A Guide to 

Scaffold Use in the 

Construction Industry 

Small Business Safety Management Series 

OSHA 3150 

2002 (Revised) 
This informational booklet is intended to provide 

a generic, non-exhaustive overview of a particular 

standards-related topic. This publication does not 

itself alter or determine compliance responsibilities, 

which are set forth in OSHA standards themselves 

and the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 

1970. 

Moreover, because interpretations and enforcement 

policy may change over time, for additional guidance on OSHA compliance requirements, the reader 

should consult current administrative interpretations 

and decisions by the Occupational Safety and 

Health Review Commission and the courts. 

Material contained in this publication is in the 

public domain and may be reproduced, fully or 

partially, without permission of the Federal 

Government. Source credit is requested but not 

required. 

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impaired individuals upon request. 

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A Guide to Scaffold Use 

in the Construction Industry 

Small Business Safety Management Series 

U.S. Department of Labor 

Occupational Safety and Health Administration 

OSHA 3150 

2002 (Revised) 
Contents iii 

How to Use This Booklet .............................................................................................................................. v 

Summary ....................................................................................................................................................... 1 

General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 ......................................................................................... 3 

Capacity .................................................................................................................................................... 3 

Scaffold Platform Construction ................................................................................................................ 3 

Criteria for Supported Scaffolds............................................................................................................... 4 

Criteria for Suspended Scaffolds .............................................................................................................. 4 

Access Requirements ............................................................................................................................... 7 

Use Requirements .................................................................................................................................... 7 

Fall Protection Requirements ................................................................................................................... 7 

Falling Object Protection.......................................................................................................................... 8 

Specific Scaffold §1926.452 and Aerial Lift Requirements §1926.453 ..................................................... 9 

Training Requirements §1926.454 ............................................................................................................ 10 

Non-Mandatory Appendices to the Standard .......................................................................................... 11 

OSHA Assistance, Services, and Programs .............................................................................................. 12 

Safety and Health Program Management Assistance ............................................................................. 12 

State Plans .............................................................................................................................................. 12 

Consultation Assistance.......................................................................................................................... 12 

Voluntary Protection Programs .............................................................................................................. 13 

OSHA’s Strategic Partnership Program .................................................................................................. 14 

Training and Education .......................................................................................................................... 15 

Other Assistance Materials ..................................................................................................................... 15 

OSHA Regional and Area Offices ............................................................................................................. 16 

OSHA-Approved Safety and Health Plans ............................................................................................... 21 

OSHA Onsite Consultation Offices ........................................................................................................... 23 

Construction Focused Inspection Guidelines ........................................................................................... 28 

Regulatory Text .......................................................................................................................................... 29 

Contents 
 

How to Use This Booklet v

The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 

charges the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) with protecting all working men 

and women across the United States. To do so, the 

agency sets federal standards1

 for general industry, 

construction, and shipyard employment. OSHA also 

promotes a variety of voluntary programs that strive 

to form partnerships with businesses, labor, and 

other groups to help employers provide safer and 

more healthful workplaces for employees. Some of 

the agency’s voluntary initiatives include safety and 

health management programs, the Voluntary Protection Programs, consultation assistance, and training 

and education programs and grants. For more 

information on these outreach efforts, see page 12 of 

this booklet. 

The agency’s recent rule, Safety Standards for 

Scaffolds Use in the Construction Industry rule aims 

to protect workers using scaffolding in construction 

work. Scaffolding hazards continue to rank high on 

the list of the most frequently cited standards in the 

construction industry. Scaffold-related fatalities 

account for a significant number of fatalities in the 

1 Section 18(b) of The Occupational Safety and Health Act 

of 1970, P.L. 91-596, encourages states to develop and 

operate, under OSHA guidance, their own job safety and 

health plans. An OSHA-approved state plan must have 

safety and health requirements at least as effective as those 

of Federal OSHA and must adopt comparable state 

standards within 6 months of promulgation of federal 

standards. 

construction workplace. This booklet addresses 

some of the most common questions about OSHA’s 

scaffold standard. It is all part of the agency’s effort 

to provide guidance to employers who need help in 

complying with OSHA’s standards to protect the 

working men and women across the nation. 

This booklet is organized in a question and 

answer format to highlight pertinent information 

that employers and employees need to know. The 

subjects addressed in each question follow the basic 

organization of the standard. In addition, each 

answer references the regulatory text where that 

particular information can be located. These references appear at the end of each answer in boldface 

type. 

An appendix also includes an alphabetical index 

to the standard for quick reference. 

It is important to note that the question and 

answer section of this booklet simply provides an 

overview of the standard. For compliance with all 

of the regulation’s requirements, refer to the regulatory text or Title 29 of the Code Federal Regulations 

(CFR) Part 1926, Subpart L. 

How to Use This Booklet 
Summary and Explanation of the Final Rule 1

What are the highlights of the scaffolding • Training—Employers must train each employee 

standard? who works on a scaffold on the hazards and the 

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 intended load. 1926.451(a)(1) and (3) 

procedures to control the hazards. 1926.454 

• Inspections—Before each work shift and after any 

occurrence that could affect the structural integrity, 

a competent person must inspect the scaffold and 

scaffold components for visible defects. 

1926.451(f)(3) 

• Erecting and Dismantling—When erecting and 

dismantling supported scaffolds, a competent 

person2

 must determine the feasibility of providing a 

safe means of access and fall protection for these 

operations. 1926.451(e)(9) & (g)(2) 

When is a competent person required for

scaffolding? 

OSHA’s scaffolding standard defines a competent 

person as “one who is capable of identifying existing 

and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working 

conditions, which are unsanitary, hazardous to employ- ees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.” 

The standard requires a competent person to perform 

the following duties under these 

circumstances: 

• In General: 

- To select and direct employees who erect, dis- mantle, move, or alter scaffolds. 1926.451(f)(7) 

- To determine if it is safe for employees to work on 

or from a scaffold during storms or high winds 

and to ensure that a personal fall arrest system or 

wind screens protect these employees. (Note: 

Windscreens should not be used unless the 

scaffold is secured against the anticipated wind 

forces imposed.) 1926.451(f)(12) 

• For Training: 

- To train employees involved in erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, maintaining, or inspecting scaffolds to recognize associated work hazards. 1926.454(b) 

• For Inspections: 

- To inspect scaffolds and scaffold components for 

visible defects before each work shift and after 

any occurrence which could affect the structural 

integrity and to authorize prompt corrective 

actions. 1926.451(f)(3) 

2 See the standard’s requirements for and definition of a 

competent person in the next question. 

Summary 
2 

 

- To inspect ropes on suspended scaffolds prior 

to each workshift and after every occurrence 

which could affect the structural integrity and 

to authorize prompt corrective actions. 

1926.451(d)(10) 

- To inspect manila or plastic (or other syn- thetic) rope being used for toprails or midrails. 

1926.451(g)(4)(xiv) 

• For Suspension Scaffolds: 

- To evaluate direct connections to support the 

load. 1926.451 (d)(3)(i) 

- To evaluate the need to secure two-point and 

multi-point scaffolds to prevent swaying. 

1926.451(d)(18) 

• For Erectors and Dismantlers: 

- To determine the feasibility and safety of 

providing fall protection and access. 

1926.451(e)(9) and 1926.451(g)(2) 

- To train erectors and dismantlers (effective 

September 2, 1997) to recognize associated 

work hazards. 1926.454(b) 

• For Scaffold Components: 

- To determine if a scaffold will be structurally 

sound when intermixing components from 

different manufacturers. 1926.451(b)(10) 

- To determine if galvanic action has affected 

the capacity when using components of 

dissimilar metals. 1926.451(b)(11) 

When is a qualified person required for

scaffolding? 

The standard defines a qualified person as “one 

who—by possession of a recognized degree, 

certificate, or professional standing, or who by 

extensive knowledge, training, and experience—has 

successfully demonstrated his/her ability to solve or 

resolve problems related to the subject matter, the 

work, or the project.” 

The qualified person must perform the following 

duties in these circumstances: 

• In General: 

- To design and load scaffolds in accordance 

with that design. 1926.451(a)(6) 

• For Training: 

- To train employees working on the scaffolds 

to recognize the associated hazards and 

understand procedures to control or minimize 

those hazards. 1926.454(a) 

• For Suspension Scaffolds: 

- To design the rigging for single-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. 1926.452(o)(2)(i) 

- To design platforms on two-point adjustable 

suspension types that are less than 36 inches 

(0.9 m) wide to prevent instability. 

1926.452(p)(1) 

- To make swaged attachments or spliced eyes 

on wire suspension ropes. 1926.451(d)(11) 

• For Components and Design: 

- To design scaffold components construction in 

accordance with the design. 1926.451(a)(6) 

When is an engineer required? 

The standard requires a registered professional 

engineer to perform the following duties in these 

circumstances: 

• For Suspension Scaffolds: 

- To design the direct connections of masons’ 

multi-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. 

1926.451(d)(3)( i) 

• For Design: 

- To design scaffolds that are to be moved when 

employees are on them. 1926.451(f)(5) 

- To design pole scaffolds over 60 feet (18.3 

meters) in height. 1926.452(a)(10) 

- To design tube and coupler scaffolds over 125 

feet (38 meters) in height. 1926.452(b)(10) 

- To design fabricated frame scaffolds over 125 

feet (38 meters) in height above their base 

plates. 1926.452(c)(6) 

- To design brackets on fabricated frame scaffolds used to support cantilevered loads in 

addition to workers. 1926.452(c)(5) 

- To design outrigger scaffolds and scaffold 

components. 1926.452(i)(8) 

What other standards apply to scaffolds? 

29 CFR contains other standards that apply to 

construction work such as the responsibility to initiate 

and maintain programs (1926.29(b)(1)); exposures to 

dusts and chemicals (1926.33, .55, .59, .62, and 

.1101); hand and power tools (1926.300 - .307); 

electrical (1926.300 - .449); personal fall arrest 

systems (1926.502); and ladders (1926.1050 - .1060). 

Summary 
General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 3 

Capacity 

What are the capacity requirements for all 

scaffolds? 

Each scaffold and scaffold component must 

support without failure its own weight and at least 

four times the maximum intended load applied or 

transmitted to it. 1926.451(a)(1) 

A qualified person must design the scaffolds, 

which are loaded in accordance with that design. 

1926.451(a)(6) 

Scaffolds and scaffold components must not be 

loaded in excess of their maximum intended loads 

or rated capacities, whichever is less. 

1926.451(f)(1) 

Load carrying timber members should be a 

minimum of 1,500 lb-f/in2

 construction grade 

lumber. Appendix A (1)(a) 

Scaffold Platform Construction 

What are scaffold platform construction 

requirements? 

Each platform must be planked and decked as 

fully as possible with the space between the 

platform and uprights not more than 1 inch (2.5 

centimeters) wide. The space must not exceed 9 

inches (24.1 centimetersm) when side brackets or 

odd-shaped structures result in a wider opening 

between the platform and the uprights. 

1926.451(b)(1) 

What are the requirements for scaffold 

planking? 

Scaffold planking must be able to support, 

without failure, its own weight and at least four 

times the intended load. 1926.451(a)(1) 

Solid sawn wood, fabricated planks, and fabricated platforms may be used as scaffold planks 

following the recommendations by the manufacturer or a lumber grading association or inspection 

agency. Appendix A (1)(b) and (c) 

Tables showing maximum permissible spans, 

rated load capacity, and nominal thickness are in 

Appendix A (1)(b) & (c) of the standard. 

What is the maximum deflection of a 

platform? 

The platform must not deflect more than 1/60 of 

the span when loaded. 1926.451(f)(16) 

Are there requirements for work on 

platforms cluttered with debris? 

The standard prohibits work on platforms 

cluttered with debris. 1926.451(f)(13) 

How wide does the work area need to be 

on scaffolding? 

Each scaffold platform and walkway must be at 

least 18 inches (46 centimeters) wide. When the 

work area is less than 18 inches (46 centimeters) 

wide, guardrails and/or personal fall arrest systems 

must be used. 1926.451(b)(2) 

Are guardrails required on all open sides 

of scaffolding? 

The standard requires employers to protect each 

employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet (3.1 m) 

above a lower level from falling to that lower level. 

1926.451(g)(1) 

To ensure adequate protection, install guardrails 

along all open sides and ends before releasing the 

scaffold for use by employees, other than the 

erection and dismantling crews. 1926.451(g)(4) 

Guardrails are not required, however, 

• When the front end of all platforms are less than 

14 inches (36 centimeters) from the face of the 

work; 1926.451(b)(3) 

• When outrigger scaffolds are 3 inches 

(8 centimeters) or less from the front edge; 

1926.451(b)(3)(l) 

• When employees are plastering and lathing 

18 inches (46 centimeters) or less from the front 

edge. 1926.451(b)(3)(ii) 

What materials are unacceptable for

 guardrails? 

Steel or plastic banding must not be used as a 

toprail or a midrail. 1926.451(g)(4)(xiii) 

General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 
4 

Criteria for Supported Scaffolds 

What are supported scaffolds? 

Supported scaffolds are platforms supported by 

legs, outrigger beams, brackets, poles, uprights, 

posts, frames, or similar rigid support. 1926.451(b) 

The structural members, poles, legs, posts, 

frames, and uprights, must be plumb and braced to 

prevent swaying and displacement. 1926.451(c)(3) 

Do employees working on supported 

scaffolds need to be trained? 

All employees must be trained by a qualified 

person to recognize the hazards associated with the 

type of scaffold being used and how to control or 

minimize those hazards. The training must include 

fall hazards, falling object hazards, electrical 

hazards, proper use of the scaffold, and handling of 

materials. 1926.454(a) 

When do supported scaffolds need to be 

restrained from tipping? 

Supported scaffolds with a height to base width 

ratio of more than 4:1 must be restrained by guying, tying, bracing, or an equivalent means. 

1926.451(c)(1) 

How can one prevent supported 

scaffolding from tipping? 

Either the manufacturers’ recommendation or the 

following placements must be used for guys, ties, 

and braces: 

• Install guys, ties, or braces at the closest horizontal member to the 4:1 height and repeat 

vertically with the top restraint no further than 

the 4:1 height from the top. 

• Vertically—every 20 feet (6.1 meters) or less for 

scaffolds less than three feet (0.91 meters) wide; 

every 26 feet (7.9 meters) or less for scaffolds 

more than three feet (0.91 meters) wide. 

• Horizontally—at each end; at intervals not to 

exceed 30 feet (9.1 meters) from one end. 

1926.451(c)(1) 

What are the footing and foundation 

requirements for supported scaffolds? 

Supported scaffolds’ poles, legs, posts, frames, and 

uprights must bear on base plates and mud sills, or other 

adequate firm foundation. 1926.451(c)(2)(i) and (ii) 

May forklifts, front-end loaders, or similar 

equipment support platforms? 

Forklifts can support platforms only when the 

entire platform is attached to the fork and the forklift 

does not move horizontally when workers are on the 

platform. 1926.451(c)(2)(v) 

Front-end loaders and similar equipment can 

support scaffold platforms only when they have been 

specifically designed by the manufacturer for such 

use. 1926.451(c)(2)(iv) 

What materials can be used to increase 

the working level height of employees on 

supported scaffolds? 

Stilts may be used on a large area scaffold. When 

a guardrail system is used, the guardrail height must 

be increased in height equal to the height of the stilts. 

The manufacturer must approve any alterations to the 

stilts. 1926.452(v) 

Note: A large area scaffold consists of a pole, tube 

and coupler systems, or a fabricated frame scaffold 

erected over substantially the entire work area. 

1926.451(b) 

Criteria for Suspended Scaffolds 

What are suspension scaffolds? 

A suspension scaffold contains one or more 

platforms suspended by ropes or other non-rigid 

means from an overhead structure, 1926.450(b), 

such as the following scaffolds: single-point, multipoint, multi-level, two-point, adjustable, boatswains’ 

chair, catenary, chimney hoist, continuous run, 

elevator false car, go-devils, interior hung, masons’, 

and stone setters’. 

General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 
 

5 

Are there requirements for suspension 

scaffolds? 

Some of the requirements for all types of 

suspension scaffolds include: 

• Employers must ensure that all employees are 

trained to recognize the hazards associated with the 

type of scaffold being used. 1926.451(d)(1) 

• All support devices must rest on surfaces capable 

of supporting at least four times the load imposed 

on them by the scaffold when operating at the rated 

load of the hoist, or at least one-and-a-half times 

the load imposed on them by the scaffold at the 

stall capacity of the hoist, whichever is greater. 

1926.451(d)(1) 

• A competent person must evaluate all direct 

connections prior to use to confirm that the supporting surfaces are able to support the imposed 

load, 1926.451(d)(1) 

• All suspension scaffolds must be tied or otherwise 

secured to prevent them from swaying, as determined by a competent person. 1926.451(d) 

• Guardrails, a personal fall arrest system, or both 

must protect each employee more than 10 feet 

(3.1 meters) above a lower level from falling. 

1926.451(g) 

• A competent person must inspect ropes for 

defects prior to each workshift and after every 

occurrence that could affect a rope’s integrity. 

1926.451(d)(10) 

• When scaffold platforms are more than 24 

inches (61 centimeters) above or below a point 

of access, ladders, ramps, walkways, or similar 

surfaces must be used. 1926.451(e)(1) 

• When using direct access, the surface must not 

be more than 24 inches (61 centimeters) above 

or 14 inches (36 cm) horizontally from the 

surface. 1926.451(e)(8) 

• When lanyards are connected to horizontal 

lifelines or structural members on single-point 

or two-point adjustable scaffolds, the scaffold 

must have additional independent support lines 

equal in number and strength to the suspension 

lines and have automatic locking devices. 

1926.451(g)(3)(iii) 

• Emergency escape and rescue devices must not 

be used as working platforms, unless designed 

to function as suspension scaffolds and 

emergency systems. 1926.451(d)(19) 

Are there specific requirements for 

counterweights? 

Counterweights used to balance adjustable 

suspension scaffolds must be able to resist at least 

four times the tipping moment imposed by the 

scaffold operating at either the rated load of the 

hoist, or one-and-a-half (minimum) times the 

tipping moment imposed by the scaffold operating 

at the stall load of the hoist, whichever is greater. 

1926.451(a)(2) 

Only those items specifically designed as counterweights must be used. 1926.451(d)(3)(iii) 

Counterweights used for suspended scaffolds 

must be made of materials that can not be easily 

dislocated. Flowable material, such as sand or 

water, cannot be used. 1926.451(d)(3)(ii) 

Counterweights must be secured by mechanical 

means to the outrigger beams. 1926.451(d)(3)(iv) 

Vertical lifelines must not be fastened to 

counterweights. 1926.451(g)(3)(i) 

Can sand, masonry units, or rolls of 

roofing felt be used for counterweights? 

No. Such materials cannot be used as 

counterweights. 1926.451(d)(3)(ii) and (iii) 

What are the specific requirements for 

outrigger beams? 

Outrigger beams (thrustouts) are the structural 

members of a suspension or outrigger scaffold that 

provide support. 1926.450(b) They must be placed 

perpendicular to their bearing support. 

1926.451(d)(3)(viii) 

Where do tiebacks for outrigger beams, 

cornice hooks, roof hooks, roof irons, 

parapet clamps, or similar devices need 

to be secured? 

Tiebacks must be secured to a structurally sound 

anchorage on the building or structure. Sound 

anchorages do not include standpipes, vents, other 

piping systems, or electrical conduit. 

1926.451(d)(3)(ix) and (d)(5) 

General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 
THE NEED FOR PPE 

6 

How do tiebacks need to be installed? 

