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scaffolding inspection requirements

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Scaffold inspection and use must be controlled by a competent person and aligned with OSHA Subpart L, especially 29 CFR 1926\.451-454\. A competent person must inspect scaffolds and scaffold components before each work shift and after any event that could affect structural integrity, identify visible defects, and ensure prompt corrective action. Scaffold erection, movement, alteration, and dismantling must occur only under the supervision and direction of a competent person, using trained and experienced employees selected for that work. Employers must also train scaffold users and those who erect, dismantle, move, repair, maintain, or inspect scaffolds on hazards, procedures, and load limits. [1] [3] [3]

A practical pre-use and periodic scaffold inspection checklist should cover the following items:

  • Foundation and footing are firm, stable, level, and capable of supporting the loaded scaffold; base plates and mud sills are in place where required.
  • Scaffold is plumb, square, level, properly braced, and secured against tipping; if height exceeds a 4:1 height-to-base ratio, ties, guys, or braces are installed.
  • All frames, braces, pins, couplers, locking devices, and connections are present, properly installed, compatible, and not loose, bent, cracked, corroded, or otherwise damaged.
  • Platforms are fully planked or decked, scaffold-grade where applicable, with no significant gaps; planks are not split, cracked, warped, painted over, or improperly supported.
  • Platform width and work-face clearance are adequate; front edge is generally within 14 inches of the work face unless additional protection is provided.
  • Scaffold is not overloaded; intended loads, stored materials, workers, and equipment remain within rated capacity.
  • Guardrails, midrails, and toeboards are installed where required; open sides and ends are protected.
  • Fall protection is in place for employees working more than 10 feet above a lower level, and for suspension scaffolds or erection/dismantling operations where required and feasible.
  • Safe access is provided by ladder, stair tower, ramp, walkway, or integral frame access; workers do not climb cross braces.
  • Work area is free of slip, trip, and falling-object hazards; snow, ice, and debris are removed; overhead power-line clearance and struck-by hazards are controlled.
  • Damaged or weakened components are immediately repaired, replaced, braced, or removed from service; unsafe scaffolds are tagged out until corrected.
  • Weather and environmental conditions are evaluated, including storms, high winds, and slippery surfaces, before allowing use.

[2] [5] [12] For structural integrity, the scaffold must rest on a sound foundation and be erected plumb, level, and braced to prevent sway or displacement. Supported scaffold footings must be level and capable of supporting the loaded scaffold, and legs, poles, frames, and uprights must bear on base plates and mud sills. Supported scaffolds with a height-to-base ratio greater than 4:1 must be restrained from tipping by guying, tying, bracing, or equivalent means. Components from different manufacturers should not be intermixed unless structural integrity is maintained, and damaged or weakened parts must be removed from service until repaired. [1] [1] [12]

For load capacity, each scaffold and scaffold component must support its own weight plus at least 4 times the maximum intended load; suspension scaffold rigging must support at least 6 times the intended load. In practice, inspections should verify that materials are not stockpiled excessively, heavy loads are placed over supports as appropriate, and no one uses ladders, buckets, blocks, or other makeshift devices on platforms to gain extra height. Overloading is a major collapse hazard and should be treated as an immediate stop-work condition. [1] [9] [12]

For fall protection and guardrails, each employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet above a lower level must be protected by a guardrail system or personal fall arrest system, depending on scaffold type. On single-point and two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds, both a personal fall arrest system and a guardrail are required. Guardrail toprails generally must be 38 to 45 inches high on newer scaffolds, midrails must be approximately halfway between the toprail and platform, and open sides and ends must be protected. Toeboards are commonly required where falling-object hazards exist, and many field checklists verify a minimum toeboard height of 3 1/2 inches. [1] [1] [2]

For planking and platforms, supported scaffold platforms must be fully planked or decked. Inspections should verify that planks are scaffold grade, free of cracks, splits, and other damage, properly supported, and arranged with minimal gaps. Common checklist criteria include no gaps greater than 1 inch between platform units except where permitted, a platform width of at least 18 inches unless an exception applies, and keeping the front edge of the platform within 14 inches of the work face unless guardrails or personal fall arrest systems protect the opening. Plank overhang should be controlled so planks do not extend too little or too far beyond supports. [1] [2] [9]

