Workers Killed When Scaffolds Without Tiebacks Fall

• Tiebacks must be secured to a structurally sound anchorage on the building or structure, which may include structural members, but not vents, electrical conduit, or standpipes and other piping systems. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(ix)]
• Tiebacks must be installed perpendicular to the face of the building or structure (Figure 1), or opposing angle tiebacks must be installed. Single tiebacks installed at an angle are prohibited. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(x)]
• Tiebacks must be equivalent in strength to the suspension ropes and hoisting rope. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(vii) and 29 CFR 1926.451(d)(5)(iv)]

Inadequate Counterweights Cause Two Deaths

• Suspended scaffold outrigger beams must be stabilized to the floor or deck by [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)]:
  • Counterweights
  • Or bolts or other direct connections to the floor or deck.
• Counterweights used to balance adjustable suspension scaffolds must be capable of resisting [29 CFR 1926.451(a)(2)]:
  • At least 4 times the tipping moment imposed by the scaffold when it is operating at the rated load of the hoist.
  • Or a minimum of 1½ times the tipping moment imposed by the scaffold when it is operating at the stall load of the hoist, whichever is greater.
• Only items specifically designed as counterweights may be used to counterweight scaffold systems. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(iii)]
• Masonry units, rolls of roofing felt, and other similar construction materials shall not be used as counterweights. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(iii)]
• Counterweights must not be made of flowable materials such as sand, gravel, and similar materials that can be easily dislocated. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(ii)]
• Counterweights must be secured by mechanical means to the outrigger beams (Figures 2 & 3) to prevent accidental displacement. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(iv)]
• Counterweights must not be removed from an outrigger beam until the scaffold is disassembled. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(v)]

Scaffold Attachments Fail; Two Die

• Suspended scaffold outrigger beams must be stabilized by [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)]:
  • Bolts or other direct connections to the floor or deck.
  • Or Counterweights
• Direct connections to roofs and floors must be capable of resisting [29 CFR 1926.451(a)(2)]:
  • At least 4 times the tipping moment imposed by the scaffold when it is operating at the rated load of the hoist.
  • Or a minimum of 1½ times the tipping moment imposed by the scaffold when it is operating at the stall load of the hoist, whichever is greater.

Foreman Dies When Overloaded Scaffold Falls

 

• Scaffolds and scaffold components must be capable of supporting, without failure, their own weight and at least 4 times their maximum intended load. (Figure 4) [29 CFR 1926.451(a)]
• Each suspension rope, including connecting hardware, must be capable of supporting, without failure, at least 6 times the maximum intended load applied to that rope while the scaffold is operating at the greater of either [29 CFR 1926.451(a)(4)]:
  • The rated load of the hoist.
  • Or 2 times the stall load of the hoist.
• All suspension scaffold support devices, such as outrigger beams, cornice hooks, and parapet clamps, must:
  • Rest on surfaces capable of supporting at least 4 times the load imposed on them by the scaffold operating at the greater of either [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(1)]:
    • The rated load of the hoist.
    • Or 1½ times the stall capacity of the hoist. (5 & 6)
  • Be supported by bearing blocks. (5 & 6) [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(5)(ii)]
  • Be secured against movement by tiebacks installed at right angles to the face of the building or structure (5 & 6), or by opposing angle tiebacks installed and secured to a structurally sound point of anchorage (structurally sound points of anchorage include structural members, but not vents, electrical conduit, or standpipes and other piping systems). [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(5)(iii)]
• No more than two employees should occupy suspension scaffolds designed for a working load of 500 pounds (non-mandatory). [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (2)(p)(2)]
• No more than three employees should occupy suspension scaffolds designed for a working load of 750 pounds (non-mandatory). [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (2)(p)(2)]
• Scaffolds shall be altered only under the supervision and direction of a competent person. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(7)]

Scaffold with Improvised Components Fails; Worker Dies

 