A single tieback must be installed perpendicular 

to the face of the building or structure. Two tiebacks 

installed at opposing angles are required when a 

perpendicular tieback cannot be installed. 

1926.451(d)(3)(x) 

What are the requirements for 

suspension ropes? 

The suspension ropes must be long enough to 

allow the scaffold to be lowered to the level below 

without the rope passing through the hoist, or the 

end of the rope configured to prevent the end from 

passing through the hoist. 1926.451(d)(6) 

The standard prohibits using repaired wire. 

1926.451(d)(7) 

Drum hoists must contain no less than four wraps 

of the rope at the lowest point. 1926.451(d)(6) 

Employers must replace wire rope when the 

following conditions exist: kinks; six randomly 

broken wires in one rope lay or three broken wires 

in one strand in one lay; one third of the original 

diameter of the outside wires is lost; heat damage; 

evidence that the secondary brake has engaged the 

rope; and any other physical damage that impairs 

the function and strength of the rope. 

1926.451(d)(10) 

Suspension ropes supporting adjustable suspension scaffolds must be a diameter large enough to 

provide sufficient surface area for the functioning 

of brake and hoist mechanisms. 1926.451(f)(10) 

Suspension ropes must be shielded from 

heat-producing processes. 1926.451(f)(11) 

What are some of the requirements for 

power-operated suspension scaffold 

hoists? 

Power-operated hoists used to raise or lower a 

suspended scaffold must be tested and listed by a 

qualified testing laboratory. 1926.451(d)(13) 

The stall load of any scaffold hoist must not 

exceed three times its rated load. 1926.451(a)(5) 

The stall load is the load at which the prime-mover 

(motor or engine) of a power-operated hoist stalls 

or the power to the prime-mover is automatically 

disconnected. 1926.451(b) 

Gasoline power-operated hoists or equipment are 

not permitted. 1926.451(d)(14) 

Drum hoists must contain no less than four wraps 

of suspension rope at the lowest point of scaffold 

travel. 1926.451(d)(6) 

Gears and brakes must be enclosed. 

1926.451(d)(15) 

An automatic braking and locking device, in 

addition to the operating brake, must engage when 

a hoist makes an instantaneous change in momentum or an accelerated overspeed. 1926.451(d)(16) 

What are some of the requirements for 

manually operated suspension scaffold 

hoists? 

Manually operated hoists used to raise or lower a 

suspended scaffold must be tested and listed by a 

qualified testing laboratory. 1926.451(d)(13) 

These hoists require a positive crank force to 

descend. 1926.451(d)(17) 

When can welding be done from a 

suspension scaffold? 

Welding can be done from suspended scaffolds 

when 

• A grounding conductor is connected from the 

scaffold to the structure and is at least the size of 

the welding lead; 

• The grounding conductor is not attached in 

series with the welding process or the work 

piece; 

• An insulating material covers the suspension 

wire rope and extends at least four feet (1.2 

meters) above the hoist; 

• Insulated protective covers cover the hoist; 

• The tail line is guided, retained, or both, so that 

it does not become grounded; 

• Each suspension rope is attached to an insulated 

thimble; and 

• Each suspension rope and any other independent 

lines are insulated from grounding. 

1926.451(f)(17) 

What materials can be used to increase 

the working level height of employees on 

suspended scaffolds? 

No materials or devices may be used to increase 

the working height on a suspension scaffold. This 

includes ladders, boxes, and barrels. 

1926.451(f)(14) and (15) 

General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 
7 

Access Requirements 

What are the requirements for access to 

scaffolds? 

Employers must provide access when the scaffold 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) horizontally and not more than 24 inches (61centimeters) 

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 distances. 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 such as Dee-rings, and snap hooks, 

lifelines, and anchorage point. 1926.451(g)(3) 

Vertical or horizontal lifelines may be used. 

1926.451(g)(3)(ii) through (iv) 

Lifelines must be independent of support lines 

and suspension ropes and not attached to the same 

anchorage point as the support or suspension ropes. 

1926.451(g)(3)(iii) and (iv) 

When working from an aerial lift, attach the fall 

arrest system to the boom or basket. 

1926.453(b)(2)(v) 

What are the fall protection requirements 

for all scaffolds? 

Employers must provide fall protection for each 

employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet (3.1 

meters) above a lower level. 1926.451(g)(1) 

A competent person must determine the feasibility and safety of providing fall protection for 

employees erecting or dismantling supported 

scaffolds. 1926.451(g)(2) 

How will I know what kind of fall 

protection to provide for a specific-type of 

scaffold? 

The chart on the next page illustrates the type of 

fall protection required for specific scaffolds. 

General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 
8 

Type of Scaffold 

Aerial lifts 

Boatswains’ chair 

Catenary scaffold 

Crawling board

(chicken ladder) 

Float scaffold 

Ladder jack scaffold 

Needle beam scaffold 

Self-contained 

adjustable scaffold

when supported

by ropes 

Single-point and

two-point suspension

scaffolds 

Supported scaffold 

All other scaffolds 

not specified above 

Fall Protection 

Required 

Personal fall arrest 

system 

Personal fall arrest 

system 

Personal fall arrest 

system 

Personal fall 

arrest system, or a 

guardrail system, or 

by a 3/4 inch (1.9 cm)

diameter grabline or

equivalent handhold 

securely fastened

beside each crawling

board 

Personal fall arrest 

system 

Personal fall arrest 

system 

Personal fall arrest 

system 

Both a personal fall

arrest system and 

a guardrail system 

Both a personal fall

arrest system and a 

guardrail system 

Personal fall arrest 

system or guardrail

system 

Personal fall arrest 

system or guardrail

systems that meet the

required criteria 

When can personal fall arrest systems be

used when working on scaffolding and 

aerial lifts? 

Personal fall arrest systems can be used on

scaffolding when there are no guardrail systems.

1926.451(g)(1)(vii)

Use fall arrest systems when working from the

following types of scaffolding: boatswains’ chair,

catenary, float, needle beam, ladder, and pump jack.

1926.451(g)(1)

Use fall arrest systems also when working from

the boom/basket of an aerial lift. 1926.453(b)(2)(v) 

When are both fall arrest and guardrail

systems required? 

Each employee on a self-contained adjustable 

scaffold shall be protected by a guardrail system 

(with minimum 200 pound toprail capacity) when 

the platform is supported by the frame structure, 

and by both a personal fall arrest system and a 

guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound toprail 

capacity) when the platform is supported by ropes. 

1926.451(g)(1)(iv) 

Falling Object Protection 

What protections from overhead falling

objects do the standards require? 

To protect employees from falling hand tools,

debris, and other small objects, install toeboards,

screens, guardrail systems, debris nets, catch

platforms, canopy structures, or barricades. In

addition, employees must wear hard hats.

1926.451(h)(1) & (2) and (3) 

General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 
Specific Scaffold (§1926.452) and Aerial Lift (§1926.453) Requirements 9

Specific Scaffold Requirements

§1926.452 

Are there additional requirements for 

specific types of scaffolds? 

The standard addresses other requirements for 

specific types of scaffolds such as mobile, ladder, 

and pump jack, fabricated frame, and tube and 

coupler scaffolds. These are found in 1926.452, 

“Additional Requirements Applicable to Specific 

Types of Scaffolds.” 

Aerial Lift Requirements §1926.453 

What are aerial lifts? 

Vehicle-mounted aerial devices used to elevate 

employees—such as extensible boom platforms, 

aerial lifts, articulating boom platforms, and 

vertical towers—are considered “aerial lifts.” 

1926.453(a)(1) 

Do aerial lifts and mobile scaffolds have 

the same requirements? 

The 1926.453 and 1926.454 standards apply to 

aerial lifts. The 1926.451, 1926.452, and 1926.454 

standards apply to mobile scaffolds. 

What are some of the specific 

requirements for aerial lifts? 

Some specific requirements include the 

following: 

• Only authorized personnel can operate aerial 

lifts. 

• The manufacturer or equivalent must certify any 

modification. 

• The insulated portion must not be altered to 

reduce its insulating value. 

• Lift controls must be tested daily. 

• Controls must be clearly marked. 

• Brakes must be set and outriggers used. 

• Boom and basket load limits must not be 

exceeded. 

• Employees must wear personal fall arrest 

systems, with the lanyard attached to the boom 

or basket. 

• No devices to raise the employee above the 

basket floor can be used. 1926.453(b) 

Specific Scaffold (§1926.452) and Aerial Lift (§1926.453) Requirements 
10 Training Requirements §1926.454 

What are the training standards for 

employees who work on scaffolds? 

All employees who work on a scaffold must be 

trained by a person qualified to recognize the 

hazards associated with the type of scaffold used 

and to understand the procedures to control and 

minimize those hazards. 1926.454(a) 

What are the training standards for 

employees who work, erect, dismantle, 

move, operate, repair, maintain, or inspect 

scaffolds? 

A competent person must train all employees 

who erect, disassemble, move, operate, repair, 

maintain, or inspect scaffolds. Training must cover 

the nature of the hazards, the correct procedures for 

erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, inspecting, and maintaining the type of 

scaffold in use. 1926.454(b) 

Other recommended training topics include 

erection and dismantling, planning, personal 

protective equipment, access, guys and braces, and 

parts inspection. Appendix D 

What are the retraining requirements for 

employees working on scaffolds? 

The standard requires retraining when (1) no 

employee training has taken place for the worksite 

changes, scaffold changes, or falling object protection changes; or (2) where the employer believes 

the employee lacks the necessary skill, understanding, or proficiency to work safely. 1926.454(c) 

Training Requirements §1926.454 
Non-Mandatory Appendices to the Standard 11

Why are the Appendices to the Subpart L 

scaffolding standards important? Do 

they address standard requirements? 

All of the appendices are non-mandatory and 

contain selection criteria for planks; American 

National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard 

references for aerial lifts; criteria for determining 

the feasibility of providing safe access and fall 

protection, and training for erectors and 

dismantlers; and drawings of various types of 

scaffolds and components. 

To summarize, Appendix A of Subpart L 

addresses scaffold specifications and provides 

non-mandatory guidelines to assist employers in 

complying with Subpart L requirements. These 

guidelines and tables provide a starting point for 

designing scaffold systems; however, they do not 

provide all the information necessary to build a 

complete system. Therefore, the employer is still 

responsible for designing and assembling these 

components so that the completed system meets the 

final rule requirements in 1926.451(a). 

Appendix C lists national consensus standards 

related to aerial, vehicle mounted, manually 

propelled, self-propelled, mast climbing, and other 

such devices. 

Appendix D serves as a guide to assist employers when evaluating the training needs for employees erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds. 

Appendix E provides drawings of particular 

types of scaffolds and scaffold components as well 

as graphic illustrations of bracing patterns and 

tie-spacing patterns. 

Non-Mandatory Appendices to the Standard 
12 Other Sources of OSHA Assistance 

How can OSHA help me? 

OSHA can provide extensive help through a 

variety of programs, including assistance about 

safety and health programs, state plans, workplace 

consultations, voluntary protection programs, 

strategic partnerships, training and education, and 

more. 

How does safety and health program 

management help employers and 

employees? 

Effective management of worker safety and 

health protection is a decisive factor in reducing the 

extent and severity of work-related injuries and 

illnesses and their related costs. In fact, an effective 

safety and health management system forms the 

basis of good worker protection and can save time 

and money—about $4 for every dollar spent—and 

increase productivity. 

To assist employers and employees in developing effective safety and health programs, OSHA 

published recommended Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines (Federal Register 

54(18):3904-3916, January 26, 1989). These 

voluntary guidelines can be applied to all worksites 

covered by OSHA. 

The guidelines identify four general elements 

that are critical to the development of a successful 

safety and health management program: 

• Management leadership and employee 

participation, 

• Worksite analysis, 

• Hazard prevention and control, and 

• Safety and health training. 

The guidelines recommend specific actions 

under each of these general elements to achieve an 

effective safety and health program. The Federal 

Register notice is available online at www.osha.gov. 

What are state plans? 

State plans are OSHA-approved job safety and 

health programs operated by individual states or 

territories instead of Federal OSHA. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act) 

encourages states to develop and operate their own 

job safety and health plans and permits state 

enforcement of OSHA standards if the state has an 

approved plan. Once OSHA approves a state plan, 

it funds 50 percent of the program’s operating costs. 

State plans must provide standards and enforcement 

programs, as well as voluntary compliance activities, that are at least as effective as those of Federal 

OSHA. 

There are 26 state plans: 23 cover both private 

and public (state and local government) employment, and 3 (Connecticut, New Jersey, and New 

York) cover only the public sector. For more 

information on state plans, see the listing at the end 

of this publication, or visit OSHA’s website at 

www.osha.gov. 

How can consultation assistance help 

employers? 

In addition to helping employers identify and 

correct specific hazards, OSHA’s consultation 

service provides free, onsite assistance in developing and implementing effective workplace safety 

and health management systems that emphasize the 

Comprehensive consultation assistance provided 

by OSHA includes a hazard survey of the worksite 

and an appraisal of all aspects of the employer’s 

existing safety and health management system. In 

addition, the service offers assistance to employers 

in developing and implementing an effective safety 

and health management system. Employers also 

may receive training and education services, as well 

as limited assistance away from the worksite. 

Who can get consultation assistance and 

what does it cost? 

Consultation assistance is available to small 

employers (with fewer than 250 employees at a 

fixed site and no more than 500 corporatewide) 

who want help in establishing and maintaining a 

safe and healthful workplace.

 Funded largely by OSHA, the service is provided at no cost to the employer. Primarily developed for smaller employers with more hazardous 

operations, the consultation service is delivered by 

state governments employing professional safety 

and health consultants. No penalties are proposed 

or citations issued for hazards identified by the 

consultant. The employer’s only obligation is to 

correct all identified serious hazards within the 

agreed upon correction time frame. OSHA provides 

consultation assistance to the employer with the 

Other Sources of OSHA Assistance 
13 

assurance that his or her name and firm and any 

information about the workplace will not be routinely reported to OSHA enforcement staff. 

Can OSHA assure privacy to an employer 

who asks for consultation assistance? 

OSHA provides consultation assistance to the 

employer with the assurance that his or her name 

and firm and any information about the workplace 

will not be routinely reported to OSHA 

enforcement staff. 

Can an employer be cited for violations 

after receiving consultation assistance? 

If an employer fails to eliminate or control a 

serious hazard within the agreed-upon time frame, 

the consultation project manager must refer the 

situation to the OSHA enforcement office for 

appropriate action. This is a rare occurrence, 

however, since employers request the service for 

the expressed purpose of identifying and fixing 

hazards in their workplaces. 

Does OSHA provide any incentives for 

seeking consultation assistance? 

Yes. Under the consultation program, certain 

exemplary employers may request participation in 

OSHA’s Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP). Eligibility for participation 

in SHARP includes, but is not limited to, receiving 

a full-service, comprehensive consultation visit, 

correcting all identified hazards, and developing an 

effective safety and health management system. 

Employers accepted into SHARP may receive an 

exemption from programmed inspections (not 

complaint or accident investigation inspections) for 

a period of 1 year initially, or 2 years upon renewal. 

For more information concerning consultation 

assistance, see the list of consultation directory at 

the end of this publication, contact your regional or 

area OSHA office, or visit OSHA’s website at 

www.osha.gov. 

What are the Voluntary Protection 

Programs? 

Voluntary Protection Programs (VPPs) represent 

one part of OSHA’s effort to extend worker protection beyond the minimum required by OSHA 

standards. VPP—along with onsite consultation 

services, full-service area offices, and OSHA’s 

Strategic Partnership Program (OSPP)—represents 

a cooperative approach which, when coupled with 

an effective enforcement program, expands worker 

protection to help meet the goals of the OSH Act. 

How do the Voluntary Protection 

Programs work? 

There are three levels of VPPs: Star, Merit, 

and Demonstration. All are designed to do the 

following: 

• Recognize employers who have successfully 

developed and implemented effective and 

comprehensive safety and health management 

systems; 

• Encourage these employers to continuously 

improve their safety and health management 

systems; 

• Motivate other employers to achieve excellent 

safety and health results in the same outstanding 

way; and 

• Establish a relationship between employers, 

employees, and OSHA that is based on 

cooperation. 

How does VPP help employers and 

employees? 

VPP participation can mean the following: 

• Reduced numbers of worker fatalities, injuries, 

and illnesses; 

• Lost-workday case rates generally 50 percent 

below industry averages; 

• Lower workers’ compensation and other injuryand illness-related costs; 

• Improved employee motivation to work safely, 

leading to a better quality of life at work; 

• Positive community recognition and interaction; 

• Further improvement and revitalization of 

already good safety and health programs; and a 

• Positive relationship with OSHA. 

How does OSHA monitor VPP sites? 

OSHA reviews an employer’s VPP application 

and conducts a VPP Onsite Evaluation to verify 

that the safety and health management systems 

Other Sources of OSHA Assistance 
14 

described are operating effectively at the site. 

OSHA conducts onsite evaluations on a regular 

basis, annually for participants at the Demonstration level, every 18 months for Merit, and every 3 

to 5 years for Star. Each February, all participants 

must send a copy of their most recent annual 

evaluation to their OSHA regional office. This 

evaluation must include the worksite’s record of 

injuries and illnesses for the past year. 

Can OSHA inspect an employer who is 

participating in the VPP? 

Sites participating in VPP are not scheduled for 

regular, programmed inspections. OSHA handles 

any employee complaints, serious accidents, or 

significant chemical releases that may occur at VPP 

sites according to routine enforcement procedures. 

Additional information on VPP is available from 

OSHA national, regional, and area offices, listed at 

the end of this booklet. Also, see Outreach on 

OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov. 

How can a partnership with OSHA 

improve worker safety and health? 

OSHA has learned firsthand that voluntary, 

cooperative partnerships with employers, employees, and unions can be a useful alternative to 

traditional enforcement and an effective way to 

reduce worker deaths, injuries, and illnesses. This is 

especially true when a partnership leads to the 

development and implementation of comprehensive 

workplace safety and health management system. 

What is OSHA’s Strategic Partnership 

Program (OSPP)? 

OSHA Strategic Partnerships are alliances 

among labor, management, and government to 

foster improvements in workplace safety and 

health. These partnerships are voluntary, cooperative relationships between OSHA, employers, 

employee representatives, and others such as trade 

unions, trade and professional associations, universities, and other government agencies. OSPPs are 

the newest member of OSHA’s family of 

cooperative programs. 

What do OSPPs do? 

These partnerships encourage, assist, and recognize the efforts of the partners to eliminate serious 

workplace hazards and achieve a high level of 

worker safety and health. Whereas OSHA’s Consultation Program and VPP entail one-on-one 

relationships between OSHA and individual 

worksites, most strategic partnerships seek to have 

a broader impact by building cooperative relationships with groups of employers and employees. 

Are there different kinds of OSPPs? 

There are two major types: 

• Comprehensive, which focus on establishing 

comprehensive safety and health management 

systems at partnering worksites; and 

• Limited, which help identify and eliminate 

hazards associated with worker deaths, injuries, 

and illnesses, or have goals other than establishing comprehensive worksite safety and health 

programs. 

OSHA is interested in creating new OSPPs at 

the national, regional, and local levels. OSHA also 

has found limited partnerships to be valuable. 

Limited partnerships might address the elimination 

or control of a specific industry hazard. 

What are the benefits of participation in 

the OSHA Strategic Partnership 

Program? 

