A tire casing is the main body of the tire where the tire tread sits on top. It’s constructed of one or two layers of nylon cloth covered in rubber. The tire casing gives the tire its shape, stability, flexibility and puncture protection.
You need to know OSHA requirements for these applications. While inflating a tire, no body parts should be inside the cage structure. Use extension hoses.
A tire inflation safety cage is special equipment used at service stations. It fixes the tire vertically and prevents falling. It allows inflating to the limit safely.
Safe Inflation Steps
- Choose the right size cage to prevent wobbling and accidents.
- Position the deflated tire squarely in the cage’s center against each side.
Tires may inflate only in a restraining device, behind a barrier or bolted to the vehicle.
Compliance with OSHA Requirements
OSHA requires tire cages for certain tires. Refer to regulation 29-CFR Part 1910.177 for OSHA guidelines. A cage helps keep the tire upright during seating and inflation.
OSHA’s standard does not specify jack type or number for semi-trailers. It states jacks may support a trailer and prevent upending during loading/unloading when uncoupled from a tractor.
For off-highway vehicles, OSHA requires:
- Operable service, emergency, parking brake systems
- Operable headlights and taillights
- An audible warning device
Employers must provide restraining devices, train technicians properly, and enforce device use for tubeless and multi-piece wheels.
A steel-strap enclosed end prevents tire roll-through in cages. Portable two-tube designs handling 12.00-24 sizes are offered for tire trucks. Restraint devices are mandatory for multi-piece wheel shops.
Drivers must set brakes and workers chock rear truck tires before loading/unloading. Detached trailer rear wheels need stabilizing too. Workers must stabilize railcars, except when trucks/trailers secure to docks mechanically.