• Scaffold components manufactured by different manufacturers must not be intermixed, unless they fit together without being forced, and the scaffold's structural integrity is maintained. (Figure 7) [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(10)]
• Scaffold components manufactured by different manufacturers are not allowed to be modified to make them fit together, unless a competent person determines that the resulting scaffold is structurally sound. [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(10)]
• Scaffold components made of dissimilar metals must not be used together unless a competent person has determined that galvanic action (rust) will not reduce the strength of any component below OSHA standards. [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(11)]
• Scaffold support devices such as cornice hooks, roof hooks, roof irons, parapet clamps, or similar devices must be made of steel, wrought iron, or materials of equivalent strength. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(5)(i)]

• Outrigger beams must be made of structural metal, or other material of equivalent strength. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(2)]
• Outrigger beams must be restrained to prevent movement. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(2)]
• The inboard ends of outrigger beams must be stabilized by bolts or other direct connections to the floor or roof deck, or by counterweights. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)]
• Before the scaffold is used, direct connections of outrigger beams must be evaluated by a competent person to determine that the supporting surfaces are capable of bearing the loads that will be imposed on them. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(i)]
• When outrigger beams are not stabilized by bolts or other direct connections to the floor or roof deck, they must instead be secured by tiebacks. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(vi)]
• Outrigger beams must be placed perpendicular to their bearing support (usually the face of the building or structure. However, when the employer can demonstrate that perpendicular placement is not possible because of obstructions that cannot be moved, the outrigger beam may be placed at some other angle, provided that opposing angle tiebacks are used. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(viii)]
• Outrigger beams shall be:
  • Provided with stop bolts or shackles at both ends. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(i)]
  • Securely fastened together with the flanges turned out when channel iron beams are used instead of I-beams. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(ii)]
  • Installed with all bearing supports perpendicular to the beam center line. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(iii)]
  • Set and maintained with the web in a vertical position. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(iv)]
  • Attached to the scaffold ropes by a shackle or clevis placed directly over the stirrup. [29 CFR 1926.451)(d)(4)(v)]

• Suspension ropes supporting adjustable suspension scaffolds must have a diameter large enough to permit proper functioning of brake and hoist mechanisms. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(10)]
• The use of repaired wire rope as suspension rope is prohibited. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(7)]
• Wire suspension ropes must not be joined together except through the use of eye splice thimbles connected with shackles or coverplates and bolts. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(8)]
• The load end of wire suspension ropes must be equipped with proper-size thimbles, and secured by eyesplicing or equivalent means (Figure 8). [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(9)]
• Ropes must be inspected for defects by a competent person prior to each workshift, and after every occurrence which could affect a rope's integrity (see Tip). [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(10)]
• Ropes are to be replaced when any of the following conditions exist:
  • Any physical damage which impairs the function and strength of the rope (Figures 9 & 10). [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(10)(i)]
  • Kinks that might impair the tracking or wrapping of the rope around the drum or sheave of the hoist. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(10)(ii)]
  • Six randomly distributed wires are broken in one rope lay, or three broken wires in one strand in one rope lay (Figure 11). [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(10)(iii)]
  • Loss of more than one-third of the original diameter of the outside wires due to abrasion, corrosion, scrubbing, flattening, or peening. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(10)(iv)]
  • Heat damage caused by a torch, or any damage caused by contact with electrical wires. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(10)(v)]
  • Evidence that the secondary brake has been activated during an overspeed condition and has engaged the suspension rope. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(10)(vi)]
• Swaged attachments or spliced eyes on wire suspension ropes may not be used unless they are made by the manufacturer or a qualified person. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(11)]
• When wire rope clips are used on suspension scaffolds:
  • There must be a minimum of 3 clips installed, with the clips a minimum of 6 rope diameters apart. (Figure 12) [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(12)(i)]
  • Clips must be installed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(12)(ii)]
  • Clips must be retightened to the manufacturer's recommendations after the initial loading. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(12)(iii)]
  • Clips are to be inspected and retightened to the manufacturer's recommendations at the start of each subsequent workshift. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(12)(iv)]
  • U-bolt clips may not be used at the point of suspension for any scaffold hoist. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(12)(v)]
  • When U-bolt clips are used, the U-bolt must be placed over the dead end of the rope, and the saddle must be placed over the live end of the rope. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(12)(vi)]
• Suspension ropes are to be shielded from heat-producing processes. When acids or other corrosive substances are used on a scaffold, the ropes shall be shielded, treated to protect against the corrosive substances, or shall be of a material that will not be damaged by the substances. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(11)]