Like VPP, OSPP can mean the following: 

• Fewer worker fatalities, injuries, and illnesses; 

• Lower workers’ compensation and other 

injury- and illness-related costs; 

• Improved employee motivation to work safely, 

leading to a better quality of life at work and 

enhanced productivity; 

• Positive community recognition and 

interaction; 

• Development of or improvement in safety and 

health management systems; and 

• Positive interaction with OSHA. 

For more information about this program, 

contact your nearest OSHA office or go to the 

agency website at www.osha.gov. 

Other Sources of OSHA Assistance 
15 

Does OSHA have occupational safety and 

health training for employers and 

employees? 

Yes. The OSHA Training Institute in Des 

Plaines, IL, provides basic and advanced training 

and education in safety and health for federal and 

state compliance officers, state consultants, other 

federal agency personnel, and private-sector employers, employees, and their representatives. 

Institute courses cover diverse safety and health 

topics including electrical hazards, machine guarding, personal protective equipment, ventilation, and 

ergonomics. The facility includes classrooms, 

laboratories, a library, and an audiovisual unit. The 

laboratories contain various demonstrations and 

equipment, such as power presses, woodworking 

and welding shops, a complete industrial ventilation 

unit, and a sound demonstration laboratory. More 

than 57 courses dealing with subjects such as safety 

and health in the construction industry and methods 

of compliance with OSHA standards are available 

for personnel in the private sector. 

In addition, OSHA’s 73 area offices are fullservice centers offering a variety of informational 

services such as personnel for speaking engagements, publications, audiovisual aids on workplace 

hazards, and technical advice. 

For more information on grants, training, and 

education, write: OSHA Training Institute, Office 

of Training and Education, 1555 Times Drive, Des 

Plaines, IL 60018; call (847) 297-4810; or see 

Outreach on OSHA’s website at www.osha.gov. 

Does OSHA give money to organizations 

for training and education? 

OSHA awards grants through its Susan Harwood 

Training Grant Program to nonprofit organizations 

to provide safety and health training and education 

to employers and workers in the workplace. The 

grants focus on programs that will educate workers 

and employers in small business (fewer than 250 

employees), training workers and employers about 

new OSHA standards or about high risk activities 

or hazards. Grants are awarded for 1 year and may 

be renewed for an additional 12 months depending 

on whether the grantee has performed satisfactorily. 

OSHA expects each organization awarded a 

grant to develop a training and/or education program that addresses a safety and health topic named 

by OSHA, recruit workers and employers for the 

training, and conduct the training. Grantees are 

also expected to follow up with people who have 

been trained to find out what changes were made to 

reduce the hazards in their workplaces as a result of 

the training.

 Each year OSHA has a national competition that 

is announced in the Federal Register and on the 

Internet at www.osha-slc.gov/Training/sharwood/ 

sharwood.html. If you do not have access to the 

Internet, you can contact the OSHA Office of 

Training and Education, 1555 Times Drive, Des 

Plaines, Illinois 60018, (847) 297-4810, for more 

information. 

Does OSHA have other assistance 

materials available? 

Yes. OSHA has a variety of materials and tools 

available on its website at www.osha.gov. These 

include e-Tools, Expert Advisors, Electronic 

Compliance Assistance Tools (e-CATs), Technical 

Links, regulations, directives, publications, videos, 

and other information for employers and employees. OSHA’s software programs and compliance 

assistance tools walk you through challenging 

safety and health issues and common problems to 

find the best solutions for your workplace. OSHA’s 

comprehensive publications program includes more 

than 100 titles to help you understand OSHA 

requirements and programs. 

OSHA’s CD-ROM includes standards, interpretations, directives, and more and can be purchased on 

CD-ROM from the U.S. Government Printing 

Office. To order, write to the Superintendent of 

Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, 

Washington, DC 20402, or phone (202) 512-1800. 

Specify OSHA Regulations, Documents and 

Technical Information on CD-ROM (ORDT), GPO 

Order No. S/N 729-013-00000-5. 

What do I do in case of an emergency? 

Or if I need to file a complaint? 

To report an emergency, file a complaint, or seek 

OSHA advice, assistance, or products, call (800) 

321-OSHA or contact your nearest OSHA regional 

or area office listed at the end of this publication. 

The teletypewriter (TTY) number is (877) 

889-5627. 

You can also file a complaint online and obtain 

more information on OSHA federal and state 

programs by visiting OSHA’s website at 

www.osha.gov. 

Other Sources of OSHA Assistance 
16 OSHA Regional Offices 

REGION I 

(CT,* ME, MA, NH, RI, VT*) 

JFK Federal Building, Room E340 

Boston, MA 02203 

(617) 565-9860 

REGION II 

(NJ,* PR,* VI*) 

201 Varick Street, Room 670 

New York, NY 10014 

(212) 337-2378 

REGION III 

(DE, DC, MD,* PA,* VA,* WV) 

The Curtis Center 

170 S. Independence Mall West 

Suite 740 West 

Philadelphia, PA 19106-3309 

(215) 861-4900 

REGION IV 

(AL, FL, GA, KY,* MS, NC,* SC,* TN*) 

Atlanta Federal Center 

61 Forsyth Street, SW, Room 6T50 

Atlanta, GA 30303 

(404) 562-2300 

REGION V 

(IL, IN,* MI,* MN,* OH, WI) 

230 South Dearborn Street, Room 3244 

Chicago, IL 60604 

(312) 353-2220 

REGION VI 

(AR, LA, NM,* OK, TX) 

525 Griffin Street, Room 602 

Dallas, TX 75202 

(214) 767-4731 or 4736 x224 

REGION VII 

(IA,* KS, MO, NE) 

City Center Square 

1100 Main Street, Suite 800 

Kansas City, MO 64105 

(816) 426-5861 

REGION VIII 

(CO, MT, ND, SD, UT,* WY*) 

1999 Broadway, Suite 1690 

Denver, CO 80202-5716 

(303) 844-1600 

REGION IX 

(American Samoa, AZ,* CA,* Guram, HI,* NV*) 

71 Stevenson Street, Room 420 

San Francisco, CA 94105 

(415) 975-4310 

REGION X 

(AK,* ID, OR,* WA*) 

1111 Third Avenue, Suite 715 

Seattle, WA 98101-3212 

(206) 553-5930 

OSHA Regional Offices 
OSHA Area Offices 17

Anchorage, AK 

Birmingham, AL 

Mobile, AL 

Little Rock, AR 

Phoenix, AZ 

San Diego, CA 

Sacramento, CA 

Denver, CO 

Greenwood Village, CO 

Bridgeport, CT 

Hartford, CT 

Wilmington, DE 

Fort Lauderdale, FL 

Jacksonville, FL 

Tampa, FL 

Savannah, GA 

Smyrna, GA 

Tucker, GA 

Des Moines, IA 

Boise, ID 

Calumet City, IL 

Des Plaines, IL 

Fairview Heights, IL 

North Aurora, IL 

Peoria, IL 

Indianapolis, IN 

Wichita, KS 

Frankfort, KY 

Baton Rouge, LA 

Braintree, MA 

Methuen, MA 

Springfield, MA 

Linthicum, MD 

Bangor, ME 

Portland, ME 

August, ME 

Lansing, MI 

Minneapolis, MN 

Kansas City, MO 

St. Louis, MO 

Jackson, MS 

Billings, MT 

Raleigh, NC 

Omaha, NE 

Bismark, ND 

Concord, NH 

Avenel, NJ 

(907) 271-5152 

(205) 731-1534 

(251) 441-6131 

(501) 324-6291(5818) 

(602) 640-2348 

(619) 557-5909 

(916) 566-7471 

(303) 844-5285 

(303) 843-4500 

(203) 579-5581 

(860) 240-3152 

(302) 573-6518 

(954) 424-0242 

(904) 232-2895 

(813) 626-1177 

(912) 652-4393 

(770) 984-8700 

(770) 493-6644/

 6742/8419 

(515) 284-4794 

(208) 321-2960 

(708) 891-3800 

(847) 803-4800 

(618) 632-8612 

(630) 896-8700 

(309) 671-7033 

(317) 226-7290 

(316) 269-6644 

(502) 227-7024 

(225) 389-0474 

(0431) 

(617) 565-6924 

(617) 565-8110 

(413) 785-0123 

(410) 865-2055/2056 

(207) 941-8177 

(207) 780-3178 

(207) 622-8417 

(517) 327-0904 

(612) 664- 5460 

(816) 483-9531 

(314) 425-4249 

(601) 965-4606 

(406) 247-7494 

(919) 856-4770 

(402) 221-3182 

(701) 250-4521 

(603) 225-1629 

(732) 750-3270 

Hasbrouck Heights, NJ (201) 288-1700 

Marlton, NJ (856) 757-5181 

Parsippany, NJ (973) 263-1003 

Carson City, NV (775) 885-6963 

Albany, NY (518) 464-4338 

Bayside, NY (718) 279-9060 

Bowmansville, NY (716) 684-3891 

New York, NY (212) 337-2636 

North Syracuse, NY (315) 451-0808 

Tarrytown, NY (914) 524-7510 

Westbury, NY (516) 334-3344 

Cincinnati, OH (513) 841-4132 

Cleveland, OH (216) 522-3818 

Columbus, OH (614) 469-5582 

Toledo, OH (419) 259-7542 

Oklahoma City, OK (405) 278-9560 

Portland, OR (503) 326-2251 

Allentown, PA (610) 776-0592 

Erie, PA (814) 833-5758 

Harrisburg, PA (717) 782-3902 

Philadelphia, PA (215) 597-4955 

Pittsburgh, PA (412) 395-4903 

Wilkes-Barre, PA (570) 826-6538 

Guaynabo, PR (787) 277-1560 

Providence, RI (401) 528-4669 

Columbia, SC (803) 765-5904 

Nashville, TN (615) 781-5423 

Austin, TX (512) 916-5783 

(5788) 

Corpus Christi, TX (361) 888-3420 

Dallas, TX (214) 320-2400 

(2558) 

El Paso, TX (915) 534-6251 

Fort Worth, TX (817) 428-2470 

(485-7647) 

Houston, TX (281) 591-2438 

(2787) 

Houston, TX (281) 286-0583/ 

0584 (5922) 

Lubbock, TX (806) 472-7681 

(7685) 

Salt Lake City, UT (801) 530-6901 

Norfolk, VA (757) 441-3820 

Bellevue, WA (206) 553-7520 

Appleton, WI (920) 734-4521 

Eau Claire, WI (715) 832-9019 

Madison, WI (608) 264-5388 

Milwaukee, WI (414) 297-3315 

Charleston, WV (304) 347-5937 

OSHA Area Offices 
18 OSHA-Approved Safety and Health Plans 

Alaska 

Alaska Department of Labor 

and Workforce Development 

Commissioner (907) 465-2700 Fax: (907) 465-2784 

Program Director (907) 269-4904 

Fax: (907) 269-4915 

Arizona 

Industrial Commission of Arizona 

Director, ICA(602) 542-4411 Fax: (602) 542-1614 

Program Director (602) 542-5795 

Fax: (602) 542-1614 

California 

California Department of Industrial Relations 

Director (415) 703-5050 Fax:(415) 703-5114 

Chief (415) 703-5100 Fax: (415) 703-5114 

Manager, Cal/OSHA Program Office 

(415) 703-5177 Fax: (415) 703-5114 

Connecticut 

Connecticut Department of Labor 

Commissioner (860) 566-5123 Fax: (860) 566-1520 

Conn-OSHA Director (860) 566-4550 

Fax: (860) 566-6916 

Hawaii 

Hawaii Department of Labor 

and Industrial Relations 

Director (808) 586-8844 Fax: (808) 586-9099 

Administrator (808) 586-9116 Fax: (808) 586-9104 

Indiana 

Indiana Department of Labor 

Commissioner (317) 232-2378 Fax: (317) 233-3790 

Deputy Commissioner (317) 232-3325 

Fax: (317) 233-3790 

Iowa 

Iowa Division of Labor 

Commissioner (515) 281-6432 Fax: (515) 281-4698 

Administrator (515) 281-3469 Fax: (515) 281-7995 

Kentucky 

Kentucky Labor Cabinet 

Secretary (502) 564-3070 Fax: (502) 564-5387 

Federal-State Coordinator (502) 564-3070 ext.240 

Fax: (502) 564-1682 

Maryland 

Maryland Division of Labor and Industry 

Commissioner (410) 767-2999 Fax: (410) 767-2300 

Deputy Commissioner (410) 767-2992 

Fax: 767-2003 

Assistant Commissioner, MOSH (410) 767-2215 

Fax: 767-2003 

Michigan 

Michigan Department of Consumer 

and Industry Services 

Director (517) 322-1814 Fax: (517)322-1775 

Minnesota 

Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry 

Commissioner (651) 296-2342 Fax: (651) 282-5405 

Assistant Commissioner (651) 296-6529 

Fax: (651) 282-5293 

Administrative Director, OSHA Management Team 

(651) 282-5772 Fax: (651) 297-2527 

Nevada 

Nevada Division of Industrial Relations 

Administrator (775) 687-3032 Fax: (775) 687-6305 

Chief Administrative Officer (702) 486-9044 

Fax:(702) 990-0358 

[Las Vegas (702) 687-5240] 

New Jersey 

New Jersey Department of Labor 

Commissioner (609) 292-2975 Fax: (609) 633-9271 

Assistant Commissioner (609) 292-2313 

Fax: (609) 1314 

Program Director, PEOSH (609) 292-3923 

Fax: (609) 292-4409 

New Mexico 

New Mexico Environment Department 

Secretary (505) 827-2850 Fax: (505) 827-2836 

Chief (505) 827-4230 Fax: (505) 827-4422 

New York 

New York Department of Labor 

Acting Commissioner (518) 457-2741 

Fax: (518) 457-6908 

Division Director (518) 457-3518 

Fax: (518) 457-6908 

OSHA Approved Safety and Health Plans 
19 

North Carolina 

North Carolina Department of Labor 

Commissioner (919) 807-2900 Fax: (919) 807-2855 

Deputy Commissioner, OSH Director 

(919) 807-2861 Fax: (919) 807-2855 

OSH Assistant Director (919) 807-2863 

Fax:(919) 807-2856 

Oregon 

Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division 

Administrator (503) 378-3272 Fax: (503) 947-7461 

Deputy Administrator for Policy (503) 378-3272 

Fax: (503) 947-7461 

Deputy Administrator for Operations (503) 

378-3272 Fax: (503) 947-7461 

Puerto Rico 

Puerto Rico Department of Labor 

and Human Resources 

Secretary (787) 754-2119 Fax: (787) 753-9550 

Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety 

and Health 

(787) 756-1100, 1106 / 754-2171 

Fax: (787) 767-6051 

Deputy Director for Occupational Safety and Health 

(787) 756-1100, 1106 / 754-2188 

Fax: (787) 767-6051 

South Carolina 

South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, 

and Regulation 

Director (803) 896-4300 Fax: (803) 896-4393 

Program Director (803) 734-9644 

Fax: (803) 734-9772 

Tennessee 

Tennessee Department of Labor 

Commissioner (615) 741-2582 Fax: (615) 741-5078 

Acting Program Director (615) 741-2793 

Fax: (615) 741-3325 

Utah 

Utah Labor Commission 

Commissioner (801) 530-6901 Fax: (801) 530-7906 

Administrator (801) 530-6898 Fax: (801) 530-6390 

Vermont 

Vermont Department of Labor and Industry 

Commissioner (802) 828-2288 Fax: (802) 828-2748 

Project Manager (802) 828-2765 

Fax: (802) 828-2195 

Virgin Islands 

Virgin Islands Department of Labor 

Acting Commissioner (340) 773-1990 

Fax: (340) 773-1858 

Program Director (340) 772-1315 

Fax: (340) 772-4323 

Virginia 

Virginia Department of Labor and Industry 

Commissioner (804) 786-2377 Fax: (804) 371-6524 

Director, Office of Legal Support (804) 786-9873 

Fax: (804) 786-8418 

Washington 

Washington Department of Labor and Industries 

Director (360) 902-4200 Fax: (360) 902-4202 

Assistant Director [PO Box 44600] (360) 902-5495 

Fax: (360) 902-5529 

Program Manager, Federal-State Operations 

[PO Box 44600] 

(360) 902-5430 Fax: (360) 902-5529 

Wyoming 

Wyoming Department of Employment 

Safety Administrator (307) 777-7786 

Fax: (307) 777-3646 

OSHA Approved Safety and Health Plans 
20 OSHA Onsite Consultation Offices 

Alabama 

(205) 348-3033 

(205) 348-3049 FAX 

Alaska 

(907) 269-4957 

(907) 269-4950 FAX 

Arizona 

(602) 542-1695 

(602) 542-1614FAX 

Arkansas 

(501) 682-4522 

(501) 682-4532 FAX 

California 

(415) 703-5270 

(415) 703-4596 FAX 

Colorado 

(970) 491-6151 

(970) 491-7778 FAX 

Connecticut 

(860) 566-4550 

(860) 566-6916 FAX 

Delaware 

(302) 761-8219 

(302) 761-6601 FAX 

District of Columbia 

(202) 576-6339 

(202) 576-7579 FAX 

Florida 

Phone: 813-974-9962 

Georgia 

(404) 894-2643 

(404) 894-8275 FAX 

Guam 

011 (671) 475-0136 

011 (671) 477-2988 FAX 

Hawaii 

(808) 586-9100 

(808) 586-9099 FAX 

Idaho 

(208) 426-3283 

(208) 426-4411 FAX 

Illinois 

(312) 814-2337 

(312) 814-7238 FAX 

Indiana 

(317) 232-2688 

(317) 232-3790 FAX 

Iowa 

(515) 281-7629 

(515) 281-5522 FAX 

Kansas 

(785) 296-7476 

(785) 296-1775 FAX 

Kentucky 

(502) 564-6895 

(502) 564-6103 FAX 

Louisiana 

(225) 342-9601 

(225) 342-5158 FAX 

Maine 

(207) 624-6460 

(207) 624-6449 FAX 

Maryland 

(410) 880-4970 

(301) 483-8332 FAX 

Massachusetts 

(617) 727-3982 

(617) 727-4581 FAX 

Michigan 

(517) 322-1809 

(517) 322-1374 FAX 

Minnesota 

(612) 297-2393 

(612) 297-1953 FAX 

Mississippi 

(601) 987-3981 

(601) 987-3890 FAX 

Missouri 

(573) 751-3403 

(573) 751-3721 FAX 

Montana 

(406) 444-6418 

(406) 444-4140 FAX 

OSHA Onsite Consultation Offices 
21 

Nebraska 

(402) 471-4717 

(402) 471-5039 FAX 

Nevada 

(702) 486-9140 

(702) 990-0362 FAX 

New Hampshire 

(603) 271-2024 

(603) 271-2667 FAX 

New Jersey 

(609) 292-3923 

(609) 292-4409 FAX 

New Mexico 

(505) 827-4230 

(505) 827-4422 FAX 

New York 

(518) 457-2238 

(518) 457-3454 FAX 

North Carolina 

(919) 807-2905 

(919) 807-2902 FAX 

North Dakota 

(701) 328-5188 

(701) 328-5200 FAX 

Ohio 

1-800-282-1425 or 614-644-2631 

614-644-3133 FAX 

Oklahoma 

(405) 528-1500 

(405) 528-5751 FAX 

Oregon 

(503) 378-3272 

(503) 378-5729 FAX 

Pennsylvania 

(724) 357-2396 

(724) 357-2385 FAX 

Puerto Rico 

(787) 754-2171 

(787) 767-6051 FAX 

Rhode Island 

(401) 222-2438 

(401) 222-2456 FAX 

South Carolina 

(803) 734-9614 

(803) 734-9741 FAX 

South Dakota 

(605) 688-4101 

(605) 688-6290 FAX 

Tennessee 

(615) 741-7036 

(615) 532-2997 FAX 

Texas 

(512) 804-4640 

(512) 804-4641 FAX 

OSHCON Request Line: 800-687-7080 

Utah 

(801) 530-6901 

(801) 530-6992 FAX 

Vermont 

(802) 828-2765 

(802) 828-2195 FAX 

Virginia 

(804) 786-6359 

(804) 786-8418 FAX 

Virgin Islands 

(340) 772-1315 

(340) 772-4323 FAX 

Washington 

(360) 902-5638 

(360) 902-5459 FAX 

West Virginia 

(304) 558-7890 

(304) 558-9711 FAX 

Wisconsin (Health) 