For access, employers must provide scaffold access when platforms are more than 2 feet above or below a point of access. Acceptable access includes portable ladders, hook-on ladders, attachable ladders, stair towers, ramps, walkways, and integral prefabricated frames where permitted. Cross braces may not be used as a means of access. During erection and dismantling, a competent person must determine whether safe access is feasible based on site conditions and scaffold type, and access must be provided when feasible and when it does not create a greater hazard. [11] [11] [3]

For defects, hazards, and stop-use criteria, scaffolds must not be used if components are missing, loose, damaged, weakened, improperly fitted, or structurally altered in an unsafe way. Unsafe conditions include unstable footing, missing pins or braces, damaged planks, excessive gaps, overloading, inadequate tie-ins, slippery platforms, high winds or storms without competent-person approval, and proximity to energized power lines without required clearance. If a defect is found, the scaffold should be tagged out, access restricted, and repairs completed before reuse. Workers should also be protected from falling objects with toeboards, screens, debris nets, canopies, barricades, and hard hats as appropriate. [8] [12] [10]

For erection and dismantling, the highest-risk phases are when platforms, ladders, and guardrails may not yet be fully installed. These operations must be supervised by a competent person, performed only by trained and experienced workers, and planned so that safe access, planking, tie-ins, stabilization, and fall protection are provided as early as feasible. Before dismantling, verify that the scaffold has not been altered in a way that makes it unsafe, and reconstruct or stabilize it as necessary. The competent person must evaluate, at each stage, whether fall protection and safe access are feasible and do not create a greater hazard. [4] [4] [13]

For documentation, OSHA requires the inspection itself by a competent person, but the cited guidance notes that the standard does not require written documentation of inspection findings. Even so, best practice is to document inspections, competent-person designation, training, load limits, repairs, and tag status. Common field controls include daily inspection tags at access points, red tags for unsafe scaffolds, green tags for approved scaffolds, and sign-in sheets or records for scaffold training. Documentation is especially useful for large or complex scaffolds, multi-employer sites, post-incident review, and demonstrating due diligence. [6] [12] [7]

Minimum safe-scaffold inspection program for employers:

  1. Designate a competent person with authority to stop work and correct hazards.
  2. Inspect every scaffold before each shift and after weather events, impact, alteration, or any condition that could affect structural integrity.
  3. Use a standardized checklist covering footing, plumb/level, bracing, ties, components, planking, guardrails, access, load, overhead hazards, and housekeeping.
  4. Tag out defective scaffolds immediately and prevent access until repaired and re-inspected.
  5. Provide and verify fall protection above 10 feet and during erection/dismantling whenever feasible.
  6. Ensure only trained and authorized workers erect, alter, dismantle, inspect, or use scaffolds.
  7. Maintain training records, repair records, and inspection/tagging controls as a best practice, even where written inspection records are not explicitly required.

[1] [6] [12]

13 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Oregon OSHA Program Directive | Scaffolds in Construction

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# PROGRAM DIRECTIVE (cont.) ## COMPLIANCE GUIDELINES FOR SIGNIFICANT GENERAL ISSUES IN SUBDIVISION L: (cont.) 1. The compliance officer must determine the identity of the competent person and assess the training and experience of that person at an early stage of any inspection. 2. Appendix A of this directive provides guidance for the compliance officer and the employer in evaluating compliance with requirements pertaining to competent person and qualified person responsibilities. B. Safe access and fall protection during the erection and dismantling of supported scaffolds. The standard requires that employers provide safe access and fall protection during erection or dismantling operations. 1. Oregon OSHA recognizes that compliance may not be feasible during certain scaffold erection and dismantling operations. However, employers are required to determine at each stage of erection and dismantling if safe access and fall protection can be provided and, if so, comply with the pertinent requirements. (a) A competent person who has the knowledge and experience necessary must be used to make the appropriate determination. (b) This evaluation must include a determination of feasibility. When the circumstances, present at the site, allow for an adequate fall protection system, the fall protection must be provided. 2. Provisions for safe access during erecting and dismantling of supported scaffolds are contained in 1926.451(e)(9). 3. Provision for the use of fall protection on supported scaffolds are contained in 1926.451(g)(1), see C. Fall Protection Requirements. Section (g)(2) addresses fall protection feasibility and providing fall protection for employees erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds. (a) Failure of the employer to have a competent person determine fall protection feasibility or failure to provide and have employees use fall protection during erecting and dismantling when it is feasible is a violation of 1926.451(g)(2). Employers ar…

