OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

March 9, 1979

Mr. Joseph S. Puccinelli
Vice President-Engineering
Safway Steel Products
6228 West State Street
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201

Dear Mr. Puccinelli:

This is in response to your recent letter concerning the personnel protection required for employees working on a Multistage two-point suspension scaffold.

It is true as indicated in your correspondence that if auxiliary wire ropes connected to fall prevention devices attached directly to both ends of the Multistage Suspension Scaffold Unit are used, employees occupying the platforms may attach their safety belt lanyards to a suitable member of the scaffold structure. The auxiliary lines and fall prevention devices would support the unit in a normal position if one or both of the two-point load cables failed.

If I may be of further assistance, please contact me.

Sincerely,



John K. Barto, Chief
Division of Occupational
Safety Programming