(608) 266-8579 

(608) 266-9383 FAX 

Wisconsin (Safety) 

(262) 523-3040 1-800-947-0553 

(262) 523-3046 FAX 

Wyoming 

(307) 777-7786 

(307) 777-3646 FAX 

OSHA Onsite Consultation Offices 
 

22 

Index 

The following is a guide to the “Safety Standards for Scaffolds Used in the Construction Industry” Standard: 

Access 1926.451(e) 

Adjustable scaffolds

 Supported See self-contained adjustable

 Suspended See suspension scaffolds 

Aerial lifts 1926.453 

ANSI standards, aerial lifts Appendix C 

Aerial lift controls 1926.453(b)(2) 

Aerial lift electrical testing 1926.453(b)(3) 

Aerial lift, hydraulic lines 1926.453(b)(4) 

Aerial lift, welding 1926.453(b)(5) 

Banding, steel or plastic 1926.451(g)(4)(xiii) 

Barricades 1926.451(h)(2)(i) 

Base plates 1926.451(c)(2) 

Boatswains’ chairs 1926.452(o)(3)-(7) 

Braking device 1926.451(d)(16) 

Bricklaying 1926.451(g)(1)(vi) 

Bricklayers’ square scaffolds 1926.452(e) 

Canopies 1926.451(h)(2)(v) and (3) 

Capacity, scaffold 1926.451(a)(1) and (d)(1) 

Capacity, rope 1926.451(a)(3) 

Carpenters’ bracket scaffolds 1926.452(g) 

Catenary scaffolds 1926.452(r) 

Coatings 1926.451(b)(9) 

Competent person 

Components 1926.451(b)(10) 

and (b)(11)

 Erectors and dismantlers 1926.451(g)(2) 

and 454(b)

 General 1926.451(f)(7)

 Inspections 1926.451(d)(10) 

and (f)(3) and 

(g)(4)(xiv)

 Suspension scaffolds 1926.451(d)(3)(i) 

and (d)(18) 

Training 1926.454(b) 

Corrosives 1926.451(f)(11) 

Counterweights 1926.451(d)(ii) to (iv) 

Crawling boards 1926.452(m) 

(chicken ladders) 

Crossbracing 1926.451(e)(9)(iv) and (g)(4)(xv) 

Debris 1926.451(f)(13) 

Decks 1926.451(b)(1) 

Decorators’ scaffolds 1926.452(d) 

Deflection 1926.451(f)(16) 

Different components 1926.451(b)(10) and (11) 

Dismantlers 1926.451(e)(9)

 and (g)(2) and Appendix D 

Engineer 1926.451(d)(3)(i) and (f)(5)

 1926.452(a)(10) and (b)(10) and

 (c)(5) and (c)(6) 

Erectors 1926.451(e)(9) and (g)(2) and Appendix D 

Extend over ends 1926.451(b)(5) 

Fabricated frame scaffolds 1926.452(c) 

False car (elevator) 1926.450(b) and

 .451(a) to (b) and

 (d) to (h) and .454, 

(Ref:FR Vol. 61, No. 170 

8/30/96, p. 46028.) 

Fall arrest systems 1926.451(g)(1) and (3) 

Fall protection 1926.451(g) 

Float (ship) scaffolds 1926.452 (safety and 

health programs) 

Footing 1926.451(c)(2) 

Form scaffolds 1926.452(g) 

Front edge 1926.451(b)(3) 

Grab lines 1926.451(g)(1)(iii) 

Guardrails 1926.451(g)(4) and (h)(2)(iv) 

Guys 1926.451(c)(1) 

Horizontal, lifelines 1926.451(g)(3)(ii), (iii), (iv) 

Appendix 
 

 

 

 

23 

Horizontal, lifelines on one 1926.451(g)(3)(iii), 

or two-point scaffolds (iv) 

Horse scaffolds 1926.452(f) 

Interior hung scaffolds 1926.452(t) and 

Appendix A (2)(t) 

Inspections 1926.451(d)(10) and 

(f)(3) and (g)(4)(xiv) 

Ladders 1926.451(e)(2) and (f)(15) 

Ladders, built-in 1926.451(e)(6) 

Ladder jack scaffolds 1926.452(k) 

Ladder trucks 1926.453(b)(1) 

Large area scaffolds 1926.452(d) 

Lifeline 1926.451(g)(3)(i) to (iv) 

Load 1926.450(b) and .451(a) 

Load carrying members 1926.451(a)(1) 

and Appendix A (1)(a) 

Masons’ multi-point 1926.452(q) 

suspension scaffolds 

Midrails 1926.451(g)(4)(ix) and (xiv) 

Mobile scaffolds 1926.452(w) and 

Appendix A (2)(z) 

Moving 1926.451(f)(7) 

Mud sills 1926.451(c)(2) 

Multi-level suspended 

scaffolds 1926.452(v) 

Multi-point adjustable 

suspension scaffolds 1926.452(q) 

Needle beam scaffolds 1926.452(u) 

Qualified person

 Component construction 1926.451(a)(6)

 Design 1926.451(a)(6)

 Loading 1926.451(a)(6)

 Single-point adjustable 1926.452(o)(2)(i)

 suspension, rigging

 Swaged 1926.451(d)(11) 

Two point adjustable 1926.452(p)(1)

 suspension, platforms 

Training 1926.454(a) 

Outrigger beams 1926.451(d)(3)(vi), (viii), 

and (4)(v) 

Outrigger scaffolds 1926.452(l) 

Overlap 1926.451(b)(7) 

Planking 1926.451(b) and Appendix 

A(1)(b) and (c) 

Plasters’ scaffolds 1926.452(d) 

Platforms 1926.451(b) and (c)(2)(iv) 

and (d)(19) and (f)(14) 

Platform planking 1926.451(b)(1) to (9) 

Platform scaffolds 1926.452(n) 

Pole scaffolds 1926.452(a) 

Powerlines 1926.451(f)(6) 

Pump jack scaffolds 1926.452(j) 

and Appendix 

Ramps 1926.451(e)(5)(i) to (iii) 

Repair 1926.451(f)(4) 

Repair bracket scaffolds 1926.452(x) 

Replacement 1926.451(f)(4) 

Ropes

 Drum hoist 1926.451(d)(6)

 Inspection 1926.451(d)(10)

 Joined 1926.451(d)(8)

 Repaired 1926.451(d)(7)

 Suspension 1926.451(a)(3) and 

(4) and (f)(10) 

Thimbles 1926.451(d)(9) 

Tiebacks 1926.451(d)(5)(iv)

 Spliced eye 1926.451(d)(11)

 Swag 1926.451(d)(11) 

Roof bracket scaffolds 1926.452(h) 

Roof hooks, irons 1926.451(d)(5) 

Roof truss 1926.452(g) and .450(b) 

Self-contained adjustable 1926.450(a), FR 

Vol. 61, No.170, 

8/30/96, p46057 

Appendix 
25 

24 

Single–point adjustable 1926.451(a),(d),(f), 

suspension scaffolds (g)(1)(i),(ii),(iv), 

(g)(3),(4), (h), and .452(o) 

Slip resistant finishes 1926.451(b)(9) 

Stall load 1926.450(b), .451(a)(2) and 

(a)(4) and (a)(5) 

Step ladder scaffolds 1926.452(n) 

Stilts 1926.452(y) 

Stonesetters’ multi-point 1926.452(q)

 suspension scaffolds 

Supported scaffolds 1926.450(b), and 

.451(a),(c),(e),(f),(g), (h), and .454 

Suspension scaffolds 1926.451 (a), (d),

 (e),(f),(g)(1)(i),(ii),(iv),

 (g)(3),(4), (h), and

 .452(o)-(q), (s), (t), (v), (x) 

Tag lines 1926.451(f)(9) 

Tiebacks 1926.451(d)(3)(vii), 

(ix), (x) and (5)(iii), (iv) 

Tie-ins 1926.451(c)(1) and (d)(18) 

Tipping 1926.451(c)(1) 

Toeboards 1926.451(h)(1), 

(2)(ii),(iii) & (4) 

Tower trucks 1926.453(b)(1) 

Training 1926.454 

Trestle ladder scaffolds 1926.452(n) Tube and coupler scaffolds 1926.452(b) 

Two-point adjustable 1926.451(a), (d), (e),

 suspension scaffolds (f), (g)(1)(i),(ii),(iv), 

(g)(3),(4), (h), and .452(p) & .454 

Vertical lifelines 1926.451(g)(3)(i), (iv) Walkways 1926.451(e)(5)(i) to (iii) 

Weather 1926.451(f)(8) and (12) Welding from suspension 1926.451(f)(17)

 scaffolds 

Wire rope clips 1926.451(d)(12) Window jack scaffolds 1926.452(l) 

Appendix 
 

Construction Focused Inspection Guidelines 25

This guideline is to assist the compliance officer 

to determine if there is an effective project plan to qualify for a Focused Inspection. 

PROJECT SAFETY AND HEALTH COORDINATION: Are there procedures in place by the 

general contractor, prime contractor, or other such entity to ensure that all employers provide 

adequate protection for their employees? 

Is there a DESIGNATED COMPETENT PERSON responsible for the implementation and 

monitoring of the project safety and health plan who is capable of identifying existing and 

predictable hazards and has authority to take prompt corrective measures? 

PROJECT SAFETY AND HEALTH PROGRAM/PLAN* that complies with 1926 Subpart C and 

addresses, based upon the size and complexity of the project, the following: 

Project Safety Analysis at initiation and at critical stages that describes the sequence, procedures, and 

responsible individuals for safe construction. 

Identification of work/activities requiring planning, design, inspection, or supervision by an engineer, 

competent person, or other professional. 

Evaluation monitoring of subcontractors to determine conformance with the Project Plan.(The Project 

Plan may include, or be utilized by subcontractors.) 

Supervisor and employee training according to the Project Plan including recognition, reporting, and 

avoidance of hazards, and applicable standards. 

Procedures for controlling hazardous operations such as: cranes, scaffolding, trenches, confined 

spaces, hot work, explosives, hazardous materials, leading edges, etc. 

Documentation of: training, permits, hazard reports, inspections, uncorrected hazards, incidents, and 

near misses. 

Employee involvement in the hazard: analysis, prevention, avoidance, correction, and reporting. 

Project emergency response plan. 

* FOR EXAMPLES, SEE OWNER AND CONTRACTOR ASSOCIATION MODEL PROGRAMS, ANSI A10.33, A10.38, ETC. 

The walkaround and interviews confirmed that the Plan has been implemented, including: 

The four leading hazards are addressed: falls, struck by, caught in\between, electrical. 

Hazards are identified and corrected with preventative measures instituted in a timely manner. 

Employees and supervisors are knowledgeable of the project safety and health plan, avoidance of 

hazards, applicable standards, and their rights and responsibilities. 

THE PROJECT QUALIFIED FOR A FOCUSED INSPECTION. 

YES/NO 

Construction Focused Inspection Guidelines 
 

26 Regulatory Text 

PART 1926—[AMENDED] 

1. Subpart L of Part 1926 is revised to read as 

follows: 

SUBPART L—SCAFFOLDS 

Sec. 

1926.450 Scope, Application, and Definitions 

Applicable to this Subpart 

1926.451 General Requirements 

1926.452 Additional Requirements Appli– 

cable to Specific Types of Scaffolds 

1926.453 Aerial Lifts 

1926.454 Training 

Appendix A to Subpart L—Scaffolds 

Appendix B to Subpart L—Scaffolds 

Appendix C to Subpart L—Scaffolds 

Appendix D to Subpart L—Scaffolds 

Appendix E to Subpart L—Scaffolds 

Authority: Section 107, Contract Work Hours 

and Safety Standards Act (Construction Safety Act) 

(40 U.S.C. 333); Secs. 4, 6, 8, Occupational Safety 

and Health Act of 1970 (29 U.S.C. 653, 655, 657); 

Secretary of Labor’s Order No. 1-90 (55 FR 

9033);and 29 CFR Part 1911. 

SUBPART L—SCAFFOLDS 

§1926.450 Scope, application and definitions 

applicable to this Subpart. 

(a) Scope and application. This subpart applies 

to all scaffolds used in workplaces covered by this 

Part. It does not apply to crane or derrick suspended personnel platforms, which are covered by 

§1926.550(g). The criteria for aerial lifts are set out 

exclusively in §1926.453. 

(b) Definitions. “Adjustable suspension scaffold” means a suspension scaffold equipped with a 

hoist(s) that can be operated by an employee(s) on 

the scaffold. 

“Bearer (putlog)” means a horizontal transverse 

scaffold member (which may be supported by 

ledgers or runners) upon which the scaffold platform rests and which joins scaffold uprights, posts, 

poles, and similar members. 

“Boatswains’ chair” means a single-point adjustable suspension scaffold consisting of a seat or 

sling designed to support one employee in a sitting 

position. 

“Body belt (safety belt)” means a strap with 

means both for securing it about the waist and for 

attaching it to a lanyard, lifeline, or deceleration 

device. 

“Body harness” means a design of straps which 

may be secured about the employee in a manner to 

distribute the fall arrest forces over at least the 

thighs, pelvis, waist, chest and shoulders, with 

means for attaching it to other components of a 

personal fall arrest system. 

“Brace” means a rigid connection that holds one 

scaffold member in a fixed position with respect to 

another member, or to a building or structure. 

“Bricklayers’ square scaffold” means a supported 

scaffold composed of framed squares which support 

a platform. 

“Carpenters’ bracket scaffold” means a supported 

scaffold consisting of a platform supported by 

brackets attached to building or structural walls. 

“Catenary scaffold” means a suspension scaffold 

consisting of a platform supported by two essentially horizontal and parallel ropes attached to 

structural members of a building or other structure. 

Additional support may be provided by vertical 

pickups. 

“Chimney hoist” means a multi-point adjustable 

suspension scaffold used to provide access to work 

inside chimneys. (See “Multi-point adjustable 

suspension scaffold”.) 

“Cleat” means a structural block used at the end 

of a platform to prevent the platform from slipping 

off its supports. Cleats are also used to provide 

footing on sloped surfaces such as crawling boards. 

“Competent person” means one who is capable 

of identifying existing and predictable hazards in 

the surroundings or working conditions which are 

unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, 

and who has authorization to take prompt corrective 

measures to eliminate them. 

“Continuous run scaffold” (Run scaffold) means 

a two-point or multi-point adjustable suspension 

scaffold constructed using a series of interconnected braced scaffold members or supporting 

structures erected to form a continuous scaffold. 

“Coupler” means a device for locking together 

the tubes of a tube and coupler scaffold. 

“Crawling board (chicken ladder)” means a 

supported scaffold consisting of a plank with cleats 

spaced and secured to provide footing, for use on 

sloped surfaces such as roofs. 

“Deceleration device” means any mechanism, 

such as a rope grab, rip-stitch lanyard, speciallywoven lanyard, tearing or deforming lanyard, or 

automatic self-retracting lifeline lanyard, which 

dissipates a substantial amount of energy during a 

Regulatory Text 
27 

fall arrest or limits the energy imposed on an 

employee during fall arrest. 

“Double pole (independent pole) scaffold” means 

a supported scaffold consisting of a platform(s) 

resting on cross beams (bearers) supported by 

ledgers and a double row of uprights independent of 

support (except ties, guys, braces) from any 

structure. 

“Equivalent” means alternative designs, materials 

or methods to protect against a hazard which the 

employer can demonstrate will provide an equal or 

greater degree of safety for employees than the 

methods, materials or designs specified in the 

standard. 

“Eye” or “Eye Splice” means a loop with or 

without a thimble at the end of a wire rope. 

“Exposed power lines” means electrical power 

lines which are accessible to employees and which 

are not shielded from contact. Such lines do not 

include extension cords or power tool cords. 

“Fabricated decking and planking” means 

manufactured platforms made of wood (including 

laminated wood, and solid sawn wood planks), 

metal or other materials. 

“Fabricated frame scaffold (tubular welded frame 

scaffold)” means a scaffold consisting of a 

platform(s) supported on fabricated end frames with 

integral posts, horizontal bearers, and intermediate 

members. 

“Failure” means load refusal, breakage, or 

separation of component parts. Load refusal is the 

point where the ultimate strength is exceeded. 

“Float (ship) scaffold” means a suspension 

scaffold consisting of a braced platform resting on 

two parallel bearers and hung from overhead 

supports by ropes of fixed length. 

“Form scaffold” means a supported scaffold 

consisting of a platform supported by brackets 

attached to formwork. 

“Guardrail system” means a vertical barrier, 

consisting of, but not limited to, toprails, midrails, 

and posts, erected to prevent employees from 

falling off a scaffold platform or walkway to lower 

levels. 

“Hoist” means a manual or power-operated 

mechanical device to raise or lower a suspended 

scaffold. 

“Horse scaffold” means a supported scaffold 

consisting of a platform supported by construction 

horses (saw horses). Horse scaffolds constructed of 

metal are sometimes known as trestle scaffolds. 

“Independent pole scaffold” (see “Double pole 

scaffold”). 

“Interior hung scaffold” means a suspension 

scaffold consisting of a platform suspended from 

the ceiling or roof structure by fixed length supports. 

“Ladder jack scaffold” means a supported 

scaffold consisting of a platform resting on brackets 

attached to ladders. 

“Ladder stand” means a mobile, fixed-size, selfsupporting ladder consisting of a wide flat tread 

ladder in the form of stairs. 

“Landing” means a platform at the end of a flight 

of stairs. 

“Large area scaffold” means a pole scaffold, tube 

and coupler scaffold, systems scaffold, or fabricated 

frame scaffold erected over substantially the entire 

work area. For example: a scaffold erected over the 

entire floor area of a room. 

“Lean-to scaffold” means a supported scaffold 

which is kept erect by tilting it toward and resting it 

against a building or structure. 

“Lifeline” means a component consisting of a 

flexible line that connects to an anchorage at one 

end to hang vertically (vertical lifeline), or that 

connects to anchorages at both ends to stretch 

horizontally (horizontal lifeline), and which serves 

as a means for connecting other components of a 

personal fall arrest system to the anchorage. 

“Lower levels” means areas below the level 

where the employee is located and to which an 

employee can fall. Such areas include, but are not 

limited to, ground levels, floors, roofs, ramps, 

runways, excavations, pits, tanks, materials, water, 

and equipment. 

“Masons’ adjustable supported scaffold” (see 

“Self-contained adjustable scaffold”). 

“Masons’ multi-point adjustable suspension 

scaffold” means a continuous run suspension 

scaffold designed and used for masonry operations. 

“Maximum intended load” means the total load 

of all persons, equipment, tools, materials, transmitted loads, and other loads reasonably anticipated to 

be applied to a scaffold or scaffold component at 

any one time. 