• The stall load of any scaffold hoist must not exceed 3 times its rated load. (Figure 13) [29 CFR 1926.451(a)(5)]
• When winding drum hoists are used and the scaffold is extended to its lowest point of travel, there must be enough rope to still wrap four times around the drum. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(6)]
• When other types of hoists are used, the suspension ropes must be long enough to allow the scaffold to travel to the level below without the rope end passing through the hoist, or else the rope end must be provided with means to prevent the end from passing through the hoist. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(6)]
• Power-operated and manual hoists must be tested and listed by a qualified testing laboratory. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(13)]
• Gasoline-powered hoists may not be used on suspension scaffolds. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(14)]
• Gears and brakes of power-operated hoists used on suspension scaffolds must be enclosed. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(15)]
• In addition to the normal operating brake, both power-operated and manual hoists must have a braking device or locking pawl which engages automatically when a hoist experiences [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(16)]:
  • An instantaneous change in momentum.
  • Or an accelerated overspeed episode.
• Manually operated hoists must require a positive crank force to descend. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(17)]

Employees must be able to safely access any level of a scaffold that is 2 feet above or below an access point. [29 CFR 1926.451(e)(1)]

Unsafe Access Leads to Death on Suspended Scaffold

• Direct access to or from another surface is permitted only when the scaffold is not more than 14 inches horizontally and not more than 24 inches vertically from the other surface. [29 CFR 1926.451(e)(8)]
• For two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds, access to one platform from another may only take place when the platforms [29 CFR 1926.452(p)(6)]:
  • Are the same height.
  • Are abutting.
  • Have walk-through stirrups specifically designed for that purpose.

• Each employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet above a lower level must be protected from falling to that lower level. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(1)]
• Each employee on a two-point adjustable suspension scaffold must be protected by both a guardrail system and a personal fall arrest system. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(1)(ii)]

Unsafe/Unused Fall Arrest Systems Result in Fatalities

• In addition to meeting the requirements of 29 CFR 1926.502(d), personal fall-arrest systems used on scaffolds are to be attached by lanyard to a vertical lifeline, horizontal lifeline, or scaffold structural member.

  NOTE: Vertical lifelines may not be used on two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds that have overhead components such as overhead protection or additional platform levels. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(3)]
  • When vertical lifelines are used, they must be fastened to a fixed safe point of anchorage, independent of the scaffold, and be protected from sharp edges and abrasion. Safe points of anchorage include structural members of buildings, but not standpipes, vents, electrical conduit, etc., which may give way under the force of a fall. (Figure 14) [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(3)(i)]
  • It is dangerous and therefore impermissible for two or more vertical lifelines to be attached to each other, or to the same point of anchorage. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(3)(iv)]
  • When horizontal lifelines are used, they must be secured to two or more structural members of the scaffold. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(3)(ii)]
  • When lanyards are connected to horizontal lifelines or structural members, the scaffold must have additional independent support lines and automatic locking devices capable of stopping the fall of the scaffold in case one or both of the suspension ropes fail. These independent support lines must be equal in number and strength to the suspension ropes. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(3)(iii)]
• On suspended scaffolds with horizontal lifelines that may become vertical lifelines, the devices used to connect to the horizontal lifeline must be capable of locking in both directions. [29 CFR 1926.502(d)(7)]

See Personal Fall Arrest Systems in the OSHA Construction eTool.