[2] A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

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# How do tiebacks need to be installed? (cont.) ## When can welding be done from a suspension scaffold? (cont.) 7 # Access Requirements ## What are the requirements for access to scaffolds? Employers must provide access when the scaf- fold platforms are more than 2 feet (0.6 meters) above or below a point of access. 1926.451(e)(1) Direct access is acceptable when the scaffold is not more than 14 inches (36 centimeters) horizon- tally and not more than 24 inches (61 centimeters) vertically from the other surfaces. 1926.451(e)(8) The standard prohibits the use of crossbraces as a means of access. 1926.451(e)(1) ## What types of access can be used? Several types of access are permitted: • Ladders, such as portable, hook-on, attachable, and stairway 1926.451 (e)(2), • Stair towers 1926.451(e)(4), - Ramps and walkways 1926.451(e)(5), and - Integral prefabricated frames (1926.451(e)(6). ## What are the access requirements for employees erecting and dismantling supported scaffolds? Employees erecting and dismantling supported scaffolding must have a safe means of access provided when a competent person has determined the feasibility and analyzed the site conditions. 1926.451(e) ## Use Requirements Does the standard prohibit any types of scaffolds? Shore and lean-to scaffolds are strictly prohibited. 1926.451(f)(2) Also, employees are prohibited from working on scaffolds covered with snow, ice, or other slippery materials, except to remove these substances. 1926.451(f)(8) ## What are the clearance distances between scaffolds and powerlines? The standard requires specific clearance dis- tances. See page 42 of this publication and 1926.451(f)(6) for a table listing those distances. ## Fall Protection Requirements ## What is fall protection? Fall protection includes guardrail systems and personal fall arrest systems. Guardrail systems are explained below in another question. Personal fall arrest systems include harnesses, components of the harness/belt suc…

[3] A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

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# Summary and Explanation of the Final Rule ## What are the highlights of the scaffolding standard? OSHA's scaffolding standard has several key provisions: • Fall protection or fall arrest systems-Each em- ployee more than 10 feet above a lower level shall be protected from falls by guardrails or a fall arrest system, except those on single-point and two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. Each employee on a single-point and two-point adjustable suspended scaffold shall be protected by both a personal fall arrest system and a guardrail. 1926.451(g)(1) • Guardrail height-The height of the toprail for scaffolds manufactured and placed in service after January 1, 2000 must be between 38 inches (0.9 meters) and 45 inches (1.2 meters). The height of the toprail for scaffolds manufactured and placed in service before January 1, 2000 can be between 36 inches (0.9 meters) and 45 inches (1.2 meters). 1926.451(g)(4)(ii) • Crossbracing-When the crosspoint of crossbracing is used as a toprail, it must be between 38 inches (0.97 m) and 48 inches (1.3 meters) above the work platform. 1926.451(g)(4)(xv) •Midrails Midrails must be installed approxi- mately halfway between the toprail and the platform surface. When a crosspoint of crossbracing is used as a midrail, it must be between 20 inches (0.5 meters) and 30 inches (0.8 m) above the work platform. 1926.451(g)(4) •Footings-Support scaffold footings shall be level and capable of supporting the loaded scaffold. The legs, poles, frames, and uprights shall bear on base plates and mud sills. 1926.451(c)(2) • Platforms Supported scaffold platforms shall be fully planked or decked. 1926.451(b) • Guying ties, and braces-Supported scaffolds with a height-to-base of more than 4:1 shall be restained from tipping by guying, tying, bracing, or the equivalent. 1926.451(c)(1) • Capacity-Scaffolds and scaffold compponents must support at least 4 times the maximum intended load. Suspension scaffold rigging must at least 6 times the …