“Mobile scaffold” means a powered or 

unpowered, portable, caster or wheel-mounted 

supported scaffold. 

“Multi-level suspended scaffold” means a twopoint or multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold 

Regulatory Text 
28 

with a series of platforms at various levels resting 

on common stirrups. 

“Multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold” 

means a suspension scaffold consisting of a 

platform(s) which is suspended by more than two 

ropes from overhead supports and equipped with 

means to raise and lower the platform to desired 

work levels. Such scaffolds include chimney 

hoists. 

“Needle beam scaffold” means a platform 

suspended from needle beams. 

“Open sides and ends” means the edges of a 

platform that are more than 14 inches (36 cm) away 

horizontally from a sturdy, continuous, vertical 

surface (such as a building wall) or a sturdy, continuous horizontal surface (such as a floor), or a 

point of access. Exception: For plastering and 

lathing operations the horizontal threshold distance 

is 18 inches (46 cm). 

“Outrigger” means the structural member of a 

supported scaffold used to increase the base width 

of a scaffold in order to provide support for and 

increased stability of the scaffold. 

“Outrigger beam (Thrustout)” means the structural member of a suspension scaffold or outrigger 

scaffold which provides support for the scaffold by 

extending the scaffold point of attachment to a 

point out and away from the structure or building. 

“Outrigger scaffold” means a supported scaffold 

consisting of a platform resting on outrigger beams 

(thrustouts) projecting beyond the wall or face of 

the building or structure, the inboard ends of which 

are secured inside the building or structure. 

“Overhand bricklaying” means the process of 

laying bricks and masonry units such that the 

surface of the wall to be jointed is on the opposite 

side of the wall from the mason, requiring the 

mason to lean over the wall to complete the work. 

It includes mason tending and electrical installation 

incorporated into the brick wall during the overhand 

bricklaying process. 

“Personal fall arrest system” means a system 

used to arrest an employee’s fall. It consists of an 

anchorage, connectors, a body belt or body harness 

and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, 

lifeline, or combinations of these. 

“Platform” means a work surface elevated above 

lower levels. Platforms can be constructed using 

individual wood planks, fabricated planks, fabricated decks, and fabricated platforms. 

“Pole scaffold” (see definitions for “Single-pole 

scaffold” and “Double (independent) pole scaffold”). 

“Power operated hoist” means a hoist which is 

powered by other than human energy. 

“Pump jack scaffold” means a supported scaffold 

consisting of a platform supported by vertical poles 

and movable support brackets. 

“Qualified” means one who, by possession of a 

recognized degree, certificate, or professional 

standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, 

and experience, has successfully demonstrated his/ 

her ability to solve or resolve problems related to 

the subject matter, the work, or the project. 

“Rated load” means the manufacturer’s specified 

maximum load to be lifted by a hoist or to be 

applied to a scaffold or scaffold component. 

“Repair bracket scaffold” means a supported 

scaffold consisting of a platform supported by 

brackets which are secured in place around the 

circumference or perimeter of a chimney, stack, 

tank or other supporting structure by one or more 

wire ropes placed around the supporting structure. 

“Roof bracket scaffold” means a rooftop supported 

scaffold consisting of a platform resting on angularshaped supports. 

“Runner” (ledger or ribbon)” means the lengthwise horizontal spacing or bracing member which 

may support the bearers. 

“Scaffold” means any temporary elevated platform (supported or suspended) and its supporting 

structure (including points of anchorage), used for 

supporting employees or materials or both. 

“Self-contained adjustable scaffold” means a 

combination supported and suspension scaffold 

consisting of an adjustable platform(s) mounted on 

an independent supporting frame(s) not a part of the 

object being worked on, and which is equipped 

with a means to permit the raising and lowering of 

the platform(s). Such systems include rolling roof 

rigs, rolling outrigger systems, and some masons’ 

adjustable supported scaffolds. 

“Shore scaffold” means a supported scaffold 

which is placed against a building or structure and 

held in place with props. 

“Single-point adjustable suspension scaffold” 

means a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform suspended by one rope from an overhead 

support and equipped with means to permit the 

movement of the platform to desired work levels. 

“Single-pole scaffold” means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform(s) resting on bearers, 

Regulatory Text 
29 

 

the outside ends of which are supported on runners 

secured to a single row of posts or uprights, and the 

inner ends of which are supported on or in a 

structure or building wall. 

“Stair tower (Scaffold stairway/tower)” means a 

tower comprised of scaffold components and which 

contains internal stairway units and rest platforms. 

These towers are used to provide access to scaffold 

platforms and other elevated points such as floors 

and roofs. 

“Stall load” means the load at which the primemover of a power-operated hoist stalls or the power 

to the prime-mover is automatically disconnected. 

“Step, platform, and trestle ladder scaffold” 

means a platform resting directly on the rungs of 

step ladders or trestle ladders. 

“Stilts” means a pair of poles or similar supports 

with raised footrests, used to permit walking above 

the ground or working surface. 

“Stonesetters’ multi-point adjustable suspension 

scaffold” means a continuous run suspension 

scaffold designed and used for stonesetters’ 

operations. 

“Supported scaffold” means one or more platforms supported by outrigger beams, brackets, 

poles, legs, uprights, posts, frames, or similar rigid 

support. 

“Suspension scaffold” means one or more 

platforms suspended by ropes or other non-rigid 

means from an overhead structure(s). 

“System scaffold” means a scaffold consisting of 

posts with fixed connection points that accept 

runners, bearers, and diagonals that can be 

interconnected at predetermined levels. 

“Tank builders’ scaffold” means a supported 

scaffold consisting of a platform resting on brackets 

that are either directly attached to a cylindrical tank 

or attached to devices that are attached to such a 

tank. 

“Top plate bracket scaffold” means a scaffold 

supported by brackets that hook over or are attached to the top of a wall. This type of scaffold is 

similar to carpenters’ bracket scaffolds and form 

scaffolds and is used in residential construction for 

setting trusses. 

“Tube and coupler scaffold” means a supported 

or suspended scaffold consisting of a platform(s) 

supported by tubing, erected with coupling devices 

connecting uprights, braces, bearers, and runners. 

“Tubular welded frame scaffold” (see “Fabricated frame scaffold”). 

“Two-point suspension scaffold (swing stage)” 

means a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform supported by hangers (stirrups) suspended by 

two ropes from overhead supports and equipped 

with means to permit the raising and lowering of 

the platform to desired work levels. 

“Unstable objects” means items whose strength, 

configuration, or lack of stability may allow them to 

become dislocated and shift and therefore may not 

properly support the loads imposed on them. 

Unstable objects do not constitute a safe base 

support for scaffolds, platforms, or employees. 

Examples include, but are not limited to, barrels, 

boxes, loose brick, and concrete blocks. 

“Vertical pickup” means a rope used to support 

the horizontal rope in catenary scaffolds. 

“Walkway” means a portion of a scaffold platform used only for access and not as a work level. 

“Window jack scaffold” means a platform resting 

on a bracket or jack which projects through a 

window opening. 

§1926.451 General requirements. This section 

does not apply to aerial lifts, the criteria for which 

are set out in §1926.453. 

(a) Capacity (1) Except as provided in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), (a)(5) and (g) of this 

section, each scaffold and scaffold component shall 

be capable of supporting, without failure, its own 

weight and at least 4 times the maximum intended 

load applied or transmitted to it. 

(2) Direct connections to roofs and floors, and 

counterweights used to balance adjustable suspension scaffolds, shall be capable of resisting at least 

4 times the tipping moment imposed by the scaffold 

operating at the rated load of the hoist, or 1.5 

(minimum) times the tipping moment imposed by 

the scaffold operating at the stall load of the hoist, 

whichever is greater. 

(3) Each suspension rope, including connecting 

hardware, used on non-adjustable suspension 

scaffolds shall be capable of supporting, without 

failure, at least 6 times the maximum intended load 

applied or transmitted to that rope. 

(4) Each suspension rope, including connecting 

hardware, used on adjustable suspension scaffolds 

shall be capable of supporting, without failure, at 

least 6 times the maximum intended load applied or 

transmitted to that rope with the scaffold operating 

at either the rated load of the hoist, or 2 (minimum) 

times the stall load of the hoist, whichever is 

greater. 

Regulatory Text 
30 

(1926.451(a) continued) 

(5) The stall load of any scaffold hoist shall not 

exceed 3 times its rated load. 

(6) Scaffolds shall be designed by a qualified 

person and shall be constructed and loaded in accordance with that design. Non-mandatory Appendix A 

to this subpart contains examples of criteria that will 

enable an employer to comply with paragraph (a) of 

this section. 

(b) Scaffold platform construction. 

(1) Each platform on all working levels of scaffolds shall be fully planked or decked between the 

front uprights and the guardrail supports as follows: 

(i) Each platform unit (e.g., scaffold plank, fabricated plank, fabricated deck, or fabricated platform) 

shall be installed so that the space between adjacent 

units and the space between the platform and the 

uprights is no more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, except 

where the employer can demonstrate that a wider 

space is necessary (for example, to fit around uprights 

when side brackets are used to extend the width of the 

platform). 

(ii) Where the employer makes the demonstration 

provided for in paragraph (b)(1)(i) of this section, the 

platform shall be planked or decked as fully as 

possible and the remaining open space between the 

platform and the uprights shall not exceed 9 inches 

(24.1 cm). 

Exception to paragraph (b)(1): The requirement to 

provide full planking or decking does not apply to 

platforms used solely as walkways or solely by 

employees performing scaffold erection or dismantling. In these situations, only the planking that the 

employer establishes is necessary to provide safe 

working conditions is required. 

(2) Except as provided in paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and 

(b)(2)(ii) of this section, each scaffold platform and 

walkway shall be at least 18 inches (46 cm) wide. 

(i) Each ladder jack scaffold, top plate bracket 

scaffold, roof bracket scaffold, and pump jack scaffold 

shall be at least 12 inches (30 cm) wide. There is no 

minimum width requirement for boatswains’ chairs. 

(ii) Where scaffolds must be used in areas that the 

employer can demonstrate are so narrow that platforms and walkways cannot be at least 18 inches (46 

cm) wide, such platforms and walkways shall be as 

wide as feasible, and employees on those platforms 

and walkways shall be protected from fall hazards by 

the use of guardrails and/or personal fall arrest 

systems. 

(3) Except as provided in paragraphs (b)(3)(i) 

and (ii) of this section, the front edge of all platforms shall not be more than 14 inches (36 cm) 

from the face of the work, unless guardrail systems 

are erected along the front edge and/or personal fall 

arrest systems are used in accordance with paragraph (g) of this section to protect employees from 

falling. 

(i) The maximum distance from the face for 

outrigger scaffolds shall be 3 inches (8 cm); 

(ii) The maximum distance from the face for 

plastering and lathing operations shall be 18 inches 

(46 cm). 

(4) Each end of a platform, unless cleated or 

otherwise restrained by hooks or equivalent means, 

shall extend over the centerline of its support at 

least 6 inches (15 cm). 

(5) (i) Each end of a platform 10 feet or less in 

length shall not extend over its support more than 

12 inches (30 cm) unless the platform is designed 

and installed so that the cantilevered portion of the 

platform is able to support employees and/or 

materials without tipping, or has guardrails which 

block employee access to the cantilevered end. 

(ii) Each platform greater than 10 feet in length 

shall not extend over its support more than 18 

inches (46 cm), unless it is designed and installed 

so that the cantilevered portion of the platform is 

able to support employees without tipping, or has 

guardrails which block employee access to the 

cantilevered end. 

(6) On scaffolds where scaffold planks are 

abutted to create a long platform, each abutted end 

shall rest on a separate support surface. This 

provision does not preclude the use of common 

support members, such as “T” sections, to support 

abutting planks, or hook on platforms designed to 

rest on common supports. 

(7) On scaffolds where platforms are overlapped 

to create a long platform, the overlap shall occur 

only over supports, and shall not be less than 12 

inches (30 cm) unless the platforms are nailed 

together or otherwise restrained to prevent 

movement. 

(8) At all points of a scaffold where the platform 

changes direction, such as turning a corner, any 

platform that rests on a bearer at an angle other 

than a right angle shall be laid first, and platforms 

which rest at right angles over the same bearer shall 

be laid second, on top of the first platform. 

Regulatory Text 
31 

(1926.451(b) continued) 

(9) Wood platforms shall not be covered with 

opaque finishes, except that platform edges may be 

covered or marked for identification. Platforms may 

be coated periodically with wood preservatives, fireretardant finishes, and slip-resistant finishes; however, the coating may not obscure the top or bottom 

wood surfaces. 

(10) Scaffold components manufactured by 

different manufacturers shall not be intermixed 

unless the components fit together without force and 

the scaffold’s structural integrity is maintained by the 

user. Scaffold components manufactured by different manufacturers shall not be modified in order to 

intermix them unless a competent person determines 

the resulting scaffold is structurally sound. 

(11) Scaffold components made of dissimilar 

metals shall not be used together unless a competent 

person has determined that galvanic action will not 

reduce the strength of any component to a level 

below that required by paragraph (a)(1) of this 

section. 

(c) Criteria for supported scaffolds. 

(1) Supported scaffolds with a height to base 

width (including outrigger supports, if used) ratio of 

more than four to one (4:1) shall be restrained from 

tipping by guying, tying, bracing, or equivalent 

means, as follows: 

(i) Guys, ties, and braces shall be installed at 

locations where horizontal members support both 

inner and outer legs. 

(ii) Guys, ties, and braces shall be installed 

according to the scaffold manufacturer’s recommendations or at the closest horizontal member to the 4:1 

height and be repeated vertically at locations of 

horizontal members every 20 feet (6.1 m) or less 

thereafter for scaffolds 3 feet (0.91 m) wide or less, 

and every 26 feet (7.9 m) or less thereafter for 

scaffolds greater than 3 feet (0.91 m) wide. The top 

guy, tie or brace of completed scaffolds shall be 

placed no further than the 4:1 height from the top. 

Such guys, ties and braces shall be installed at each 

end of the scaffold and at horizontal intervals not to 

exceed 30 feet (9.1 m) (measured from one end [not 

both] towards the other). 

(iii) Ties, guys, braces, or outriggers shall be used 

to prevent the tipping of supported scaffolds in all 

circumstances where an eccentric load, such as a 

cantilevered work platform, is applied or is transmitted to the scaffold. 

(2) Supported scaffold poles, legs, posts, frames, 

and uprights shall bear on base plates and mud sills 

or other adequate firm foundation. 

(i) Footings shall be level, sound, rigid, and 

capable of supporting the loaded scaffold without 

settling or displacement. 

(ii) Unstable objects shall not be used to support 

scaffolds or platform units. 

(iii) Unstable objects shall not be used as 

working platforms. 

(iv) Front-end loaders and similar pieces of 

equipment shall not be used to support scaffold 

platforms unless they have been specifically 

designed by the manufacturer for such use. 

(v) Fork-lifts shall not be used to support scaffold platforms unless the entire platform is attached 

to the fork and the fork-lift is not moved horizontally while the platform is occupied. 

(3) Supported scaffold poles, legs, posts, frames, 

and uprights shall be plumb and braced to prevent 

swaying and displacement. 

(d) Criteria for suspension scaffolds. 

(1) All suspension scaffold support devices, such 

as outrigger beams, cornice hooks, parapet clamps, 

and similar devices, shall rest on surfaces capable 

of supporting at least 4 times the load imposed on 

them by the scaffold operating at the rated load of 

the hoist (or at least 1.5 times the load imposed on 

them by the scaffold at the stall capacity of the 

hoist, whichever is greater). 

(2) Suspension scaffold outrigger beams, when 

used, shall be made of structural metal or equivalent 

strength material, and shall be restrained to prevent 

movement. 

(3) The inboard ends of suspension scaffold 

outrigger beams shall be stabilized by bolts or other 

direct connections to the floor or roof deck, or they 

shall have their inboard ends stabilized by counterweights, except masons’ multi-point adjustable 

suspension scaffold outrigger beams shall not be 

stabilized by counterweights. 

(i) Before the scaffold is used, direct connections shall be evaluated by a competent person who 

shall confirm, based on the evaluation, that the 

supporting surfaces are capable of supporting the 

loads to be imposed. In addition, masons’ multipoint adjustable suspension scaffold connections 

shall be designed by an engineer experienced in 

such scaffold design. 

(ii) Counterweights shall be made of non-flowable 

material. Sand, gravel and similar materials that can 

Regulatory Text 
32 

(1926.451(d) continued) 

be easily dislocated shall not be used as

 counterweights. 

(iii) Only those items specifically designed as 

counterweights shall be used to counterweight scaffold systems. Construction materials such as, but not 

limited to, masonry units and rolls of roofing felt, shall 

not be used as counterweights. 

(iv) Counterweights shall be secured by 

mechanical means to the outrigger beams to prevent 

accidental displacement. 

(v) Counterweights shall not be removed from an 

outrigger beam until the scaffold is 

disassembled. 

(vi) Outrigger beams which are not stabilized by 

bolts or other direct connections to the floor or roof 

deck shall be secured by tiebacks. 

(vii) Tiebacks shall be equivalent in strength to the 

suspension ropes. 

(viii) Outrigger beams shall be placed perpendicular to its bearing support (usually the face of the 

building or structure). However, where the employer 

can demonstrate that it is not possible to place an 

outrigger beam perpendicular to the face of the 

building or structure because of obstructions that 

cannot be moved, the outrigger beam may be placed 

at some other angle, provided opposing angle tiebacks 

are used. 

(ix) Tiebacks shall be secured to a structurally 

sound anchorage on the building or structure. Sound 

anchorages include structural members, but do not 

include standpipes, vents, other piping systems, or 

electrical conduit. 

(x) Tiebacks shall be installed perpendicular to the 

face of the building or structure, or opposing angle 

tiebacks shall be installed. Single tiebacks installed at 

an angle are prohibited. 

(4) Suspension scaffold outrigger beams shall be: 

(i) Provided with stop bolts or shackles at both 

ends; 

(ii) Securely fastened together with the flanges 

turned out when channel iron beams are used in place 

of I-beams; 

(iii) Installed with all bearing supports perpendicular to the beam center line; 

(iv) Set and maintained with the web in a vertical 

position; and 

(v) When an outrigger beam is used, the shackle or 

clevis with which the rope is attached to the outrigger 

beam shall be placed directly over the center line of 

the stirrup. 

(5) Suspension scaffold support devices such as 

cornice hooks, roof hooks, roof irons, parapet 

clamps, or similar devices shall be: 

(i) Made of steel, wrought iron, or materials of 

equivalent strength; 

(ii) Supported by bearing blocks; and 

(iii) Secured against movement by tiebacks 

installed at right angles to the face of the building 

or structure, or opposing angle tiebacks shall be 

installed and secured to a structurally sound point 

of anchorage on the building or structure. Sound 

points of anchorage include structural members, but 

do not include standpipes, vents, other piping 

systems, or electrical conduit. 

(iv) Tiebacks shall be equivalent in strength to 

the hoisting rope. 

(6) When winding drum hoists are used on a 

suspension scaffold, they shall contain not less than 

four wraps of the suspension rope at the lowest 

point of scaffold travel. When other types of hoists 

are used, the suspension ropes shall be long enough 

to allow the scaffold to be lowered to the level 

below without the rope end passing through the 

hoist, or the rope end shall be configured or provided with means to prevent the end from passing 

through the hoist. 

(7) The use of repaired wire rope as suspension 

rope is prohibited. 