• Guardrail systems must be installed along all open sides and ends of platforms , and must be in place before the scaffold is released for use by employees other than erection/dismantling crews. (Figure 15) [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(i)]
• Each toprail or equivalent member of a guardrail system must be able to withstand a force of at least 200 pounds applied in any downward or horizontal direction, at any point along its top edge. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(vii)]
  • The top edge height of toprails on supported scaffolds must be between 36 inches and 45 inches. When conditions warrant, the height of the top edge may exceed the 45-inch height, provided the guardrail system meets all other criteria.

    NOTE: The minimum top edge height on scaffolds manufactured or placed in service after January 1, 2000 is 38 inches. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(ii)]

• Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate vertical members, solid panels, etc., must be able to withstand a force of at least 150 pounds applied in any downward or horizontal direction, at any point along the midrail or other member. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(ix)]
  • When midrails are used, they must be installed at a height approximately midway between the top edge of the guardrail system and the platform surface. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(iv)]
  • When screens and mesh are used, they must extend from the top edge of the guardrail system to the scaffold platform, and along the entire opening between the supports. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(v)]

    

    Employees Fall Due to Inadequate Guardrails

  • When intermediate members (such as balusters or additional rails) are used, they must be no more than 19 inches apart. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(vi)]
• Guardrails must be surfaced to prevent punctures or lacerations to employees, and to prevent snagging of clothing, which may cause employees to lose their balance. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(xi)]
• Ends of rails may not extend beyond their terminal posts, unless they do not constitute a projection hazard to employees. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(xii)]
• In lieu of guardrails, crossbracing may serve as a toprail or midrail, providing the crossing point is [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(xv)]:
  • Between 20 and 30 inches above the work platform for a midrail.
  • Or between 38 and 48 inches above the work platform for a toprail.

For other scaffolding guardrail requirements, see 29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4).

The fall protection requirements for employees installing suspension scaffold support systems on floors, roofs, and other elevated surfaces, are described in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M, the Fall Protection standard [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(1)]. (see Falls: Unprotected Sides, Wall Openings, and Floor Holes in the OSHA Construction eTool)

The employer must designate a competent person, who would be responsible for determining the feasibility and safety of providing fall protection for employees erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds. [29 CFR 1926.451(g)(2)]

Inadequate Planking on Scaffold Results in Fatal Fall

• Platforms on two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds (swing stages) must be no more than 36 inches wide, unless a qualified person has designed them to prevent unstable conditions. [29 CFR 1926.452(p)(1)]
• The platform must be securely fastened to hangers (stirrups) by U-bolts, or by other means that make it capable of supporting its own weight and at least 4 times its maximum intended load. [29 CFR 1926.452(p)(2)]

• Platforms are to be either ladder-type, plank-type, beam-type, or light metal-type. [29 CFR 1926.452(p)(4)]

  NOTE: For more on plank-type platforms, see Planking.
• All platforms 40 feet or less in length, and light metal-type platforms with a rated capacity of 750 pounds or less, must be tested and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. [29 CFR 1926.452(p)(4)]
• Scaffold platforms and walkways must be at least 18 inches wide, unless they are used in areas that the employer can demonstrate are so narrow that they must be less than 18 inches wide. In such cases, the platforms must be as wide as feasible, and fall protection must be provided. (Figure 16) [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(2)(ii)]
• Nothing that could cause a slip, trip or fall (i.e. tools, scrap material, chemicals, snow, ice, etc.) is allowed to accumulate on the platform. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(8)]
• Devices whose sole function is to provide emergency escape and rescue may not be used as working platforms. This does not preclude the use of systems designed to function as both suspension scaffolds and emergency systems. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(18)]
• Makeshift devices, such as boxes and barrels, may not be used on top of scaffold platforms to increase the height of the working level. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(14)]
• Ladders may not be used on scaffolds to increase the height of the working level, except on large-area scaffolds where employees have met the following criteria [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(15)]:
  • When the ladder is placed against a structure which is not part of the scaffold, the scaffold must be secured against the sideways thrust exerted by the ladder. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(15)(i)]
  • The platform units must be secured to the scaffold to prevent their movement. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(15)(ii)]
  • The ladder legs must be on the same platform, or other means must be provided to stabilize the ladder against unequal platform deflection. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(15)(iii)]
  • The ladder legs must be secured to prevent them from slipping or being pushed off the platform. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(15)(iv)]

