.) below:
        • i.) Chain falling under all of following conditions: 4
          • a) Those with an extension 0.5 % or less when loaded with one half of the breaking load.
          • b) Those with tensile strength of 400 N/mm2 or more with extension listed in the right column of the following table or more corresponding to the tensile strength listed in the left column.
            Tensile strength (unit: N/mm2) Extension (unit: %)
            400 or more and less than 630 20
            630 or more and less than 1000 17
            More than 1000 15
        • ii.) Those not falling under i.): 5
      • (b) Those with extension of 5 % or more of the length of the said chain when it was manufactured.
      • (c) Those with a reduction in section diameter of the links of 10 % or less of the section diameter of said links at the time of manufacture of the said chain.
      • (d) Those without crack.
    • (vii) In the case where something other than a wire rope or a lifting chain is used as the slinging equipment, to use the one without extreme damage or corrosion.
Article 165 (Repair, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work repairing a vehicle type construction machine, or fitting or removing its attachments, designate a person to direct the said work and have the said person take the following measures:
    • (i) To decide a work procedure, and direct the work.
    • (ii) To monitor the use of a safety prop, a safety block, etc., prescribed by paragraph (1) of the next Article.
Article 166 (Prevention of Dangers Due to Lowering of a Boom, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work repairing, checking, etc., under the raised boom or arm, etc., of a vehicle type construction machine, have the worker engaging in the said work use a safety prop, a safety block, etc., in order to prevent workers from dangers due to unexpected descending of the boom or the arm, etc.
  • (2) The worker engaging in the work set forth in the preceding paragraph shall use a safety prop, a safety block, etc., set forth in the same paragraph.

Section 1 Vehicle Type Construction Machine
Subsection 3 Periodical Self-inspections, etc.

Article 167 (Periodical Self-inspections)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a vehicle type construction machine, carry out self-inspections for the following matters periodically once every period within a year. However, this shall not apply to the non-use period of a vehicle type construction machine, which is not used for a period exceeding one year:
    • (i) Abnormalities in compression pressure, valve clearance and other parts of a prime mover.
    • (ii) Abnormalities in a clutch, a transmission, a propeller shaft, a differential and other power transmission devices.
    • (iii) Abnormalities in a drive wheel, an idling wheel, a vertical trunk roller, a belt, a tire, a wheel bearing and other traveling devices.
    • (iv) Abnormalities in rotation angle of left and right steering wheels, a knuckle, a rod, an arm and other controlling devices.
    • (v) Abnormalities in braking capability, a brake drum, a brake shoe and other brakes.
    • (vi) Abnormalities in a blade, a boom, link-mechanism, a bucket, a wire rope and other working devices.
    • (vii) Abnormalities in a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic motor, a cylinder, a safety valve and other parts of a hydraulic system.
    • (viii) Abnormalities in voltage, amperage and other parts of electrical system.
    • (ix) Abnormalities in a body, an operating device, a head guard, a back stopper, a raising and lowering device, a locking device, a warning device, a direction indicator, a lightning device and a meter.
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards the vehicle type construction machine set forth in the proviso of the preceding paragraph, carry out self-inspection for the matters listed in each item of the same paragraph before resuming the operation.
Article 168
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a vehicle type construction machine, carry out self-inspections for the following matters periodically once every period within a month. However, this shall not apply to the non-use period of a vehicle type construction machine, which is not used for a period exceeding one month:
    • (i) Abnormalities in a brake, a clutch, a controlling device and working devices.
    • (ii) Damage in a wire rope and a chain.
    • (iii) Damage in a bucket, a zipper, etc.
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards the vehicle type construction machine set forth in the proviso of the preceding paragraph, carry out self-inspection for the matters listed in each item of the same paragraph before resuming the operation.
Article 169 (Record of Periodical Self-inspections)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having carried out the self-inspections set forth in the preceding two Articles, record the following matters and preserve the records for three years:
    • (i) The date of the inspection
    • (ii) The method of the inspection
    • (iii) The parts of a machine inspected
    • (iv) The results of the inspection
    • (v) The name of the person who has carried out the inspection
    • (vi) When measures such as repair have been taken based on the result of the inspection, their contents.
Article 169-2 (Specified Self-inspection)
  • (1) The specified self-inspection pertaining to the vehicle type construction machine shall be the self-inspection prescribed by Article 167.
  • (2) The provision of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the worker who is in possession of the qualifications prescribed by the Ordinance of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare set forth in paragraph (2) of Article 45 of the Act pertaining to machines listed in item (1), (2) or (6) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines. In this case, the term “forklift” in (a) to (c) of item (i) of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall be deemed to be replaced with “machines listed in item (1), (2) or (6) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines” and the term “forklifts” in (d) of the same item shall be deemed to be replaced with “machines listed in item (1), (2) or (6) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines.”
  • (3) The provision of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the worker who is in possession of the qualifications prescribed by the Ordinance of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare set forth in paragraph (2) of Article 45 of the Act pertaining to machines listed in item (3) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines. In this case, the term “forklift” in item (i) of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall be deemed to be replaced with “machines listed in item (3) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines.”
  • (4) The provision of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the worker who is in possession of the qualifications prescribed by the Ordinance of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare set forth in paragraph (2) of Article 45 of the Act pertaining to machines listed in item (4) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines. In this case, the term “forklift” in item (i) of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall be deemed to be replaced with “machines listed in item (4) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines.”
  • (5) The provision of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the worker who is in possession of the qualifications prescribed by the Ordinance of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare set forth in paragraph (2) of Article 45 of the Act pertaining to machines listed in item (5) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines. In this case, the term “forklift” in item (i) of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall be deemed to be replaced with “machines listed in item (5) of Appended Table 7 of the Order among vehicle type construction machines.”
  • (6) The employer shall, as regards the vehicle type construction machine (limited to the one subject to paragraph (1) of Article 48 of the Road Transportation Vehicle Act) used for the travelling, in the case when having checked pursuant to the provisions of the same paragraph, not be required to carry out the self-inspection set forth in Article 167 for the parts where the said checkup has been carried out.
  • (7) As regards the application of the provision of the preceding Article in the case when having a registered inspection agency implement the specified self-inspection pertaining to a vehicle type construction machine, the term “the name of the person who has carried out the inspection” in item (v) of the same Article shall be deemed to be replaced with “the name of the registered inspection agency.”
  • (8) The employer shall, when having carried out the specified self-inspection pertaining to a vehicle type construction machine, affix an inspection sticker stating the month and year when the said specified self-inspection was carried out at a readily visible location of the said machine.
Article 170 (Checkup before Commencing the Work)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using vehicle type construction machine, check functions of a brake and a clutch before commencing the work for the day.
Article 171 (Repair, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having found any abnormalities in the case when having carried out the self-inspection set forth in Article 167 or 168, or the checkup set forth in the preceding Article, immediately repair or take other necessary measures.