(8) Wire suspension ropes shall not be joined 

together except through the use of eye splice 

thimbles connected with shackles or coverplates 

and bolts. 

(9) The load end of wire suspension ropes shall 

be equipped with proper size thimbles and secured 

by eyesplicing or equivalent means. 

(10) Ropes shall be inspected for defects by a 

competent person prior to each workshift and after 

every occurrence which could affect a rope’s 

integrity. Ropes shall be replaced if any of the 

following conditions exist: 

(i) Any physical damage which impairs the 

function and strength of the rope. 

(ii) Kinks that might impair the tracking or 

wrapping of rope around the drum(s) or sheave(s). 

(iii) Six randomly distributed broken wires in 

one rope lay or three broken wires in one strand in 

one rope lay. 

(iv) Abrasion, corrosion, scrubbing, flattening or 

peening causing loss of more than one-third of the 

original diameter of the outside wires. 

Regulatory Text 
33 

 

(1926.451(d) continued) 

(v) Heat damage caused by a torch or any damage 

caused by contact with electrical wires. 

(vi) Evidence that the secondary brake has been 

activated during an overspeed condition and has 

engaged the suspension rope. 

(11) Swaged attachments or spliced eyes on wire 

suspension ropes shall not be used unless they are 

made by the wire rope manufacturer or a qualified 

person. 

(12) When wire rope clips are used on suspension 

scaffolds: 

(i) There shall be a minimum of 3 wire rope clips 

installed, with the clips a minimum of 6 rope

 diameters apart; 

(ii) Clips shall be installed according to the 

manufacturer’s recommendations; 

(iii) Clips shall be retightened to the 

manufacturer’s recommendations after the initial 

loading; 

(iv) Clips shall be inspected and retightened to the 

manufacturer’s recommendations at the start of each 

workshift thereafter; 

(v) U-bolt clips shall not be used at the point of 

suspension for any scaffold hoist; 

(vi) When U-bolt clips are used, the U-bolt shall be 

placed over the dead end of the rope, and the saddle 

shall be placed over the live end of the rope. 

(13) Suspension scaffold power-operated hoists 

and manual hoists shall be tested by a qualified testing 

laboratory. 

(14) Gasoline-powered equipment and hoists shall 

not be used on suspension scaffolds. 

(15) Gears and brakes of power-operated hoists 

used on suspension scaffolds shall be enclosed. 

(16) In addition to the normal operating brake, 

suspension scaffold power-operated hoists and 

manually operated hoists shall have a braking device 

or locking pawl which engages automatically when a 

hoist makes either of the following uncontrolled 

movements: an instantaneous change in momentum or 

an accelerated overspeed. 

(17) Manually operated hoists shall require a 

positive crank force to descend. 

(18) Two-point and multi-point suspension 

scaffolds shall be tied or otherwise secured to prevent 

them from swaying, as determined to be necessary 

based on an evaluation by a competent person. 

Window cleaners’ anchors shall not be used for this 

purpose. 

(19) Devices whose sole function is to provide 

emergency escape and rescue shall not be used as 

working platforms. (This provision does not preclude 

the use of systems which are designed to function 

both as suspension scaffolds and emergency systems.) 

(e) Access. This paragraph applies to scaffold 

access for all employees. Access requirements for 

employees erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds 

are specifically addressed in paragraph (e)(9) of this 

section. 

(1) When scaffold platforms are more than 2 feet 

(0.6 m) above or below a point of access, portable 

ladders, hook-on ladders, attachable ladders, stair 

towers (scaffold stairways/towers), stairway-type 

ladders (such as ladder stands), ramps, walkways, 

integral prefabricated scaffold access, or direct access 

from another scaffold, structure, personnel hoist, or 

similar surface shall be used. Crossbraces shall not be 

used as a means of access. 

(2) Portable, hook-on, and attachable ladders 

(Additional requirements for the proper construction 

and use of portable ladders are contained in Subpart X 

of this part—Stairways and Ladders): 

(i) Portable, hook-on, and attachable ladders shall 

be positioned so as not to tip the scaffold; 

(ii) Hook-on and attachable ladders shall be 

positioned so that their bottom rung is not more than 

24 inches (61 cm) above the scaffold supporting level; 

(iii) When hook-on and attachable ladders are used 

on a supported scaffold more than 35 feet (10.7 m.) 

high, they shall have rest platforms at 35-foot (10.7 m) 

maximum vertical intervals. 

(iv) Hook-on and attachable ladders shall be 

specifically designed for use with the type of scaffold 

used; 

(v) Hook-on and attachable ladders shall have a 

minimum rung length of 11-1/2 inches (29 cm); and 

(vi) Hook-on and attachable ladders shall have 

uniformly spaced rungs with a maximum spacing 

between rungs of 16-3/4 inches. 

(3) Stairway-type ladders shall: 

(i) be positioned such that their bottom step is not 

more than 24 inches (61 cm) above the scaffold 

supporting level; 

(ii) be provided with rest platforms at 12 foot 

(3.7 m) maximum vertical intervals; 

(iii) have a minimum step width of 16 inches 

(41 cm), except that mobile scaffold stairway-type 

ladders shall have a minimum step width of 

11 1/2 inches (30 cm); and 

Regulatory Text 
 

34 

(1926.451(e) continued) 

(iv) have slip-resistant treads on all steps and 

landings. 

(4) Stairtowers (scaffold stairway/towers) shall be 

positioned such that their bottom step is not more than 

24 inches (61 cm.) above the scaffold supporting level. 

(i) A stairrail consisting of a toprail and a midrail 

shall be provided on each side of each scaffold 

stairway. 

(ii) The toprail of each stairrail system shall also be 

capable of serving as a handrail, unless a separate 

handrail is provided. 

(iii) Handrails, and toprails that serve as handrails, 

shall provide an adequate handhold for employees 

grasping them to avoid falling. 

(iv) Stairrail systems and handrails shall be surfaced to prevent injury to employees from punctures 

or lacerations, and to prevent snagging of clothing. 

(v) The ends of stairrail systems and handrails shall 

be constructed so that they do not constitute a 

projection hazard. 

(vi) Handrails, and toprails that are used as handrails, shall be at least 3 inches (7.6 cm) from other 

objects. 

(vii) Stairrails shall be not less than 28 inches 

(71 cm) nor more than 37 inches (94 cm) from the 

upper surface of the stairrail to the surface of the tread, 

in line with the face of the riser at the forward edge of 

the tread. 

(viii) A landing platform at least 18 inches (45.7 

cm) wide by at least 18 inches (45.7 cm) long shall be 

provided at each level. 

(ix) Each scaffold stairway shall be at least 18 

inches (45.7 cm) wide between stairrails. 

(x) Treads and landings shall have slip-resistant 

surfaces. 

(xi) Stairways shall be installed between 40 degrees 

and 60 degrees from the horizontal. 

(xii) Guardrails meeting the requirements of 

paragraph (g)(4) of this section shall be provided on 

the open sides and ends of each landing. 

(xiii) Riser height shall be uniform, within 1/4 inch, 

(0.6 cm) for each flight of stairs. Greater variations in 

riser height are allowed for the top and bottom steps of 

the entire system, not for each flight of stairs. 

(xiv) Tread depth shall be uniform, within 1/4 inch, 

for each flight of stairs. 

(5) Ramps and walkways. 

(i) Ramps and walkways 6 feet (1.8 m) or more 

above lower levels shall have guardrail systems which 

comply with Subpart M of this part—Fall Protection; 

(ii) No ramp or walkway shall be inclined more 

than a slope of one (1) vertical to three (3) horizontal 

(20 degrees above the horizontal). 

(iii) If the slope of a ramp or a walkway is steeper 

than one (1) vertical in eight (8) horizontal, the ramp 

or walkway shall have cleats not more than fourteen 

(14) inches (35 cm) apart which are securely fastened 

to the planks to provide footing. 

(6) Integral prefabricated scaffold access frames 

shall: 

(i) Be specifically designed and constructed for use 

as ladder rungs; 

(ii) Have a rung length of at least 8 inches (20 cm); 

(iii) Not be used as work platforms when rungs are 

less than 11-1/2 inches in length, unless each affected 

employee uses fall protection, or a positioning device, 

which complies with §1926.502; 

(iv) Be uniformly spaced within each frame 

section; 

(v) Be provided with rest platforms at 35-foot 

(10.7 m) maximum vertical intervals on all supported 

scaffolds more than 35 feet (10.7 m) high; and 

(vi) Have a maximum spacing between rungs of 16 

3/4 inches (43 cm). Non-uniform rung spacing 

caused by joining end frames together is allowed, 

provided the resulting spacing does not exceed 16-3/4 

inches (43 cm). 

(7) Steps and rungs of ladder and stairway type 

access shall line up vertically with each other between 

rest platforms. 

(8) Direct access to or from another surface shall 

be used only when the scaffold is not more than 14 

inches (36 cm) horizontally and not more than 24 

inches (61 cm) vertically from the other surface. 

(9) Effective September 2, 1997, access for employees erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds 

shall be in accordance with the following: 

(i) The employer shall provide safe means of 

access for each employee erecting or dismantling a 

scaffold where the provision of safe access is feasible 

and does not create a greater hazard. The employer 

shall have a competent person determine whether it is 

feasible or would pose a greater hazard to provide, 

and have employees use a safe means of access. This 

determination shall be based on site conditions and the 

type of scaffold being erected or dismantled. 

Regulatory Text 
35 

 

 

(1926.451(e) continued) which could affect a scaffold’s structural integrity. 

(ii) Hook-on or attachable ladders shall be 

installed as soon as scaffold erection has progressed 

to a point that permits safe installation and use. 

(iii) When erecting or dismantling tubular 

welded frame scaffolds, (end) frames, with horizontal members that are parallel, level and are not more 

than 22 inches apart vertically may be used as 

climbing devices for access, provided they are 

erected in a manner that creates a usable ladder and 

provides good hand hold and foot space. 

(iv) Cross braces on tubular welded frame 

scaffolds shall not be used as a means of access or 

egress. 

(f) Use. (1) Scaffolds and scaffold components 

shall not be loaded in excess of their maximum 

intended loads or rated capacities, whichever is less. 

(2) The use of shore or lean-to scaffolds is 

prohibited. 

(3) Scaffolds and scaffold components shall be 

inspected for visible defects by a competent person 

before each work shift, and after any occurrence 

(4) Any part of a scaffold damaged or 

weakened such that its strength is less than that 

required by paragraph (a) of this section shall be 

immediately repaired or replaced, braced to meet 

those provisions, or removed from service until 

repaired. 

(5) Scaffolds shall not be moved horizontally 

while employees are on them, unless they have 

been designed by a registered professional engineer 

specifically for such movement or, for mobile 

scaffolds, where the provisions of §1926.452(w) are 

followed. 

(6) The clearance between scaffolds and power 

lines shall be as follows: Scaffolds shall not be 

erected, used, dismantled, altered, or moved such 

that they or any conductive material handled on 

them might come closer to exposed and energized 

power lines than as follows: 

Exception to paragraph (f)(6): Scaffolds and 

Insulated Lines 

Voltage Minimum Distance Alternatives 

Less than 300 volts 

300 volts to 50 kv 

More than 50kv 

3 feet (0.9 M) 

10 feet (3.1 M) 

10 feet (3.1 M) plus 

0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv 

over 50 kv 

2 times the length of 

the line insulator, but 

never less than 10 feet (3.1 m) 

Uninsulated Lines 

Voltage Minimum Distance Alternatives 

Less than 50 kv 

More than 50kv 

10 feet (3.1 M) 

10 feet (3.1 M) plus 

0.4 inches (1.0 cm) for each 1 kv 

over 50 kv 

2 times the length of 

the line insulator, but 

never less than 10 feet (3.1 m) 

Regulatory Text 
36 

(1926.451(f) continued) 

materials may be closer to power lines than specified above where such clearance is necessary for 

performance of work, and only after the utility 

company, or electrical system operator, has been 

notified of the need to work closer and the utility 

company, or electrical system operator, has 

deenergized the lines, relocated the lines, or 

installed protective coverings to prevent accidental 

contact with the lines. 

(7) Scaffolds shall be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision and 

direction of a competent person qualified in 

scaffold erection, moving, dismantling or alteration. 

Such activities shall be performed only by experienced and trained employees selected for such 

work by the competent person. 

(8) Employees shall be prohibited from working 

on scaffolds covered with snow, ice, or other 

slippery material except as necessary for removal of 

such materials. 

(9) Where swinging loads are being hoisted onto 

or near scaffolds such that the loads might contact 

the scaffold, tag lines or equivalent measures to 

control the loads shall be used. 

(10) Suspension ropes supporting adjustable 

suspension scaffolds shall be of a diameter large 

enough to provide sufficient surface area for the 

functioning of brake and hoist mechanisms. 

(11) Suspension ropes shall 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 substance being 

used. 

(12) Work on or from scaffolds is prohibited 

during storms or high winds unless a competent 

person has determined that it is safe for employees 

to be on the scaffold and those employees are 

protected by a personal fall arrest system or wind 

screens. Wind screens shall not be used unless the 

scaffold is secured against the anticipated wind 

forces imposed. 

(13) Debris shall not be allowed to accumulate 

on platforms. 

(14) Makeshift devices, such as but not limited 

to boxes and barrels, shall not be used on top of 

scaffold platforms to increase the working level 

height of employees. 

(15) Ladders shall not be used on scaffolds to 

increase the working level height of employees, 

except on large area scaffolds where employers 

have satisfied the following criteria: 

(i) When the ladder is placed against a structure 

which is not a part of the scaffold, the scaffold shall 

be secured against the sideways thrust exerted by 

the ladder; 

(ii) The platform units shall be secured to the 

scaffold to prevent their movement; 

(iii) The ladder legs shall be on the same platform or other means shall be provided to stabilize 

the ladder against unequal platform deflection, and 

(iv) The ladder legs shall be secured to prevent 

them from slipping or being pushed off the 

platform. 

(16) Platforms shall not deflect more than 1/60 

of the span when loaded. 

(17) To reduce the possibility of welding current 

arcing through the suspension wire rope when 

performing welding from suspended scaffolds, the 

following precautions shall be taken, as applicable: 

(i) An insulated thimble shall 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 shall be insulated; 

(ii) The suspension wire rope shall be covered 

with insulating material extending at least 4 feet 

(1.2 m) above the hoist. If there is a tail line below 

the hoist, it shall be insulated to prevent contact 

with the platform. The portion of the tail line that 

hangs free below the scaffold shall be guided or 

retained, or both, so that it does not become 

grounded; 

(iii) Each hoist shall be covered with insulated 

protective covers; 

(iv) In addition to a work lead attachment 

required by the welding process, a grounding 

conductor shall be connected from the scaffold to 

the structure. The size of this conductor shall be at 

least the size of the welding process work lead, and 

this conductor shall not be in series with the welding process or the work piece; 

(v) If the scaffold grounding lead is disconnected at any time, the welding machine shall be 

shut off; and 

(vi) An active welding rod or uninsulated 

welding lead shall not be allowed to contact the 

scaffold or its suspension system. 

(g) Fall protection. (1) Each employee on a 

scaffold more than 10 feet (3.1 m) above a lower 

Regulatory Text 
37 

(1926.451(g) continued) 

level shall be protected from falling to that lower 

level. Paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (vii) of this 

section, establish the types of fall protection to be 

provided to the employees on each type of scaffold. 

Paragraph (g)(2) of this section addresses fall 

protection for scaffold erectors and dismantlers. 

NOTE to paragraph (g)(1): The fall protection 

requirements for employees installing suspension 

scaffold support systems on floors, roofs, and other 

elevated surfaces are set forth in subpart M of this 

part. 

(i) Each employee on a boatswains’ chair, 

catenary scaffold, float scaffold, needle beam 

scaffold, or ladder jack scaffold shall be protected 

by a personal fall arrest system; 

(ii) Each employee on a single-point or twopoint adjustable suspension scaffold shall be 

protected by both a personal fall arrest system and 

guardrail system; 

(iii) Each employee on a crawling board 

(chicken ladder) shall be protected by a personal 

fall arrest system, a guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound toprail capacity), or by a threefourth inch (1.9 cm) diameter grabline or equivalent 

handhold securely fastened beside each crawling 

board; 

(iv) Each employee on a self-contained adjustable scaffold shall be protected by a guardrail 

system (with minimum 200 pound toprail capacity) 

when the platform is supported by the frame 

structure, and by both a personal fall arrest system 

and a guardrail system (with minimum 200 pound 

toprail capacity) when the platform is supported by 

ropes; 

(v) Each employee on a walkway located within 

a scaffold shall be protected by a guardrail system 

(with minimum 200 pound toprail capacity) installed within 9 1/2 inches (24.1 cm) of and along at 

least one side of the walkway. 

(vi) Each employee performing overhand 

bricklaying operations from a supported scaffold 

shall be protected from falling from all open sides 

and ends of the scaffold (except at the side next to 

the wall being laid) by the use of a personal fall 

arrest system or guardrail system (with minimum 

200 pound toprail capacity). 

(vii) For all scaffolds not otherwise specified in 

paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(vi) of this 

section, each employee shall be protected by the 

use of personal fall arrest systems or guardrail 

systems meeting the requirements of paragraph 

(g)(4) of this section. 

(2) Effective September 2, 1997, the employer 

shall have a competent person determine the feasibility and safety of providing fall protection for 

employees erecting or dismantling supported 

scaffolds. Employers are required to provide fall 

protection for employees erecting or dismantling 

supported scaffolds where the installation and use 

of such protection is feasible and does not create a 

greater hazard. 

(3) In addition to meeting the requirements of 

§1926.502(d), personal fall arrest systems used on 

scaffolds shall be attached by lanyard to a vertical 

lifeline, horizontal lifeline, or scaffold structural 

member. Vertical lifelines shall not be used when 

overhead components, such as overhead protection 

or additional platform levels, are part of a singlepoint or two-point adjustable suspension scaffold. 

(i) When vertical lifelines are used, they shall be 

fastened to a fixed safe point of anchorage, shall be 

independent of the scaffold, and shall be protected 

from sharp edges and abrasion. Safe points of 

anchorage include structural members of buildings, 

but do not include standpipes, vents, other piping 

systems, electrical conduit, outrigger beams, or 

counterweights. 

(ii) When horizontal lifelines are used, they shall 

be secured to two or more structural members of 

the scaffold, or they may be looped around both 

suspension and independent suspension lines (on 

scaffolds so equipped) above the hoist and brake 

attached to the end of the scaffold. Horizontal 

lifelines shall not be attached only to the suspension 

ropes. 

(iii) When lanyards are connected to horizontal 

lifelines or structural members on a single-point or 

two-point adjustable suspension scaffold, the 

scaffold shall be equipped with additional independent support lines and automatic locking devices 

capable of stopping the fall of the scaffold in the 

event one or both of the suspension ropes fail. The 

independent support lines shall be equal in number 

and strength to the suspension ropes. 

(iv) Vertical lifelines, independent support lines, 

and suspension ropes shall not be attached to each 

other, nor shall they be attached to or use the same 

point of anchorage, nor shall they be attached to the 

same point on the scaffold or personal fall arrest 

Regulatory Text 
38 

(1926.451(g) continued) 

system. 

(4) Guardrail systems installed to meet the 

requirements of this section shall comply with the 

following provisions (guardrail systems built in 

accordance with Appendix A to this subpart will be 

deemed to meet the requirements of paragraphs 

(g)(4)(vii), (viii), and (ix) of this section): 

(i) Guardrail systems shall be installed along all 

open sides and ends of platforms. Guardrail systems shall be installed before the scaffold is released for use by employees other than erection/ 

dismantling crews. 