Non-mandatory guidelines for two-point suspended platforms:

• Ladder-type platforms must have:
  • Side stringers of clear straight-grained spruce, tied together with tie rods at least ¼ inch in diameter, passing through the stringers and riveted up tight against washers on both ends.
  • Straight-grained oak, ash or hickory rungs at least 1⅞ inches in diameter, with ⅞ inch tenons mortised into the side stringers at least ⅞ inch.
  • Flooring strips spaced apart no more than ⅝ inch, (side rails may be up to 1 inch apart). [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (p)(3)]
  • All ladder-type platforms must be constructed in accordance with the table (below).
• Plank-type platforms must have:
  • Unspliced planks no smaller than nominal 2 x 8 inches, connected on the underside with cleats beginning 6 inches from each end and spaced every 4 feet or less.
  • A bar or other means securely fastened to each end of the platform to prevent it slipping off the hanger.
  • No more than a 10 foot span between hangers. [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (p)(4)]

    NOTE: For more on plank-type platforms, see Planking.

• Beam-type platforms must have:
  • Side stringers of lumber no smaller than 2 x 6 inches set on edge.
  • Floor boards laid flat and spaced no more than ½ inch apart, set snugly into the upper edge of the stringers, and securely nailed to 2 x 6-inch cross beams at intervals of no less than 4 feet.
  • No more than a 12 foot span between hangers. [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (p)(5)]

For most activities, there must be no more than a 14-inch gap between the scaffold platform and the structure being worked on. For lathing and plastering, a gap of 18 inches is permitted. [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(3) and 29 CFR 1926.451(b)(3)(ii)]

• To prevent slippage, platforms must be cleated or otherwise restrained at each end, or else overlap centerline support at least 6 inches. [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(4)]
• Unless it is designed and installed to support employees and materials without tipping, or has guardrails that block employee access, each end of a platform may not extend over its support more than 12 inches (for platforms 10 feet or shorter in length) or more than 18 inches (for platforms more than 10 feet long). [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(5)]
• On scaffolds where platforms are overlapped to create a long platform, the overlap may only occur over supports, and may not be less than 12 inches, unless the platforms are restrained (e.g., nailed together) to prevent movement. [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(7)]
• On scaffolds where platforms are abutted to create a long platform, each abutted end must rest on a separate support surface (this does not preclude the use of shared support members such as "T" sections, hook-on platforms that rest on common supports, etc.). [29 CFR 1926.451(b)(6)]

When brackets are used to support cantilevered platforms, they must:

• Be seated with side-brackets parallel to the frames, and end-brackets at 90 degrees to the frames. [29 CFR 1926.452(c)(5)(i)]
• Be used only to support personnel, unless the scaffold has been designed and built to withstand the tipping forces caused by other loads. [29 CFR 1926.452(c)(5)(iii)]

• Scaffold platforms must be able to support their own weight, plus four times the maximum intended load. [29 CFR 1926.451(a)(1)]
• Do not load the scaffold or any component parts beyond their maximum capacity (their own weight and 4:1 the maximum intended load). A scaffold can be overloaded by [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(1)]:
  • Too many people being on the platform.
  • Too much material being stored on the platform.
  • Or point loading, or concentrating too much of the load in one area.
• Platforms must not deflect more than ¹⁄₆₀ of the span when loaded.) [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(16)]

  NOTE: For more on plank-type platforms, see Planking.

Two Workers Killed by Falling Objects While On Scaffolds

There are two kinds of falling object hazards associated with scaffolds. One hazard concerns the employees on the scaffold itself; the other concerns employees who work in or enter the area below the scaffold.