Section 1 Vehicle Type Construction Machine
Subsection 4 Concrete Pump Vehicle

Article 171-2 (Prevention of Coming off or Sway of Transport Pipe, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a concrete pump vehicle, take the following measures:
    • (i) To take measures of securely attaching a transport pipe to a transport pipe or a hose using couplings, securing the transport pipe onto a sound building, etc., to prevent the coming off or sway of the said transport pipe or hose;
    • (ii) To provide devices of a telephone, an electric bell, etc., designate persons who use each said device and have the said persons use them, or set fixed signals, designate a person who gives the signals and have the said person give the signals, in order to ensure the communication between the person operating the work device and the person hold the terminal of the hoses;
    • (iii) Not to allow workers to enter the place where it is liable to cause dangers to workers due to blow out of concrete, etc.;
    • (iv) In the case that the transport pipe or hose is blocked, and when intending to cut off the coupling of the transport pipe or hose (hereinafter referred to as “transport pipe, etc.” in this Article and next Article), take in advance, measures for preventing concrete blow out, etc., such as lowering the internal pressure of the said transport pipe, etc., by opening the valve or cock of the air compressor valve;
    • (v) When cleaning inside of the transport pipe, etc., using a cleaning ball, to attach an instrument to the end of the said transport pipe, etc., in order to prevent workers from dangers due to the cleaning ball flying out.
Article 171-3 (Direction of Work)
  • (1) The employer shall, when assembling or dismantling a transport pipe, etc., establish the method and order, etc., of the work, make them known to the workers, designate a person who direct the work and have the workers carry out the work under direct supervision.

Section 1 Vehicle Type Construction Machine
Subsection 5 Breaker

Article 171-4 (Work of Demolition, etc., of a Structure)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work of dismantling or demolishing a structure using a breaker (excluding the work set forth in item (xv)-5 of Article 6 of the Order) or the work of breaking concrete or stone, take the following measures:
    • (i) To prohibit workers other than those concerned from entering the area where the work is carried out;
    • (ii) To suspend the work when dangers regarding the implementation of the said work are forecast due to poor weather conditions such as strong wind, heavy rain and heavy snow.