(ii) The top edge height of toprails or equivalent 

member on supported scaffolds manufactured or 

placed in service after January 1, 2000 shall be 

installed between 38 inches (0.97 m) and 45 inches 

(1.2 m) above the platform surface. The top edge 

height on supported scaffolds manufactured and 

placed in service before January 1, 2000, and on all 

suspended scaffolds where both a guardrail and a 

personal fall arrest system are required shall be 

between 36 inches (0.9 m) and 45 inches (1.2 m). 

When conditions warrant, the height of the top edge 

may exceed the 45-inch height, provided the 

guardrail system meets all other criteria of 

paragraph (g)(4). 

(iii) When midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate 

vertical members, solid panels, or equivalent 

structural members are used, they shall be installed 

between the top edge of the guardrail system and 

the scaffold platform. 

(iv) When midrails are used, they shall be 

installed at a height approximately midway between 

the top edge of the guardrail system and the platform surface. 

(v) When screens and mesh are used, they shall 

extend from the top edge of the guardrail system to 

the scaffold platform, and along the entire opening 

between the supports. 

(vi) When intermediate members (such as 

balusters or additional rails) are used, they shall not 

be more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart. 

(vii) Each toprail or equivalent member of a 

guardrail system shall be capable of withstanding, 

without failure, a force applied in any downward or 

horizontal direction at any point along its top edge 

of at least 100 pounds (445 n) for guardrail systems 

installed on single-point adjustable suspension 

scaffolds or two-point adjustable suspension 

scaffolds, and at least 200 pounds (890 n) for 

guardrail systems installed on all other scaffolds. 

(viii) When the loads specified in paragraph 

(g)(4)(vii) of this section are applied in a downward 

direction, the top edge shall not drop below the 

height above the platform surface that is prescribed 

in paragraph (g)(4)(ii) of this section. 

(ix) Midrails, screens, mesh, intermediate 

vertical members, solid panels, and equivalent 

structural members of a guardrail system shall be 

capable of withstanding, without failure, a force 

applied in any downward or horizontal direction at 

any point along the midrail or other member of at 

least 75 pounds (333 n) for guardrail systems with a 

minimum 100 pound toprail capacity, and at least 

150 pounds (666 n) for guardrail systems with a 

minimum 200 pound toprail capacity. 

(x) Suspension scaffold hoists and non-walkthrough stirrups may be used as end guardrails, if 

the space between the hoist or stirrup and the side 

guardrail or structure does not allow passage of an 

employee to the end of the scaffold. 

(xi) Guardrails shall be surfaced to prevent 

injury to an employee from punctures or lacerations, and to prevent snagging of clothing. 

(xii) The ends of all rails shall not overhang the 

terminal posts except when such overhang does not 

constitute a projection hazard to employees. 

(xiii) Steel or plastic banding shall not be used 

as a toprail or midrail. 

(xiv) Manila or plastic (or other synthetic) rope 

being used for toprails or midrails shall be inspected by a competent person as frequently as 

necessary to ensure that it continues to meet the 

strength requirements of paragraph (g) of this 

section. 

(xv) Cross bracing is acceptable in place of a 

midrail when the crossing point of two braces is 

between 20 inches (0.5 m) and 30 inches (0.8 m) 

above the work platform or as a toprail when the 

crossing point of two braces is between 38 inches 

(0.97 m) and 48 inches (1.3 m) above the work 

platform. The end points at each upright shall be 

no more than 48 inches (1.3 m) apart. 

(h) Falling object protection. (1) In addition 

to wearing hardhats each employee on a scaffold 

shall be provided with additional protection from 

falling hand tools, debris, and other small objects 

through the installation of toeboards, screens, or 

guardrail systems, or through the erection of debris 

nets, catch platforms, or canopy structures that 

contain or deflect the falling objects. When the 

Regulatory Text 
39 

(1926.451(h) continued) 

falling objects are too large, heavy or massive to be 

contained or deflected by any of the above-listed 

measures, the employer shall place such potential 

falling objects away from the edge of the surface from 

which they could fall and shall secure those materials 

as necessary to prevent their falling. 

(2) Where there is a danger of tools, materials, or 

equipment falling from a scaffold and striking employees below, the following provisions apply: 

(i) The area below the scaffold to which objects 

can fall shall be barricaded, and employees shall not 

be permitted to enter the hazard area; or 

(ii) A toeboard shall be erected along the edge of 

platforms more than 10 feet (3.1 m) above lower 

levels for a distance sufficient to protect employees 

below, except on float (ship) scaffolds where an 

edging of 3/4 x 1-1/2 inch (2 x 4 cm) wood or 

equivalent may be used in lieu of toeboards; 

(iii) Where tools, materials, or equipment are piled 

to a height higher than the top edge of the toeboard, 

paneling or screening extending from the toeboard or 

platform to the top of the guardrail shall be erected for 

a distance sufficient to protect employees below, or 

(iv) A guardrail system shall be installed with 

openings small enough to prevent passage of potential 

falling objects, or 

(v) A canopy structure, debris net, or catch platform strong enough to withstand the impact forces of 

the potential falling objects shall be erected over the 

employees below. 

(3) Canopies, when used for falling object protection, shall comply with the following criteria: 

(i) Canopies shall be installed between the falling 

object hazard and the employees. 

(ii) When canopies are used on suspension scaffolds for falling object protection, the scaffold shall be 

equipped with additional independent support lines 

equal in number to the number of points supported, 

and equivalent in strength to the strength of the 

suspension ropes. 

(iii) Independent support lines and suspension 

ropes shall not be attached to the same points of 

anchorage. 

(4) Where used, toeboards shall be: 

(i) Capable of withstanding, without failure, a 

force of at least 50 pounds (222 n) applied in any 

downward or horizontal direction at any point along 

the toeboard (toeboards built in accordance with 

Appendix A to this subpart will be deemed to meet 

this requirement); and 

(ii) At least three and one-half inches (9 cm) 

high from the top edge of the toe board to the level 

of the walking/working surface. Toeboards shall be 

securely fastened in place at the outermost edge of 

the platform and have not more than 1/4 inch (0.7 

cm) clearance above the walking/working surface. 

Toeboards shall be solid or with openings not over 

one inch (2.5 cm) in the greatest dimension. 

§1926.452 Additional requirements applicable 

to specific types of scaffolds. 

In addition to the applicable requirements of 

§1926.451, the following requirements apply to the 

specific types of scaffolds indicated. Scaffolds not 

specifically addressed by §1926.452, such as but 

not limited to systems scaffolds, must meet the 

requirements of §1926.451. 

(a) Pole scaffolds. (1) When platforms are 

being moved to the next level, the existing platform 

shall be left undisturbed until the new bearers have 

been set in place and braced, prior to receiving the 

new platforms. 

(2) Crossbracing shall be installed between the 

inner and outer sets of poles on double pole scaffolds. 

(3) Diagonal bracing in both directions shall be 

installed across the entire inside face of double-pole 

scaffolds used to support loads equivalent to a 

uniformly distributed load of 50 pounds (222 kg) or 

more per square foot (929 square cm). 

(4) Diagonal bracing in both directions shall be 

installed across the entire outside face of all doubleand single-pole scaffolds. 

(5) Runners and bearers shall be installed on 

edge. 

(6) Bearers shall extend a minimum of 3 inches 

(7.6 cm) over the outside edges of runners. 

(7) Runners shall extend over a minimum of two 

poles, and shall be supported by bearing blocks 

securely attached to the poles. 

(8) Braces, bearers, and runners shall not be 

spliced between poles. 

(9) Where wooden poles are spliced, the ends 

shall be squared and the upper section shall rest 

squarely on the lower section. Wood splice plates 

shall be provided on at least two adjacent sides, and 

shall extend at least 2 feet (0.6 m) on either side of 

the splice, overlap the abutted ends equally, and 

have at least the same cross-sectional areas as the 

pole. Splice plates of other materials of equivalent 

strength may be used. 

Regulatory Text 
 

40 

(1926.452(a) continued) 

(10) Pole scaffolds over 60 feet in height shall 

be designed by a registered professional engineer, 

and shall be constructed and loaded in accordance 

with that design. Non-mandatory Appendix A to 

this subpart contains examples of criteria that will 

enable an employer to comply with design and 

loading requirements for pole scaffolds under 60 

feet in height. 

(b) Tube and coupler scaffolds. (1) When 

platforms are being moved to the next level, the 

existing platform shall be left undisturbed until the 

new bearers have been set in place and braced prior 

to receiving the new platforms. 

(2) Transverse bracing forming an “X” across 

the width of the scaffold shall be installed at the 

scaffold ends and at least at every third set of posts 

horizontally (measured from only one end) and 

every fourth runner vertically. Bracing shall extend 

diagonally from the inner or outer posts or runners 

upward to the next outer or inner posts or runners. 

Building ties shall be installed at the bearer levels 

between the transverse bracing and shall conform to 

the requirements of §1926.451(c)(1). 

(3) On straight run scaffolds, longitudinal 

bracing across the inner and outer rows of posts 

shall be installed diagonally in both directions, and 

shall extend from the base of the end posts upward 

to the top of the scaffold at approximately a 45 

degree angle. On scaffolds whose length is greater 

than their height, such bracing shall be repeated 

beginning at least at every fifth post. On scaffolds 

whose length is less than their height, such bracing 

shall be installed from the base of the end posts 

upward to the opposite end posts, and then in 

alternating directions until reaching the top of the 

scaffold. Bracing shall be installed as close as 

possible to the intersection of the bearer and post or 

runner and post. 

(4) Where conditions preclude the attachment of 

bracing to posts, bracing shall be attached to the 

runners as close to the post as possible. 

(5) Bearers shall be installed transversely 

between posts, and when coupled to the posts, shall 

have the inboard coupler bear directly on the runner 

coupler. When the bearers are coupled to the 

runners, the couplers shall be as close to the posts 

as possible. 

(6) Bearers shall extend beyond the posts and 

runners, and shall provide full contact with the 

coupler. 

(7) Runners shall be installed along the length of 

the scaffold, located on both the inside and outside 

posts at level heights (when tube and coupler 

guardrails and midrails are used on outside posts, 

they may be used in lieu of outside runners). 

(8) Runners shall be interlocked on straight runs 

to form continuous lengths, and shall be coupled to 

each post. The bottom runners and bearers shall be 

located as close to the base as possible. 

(9) Couplers shall be of a structural metal, such 

as drop-forged steel, malleable iron, or structural 

grade aluminum. The use of gray cast iron is 

prohibited. 

(10) Tube and coupler scaffolds over 125 feet in 

height shall be designed by a registered professional engineer, and shall be constructed and loaded 

in accordance with such design. Non-mandatory 

Appendix A to this subpart contains examples of 

criteria that will enable an employer to comply with 

design and loading requirements for tube and 

coupler scaffolds under 125 feet in height. 

(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds (tubular 

welded frame scaffolds). 

(1) When moving platforms to the next level, the 

existing platform shall be left undisturbed until the 

new end frames have been set in place and braced 

prior to receiving the new platforms. 

(2) Frames and panels shall be braced by cross, 

horizontal, or diagonal braces, or combination 

thereof, which secure vertical members together 

laterally. The cross braces shall be of such length 

as will automatically square and align vertical 

members so that the erected scaffold is always 

plumb, level, and square. All brace connections 

shall be secured. 

(3) Frames and panels shall be joined together 

vertically by coupling or stacking pins or equivalent 

means. 

(4) Where uplift can occur which would displace 

scaffold end frames or panels, the frames or panels 

shall be locked together vertically by pins or 

equivalent means. 

(5) Brackets used to support cantilevered loads 

shall: 

(i) be seated with side-brackets parallel to the 

frames and end-brackets at 90 degrees to the 

frames; 

(ii) not be bent or twisted from these positions; 

and 

(iii) be used only to support personnel, unless 

the scaffold has been designed for other loads by a 

Regulatory Text 
41 

(1926.452(c) continued) 

qualified engineer and built to withstand the tipping 

forces caused by those other loads being placed on 

the bracket-supported section of the scaffold. 

(6) Scaffolds over 125 feet (38.0 m) in height 

above their base plates shall be designed by a 

registered professional engineer, and shall be 

constructed and loaded in accordance with such 

design. 

(d) Plasterers’, decorators’, and large area 

scaffolds. Scaffolds shall be constructed in accordance with paragraphs (a), (b), or (c) of this section, 

as appropriate. 

(e) Bricklayers’ square scaffolds (squares). 

(1) Scaffolds made of wood shall be reinforced 

with gussets on both sides of each corner. 

(2) Diagonal braces shall be installed on all 

sides of each square. 

(3) Diagonal braces shall be installed between 

squares on the rear and front sides of the scaffold, 

and shall extend from the bottom of each square to 

the top of the next square. 

(4) Scaffolds shall not exceed three tiers in 

height, and shall be so constructed and arranged 

that one square rests directly above the other. The 

upper tiers shall stand on a continuous row of 

planks laid across the next lower tier, and shall be 

nailed down or otherwise secured to prevent 

displacement. 

(f) Horse scaffolds. (1) Scaffolds shall not be 

constructed or arranged more than two tiers or 10 

feet (3.0 m) in height, whichever is less. 

(2) When horses are arranged in tiers, each horse 

shall be placed directly over the horse in the tier 

below. 

(3) When horses are arranged in tiers, the legs of 

each horse shall be nailed down or otherwise 

secured to prevent displacement. 

(4) When horses are arranged in tiers, each tier 

shall be crossbraced. 

(g) Form scaffolds and carpenters’ bracket 

scaffolds. 

(1) Each bracket, except those for wooden bracketform scaffolds, shall be attached to the supporting 

formwork or structure by means of one or more of 

the following: nails; a metal stud attachment 

device; welding; hooking over a secured structural 

supporting member, with the form wales either 

bolted to the form or secured by snap ties or tie 

bolts extending through the form and securely 

anchored; or, for carpenters’ bracket scaffolds only, 

by a bolt extending through to the opposite side of 

the structure’s wall. 

(2) Wooden bracket-form scaffolds shall be an 

integral part of the form panel. 

(3) Folding type metal brackets, when extended 

for use, shall be either bolted or secured with a 

locking-type pin. 

(h) Roof bracket scaffolds. (1) Scaffold 

brackets shall be constructed to fit the pitch of the 

roof and shall provide a level support for the 

platform. 

(2) Brackets (including those provided with 

pointed metal projections) shall be anchored in 

place by nails unless it is impractical to use nails. 

When nails are not used, brackets shall be secured 

in place with first-grade manila rope of at least 

three-fourth inch (1.9 cm) diameter, or equivalent. 

(i) Outrigger scaffolds. (1) The inboard end of 

outrigger beams, measured from the fulcrum point 

to the extreme point of anchorage, shall be not less 

than one and one-half times the outboard end in 

length. 

(2) Outrigger beams fabricated in the shape of 

an I-beam or channel shall be placed so that the 

web section is vertical. 

(3) The fulcrum point of outrigger beams shall 

rest on secure bearings at least 6 inches (15.2 cm) 

in each horizontal dimension. 

(4) Outrigger beams shall be secured in place 

against movement, and shall be securely braced at 

the fulcrum point against tipping. 

(5) The inboard ends of outrigger beams shall be 

securely anchored either by means of braced struts 

bearing against sills in contact with the overhead 

beams or ceiling, or by means of tension members 

secured to the floor joists underfoot, or by both. 

(6) The entire supporting structure shall be 

securely braced to prevent any horizontal 

movement. 

(7) To prevent their displacement, platform units 

shall be nailed, bolted, or otherwise secured to 

outriggers. 

(8) Scaffolds and scaffold components shall be 

designed by a registered professional engineer and 

shall be constructed and loaded in accordance with 

such design. 

(j) Pump jack scaffolds. (1) Pump jack brackets, braces, and accessories shall be fabricated from 

metal plates and angles. Each pump jack bracket 

shall have two positive gripping mechanisms to 

prevent any failure or slippage. 

Regulatory Text 
 

42 

(1926.452(j) continued) 

(2) Poles shall be secured to the structure by 

rigid triangular bracing or equivalent at the bottom, 

top, and other points as necessary. When the pump 

jack has to pass bracing already installed, an 

additional brace shall be installed approximately 

4 feet (1.2 m) above the brace to be passed, and 

shall be left in place until the pump jack has been 

moved and the original brace reinstalled. 

(3) When guardrails are used for fall protection, 

a workbench may be used as the toprail only if it 

meets all the requirements in paragraphs (g)(4)(ii), 

(vii), (viii), and (xiii) of §1926.451. 

(4) Work benches shall not be used as scaffold 

platforms. 

(5) When poles are made of wood, the pole 

lumber shall be straight-grained, free of shakes, 

large loose or dead knots, and other defects which 

might impair strength. 

(6) When wood poles are constructed of two 

continuous lengths, they shall be joined together 

with the seam parallel to the bracket. 

(7) When two by fours are spliced to make a 

pole, mending plates shall be installed at all splices 

to develop the full strength of the member. 

(k) Ladder jack scaffolds. (1) Platforms shall 

not exceed a height of 20 feet (6.1 m). 

(2) All ladders used to support ladder jack 

scaffolds shall meet the requirements of subpart X 

of this part—Stairways and Ladders, except that 

job-made ladders shall not be used to support 

ladder jack scaffolds. 

(3) The ladder jack shall be so designed and 

constructed that it will bear on the side rails and 

ladder rungs or on the ladder rungs alone. If 

bearing on rungs only, the bearing area shall include a length of at least 10 inches (25.4 cm) on 

each rung. 

(4) Ladders used to support ladder jacks shall be 

placed, fastened, or equipped with devices to 

prevent slipping. 

(5) Scaffold platforms shall not be bridged one 

to another. 

(l) Window jack scaffolds. (1) Scaffolds shall 

be securely attached to the window opening. 

(2) Scaffolds shall be used only for the purpose 

of working at the window opening through which 

the jack is placed. 

(3) Window jacks shall not be used to support 

planks placed between one window jack and 

another, or for other elements of scaffolding. 

(m) Crawling boards (chicken ladders). (1) 

Crawling boards shall extend from the roof peak to 

the eaves when used in connection with roof 

construction, repair, or maintenance. 

(2) Crawling boards shall be secured to the roof 

by ridge hooks or by means that meet equivalent 

criteria (e.g., strength and durability). 

(n) Step, platform, and trestle ladder scaffolds. (1) Scaffold platforms shall not be placed 

any higher than the second highest rung or step of 

the ladder supporting the platform. 

(2) All ladders used in conjunction with step, 

platform and trestle ladder scaffolds shall meet the 

pertinent requirements of subpart X of this part— 

Stairways and Ladders, except that job-made 

ladders shall not be used to support such scaffolds. 

(3) Ladders used to support step, platform, and 

trestle ladder scaffolds shall be placed, fastened, or 

equipped with devices to prevent slipping. 

(4) Scaffolds shall not be bridged one to another. 

(o) Single-point adjustable suspension 

scaffolds. (1) When two single-point adjustable 

suspension scaffolds are combined to form a twopoint adjustable suspension scaffold, the resulting 

two-point scaffold shall comply with the requirements for two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds 

in paragraph (p) of this section. 

(2) The supporting rope between the scaffold 

and the suspension device shall be kept vertical 

unless all of the following conditions are met: 

(i) The rigging has been designed by a qualified 

person, and 

(ii) The scaffold is accessible to rescuers, and 

(iii) The supporting rope is protected to ensure 

that it will not chafe at any point where a change in 

direction occurs, and 

(iv) The scaffold is positioned so that swinging 

cannot bring the scaffold into contact with another 

surface. 