[4] OSHA Fact Sheet - Tube and Coupler Scaffolds — Erection and Use

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# Tube and Coupler Scaffolds – - Erection and Use (cont.) ## When Using a Scaffold (cont.) - Employees must not work on platforms covered with snow, ice, or other slippery material. • The employer must provide suitable access to and between scaffolds, such as portable ladders, hook-on ladders, attachable ladders and stairway-type ladders. ## When Dismantling a Scaffold Check to ensure that the scaffold has not been structurally altered in a way which would make it unsafe. Before beginning dismantling procedures, reconstruct and/or stabilize the scaffold as necessary. ## Training Workers Only trained and authorized persons should be allowed to use a scaffold. This training must be provided by a qualified person who understands the hazards associated with the type of scaffold being used and who knows the procedures to control or minimize those hazards. Training must include how to safely: • Use the scaffold, handle materials on the scaffold and determine the maximum load limits when handling materials. . Recognize and avoid scaffolding hazards such as electric shock, falls from heights, and being hit by falling objects. • Erect, maintain and disassemble fall and falling object protection systems. Erectors and dismantlers of tube and coupler scaffolds are at particular risk because their work starts before ladders, guardrails and platforms are completely installed. These workers must also be trained to: • Recognize scaffold hazards. . Properly erect, move, operate, repair, inspect, maintain and disassemble the scaffold; • Identify the maximum load-carrying capacity and intended use of the scaffold. Employers should train workers on the following safety factors: . The shape and structure of the building to be scaffolded. . Distinctive site conditions and any special features of the building structure in relation to the scaffold (i.e., overhead electric power lines or storage tanks). Also consider the proximity and condition of surrounding buildings. …

[5] Toolbox Talk: Supported Scaffolding

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# SUPPORTED SCAFFOLDING (cont.) ## SCAFFOLD HAZARDS (cont.) • Collapse of the scaffold, caused by instability or overloading: The proper erection of a scaffold is essential in preventing this hazard. Before erecting the scaffold, several factors must be accounted for. The weight the scaffold will be required to hold, including the weight of the scaffold itself, materials, and workers, shall be considered. Foundation stability, placement of scaffold planks, distance from the scaffold to the work surface, and tie-in requirements are just a few of the other items that must be considered. • Being struck by falling tools, work materials, or debris: Workers on scaffolds are not the only ones exposed to scaffold-related hazards. Many individuals have been injured or killed due to being struck by materials or tools that have fallen from scaffold platforms. To protect against this hazard, install toe boards or netting on work platforms to prevent these items from falling to the ground or lower-level work areas. Another option is to erect barricades that physically prevent individuals from walking under work platforms and dangerous areas. • Electrocution due to the proximity of the scaffold to overhead power lines: A minimum of 10' (might be more depending on voltage) must be maintained between the scaffold and electrical hazards. The power company must de-energize or adequately insulate the hazard if this distance cannot be maintained. Coordination between the power company and the company erecting/using the scaffold cannot be overstated. ## INSPECTING THE SCAFFOLD Inspecting scaffolding before each use is crucial to ensure it is safe and secure. A daily inspection should be performed to check the guardrails, connectors, fastenings, footing, tie-ins, and bracing. If any component is damaged, it should be repaired or replaced immediately. A competent person with experience in scaffolding safety should perform the inspection. Use Daily Scaffold Inspection tags. The tag s…