Section 2 Pile Driver, a Pile Drawer and a Boring Machine

Article 172 (Strength, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a pile driver and a pile drawer driven by power (excluding those capable of self-propelling to unspecified places) and a boring machine, not use bodies, accessory devices and fittings unless otherwise falling under the following requirements:
    • (i) To have necessary strength corresponding to the purpose of use.
    • (ii) To be free from extreme damage, wear, deformation or corrosion.
Article 173 (Prevention of Collapse)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a pile driver driven by power (hereinafter referred to as “pile driver”) or a pile drawer driven by power (hereinafter referred to as “pile drawer”) and a boring machine, take the following measures for preventing collapse:
    • (i) When installing the said machine on soft ground, to use boards, blocks, etc., for preventing settling of legs or a mounting.
    • (ii) When installing the said machine on facilities or a temporary stand, to confirm the durability, and when the durability is insufficient, to reinforce.
    • (iii) When legs or a mounting is liable to slide, to secure by using piles, wedges, etc.
    • (iv) For a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine designed to be moved on rollers or on rail tracks, to secure them with rail clamps, a stopper, etc., in order to prevent unexpected move.
    • (v) In the case that the top portion is to be stabilized with stays (including staying wires, hereinafter the same shall apply in this Section) only, to use three or more stays and each end of the stays is secured to a sound tie bar, iron frame, etc.
    • (vi) In the case that the top portion is to be stabilized with staying wires only, to stabilize the top portion in all directions by methods such as to arranging staying wires at an equal interval and increasing the number of staying wires.(vii) In the case that stabilizing the said machine by using balance weights, to fix them securely on a mounting in order to prevent the said balance weights from shifting.
Article 174 (Prohibition of the Use of an Inadequate Wire Rope)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a hoisting wire rope for a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, not use the ropes falling under any of the following each item:
    • (i) Those with joints.
    • (ii) Those with 10% or more of the element wires (excluding filler wires) of which are cut in one strand.
    • (iii) Those with the reduction ratio of a diameter exceeding 7% of the nominal diameter.
    • (iv) Those with kink.
    • (v) Those with marked deformation or corrosion.
Article 175 (Safety Coefficient of Hoisting Wire Ropes)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards hoisting wire ropes for a pile driver or a pill drawer, set the safety coefficient at six or more.
  • (2) The safety coefficient set forth in the preceding paragraph shall be the value obtained by dividing the breaking load of the wire rope with the maximum value of the load applied on to the said wire rope.
Article 176 (Hoisting Wire Rope)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards hoisting wire ropes to be used on a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, take the following measures:
    • (i) Hoisting wire ropes have a length sufficient to leave at least two windings on their drum at the time when the dropping weight or hammer is placed at the lowest position, at the position for starting the drawing of a sheet pile or the suspension tool, including the rod, is at its lowest position.
    • (ii) Hoisting wire ropes be fixed securely to the drum of the hoisting device with clamps, clips, etc.
    • (iii) A dropping weight or a hammer be connected to the hoisting wire rope of the pile driver and the hoisting wire rope of the boring machine shall be connected to a pulley device or a hoisting swivel, etc., securely with clamps, clips, etc.
Article 177 (Connection with Sheet Piles, Rods, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards hoisting wire ropes, pulley blocks, etc., of a pile driver or a boring machine connect with poles, sheet piles, rods, etc., by using such tools as shackles, checking fixtures, hoisting swivels, etc., having sufficient strength.
Article 178 (Providing a Brake, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards the winch of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, provide the machine with a ratchet or a brake equipped with a clamp. However, this shall not apply to the winch used for a boring machine with a braking device of band brake, etc.
Article 179 (Installation of a Winch)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a winch of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, install it in a manner that floating, shifting, sway, etc., may be prevented.
Article 180 (Position of Sheaves)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards the distance between the shaft of a drum barrel of a pile driver, pile drawer or boring machine and the shaft of the first sheave from the hoisting device, set such distance to a value equivalent to 15 times or more of the width of the drum of the hoisting device.
  • (2) The sheave set forth in the preceding paragraph shall be located on the plane passing through the center line of the drum of the hoisting device and being perpendicular to the shaft.
  • (3) The provisions of the preceding two paragraphs shall not apply to the case falling under the following each item:
    • (i) When it is unlikely to entanglement of the hoisting wire rope because of the structure of the pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine.
    • (ii) When carrying out the work using a boring machine in a conspicuously confined space such as a tunnel and workers are prohibited from entering the area whereit is liable to cause dangers due to cutting of the hoisting wire rope.
Article 181 (Fitting of Sheaves, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards sheaves or pulley blocks of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, fasten the said devices securely using fittings, shackles, wire ropes, etc., which are unlikely to be destroyed by the load applied to the fixed part.
Article 182
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards sheaves of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine in which a winch is not built in with the tower or the twin pillar, etc., arrange them in a manner that the horizontal component of force acting on the hoisting wire rope does not affect the tower or the twin-pole. However, in the case that such measures as providing a prop to the leg of the towered the twin pillar and supporting the leg by wire ropes, sheaves may be fixed on the said leg part.
Article 183 (Steam Hose, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when using a pile driver or a pile drawer driven with steam or compressed air, take the following measures:
    • (i) To connect a steam hose or an air hose with a hammer at a place other than the joint parts of the hose and the hammer for preventing the breakage or disconnection of these joints parts due to the motion of the hammer.
    • (ii) To install a device for cutting steam or air at the place where a hammer operator can handle easily.
Article 184 (Measures to Be Taken at the Time of Irregular Winding)
  • (1)The employer shall, when a wire rope is wound irregularly on the drum of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, not apply a load on the hoisting wire rope.
Article 185 (Measures to Be Taken When Stopping the Hoisting Device)
  • (1) The employer shall, when leaving a hoisting device of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine stopped while applying the load, securely stop it by applying latchets, brake with holdfast.
Article 186 (Prohibition of Leaving the Operating Station)
  • (1) The employer shall not allow the operator of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine to leave the operating station of the machine while applying the loads.
  • (2) The operator set forth in the preceding paragraph shall not leave the operating station of a pile driver or a pile drawer while applying the loads.
Article 187 (Prohibition of Entry)
  • (1) The employer shall not allow a worker to enter the inside of the bent part of a hoisting wire rope of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine during operation in order to prevent dangers of the spring motion of the wire rope or flying sheaves, pulley blocks, etc., due to the breakage of sheaves, pulley blocks or their fixing parts of the said machines.
Article 188 (Measures to Be Taken When Hoisting Sheet Piles and Rods, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when hoisting piles, sheet piles and rods, etc., with a pile driver or a boring machine, have the operator of the said machine hoist piles in such a manner that the hook part be located right under the sheave or the pulley block of the machine. The same shall apply to the case of hoisting a pile or sheet pile by providing a pile driver with such a hoisting device as a gin pole.
Article 189 (Signals)
  • (1) The employer shall set fixed signals for an operation of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, designate a person who gives the signals and have the said person give the signals when operating.
  • (2) An operator of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine shall follow the signals set forth in the preceding paragraph.
Article 190 (Direction of the Work)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carry out the work of erection, disassembling, altering or transfer of a pile driver, a pile drawer or a boring machine, determine a method, a procedure, etc., of work, and make them known to a worker, designate a person who direct the operation, and have the workers carry out the work under the direct supervision of the said person.
Aticle 191 (Transfer of a Pile Driver etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when transferring the leg part of a pile driver or a pile drawer supported with stayed wires, etc., with standing posture of twin pillar, mast, etc., by power-driven winch or other machines, carry out the operation while braking the movement of the machine securely with a winch, tension blocks, etc., from the opposite side in order to prevent collapse due to excessive drag applied to the leg part.
Article 192 (Checkup)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having erected a pile driver, pile drawer or boring machine, check the following matters, and not allow the use of the said machines unless having confirmed that there is no abnormality:
    • (i) Damage and slackness of joint parts of the machine.
    • (ii) Fixed condition of a hoisting wire rope, a sheave, and a pulley block.
    • (iii) Functions of the brake and latchetsof a hoisting device.
    • (iv) Installation condition of a winch.
    • (v) For a pile driver or a pile drawer of which the top is secured with stays: Fixing method and firmness of the stays.
Article 193 (Measures to Be Taken in the Case of Slackening the Staying Wires)
  • (1) The employer shall, when slackening the staying wires (including temporary staying wires, hereinafter the same shall apply in this Article) of a pile driver or a pile drawer, take appropriate measures such as using tension blocks or winches in order to prevent letting the load exceed the amount the workers engaged in the slackening operation are able to easily support.
Article 194 (Prevention of Collapse of Gas Conduits)
  • (1) The employer shall, in the case where work using a pile driver or boring machine is carried out, and when it is liable to cause dangers to workers due to damage of gas conduits, underground raceways and other underground structure (hereinafter referred to as “gas conduits, etc.” in this Article) , in advance, make investigation for work place by enquiring the existing of the gas conduits, etc., and confirming their conditions to the person administrating the said gas conduits, etc., and take measures in conformity with what are known by the investigation.
Article 194-2 (Measures to Be Taken when Attaching Rods, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when attaching or removing a rod or a bit, etc., of a boring machine, obstruct power driving the rod, etc., securely by fixing the clutch lever with a stopper.
  • (2) The employer shall, when removing a rod or attaching or removing a bit, etc., from a boring machine, store the rod securely in a rod holder, etc.
Article 194-3 (Fixing, etc. of a Hose for a Water Swivel)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a hose connected to the water swivel of a boring machine, take measures such as fixing said hose with a tower in order to prevent workers from danger due to the said hose being trapped into the rotating parts of the rod, etc.