• Each employee on a scaffold must be protected from falling hand tools, debris, and other small objects, by [29 CFR 1926.451(h)(1)]:
  • Hardhats
  • Toeboards, screens, or guardrail systems.
  • Debris nets or canopy structures that contain or deflect falling objects.
  • Placement of potential falling objects away from the edge of the surface from which they may fall.
• Where there is a danger of tools, materials, or equipment falling from a scaffold onto employees below, they must be protected by the following measures [29 CFR 1926.451(h)(2)]:
  • The area below the scaffold must be barricaded so employees are not permitted to enter.
  • Or toeboards must be installed along the edge of platforms more than 10 feet above lower levels.
  • Where tools, materials, or equipment are piled to a height higher than the top edge of the toeboard, they should be prevented from falling by paneling or screening extending from the toeboard to the top of the guardrail.
  • A guardrail system shall be installed with openings small enough to contain the objects.
  • Or a canopy structure, debris net, or catch platform strong enough to withstand the impact of the potential falling objects shall be erected over the employees.
• When toeboards are used for falling object protection, they must be [29 CFR 1926.451(h)(4)]:
  • Able to withstand a force of at least 50 pounds applied in any downward or horizontal direction, at any point along the toeboard.
  • At least 3½ inches high from the top edge to the level of the walking/working surface.
  • Securely fastened in place at the outermost edge of the platform, and not have more than ¼-inch clearance above the walking/working surface.
  • Solid, or with openings not over 1 inch.

Workers Killed When Scaffolds Not Tied-Off

• Two-point suspension scaffolds must be tied or otherwise secured to prevent them from swaying, as determined to be necessary by a competent person. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(18)]
• Window cleaners' anchors may not be used for this purpose. [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(18)]
• In addition to direct connections to buildings (except window cleaners' anchors), acceptable ways to prevent scaffold sway include [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (p)(1)]:
  • Angulated roping
  • Static lines

• No more than two employees should occupy suspension scaffolds designed for a working load of 500 pounds (non-mandatory). [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (p)(2)]
• No more than three employees should occupy suspension scaffolds designed for a working load of 750 pounds (non-mandatory). [29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A (p)(2)]

Damaged Components Lead to Fall; Inspection Could Have Saved Life

• Scaffolds and scaffold components must be inspected for visible defects by a competent person before each shift, and after each occurrence that could affect a scaffold's integrity (such as being struck by a crane). [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)]
• Any part of a scaffold that has been damaged or weakened so that it no longer meets OSHA strength requirements must either be repaired, replaced, braced, or removed from service. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(4)]

• Scaffolds shall not be moved horizontally while employees are on them, unless they have been designed for that purpose by a registered professional engineer, or in the case of mobile scaffolds, where the provisions of 29 CFR 1926.452(w) are followed. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(5)]
• Two-point suspension scaffolds shall not be bridged or otherwise connected one to another during raising and lowering operations unless the bridge connections are articulated (attached), and the hoists properly sized. [29 CFR 1926.452(p)(5)]

• Employees are not permitted to work on or from a scaffold during storms or high wind, unless a competent person has determined that it is safe, and those employees are protected by [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(12)]:
  • Personal fall-arrest systems
  • Or wind screens (when windscreens are used the scaffold must be secured against the anticipated wind forces).
• Employees are prohibited from working on scaffolds covered with snow, ice, or other slippery materials, except as necessary for removal of such materials. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(8)]

Employee Dies After Contacting Power Line

• Scaffolds may be closer to overhead power lines than specified above if such proximity is necessary for the type of work being done, and if the power company or electrical system operator has been notified and has either [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)]:
  • De-energized the lines
  • Relocated the lines
  • Or installed protective coverings to prevent accidental contact with the lines.
• Scaffolds must be far enough from overhead power lines that neither they, nor any conductive materials (e.g. building materials, paint roller extensions, scaffold components) that may be handled on them, come closer than 10 feet to the power line. (Figure 17) [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)]
  • Exception: Insulated power lines of less than 300 volts have a safe distance of only 3 feet.