[6] Scaffolding Self-Inspection Checklist

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# Scaffolding Self-Inspection Checklist Date of Inspection: <empty> Jobsite Location: <empty> Signature of Inspector: <empty> <table><tr><th></th><th>Yes</th><th>No</th><th>N/A</th><th>Comment</th></tr><tr><td>1. Does each scaffold and scaffold component support (without failure) its own weight and at least 4 times the maximum intended load? (Note: The stall load of any scaffold hoist must not exceed 3 times its rated load.)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2. Are all working levels on scaffolds fully planked or decked between the front uprights and the guardrail supports?</td><td></td><td></td><td>□□□</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3. Are scaffold platform spaces 1 inch or less between adjacent units and the uprights? (Note: Spaces up to 9 ½ inches wide are permitted around uprights. If platforms are used only as walkways or during erecting or dismantling, the employer may establish the space between planking as necessary to provide safe working conditions.)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4. Are all scaffolding platforms at least 18 inches wide? (Note: Scaffold platforms less than 18 inches wide are permitted if wider platforms are not possible. However, students and employees who use these platforms must be protected by guardrails or personal fall arrest systems.)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5. Is the distance between the front edge of the scaffold platform and the face of the work 14 inches or less, unless guardrail systems are put along the front edge or personal fall arrest systems are used? (Note: Exceptions are permitted under special situations. Consult the OSHA regulations for details. The maximum distance from the face for plastering and latching operations is 18 inches.)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr></table> KEMI Making workers' comp work

[7] Scaffolding Self-Inspection Checklist

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# Scaffolding Self-Inspection Checklist (cont.) <table><tr><th>13. Do scaffold components from different manufacturers fit together without force and maintain the scaffold's structural integrity?</th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th></tr><tr><td>14. Are scaffold components from different manufacturers modified ONLY if a competent person determines that the scaffold made of the 'mixed' parts is structurally sound?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>15. Are scaffold components made of dissimilar metals used together ONLY if a competent person has determined that galvanic action will not reduce the strength of any component to an unacceptable level?</td><td></td><td>ப</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>16. Are scaffolds and scaffold components loaded below their maximum intended loads or rated capacities (whichever is less)?</td><td></td><td>□□</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>17. Is the use of shore or lean-to scaffolds prohibited?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>18. Does a competent person inspect scaffolds or scaffold components for visible defects before each work shift, and after any occurrence that could affect a scaffold's structural integrity?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>19. Are parts of a scaffold that are damaged or weakened immediately repaired, replaced, braced, or removed from service until repaired?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>20. Is the horizontal movement of a scaffold prohibited while workers are on the scaffold (unless the scaffold is designed for movement by a registered professional engineer, or is a mobile scaffold meeting OSHA standards?)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>21. Are scaffolds erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision and direction of a competent person qualified in scaffold erection, moving, dismantling, or alteration?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>22. Are scaffolds erected, …

[8] Construction Industry Checklist

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# Scaffolding (cont.) <table><tr><th>Falling object protection: In addition to wearing hard-hats, are employees provided with additional protection from falling hand tools, debris, and other small objects through the installation of toe boards, screens, or guardrail systems, or through the erection of debris nets, catch platforms or canopy structures that contain or deflect the falling objects? 1926.451(h)(1)</th><th></th><th></th></tr><tr><td>Additional Requirements: In addition to the applicable requirements of 1926.451(a)- (h), General Requirements...has the employer addressed any additional requirements which are applicable to specific types of scaffolds? 1926.452(a)-(y)</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Aerial lifts: Are aerial lifts designed and constructed in conformance with the applicable requirements of American National Standards for "Vehicle Mounted Elevating and Rotating Work Platforms," ANSI A92.2-1969, including appendix? 1926.453(a)-(b)</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Aerial Lifts (Extensible &amp; Articulating Boom Platforms): Are workers in aerial lifts equipped with standard guard rails and also wearing fall-restraint devices connected to manufacturer suggested tie off points on the boom or basket? 1926.453(b) (2)(v)</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Training Requirements: Are employees who perform work while on a scaffold trained by a person qualified in subject matter to recognize the hazards associated with the type of scaffold being used and in the understanding of procedures to control or minimize those hazards? 1926.454(a)</td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Training requirements: Does training address the nature of electrical hazards; fall hazards; falling object hazards; procedures for dealing with electrical hazards; for erecting, maintaining, and disassembling fall protection systems; falling object protection systems; proper use of the scaffold and proper handling of materials on the scaffold; maximum intended load and load carryin…