Section 2-2 Jack-type Lifting Machine

Article 194-4 (Holding Mechanisms, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall not use jack-type lifting machine for construction work unless otherwise falling under the following requirements:
    • (i) To have necessary strength corresponding to the purpose of use.
    • (ii) For holding mechanisms, to have necessary capability to hold a wire rope, etc.
    • (iii) To have mechanism to prevent the simultaneous opening of all the holding mechanisms.
    • (iv) To be free from extreme damage, wear, deformation or corrosion.
Article 194-5 (Work Plan)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work lifting or lowering of a load using a jack-type lifting machine in the case where construction work is carried out, establish in advance a work plan and carry out the work by the said work plan.
  • (2) The work plan set forth in the preceding paragraph shall be the one describing the following matters:
    • (i) The method and procedure of the work.
    • (ii) The method for preventing the jack-type lifting machine to be used from the collapsing or overturning.
    • (iii) The method of installation of equipment for preventing the worker engaging in the work from danger due to falling.
    • (iv) The type and capability of the machine, etc., to be used.
  • (3) The employer shall, when having established the work plan set forth in paragraph (1), make the matters set forth in each item of the preceding paragraph known to the workers concerned.
Article 194-6 (Work with a Jack-type Lifting Machine)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work of a load lifting, lowering, etc., using a jack-type lifting machine in the case where the construction work is carried out, take the following measures:
    • (i) To prohibit workers other than those concerned from entering the area where the work is carried out;
    • (ii) To suspend the work when dangers regarding the implementation of the said work are forecast due to poor weather conditions such as strong wind, heavy rain or heavy snow;
    • (iii) When installing a jack-type lifting machine on equipment and temporary buildings etc., to fasten the said machine securely using bolts, etc.;
    • (iv) When installing a jack-type lifting machine on equipment and temporary buildings, etc., to confirm the strength of said equipment and temporary buildings, etc., to reinforce in the case that strength is insufficient.
Article 194-7 (Wearing of a Safety Helmet)
  • (1) The employer shall, when lifting and lowering of a load using a jack-type lifting machine in the case where the construction work is carried out, have the worker engaging in the said work wear a safety helmet in order to prevent workers from dangers due to flying or falling objects.
  • (2) The worker engaging in the work set forth in the preceding paragraph shall wear the safety helmet set forth in the same paragraph.

