Minnesota OSHA has issued new rules for window washing operations, effective March 1, 2012.
MNOSHA has investigated three fatalities related to window washing. According to their press release: The new Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MNOSHA) standard is designed to increase worker protection and provide clarity for contractors that perform interior or exterior window-washing or building-maintenance operations. It applies to workers that are suspended more than 14 feet above grade. The standard does not apply to operations that are performed from grade level or from a ladder.
The press release is here. The standard itself is here.
A free early morning Construction Seminar on May 15, sponsored by MNOSHA, will review these new policies. Here is the info on that event.