[9] OSHA Fact Sheet - Tube and Coupler Scaffolds — Erection and Use

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# OSHA FactSheet # Tube and Coupler Scaffolds – - Erection and Use Workers building scaffolds risk serious injury from falls and tip-overs, being struck by falling tools and other hazards, and electrocution from energized power lines. Before starting any scaffold project, the employer should conduct a hazard assessment to ensure the safety of workers. A tube and coupler scaffold has a platform(s) supported by tubing, and is erected with coupling devices connecting uprights, braces, bearers, and runners (see Fig. 1). Due to their strength, these scaffolds are frequently used where heavy loads need to be carried, or where multiple platforms must reach several stories high. These scaffolds can be assembled in multiple directions, making them the preferred option for work surfaces with irregular dimensions and/or contours. ## When Erecting a Scaffold Planking Guardrail System w/Toeboards Runner Bearer Post Rigid Clamp Sill Typical Joint Cross Diagonal Brace Connection Bracing Base Plate Swivel Clamp Figure 1: Tube and Coupler Scaffold • Use footings that are level, sound, rigid and capable of supporting the load without settlement or displacement. - Plumb and brace poles, legs, posts, frames, and uprights to prevent swaying and displacement. • Position the first level of bracing as close to the base as possible. - Plumb and level the scaffold as it is being erected. - Fasten all couplers and/or connections securely before assembling the next level. • Install guys, ties, and braces according to the manufacturer's recommendations. • Do not intermix scaffold components from different manufacturers, unless you can do so while maintaining the scaffold's structural integrity. - When platform units are abutted together to create a long platform, each abutted end must rest on a separate support surface. . Once erected, provide toeboards on all railed sides to prevent falling object hazards. ## When Using a Scaffold • Make sure that a competent person…

[10] Scaffolding in construction: requirements for competent persons

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## General requirements (cont.) SCAFFOLDING IN CONSTRUCTION: REQUIREMENTS FOR COMPETENT PERSONS 1926.451 (d)(18) Two-point and multi-point suspension scaffolds must be secured when a competent person determines it is necessary to prevent them from swaying. 1926.451 (e)(9)(i) Employees who erect or dismantle a scaffold must have a safe means of access to the scaffold when access is feasible and does not create a greater hazard. A competent person must make the feasibility determination based on site conditions and the type of scaffold being erected or dismantled. 1926.451 (f)(3) Scaffolds and scaffold components must be inspected for visible defects by a competent person before each work shift and after any event that could affect a scaffold's structural integrity. 1926.451 (f)(7) Scaffolds must be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision and direction of a competent person. The work must be performed only by experienced and trained employees selected by the competent person. 1926.451 (f)(12) Work on or from a scaffold is prohibited during storms or high winds unless a competent person has determined that it is safe to be on the scaffold and employees are protected by personal fall arrest systems or wind screens. Wind screens can be used only when the scaffold is secured against the anticipated wind force. 1926.451 (g)(2) Employers must provide fall protection for employees who erect or dismantle supported scaffolds when fall protection is feasible and does not create a greater hazard. A competent person must make the determination. 1926.451 (g)(4)(xiv) Manila, plastic, or other synthetic rope used for top rails or middle rails must be inspected by a competent person as often as necessary to ensure that it meets the strength and minimum height requirements for guardrail systems in 1926.451(g), Fall protection. ## Training requirements 1926.454(b) Employees who erect, disassemble, move, operate, repair, maintain, or inspect scaffolds…