Section 2-3 Vehicle for Work at Height

Article 194-8 (Front and Rear Lamps)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a vehicle for work at height (excluding the one used for travelling; hereinafter the same shall apply in this Article) with front and rear lamps. However, this shall not apply to a vehicle for work at height used in the case where necessary illumination is maintained for travelling safely.
Article 194-9 (Work Plan)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle for work at height (excluding the work travelling on roads; hereinafter the same shall apply up to Article 194-11), establish in advance a work plan in conformity the condition of the place pertaining to the said work, the type and capability of the said vehicle, and carry out the work by the said work plan.
  • (2) The work plan set forth in the preceding paragraph shall be the one describing the work method by the said vehicle for work at height.
  • (3) The employer shall, when having established the work plan set forth in paragraph (1), make the matters described pursuant to the provision of the preceding paragraph known to the workers concerned.
Article 194-10 (Operation Leader)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle for work at height, designate a leader for the said work, and have the said leader direct the work based on the work plan set forth in paragraph (1) of the preceding Article.
Article 194-11 (Prevention of Falling, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle for work at height, take necessary measures of projecting an outrigger, preventing uneven settling of the ground and collapsing of a road shoulder in order to prevent workers from dangers due to overturning or falling of the said vehicle, etc.
Article 194-12 (Signals)
  • (1) The employer shall, in the case of carrying out the work using a vehicle for work at height is carried out, and when operating a working floor at a place other than the working floor, take necessary measures of setting fixed signals, designating a person who gives the signals and having the said person give the signals, etc., in order to ensure the communication between the worker on the working floor and the worker operating the working floor at a place other than the working floor.
Article 194-13 (Measures to Be Taken in the Case of Leaving the Operating Station)
  • (1) The employer shall, when the operator of a vehicle for work at height leaves the operating station (excluding the case where a worker carries out the work on the working floor or when work is to commence), have the said operator take the following measures:
    • (i) To put the working floor in the lowest position;
    • (ii) To stop a prime mover and take measures of setting the brake securely to keep the machine in stopped condition, etc., in order to prevent a vehicle for work at height from breaking into a run.
  • (2) The operator set forth in the preceding paragraph shall take measures listed in each item of the same paragraph when leaving the operating station, which is for travelling of the vehicle for work at height.
  • (3) The employer shall, when the operator of a vehicle for work at height leaves the operating station, which is for travelling, in the case where a worker carries out the work on the working floor or when work is to commence, have the said operator take measures such as setting the brake securely to keep the machine in stopped condition.
  • (4) The operator set forth in the preceding paragraph shall take measures listed in each item of the same paragraph when leaving the operating station, which is for travelling of the vehicle for work at height.
Article 194-14 (Transfer of Vehicle for Work at Height)
  • (1) The employer shall, when using a loading plate, fills, etc., in the case where a vehicle for work at height is loaded to a truck, etc., or unloaded from a truck, etc., by self-propelling or towing for transferring the said machine, in order to prevent dangers due to overturning, falling, etc., of the said vehicle, comply with the following provisions:
    • (i) To load or unload at a level and firm place;
    • (ii) When using a loading plate, to use the one with a sufficient length, width and strength, and fix it securely with appropriate incline;
    • (iii) When using fills or a temporary stand, etc., to secure a sufficient width, strength and appropriate incline.
Article 194-15 (Restriction of Riding)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle for work at height, not allow a worker to ride on places other than the seat and working floor.
Article 194-16 (Restriction of Use)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a vehicle for work at height, not use it at the condition exceeding the loading capacity, (meaning the maximum load capable of raising while getting personnel and/or loads onto a working floor, corresponding to its structure and materials of the vehicle for work at height) and other capabilities.
Article 194-17 (Restriction on the Use for Other than Main Purpose)
  • (1) The employer shall not use a vehicle for work at height for other than its main purpose of lifting a load, etc. However, this shall not apply to when it is unlikely to cause danger to workers.
Article 194-18 (Repair, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work repairing a vehicle for work at height, or fitting or removing the working floor, designate a person to direct the said work and have the said person carry out the following matters:
    • (i) To decide a work procedure, and supervise the work directly;
    • (ii) To monitor the use of a safety prop, a safety block, etc., prescribed by paragraph (1) of the next Article.
Article 194-19 (Prevention of Danger Due to Descent of Boom, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work repairing or checking, etc., under the raised boom of a vehicle for work at height, have the worker engaging in the said work use a safety prop and a safety block, etc., in order to prevent workers from dangers due to the unexpected descending of the boom, etc.
  • (2) The worker engaging in the work set forth in the preceding paragraph shall use a safety prop and a safety block, etc., set forth in the same paragraph.
Article 194-20 (Restriction, etc., of Riding on the Working floor)
  • (1) The employer shall, when travelling a vehicle for work at height (excluding the one constructed to operate travelling operation on the working floor, hereinafter the same shall apply in this Article), not allow a worker to ride on the working floor of the said vehicle for work at height. However, this shall not apply to the case of travelling the vehicle for work at height at a level and firm place, and when taking the following measures:
    • (i) To arrange a guide, and have the said person guide a vehicle for work at height;
    • (ii) To set fixed signals and have the guide set forth in the preceding item give the signals;
    • (iii) To set an appropriate working speed limit for the vehicle for work at height in advance corresponding to the height of the working floor and the length of the boom, etc. of the said vehicle for work at height, and have the operator operate the vehicle by them.
  • (2) A worker shall, excluding the case set forth in the preceding paragraph, not ride on the working floor of a vehicle for work at height during traveling.
  • (3) The operator of the vehicle for work at height set forth in the proviso of paragraph (1) shall follow the instruction given by the guide set forth in item (i) of the same paragraph and the signals set forth in item (ii) of the same paragraph and not operate the vehicle for work at height at speeds exceeding the speed limit set forth in item (iii) of the same paragraph.
Article 194-21
  • (1) The employer shall, when travelling a vehicle for work at height constructed to operate travelling operation on a working floor at places other than those level and firm, take the following measures:
    • (i) To take the measures listed in item (i) and (ii) of the paragraph (1) of the preceding Article.
    • (ii) To establish in advance, an appropriate working speed limit for the vehicle for work at height corresponding to the height of the working floor and the length of the boom of said vehicle for work at height, and the landform and condition of the ground pertaining to the said work, and have the operator operate the vehicle at the said speed limit.
  • (2) The provisions of paragraph (3) of the preceding Article shall apply mutatis mutandis to the operator of the vehicle for work at height set forth in the preceding paragraph. In this case, the term “item (iii) of the same Article” in paragraph (3) of the same Article shall be deemed to be replaced with “item (ii) of paragraph (1) of the next Article.”
Article 194-22 (Use of Safety Belt, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using a vehicle for work at height (excluding the one equipped with a working floor that raise and lower only perpendicular direction to the ground plane), have the workers on the working floor of said vehicle for work at height use safety belts, etc.
  • (2) The worker set forth in the preceding paragraph shall use a safety belt, etc.
Article 194-23 (Periodical Self-inspections)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a vehicle for work at height, carry out self-inspections for the following matters periodically once every period within a year. However, this shall not apply to the non-use period of a vehicle for work at height, which is not used for a period exceeding one year:
    • (i) Abnormalities in compression pressure, valve clearance and other parts of a prime mover.
    • (ii) Abnormalities in a clutch, a transmission, a propeller shaft, a differential and other power transmission devices.
    • (iii) Abnormalities in a drive wheel, an idling wheel, a vertical trunk roller, a belt, a tire, a wheel bearing and other traveling devices.
    • (iv) Abnormalities in rotation angle of left and right steering wheels, a knuckle, a rod, an arm and other controlling devices.
    • (v) Abnormalities in braking capability, a brake drum, a brake shoe and other braking devices.
    • (vi) Abnormalities in the boom, lifting and lowering device, bending device, balance device, working floor and other parts of the working devices.
    • (vii) Abnormalities in a hydraulic pump, a hydraulic motor, a cylinder, a safety valve and other parts of a hydraulic system.
    • (viii) Abnormalities in voltage, amperage and other parts of an electrical system.
    • (ix) Abnormalities in a body, an operating device, a safety device, a locking device, a warning device, a direction indicators, lightning device and a meter.
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards the vehicle for work at height set forth in the proviso of the preceding paragraph, carry out self-inspection for the matters listed in each item of the same paragraph before resuming the operation.
Article 194-24
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a vehicle for work at height, carry out self-inspections for the following matters periodically once every period within a month. However, this shall not apply to the non-use period of a vehicle for work at height, which is not used for a period exceeding one month:
    • (i) Abnormalities in a braking device, a clutch and a steering system.
    • (ii) Abnormalities in a working device and a hydraulic system.
    • (iii) Abnormalities in a safety device.
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards the vehicle for work at height set forth in the proviso of the preceding paragraph, carry out self-inspection for the matters listed in each item of the same paragraph before resuming the operation.
Article 194-25 (Record of Periodical Self-inspections)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having carried out the self-inspections set forth in the preceding two Articles, record the following matters and preserve the records for three years:
    • (i) The date of the inspection
    • (ii) The method of the inspection
    • (iii) The parts of a machine inspected
    • (iv) The results of the inspection
    • (v) The name of the person who carried out the inspection
    • (vi) When measures such as repair have been taken based on the result of the inspection, their contents.
Article 194-26 (Specified Self-inspection)
  • (1) The specified self-inspection pertaining to the vehicle for work at height shall be the self-inspection prescribed by Article 194-23.
  • (2) The provision of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the worker who is in possession of the qualifications prescribed by the Ordinance of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare set forth in paragraph (2) of Article 45 of the Act pertaining to vehicle for work at height. In this case, the term “forklift” in item (i) of paragraph (2) of Article 151-24 shall be deemed to be replaced with “vehicle for work at height.”
  • (3) The employer shall, as regards the vehicle for work at height (limited to the one subject to paragraph (1) of Article 48 of the Road Transportation Vehicle Act) used for the travelling, in the case when having checked pursuant to the provisions of the same paragraph, not be required to carry out the self-inspection set forth in Article 194-23 for the parts where the said checkup has been carried out.
  • (4) As regards the application of the provision of the preceding Article in the case when having a registered inspection agency implement the specified self-inspection pertaining to a vehicle for work at height, the term “the name of the person who has carried out the inspection” in item (v) of the same Article shall be deemed to be replaced with “the name of the registered inspection agency.”
  • (5) The employer shall, when having carried out the specified self-inspection pertaining to a vehicle for work at height, affix an inspection sticker stating the month and year when the said specified self-inspection was carried out at a readily visible location of the said vehicle.
Article 194-27 (Checkup before Commencing the Work)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work by vehicle for work at height, check functions of a braking device and a controlling device and a working device before commencing the work for the day.
Article 194-28 (Repair, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having found any abnormalities in the case when having carried out the self-inspection set forth in Article 194-23 or 194-24, or the checkup set forth in the preceding Article, immediately repair or take other necessary measures.