Frayed Insulation Causes Arc, Damages Suspension Rope

When welding is being performed from suspended scaffolds, the following precautions must be taken, as they apply, to reduce the possibility of welding current arcing through the suspension wire ropes [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(17)]:

• An insulated thimble must be used to attach each suspension wire rope to its hanging support (such as cornice hook or outrigger). Excess suspension wire rope and any additional independent lines from grounding must also be insulated. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(17)(i)]
• The suspension wire rope must be covered with insulating material at least 4 feet (1.2 m) above the hoist. [29 CFR 1926.451)(f)(17)(ii)]
• If there is a tail line below the hoist, it must be insulated to prevent contact with the platform. The portion of the tail line that hangs free below the scaffold must be guided or retained, or both, so that it does not become grounded. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(17)(ii)]
• Each hoist must be covered with insulated protective covers. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(17)(iii)]
• In addition to a work lead attachment required by the welding process, a grounding conductor must connected from the scaffold to the structure (see Accident Report). The size of this conductor must be at least the size of the welding process work lead, and this conductor must not be in series with the welding process or the work piece. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(17)(iv)]
• An active welding rod or uninsulated welding lead must not be allowed to contact the scaffold or its suspension system. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(17)(vi)]
• If the scaffold grounding lead is disconnected at any time, the welding machine must be shut off. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(17)(v)]

Subpart L Appendix E, Figure 18, contains an illustrated diagram of welding precautions for a suspended scaffold platform.

Because metal frame scaffolds are conductive, power tools, cords, etc., that suffer insulation failure can electrify the entire scaffold. This poses a risk of electrocution not just to the worker holding the tool, but to everyone who contacts the scaffold. Therefore, all portable electric equipment must be protected by GFCIs (ground-fault circuit interrupters) or an AEGCP assured equipment grounding conductor program, in accordance with 29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1)(i) (see Electrical Incidents: Lack of Ground-Fault Protection in the OSHA Construction eTool).

• Scaffolds must be designed by a qualified person, and be constructed and loaded in accordance with that design. [29 CFR 1926.451(a)(6)]
• Scaffolds are to be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision of a competent person qualified in such activities. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(7)]

Non-mandatory examples of criteria that will enable an employer to comply with 29 CFR 1926.451(a) are contained in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L Appendix A.

• Scaffolds are to be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only by experienced and trained employees who have been selected for that work by the competent person. [29 CFR 1926.451(f)(7)]
• Employees who are involved in activities such as erecting, dismantling, repairing, and inspecting scaffolds must be trained by a competent person to recognize any hazards associated with those activities. Training shall include [29 CFR 1926.454(b)]:
  • The nature of scaffold hazards.
  • Correct procedures for erecting, disassembling, etc. the type of scaffold in question.
  • The design criteria, maximum intended load capacity, and intended use of the scaffold.
  • Any other pertinent requirements.
• Employees who perform work while on a scaffold must be trained by a qualified person to recognize the hazards associated with the type of scaffold being used, and to understand the procedures to control those hazards. Training shall include [29 CFR 1926.454(a)]:
  • The nature of any electrical hazards, fall hazards, and falling object hazards in the work area.
  • The correct procedures for dealing with those hazards.
  • The proper use of the scaffold, and the proper handling of materials on the scaffold.
  • The maximum intended load and the load-carrying capacity of the scaffold.
  • Any other pertinent requirements.
• Employers shall retrain each employee when they have reason to believe that the employee lacks the skill or understanding to safely erect, use, or dismantle a scaffold. Such retraining is required in at least the following situations [29 CFR 1926.454(c)]:
  • Where changes at the worksite present a hazard for which an employee has not previously been trained.
  • Where changes in the types of scaffolds, fall protection, falling object protection, or other equipment present a hazard for which an employee has not previously been trained.
  • Where inadequacies in an affected employee's work indicate that the employee has not retained the necessary proficiency.