[11] Oregon OSHA Program Directive | Scaffolds in Construction

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# COMPETENT/QUALIFIED PERSON (cont.) a. Oregon OSHA has determined that, while, there may be some situations where providing safe access for scaffold erectors and dismantlers is difficult, employers who carefully evaluate their scaffold operations can provide safe access or, at least minimize employee exposure to hazards. b. The competent person, therefore, will be expected to determine the appropriate means of access for erectors/dismantlers based on a site-specific analysis of the workplace conditions. 8. 1926.451(f)(3). The competent person is also required to inspect the scaffold and its components for visible defects before each work shift and after any occurrence which could affect the scaffold's structural integrity. a. However, on very large frame systems, the inspection is only required for areas to be used that work shift by employees. b. The standard does not require that the competent person document the inspection findings. 9. 1926.451(g)(4)(xiv) requires that any manila or synthetic rope being used for top rails or midrails be inspected by the competent person as often as necessary (daily and/or prior to use) to ensure that it continues to meet the strength requirements of 1926.451(g). 10. 1926.451(f)(7). A competent person qualified in scaffold erection, moving, dismantling or alteration is required to supervise and direct all scaffold erection, moving, alteration or dismantling activities. a. Such activities are to be performed only by trained and experienced employees selected by the competent person. b. The standard makes clear that, for these activities, the competent person must actually be on site and directing the work. 11. 1926.451(g)(2). For each scaffold erection and dismantling operation, the competent person must determine the feasibility of providing fall protection. a. Employers must provide fall protection to scaffold erectors and dismantlers and require it's use where the competent persons determination show…

[12] Scaffolding Safety

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WORK SAFE KENTUCKY Free safety resources provided by KEMI HOME SAFETY RESOURCES SAFETY TRAINING SAFETY BLOG ABOUT KEMI CONTACT US O # Scaffolding Safety ## Print a Sign-In Sheet | Spanish Version Most of the construction projects in the United States have some sort of scaffolding on the jobsite at some point during the various phases of construction. There are three main types of scaffolds: suspension, supported, and aerial lifts. The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that scaffold accidents result in 4,500 injuries and over 60 deaths each year. Common hazards working off scaffolding include falls, falling objects, electrical hazards, scaffold collapse, scaffold access, bad planking, and weather conditions. of • Always use scaffolding according to the manufacturer's instructions. • If a worker is working 10 feet or higher off scaffolding, then the worker must be protected by guardrails or a personal fall arrest system (PFAS). • Guardrails must be installed along all sides and ends to protect from fall hazards. Top rails must be between 38 to 45 inches high, midrails should be halfway between the platform and top rail, and toe boards must be at least 3 1/2" high. • PFAS must include an anchorage point, lifeline, and full-body harness. A PFAS can be used instead of guardrails on some scaffolds. A PFAS and guardrails must be used on all suspension scaffolds. Scaffold erectors and dismantlers use a PFAS when feasible. • Wear hard hat, utilize the toeboard, and barricade the area beneath a scaffold to help with falling object hazards. • Barricade an area around a scaffold to keep equipment and vehicles from running into and striking the scaffold. • Working near overhead powerlines is a serious electrical hazard when working off the scaffolding. Stay back at least 10 feet or check the clearance distances in the standard. Contact Us | Privacy Policy ©2022 KEMI • Scaffolding must be on good support with mudsills and base plates. Be sure to use a…

[13] Supported Scaffold Inspection Checklist

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# Supported Scaffold Inspection Checklist # (The form must be completed by a Competent Person) Job Name/Location: Name of Competent Person: <table><tr><th></th><th>Safety Requirements</th><th>Yes</th><th>No</th><th>N/A</th></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Was the scaffold erected under the direction of the competent person?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Is the scaffold erected on firm and stable footing?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Is the scaffold secure and stable?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Are all component pieces such as locking pins, framing, bracing in place? (Make sure pieces are not missing, loose, or damaged.)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Is the lumber for scaffold planks of scaffold grade and free of cracks, splits, and damage?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Has safe access been provided (such as a ladder, ramp, or stairway) for employees to get on and off the scaffold? (No climbing of cross braces.)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Has the scaffold been constructed and loaded in accordance with the 4 to1 base height ratio?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Is the scaffold plumb, square, and level?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Is the scaffold able to hold four times its maximum intended load?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Are all open sides of the scaffold protected?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Are guardrails or a means of fall protection in place above 10 feet? (Guardrail system must include top rail, mid rail, and toe board).</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Are guardrails installed at a height between 36" and 45"?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Are toe boards at least 3 ½ inches high?</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Is the front of the working platform …

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