Section 3 Railway Equipment and Hand Cart
Subsection 1 General Provisions

Article 195 (Definition)
  • (1) The term “railway equipment” as used in this Ordinance of the Ministry means all the units of equipment including rail tracks attached to workplace, and a vehicle, a power vehicle, a winch, etc. that is driven with the power on rails and used for transporting workers or cargoes(excluding those subject to the Railway Operation Act (Act No.65 of 1900), the Railway Business Act (Act No.92 of 1986) or the Railway Act (Act No.76 of 1921).

Section 3 Railway Equipment and Hand Cart
Subsection 2 Rail Tracks, etc.

Article 196 (Weights of Rails)
  • (1) The employer shall conform the weight of a rail to the weight listed in the right column of the following table or more corresponding to the vehicle body weight listed in the left column of the same table:
    Vehicle body weight Weight of the rail
    Less than 5 tons 9 kg
    5 tons or more but less than 10 tons 12 kg
    10 tons or more but less than 15 tons 15 kg
    15 tons or more 22 kg
Article 197 (Joint of Rails)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards joint of rails, fix the rails securely by using joint plates, welding, etc.
Article 198 (Laying Rails)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards laying rails, fix the rails securely on the sleeper, concrete bed, etc., by using rail spikes, metal fixture, etc.
Article 199 (Sleeper)
  • (1) The employer shall ensure that the size and intervals of sleepers are appropriate to the vehicle body weight, the condition of bed, etc., in order to stabilize rails.
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards sleeper to be used at places where they are susceptible to corrosion or where they are difficult to replace, use sleeper having sufficient durability.
Article 200 (Bed)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards rail tracks of which bed consists of crushed stones, gravel, etc., among rail tracks laid for operating power vehicle with vehicle body weight of 5 tons or more, harden sufficiently the said bed and take measures for draining water well in order to maintain the sleeper and rails safely.
Article 201 (Curved Section)
  • (1) The employer shall conform a curved section of rail tracks to the following provisions:
    • (i) To have the radius of a curvature of 10 m or more.
    • (ii) To maintain an appropriate cant and a slack.
    • (iii) To be provided with a guard rail corresponding to the radius of the curvature.
Article 202 (Gradients of Rail Tracks )
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards the gradients of rail tracks at the section where a power vehicle is used, set gradient ratio of fifty thousandth or less.
Article 203 (Junction, etc., of Rail Tracks)
  • (1) The employer shall equip junction of rail tracks with a point and a frog having secure function and equip the end of the rail tracks with secure wheel stopper.
Article 204 (Anchoring Device)
  • (1) The employer shall, when a vehicle is liable to overrun, install an anchoring device.
Article 205 (Clearance Between a Vehicle and a Sidewall, etc.)
  • (1) The employer shall, when installing railway equipment inside a tunnel, etc., under construction, provide a clearance of 0.6 m or more between a vehicle and the sidewall or obstacle on either side of the track in order to prevent the dangers of workers who are passing through being hit by vehicles in operation. However, this shall not apply to the case where providing the said clearance is difficult due to the small sectional area of the tunnel, etc., and any of the following measures has been taken:
    • (i) To provide a clearly discernible safety zones at appropriate intervals.
    • (ii) Not to allow workers entering the place in the traveling direction of vehicle in operation by installing a signaling device, arranging a watcher, etc.
Article 206 (Preventive Measures for a Person Riding on a Vehicle Being Hit)
  • (1) The employer shall, when installing railway equipment inside a tunnel, etc., under construction, maintain a necessary distance between a vehicle and a sidewall or the ceiling of the tunnel, etc., and obstacles thereof in order to prevent the person riding on a vehicle from being hit the sidewall or the ceiling of the tunnel, etc., or obstacles thereof. However, this shall not apply to the case that obstacles such as deformed tunnel shoring, etc., by the load of the land, exist and readily-discernible measures have been taken in order to prevent the dangers of person riding on a vehicle being hit the said obstacles in the tunnel, etc.
Article 207 (Signaling Device)
  • (1) The employer shall install a signaling device corresponding to the condition of railway equipment.

