Section 43.17. Hoisting cages

(a) In all shafts where men are hoisted or lowered, an iron-bonneted cage shall be used, but this shall not apply to shafts in the process of sinking or during the dismantling of the shaft after work in the tunnel is substantially completed.

(b) Cages shall be provided with bonnets consisting of two steel plates at least 3/16 of an inch in thickness, sloping toward each side and so arranged that they may be readily pushed upward to afford egress to persons inside. The bonnet shall cover the top of the cage so as to protect persons on the cage from falling objects.

(c) Cages shall be entirely enclosed on two sides with solid partitions of wire mesh not less than No. 8 U.S. standard gauge, no opening in which shall exceed two inches.

(d) Cages shall be provided with hanging chains or other similar devices for handholds.

(e) Every cage shall be provided with an approved safety catch of sufficient strength to hold the cage, with its maximum load, at any point in the shaft.

(f) A safety device shall be provided for blocking cars while on cage.

(g) All parts of the hoisting apparatus, cables, brakes, guides, and fastenings shall be of the most substantial design and shall be arranged for convenient inspection. The efficiency of all safety devices shall be established by satisfactory tests before the cages are put into service. The devices shall be similarly tested at least once every 3 months, and a record of the tests shall be kept.

(h) The test of the safety catch shall consist of releasing the cage suddenly in such manner that the safety catches shall have opportunity to grip the guides. The test shall be made with the cage loaded to capacity.

(i) In all vertical shafts in which hoisting is done by a bucket, suitable guides shall be provided when the depth exceeds ten times the diameter or width of the shaft. In no case shall the maximum depth without guides exceed 150 feet. In connection with the bucket, there shall be a crosshead traveling between these guides. The height of the crosshead shall be at least 2/3 of its width, but in no case less than 30 inches, unless otherwise authorized by the Board.