Section 3 Railway Equipment and Hand Cart
Subsection 3 Vehicle

Article 208 (Brake of a Power Vehicle)
  • (1) The employer shall equip a power vehicle with a hand brake, and equip a power vehicle having the vehicle body weight of 10 tons or more with a power brake.
  • (2) The employer shall set ratio of the pressure of a brake applied to the brake shoe to the pressure of the brake wheel applied to rails to fifty hundredth or more but seventy-five hundredth or less for a power brake and twenty hundredth or more for a hand brake.
Article 209 (Facilities for a Power Vehicle)
  • (1) The employer shall not use a power vehicle unless otherwise prescribed as follows:
    • (i) To be equipped with signaling device such as a whistle, an alarm bell;
    • (ii) To be equipped with a front lamp and illuminating apparatus for cabins when operating the said power vehicle at night or underground;
    • (iii) To be equipped with a lubricant pressure indicator for an internal combustion locomotive;
    • (iv) To be equipped with an automatic circuit-breaker for an electric locomotive, and with an arrester for an electric locomotive with an aerial cableway system.
Article 210 (Operator's Seat of a Power Vehicle)
  • (1) The employer shall not use an operator's seat of a power vehicle unless otherwise prescribed as follows:
    • (i) To have a construction enabling an operator to maintain the view for operating safely;
    • (ii) To be equipped with an enclosure, etc., in order to prevent an operator from dangers due to falling.
Article 211 (Worker Carrier)
  • (1) The employer shall not use a vehicle exclusively for transporting workers (hereinafter referred to as “worker carrier”) unless otherwise prescribed as follows:
    • (i) To be equipped with such devices as a seat, a grasping rod enabling workers to ride on the said carrier safely.
    • (ii) To be equipped with an enclosure and a gate.
    • (iii) As regards a worker carrier pulled by a winching system used on an inclined rails, to be equipped with facilities enabling an operator of the winch and a person riding on the worker carrier to communicate each other in an emergency.
    • (iv) As regards the worker carrier set forth in the preceding item, to be equipped with an emergency stop device in order to prevent dangers due to cutting of a wire rope, excessive speed, etc.
    • (v) As regards a worker carrier used on an inclined rails with an inclined angle of 30 degrees or more, to be equipped with a derailment preventive device.
Article 212 (Wheel)
  • (1) The employer shall not use a wheel unless otherwise prescribed as follows:
    • (i) To have the width which ensures that the tread mount safely on the rails when the tires with their flanges worn to the maximum extent pass the track part having the maximum gauge.
    • (ii) To have a flange thickness which provides sufficient strength even when their flange have been worn to the maximum extent and while allowing the tires to pass through junctions and frogs.
    • (iii) To have a flange height which is higher than that required for preventing tires from derailment and at the same time from riding on the joint plates, frogs, etc.
Article 213 (Coupler)
  • (1) The employer shall, when coupling vehicles, use a secure coupler.
Article 214 (Coupling of Worker Carriers on an Inclined Rails)
  • (1) The employer shall, in the case of using a worker carrier on an inclined rails and when coupling worker carriers with each other or to a wire rope socket with a chain or a link, use another auxiliary chain or wire rope in order to prevent the said vehicle from overrun due to cutting of the link or the chain.

Section 3 Railway Equipment and Hand Cart
Subsection 4 Winching System

Article 215 (Brake of a Winching System)
  • (1) The employer shall equip a winching system with a brake enabling stop promptly a vehicle in the case that the vehicle is applied the maximum load and maintaining the stopped state of the vehicle.
Article 216 (Wire Rope)
  • (1) The employer shall not use a wire rope to be used on a winching system unless otherwise prescribed as follows:
    • (i) To have the safety coefficient of a wire rope shall be 6 or more (10 or more for a wire rope to be used for a worker carrier). In this case, the safety coefficient shall be the value obtained by dividing the value of the breaking load of the wire rope with the maximum value of the load applied on to the said wire rope;
    • (ii) To be fixed to vehicles by secure method such as using links.
Article 217 (Prohibition of the Use of an Inadequate Wire Rope)
  • (1) The employer shall not use a wire rope falling under any of the following item for a winching system:
    • (i) Those with 10% or more element wires cut in one strand;
    • (ii) Those with the reduction ratio of a diameter exceeding 7% of the nominal diameter;
    • (iii) Those with kink;
    • (iv) Those with marked deformation or corrosion.
Article 218 (Depth Indicator)
  • (1) The employer shall, in the case of using worker carrier on an inclined pit line and when it is difficult for the operator of the winch to confirm the position of the worker carrier, equip the said winch with a depth indicator enabling the operator to readily confirm the position of the worker carrier.

Section 3 Railway Equipment and Hand Cart
Subsection 5 Prevention of Dangers Pertaining to the Use of the Railway Equipment

Article 219 (Display Method of a Signaling Device)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having installed a signaling device, set in advancedisplay method for the said signaling device, and make the set display method known to the workers concerned.
Article 220 (Signals)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards the operation of the railway equipment, set in advance signaling method for the said operation and make the set signaling methods known to the workers concerned.
  • (2) The operator of the railway equipment set forth in the preceding paragraph shall operate the said railway equipment by the signaling method set forth in the same paragraph.
Article 221 (Use of Worker Carrier)
  • (1) The employer shall, when transporting workers by the railway equipment, use a worker carrier. However, this shall not apply to the case of transporting small numbers of workers or temporary transporting, and when the following measures are taken:
    • (i) To equip a vehicle with an enclosure, etc., in order to prevent falling.
    • (ii) Not to carry workers and cargo that is liable to cause collapse, displacement, etc., at the same time.
Article 222 (Speed Limit)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards operation of a vehicle, set in advance speed limit for the said vehicle corresponding to the weight of rail, gauge, gradients, radius of curvature, etc., and have a operator operate by the set speed limit.
  • (2) The operator of the vehicle set forth in the preceding paragraph shall not operate the vehicle at speeds exceeding the speed limit set forth in the same paragraph.
Article 223 (Riding Capacities)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a worker carrier, set riding capacities corresponding to the structure of the vehicle, and make it known to the workers concerned.
Article 224 (Measures to be Taken When Operating a Vehicle by Pushing from Behind)
  • (1) The employer shall, when operating a vehicle inside tunnel, etc., under construction by pushing from behind with a power vehicle, take the following measures. However, this shall not apply to the case of setting sections for such an operation and prohibiting workers from entering the set sections:
    • (i) To arrange a guides and have the said person guide the said power vehicle.
    • (ii) To equip the first vehicle with front lamp.
    • (iii) To install a device enabling the guide and the operator to communicate with each other and the guide to give an alarm in an emergency.
Article 225 (Measures in the Case of Having a Guide Ride a Vehicle)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having a guide set forth in the preceding paragraph ride a vehicle, take such measures as having the guide ride the vehicle equipped with an enclosure or a boarding platform in order to prevent the guide from dangers of falling from the vehicle.
Article 226 (Measures to Be Taken in the Case of Leaving the Operator's Seat)
  • (1) The employer shall, when the operator of a power vehicle leaves the operator's seat, have the said operator take such measures as applying brake in order to prevent the vehicle from overrun.
  • (2) The operator set forth in the preceding paragraph shall, when leaving the operator's seat, take the measures set forth in the same paragraph.
Article 227 (Prohibition of Leaving an Operating Station)
  • (1) The employer shall not allow an operator of a winch to leave his operating station while the said winch is in operation.
  • (2) The operator set forth in the preceding paragraph shall not leave his operating station while the said winch is in operation.

Section 3 Railway Equipment and Hand Cart
Subsection 6 Periodical Self-inspections, etc.

Article 228 (Periodical Self-inspections)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards an electric locomotive, a battery locomotive, an electric vehicle, a battery electric vehicle, an internal combustion locomotive, an internal combustion power vehicle, a steam locomotive and a winching system (hereinafter referred to as “electric locomotive, etc.” in this Subsection), carry out self-inspections for abnormalities in each part of the said electric locomotive, etc., periodically once every period within three years. However, this shall not apply to the non-use period of electric locomotive, etc., which is not used for a period exceeding three years.
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards the electric locomotive, etc., set forth in the proviso of the preceding paragraph, carry out self-inspection for abnormalities in the each part of the said electric locomotive, etc., before resuming the operation..
Article 229
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards the electric locomotive, etc., carry out self-inspections for the following matters periodically once every period within a year. However, this shall not apply to the non-use period of the electric locomotive, etc., which is not used for a period exceeding one year:
    • (i) Abnormalities in a motor, a control device, a brake, an automatic circuit-breaker, a carriage, a coupler, a battery, an arrester, wiring, connecting device and various meters for an electric locomotive, a battery locomotive, an electric vehicle and a battery electric vehicle.
    • (ii) Abnormalities in an engine, a power transmission device, a control device, a brake, a carriage, a coupler and various meters for an internal combustion locomotive and an internal combustion power vehicle.
    • (iii) Abnormalities in a cylinder, a valve cheat, a steam pipe, a regulating valve, a safety valve and various meters for a steam locomotive.
    • (iv) Abnormalities in a motor, a power transmission mechanisms, a drum, a brake, a wire rope, a wire rope fittings, a safety device and various meters for a winching system .
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards the electric locomotive, etc., set forth in the proviso of the preceding paragraph, carry out self-inspection for the matters listed in each item of the same paragraph before resuming the operation.
Article 230
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards the electric locomotive, etc., carry out self-inspections for the following matters periodically once every period within a month. However, this shall not apply to the non-use period of electric locomotives, etc., which is not used for a period exceeding one month::
    • (i) Abnormalities in electric circuit, a brake and a coupler for an electric locomotive, a battery locomotive, an electric vehicle and a battery electric vehicle.
    • (ii) Abnormalities in a brake and a coupler for an internal combustion locomotive and an internal combustion power vehicle.
    • (iii) Abnormalities in an interior of firebox, a fusible plug, a spark arrester, a water gauge, feed-water supply systems, a brake and a coupler for a steam locomotive.
    • (iv) Abnormalities in a brake, a wire rope, a wire rope fittings for a winching system.
  • (2) The employer shall, as regards the electric locomotive, etc., set forth in the proviso of the preceding paragraph, carry out self-inspection for the matters listed in each item of the same paragraph before resuming the operation.
Article 231 (Record of Periodical Self-inspections)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having carried out the self-inspections set forth in the preceding three Articles, record the following matters and preserve the records for three years:
    • (i) The date of the inspection
    • (ii) The method of the inspection
    • (iii) The parts of a machine inspected
    • (iv) The results of the inspection
    • (v) The name of the person who has carried out the inspection
    • (vi) When measures such as repair have been taken based on the result of the inspection, their contents.
Article 232 (Checkup)
  • (1) The employer shall, when carrying out the work using railway equipment, check the following matters before commencing the work for the day:
    • (i) Functions of a brake, a coupler, a warning device, a current collector, a front lamp, a control device and a safety device.
    • (ii) Leakage of air, etc., from a piping.
  • (2) The employer shall check any abnormalities in the condition of the rails and the tread for rail track as needed.
Article 233 (Repair)
  • (1) The employer shall, when having found any abnormalities in the case where the self-inspection set forth in Article 228 to 230, or the checkup set forth in the preceding Article have carried out, immediately repair.

Section 3 Railway Equipment and Hand Cart
Subsection 7 Hand Cart

Article 234 (Rail Tracks for a Hand Cart)
  • (1) The employer shall conform rail tracks which is to be used for a hand cart to the following provisions:
    • (i) To have the radius of curvature of rail tracks of 5 m or more.
    • (ii) To have gradients of one fifteenth or less
    • (iii) To have the weight of a rail of 6 kg or more.
    • (iv) To arrange sleepers with a diameter of 9 cm or more at appropriate intervals.
  • (2) The provisions of Article 197 and of paragraph (2) of Article 232 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the rail tracks for a hand cart.
Article 235 (Installation of Brake)
  • (1) The employer shall, as regards a hand cart to be used on a section of rail tracks with gradients of ten thousandth or more, install an effective hand brake in the hand cart.
Article 236 (Intervals, etc., of Carts)
  • (1) The employer shall, when a worker operate a hand cart, have the worker carry out the following matters:
    • (i) To have the intervals between carts of 6 m or more in sections of rising gradient rail tracks or horizontal rail tracks and of 20 m or more in sections of falling gradient rail tracks.
    • (ii) Not to exceed the speed of 15 km/h when operated in sections of falling gradient rail tracks.
  • (2) The worker set forth in the preceding paragraph shall, when operating a hand cart, carry out the matters listed in each item of the same paragraph .
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