(3) Boatswains’ chair tackle shall consist of 

correct size ball bearings or bushed blocks containing safety hooks and properly “eye-spliced” minimum five-eighth (5/8) inch (1.6 cm) diameter firstgrade manila rope, or other rope which will satisfy 

the criteria (e.g., strength and durability) of manila 

rope. 

(4) Boatswains’ chair seat slings shall be reeved 

through four corner holes in the seat; shall cross 

each other on the underside of the seat; and shall be 

rigged so as to prevent slippage which could cause 

an out-of-level condition. 

Regulatory Text 
43 

 

(1926.452(o) continued) 

(5) Boatswains’ chair seat slings shall be a 

minimum of five-eight (5/8) inch (1.6 cm) diameter 

fiber, synthetic, or other rope which will satisfy the 

criteria (e.g., strength, slip resistance, durability, 

etc.) of first grade manila rope. 

(6) When a heat-producing process such as gas 

or arc welding is being conducted, boatswains’ 

chair seat slings shall be a minimum of three-eight 

(3/8) inch (1.0 cm) wire rope. 

(7) Non-cross-laminated wood boatswains’ 

chairs shall be reinforced on their underside by 

cleats securely fastened to prevent the board from 

splitting. 

(p) Two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds 

(swing stages). The following requirements do not 

apply to two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds 

used as masons’ or stonesetters’ scaffolds. Such 

scaffolds are covered by paragraph (q) of this 

section. 

(1) Platforms shall not be more than 36 inches 

(0.9 m) wide unless designed by a qualified person 

to prevent unstable conditions. 

(2) The platform shall be securely fastened to 

hangers (stirrups) by U-bolts or by other means 

which satisfy the requirements of §1926.451(a). 

(3) The blocks for fiber or synthetic ropes shall 

consist of at least one double and one single block. 

The sheaves of all blocks shall fit the size of the 

rope used. 

(4) Platforms shall be of the ladder-type, planktype, beam-type, or light-metal type. Light metaltype platforms having a rated capacity of 750 

pounds or less and platforms 40 feet (12.2 m) or 

less in length shall be tested and listed by a 

nationally recognized testing laboratory. 

(5) Two-point 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. 

(6) Passage may be made from one platform to 

another only when the platforms are at the same 

height, are abutting, and walk-through stirrups 

specifically designed for this purpose are used. 

(q) Multi-point adjustable suspension scaffolds, stonesetters’ multi-point adjustable 

suspension scaffolds, and masons’ multi-point 

adjustable suspension scaffolds. 

(1) When two or more scaffolds are used they 

shall not be bridged one to another unless they are 

designed to be bridged, the bridge connections are 

articulated, and the hoists are properly sized. 

(2) If bridges are not used, passage may be made 

from one platform to another only when the platforms are at the same height and are abutting. 

(3) Scaffolds shall be suspended from metal 

outriggers, brackets, wire rope slings, hooks, or 

means that meet equivalent criteria (e.g., strength, 

durability). 

(r) Catenary scaffolds. (1) No more than one 

platform shall be placed between consecutive 

vertical pickups, and no more than two platforms 

shall be used on a catenary scaffold. 

(2) Platforms supported by wire ropes shall have 

hook- shaped stops on each end of the platforms to 

prevent them from slipping off the wire ropes. 

These hooks shall be so placed that they will 

prevent the platform from falling if one of the 

horizontal wire ropes breaks. 

(3) Wire ropes shall not be tightened to the 

extent that the application of a scaffold load will 

overstress them. 

(4) Wire ropes shall be continuous and without 

splices between anchors. 

(s) Float (ship) scaffolds. (1) The platform 

shall be supported by a minimum of two bearers, 

each of which shall project a minimum of 6 inches 

(15.2 cm) beyond the platform on both sides. Each 

bearer shall be securely fastened to the platform. 

(2) Rope connections shall be such that the 

platform cannot shift or slip. 

(3) When only two ropes are used with each 

float: 

(i) They shall be arranged so as to provide four 

ends which are securely fastened to overhead 

supports. 

(ii) Each supporting rope shall be hitched around 

one end of the bearer and pass under the platform to 

the other end of the bearer where it is hitched again, 

leaving sufficient rope at each end for the supporting ties. 

(t) Interior hung scaffolds. (1) Scaffolds shall 

be suspended only from the roof structure or other 

structural member such as ceiling beams. 

(2) Overhead supporting members (roof structure, ceiling beams, or other structural members) 

shall be inspected and checked for strength before 

the scaffold is erected. 

Regulatory Text 
44 

(1926.452(t) continued) 

(3) Suspension ropes and cables shall be connected to the overhead supporting members by 

shackles, clips, thimbles, or other means that meet 

equivalent criteria (e.g., strength, durability). 

(u) Needle beam scaffolds. (1) Scaffold 

support beams shall be installed on edge. 

(2) Ropes or hangers shall be used for supports, 

except that one end of a needle beam scaffold may 

be supported by a permanent structural member. 

(3) The ropes shall be securely attached to the 

needle beams. 

(4) The support connection shall be arranged so 

as to prevent the needle beam from rolling or 

becoming displaced. 

(5) Platform units shall be securely attached to 

the needle beams by bolts or equivalent means. 

Cleats and overhang are not considered to be 

adequate means of attachment. 

(v) Multi-level suspended scaffolds. (1) 

Scaffolds shall be equipped with additional independent support lines, equal in number to the 

number of points supported, and of equivalent 

strength to the suspension ropes, and rigged to 

support the scaffold in the event the suspension 

rope(s) fail. 

(2) Independent support lines and suspension 

ropes shall not be attached to the same points of 

anchorage. 

(3) Supports for platforms shall be attached 

directly to the support stirrup and not to any other 

platform. 

(w) Mobile scaffolds. (1) Scaffolds shall be 

braced by cross, horizontal, or diagonal braces, or 

combination thereof, to prevent racking or collapse 

of the scaffold and to secure vertical members 

together laterally so as to automatically square and 

align the vertical members. Scaffolds shall be 

plumb, level, and squared. All brace connections 

shall be secured. 

(i) Scaffolds constructed of tube and coupler 

components shall also comply with the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section; 

(ii) Scaffolds constructed of fabricated frame 

components shall also comply with the requirements of paragraph (c) of this section. 

(2) Scaffold casters and wheels shall be locked 

with positive wheel and/or wheel and swivel locks, 

or equivalent means, to prevent movement of the 

scaffold while the scaffold is used in a stationary 

manner. 

(3) Manual force used to move the scaffold shall 

be applied as close to the base as practicable, but 

not more than 5 feet (1.5 m) above the supporting 

surface. 

(4) Power systems used to propel mobile scaffolds shall be designed for such use. Forklifts, 

trucks, similar motor vehicles or add-on motors 

shall not be used to propel scaffolds unless the 

scaffold is designed for such propulsion systems. 

(5) Scaffolds shall be stabilized to prevent 

tipping during movement. 

(6) Employees shall not be allowed to ride on 

scaffolds unless the following conditions exist: 

(i) The surface on which the scaffold is being 

moved is within 3 degrees of level, and free of pits, 

holes, and obstructions; 

(ii) The height to base width ratio of the scaffold 

during movement is two to one or less, unless the 

scaffold is designed and constructed to meet or 

exceed nationally recognized stability test requirements such as those listed in paragraph (x) of 

Appendix A to this subpart (ANSI/SIA A92.5 and 

A92.6); 

(iii) Outrigger frames, when used, are installed 

on both sides of the scaffold; 

(iv) When power systems are used, the propelling force is applied directly to the wheels, and does 

not produce a speed in excess of 1 foot per second 

(.3 mps); and 

(v) No employee is on any part of the scaffold 

which extends outward beyond the wheels, casters, 

or other supports. 

(7) Platforms shall not extend outward beyond 

the base supports of the scaffold unless outrigger 

frames or equivalent devices are used to ensure 

stability. 

(8) Where leveling of the scaffold is necessary, 

screw jacks or equivalent means shall be used. 

(9) Caster stems and wheel stems shall be 

pinned or otherwise secured in scaffold legs or 

adjustment screws. 

(10) Before a scaffold is moved, each employee 

on the scaffold shall be made aware of the move. 

(x) Repair bracket scaffolds. 

(1) Brackets shall be secured in place by at least 

one wire rope at least 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) in 

diameter. 

(2) Each bracket shall be attached to the securing 

wire rope (or ropes) by a positive locking device 

capable of preventing the unintentional detachment 

of the bracket from the rope, or by equivalent 

means. 

Regulatory Text 
45 

(1926.452(x) continued) 

(3) Each bracket, at the contact point between the 

supporting structure and the bottom of the bracket, 

shall be provided with a shoe (heel block or foot) 

capable of preventing the lateral movement of the 

bracket. 

(4) Platforms shall be secured to the brackets in a 

manner that will prevent the separation of the 

platforms from the brackets and the movement of 

the platforms or the brackets on a completed 

scaffold. 

(5) When a wire rope is placed around the 

structure in order to provide a safe anchorage for 

personal fall arrest systems used by employees 

erecting or dismantling scaffolds, the wire rope 

shall meet the requirements of subpart M of this 

part, but shall be at least 5/16 inch (0.8 cm) in 

diameter. 

(6) Each wire rope used for securing brackets in 

place or as an anchorage for personal fall arrest 

systems shall be protected from damage due to 

contact with edges, corners, protrusions, or other 

discontinuities of the supporting structure or 

scaffold components. 

(7) Tensioning of each wire rope used for securing brackets in place or as an anchorage for personal fall arrest systems shall be by means of a 

turnbuckle at least 1 inch (2.54 cm) in diameter, or 

by equivalent means. 

(8) Each turnbuckle shall be connected to the 

other end of its rope by use of an eyesplice thimble 

of a size appropriate to the turnbuckle to which it is 

attached. 

(9) U-bolt wire rope clips shall not be used on 

any wire rope used to secure brackets or to serve as 

an anchor for personal fall arrest systems. 

(10) The employer shall ensure that materials 

shall not be dropped to the outside of the supporting 

structure. 

(11) Scaffold erection shall progress in only one 

direction around any structure. 

(y) Stilts

 Stilts, when used, shall be used in accordance 

with the following requirements: 

(1) An employee may wear stilts on a scaffold 

only if it is a large area scaffold. 

(2) When an employee is using stilts on a large 

area scaffold where a guardrail system is used to 

provide fall protection, the guardrail system shall be 

increased in height by an amount equal to the 

height of the stilts being used by the employee. 

(3) Surfaces on which stilts are used shall be flat 

and free of pits, holes and obstructions, such as 

debris, as well as other tripping and falling hazards. 

(4) Stilts shall be properly maintained. Any 

alteration of the original equipment shall be

 approved by the manufacturer. 

1926.453 Aerial lifts.

 (a) General requirements. (1) Unless otherwise 

provided in this section, aerial lifts acquired for use 

on or after January 22, 1973 shall be designed and 

constructed in conformance with the applicable 

requirements of the American National Standards 

for “Vehicle Mounted Elevating and Rotating Work 

Platforms,” ANSI A92.2-1969, including appendix. 

Aerial lifts acquired before January 22, 1973, which 

do not meet the requirements of ANSI A92.2-1969, 

may not be used after January 1, 1976, unless they 

shall have been modified so as to conform with the 

applicable design and construction requirements of 

ANSI A92.2-1969. Aerial lifts include the following 

types of vehicle-mounted aerial devices used to 

elevate personnel to job-sites above ground: (i) 

Extensible boom platforms; (ii) aerial ladders; (iii) 

articulating boom platforms; (iv) vertical towers; 

and (v) a combination of any of this equipment. 

Aerial equipment may be made of metal, wood, 

fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), or other material; may be powered or manually operated; and are 

deemed to be aerial lifts whether or not they are 

capable of rotating about a substantially vertical 

axis. 

(2) Aerial lifts may be “field modified” for uses 

other than those intended by the manufacturer 

provided the modification has been certified in 

writing by the manufacturer or by any other equivalent entity, such as a nationally recognized testing 

laboratory, to be in conformity with all applicable 

provisions of ANSI A92.2-1969 and this section 

and to be at least as safe as the equipment was 

before modification. 

(b) Specific requirements. (1) Ladder trucks 

and tower trucks. Aerial ladders shall be secured 

in the lower traveling position by the locking device 

on top of the truck cab, and the manually operated 

device at the base of the ladder before the truck is 

moved for highway travel. 

(2) Extensible and articulating boom platforms. 

(i) Lift controls shall be tested each day prior to use 

to determine that such controls are in safe working 

condition. 

Regulatory Text 
46 

(1926.453(b) continued) 

(ii) Only authorized persons shall operate an 

aerial lift. 

(iii) Belting off to an adjacent pole, structure, or 

equipment while working from an aerial lift shall 

not be permitted. 

(iv) Employees shall always stand firmly on the 

floor of the basket, and shall not sit or climb on the 

edge of the basket or use planks, ladders, or other 

devices for a work position. 

(v) A body belt shall be worn and a lanyard 

attached to the boom or basket when working from 

an aerial lift. 

(vi) Boom and basket load limits specified by the 

manufacturer shall not be exceeded. 

(vii) The brakes shall be set and when outriggers 

are used, they shall be positioned on pads or a solid 

surface. Wheel chocks shall be installed before 

using an aerial lift on an incline, provided they can 

be safely installed. 

(viii) An aerial lift truck shall not be moved when 

the boom is elevated in a working position with 

men in the basket, except for equipment which is 

specifically designed for this type of operation in 

accordance with the provisions of paragraphs (a)(1) 

and (2) of this section. 

(ix) Articulating boom and extensible boom 

platforms, primarily designed as personnel carriers, 

shall have both platform (upper) and lower controls. 

Upper controls shall be in or beside the platform 

within easy reach of the operator. Lower controls 

shall provide for overriding the upper controls. 

Controls shall be plainly marked as to their function. Lower level controls shall not be operated 

unless permission has been obtained from the 

employee in the lift, except in case of 

emergency. 

(x) Climbers shall not be worn while performing 

work from an aerial lift. 

(xi) The insulated portion of an aerial lift shall 

not be altered in any manner that might reduce its 

insulating value. 

(xii) Before moving an aerial lift for travel, the 

boom(s) shall be inspected to see that it is properly 

cradled and outriggers are in stowed position except 

as provided in paragraph (b)(2)(viii) of this section. 

(3) Electrical tests. All electrical tests shall 

conform to the requirements of ANSI A92.2-1969 

section 5. However equivalent d.c. voltage tests 

may be used in lieu of the a.c. voltage specified in 

A92.2-1969; d.c. voltage tests which are approved 

by the equipment manufacturer or equivalent entity 

shall be considered an equivalent test for the 

purpose of this paragraph (b)(3). 

(4) Bursting safety factor. The provisions of the 

American National Standards Institute standard 

ANSI A92.2-1969, section 4.9 Bursting Safety 

Factor shall apply to all critical hydraulic and 

pneumatic components. Critical components are 

those in which a failure would result in a free fall or 

free rotation of the boom. All noncritical components shall have a bursting safety factor of at least 

2 to 1. 

(5) Welding standards. All welding shall conform 

to the following standards as applicable: 

(i) Standard Qualification Procedure, AWS B 

3.0-41. 

(ii) Recommended Practices for Automotive 

Welding Design, AWS D8.4-61. 

(iii) Standard Qualification of Welding Procedures and Welders for Piping and Tubing, AWS 

D10.9-69. 

(iv) Specifications for Welding Highway and 

Railway Bridges, AWS D2.0-69. 

NOTE to §1926.453: Non-mandatory Appendix C to 

this subpart lists examples of national consensus standards that are considered to provide employee protection 

equivalent to that provided through the application of 

ANSI A92.2-1969, where appropriate. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the 

Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 

1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from the 

American National Standards Institute. Copies may be 

inspected at the Docket Office, Occupational Safety and 

Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 

Constitution Avenue, NW., room N2634, Washington, 

DC or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North 

Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. 

§1926.454 Training requirements. 

This section supplements and clarifies the 

requirements of §1926.21(b)(2) as these relate to 

the hazards of work on scaffolds. 

(a) The employer shall have each employee who 

performs work while on a scaffold trained by a 

person qualified in the subject matter to recognize 

the hazards associated with the type of scaffold 

being used and to understand the procedures to 

control or minimize those hazards. The training 

shall include the following areas, as applicable: 

Regulatory Text 
47 

(1926.454(a) continued) 

(1) The nature of any electrical hazards, fall 

hazards and falling object hazards in the work area; 

(2) The correct procedures for dealing with 

electrical hazards and for erecting, maintaining, and 

disassembling the fall protection systems and 

falling object protection systems being used; 

(3) The proper use of the scaffold, and the 

proper handling of materials on the scaffold; 

(4) The maximum intended load and the loadcarrying capacities of the scaffolds used; and 

(5) Any other pertinent requirements of this 

subpart. 

(b) The employer shall have each employee who 

is involved in erecting, disassembling, moving, 

operating, repairing, maintaining, or inspecting a 

scaffold trained by a competent person to recognize 

any hazards associated with the work in question. 

The training shall include the following topics, as 

applicable: 

(1) The nature of scaffold hazards; 

(2) The correct procedures for erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, inspecting, 

and maintaining the type of scaffold in question; 

(3) The design criteria, maximum intended loadcarrying capacity and intended use of the scaffold; 

(4) Any other pertinent requirements of this 

subpart. 

(c) When the employer has reason to believe that 

an employee lacks the skill or understanding 

needed for safe work involving the erection, use or 

dismantling of scaffolds, the employer shall retrain 

each such employee so that the requisite proficiency 

is regained. Retraining is required in at least the 

following situations: 

(1) Where changes at the worksite present a hazard 

about which an employee has not been previously 

trained; or 

(2) Where changes in the types of scaffolds, fall 

protection, falling object protection, or other 

equipment present a hazard about which an 

employee has not been previously trained; or 

(3) Where inadequacies in an affected employee’s 

work involving scaffolds indicate that the employee 

has not retained the requisite proficiency. 

Non-Mandatory Appendices 

Non-mandatory Appendix A to Subpart L — 

Scaffold Specifications 

This Appendix provides non-mandatory guidelines to assist employers in complying with the 

requirements of subpart L of this part. An employer 

may use these guidelines and tables as a starting 

point for designing scaffold systems. However, the 

guidelines do not provide all the information 

necessary to build a complete system, and the 

employer is still responsible for designing and 

assembling these components in such a way that the 

completed system will meet the requirements of 

§1926.451(a). Scaffold components which are not 

selected and loaded in accordance with this Appendix, and components for which no specific 

guidelines or tables are given in this Appendix (e.g., 

joints, ties, components for wood pole scaffolds 

more than 60 feet in height, components for heavyduty horse scaffolds, components made with other 

materials, and components with other dimensions, 

etc.) must be designed and constructed in 

accordance with the capacity requirements of 

§1926.451(a), and loaded in accordance with 

§1926.451(d)(1). 

Index to Appendix A for Subpart L 

1. General guidelines and tables. 

2. Specific guidelines and tables. 

(a) Pole scaffolds: 

Single-pole wood pole scaffolds. 

Independent wood pole scaffolds. 

(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds. 

(d) Plasterers’, decorators’ and large area 

scaffolds. 

(e) Bricklayers’ square scaffolds. 

(f) Horse scaffolds. 

(g) Form scaffolds and carpenters’ bracket 

(h) Roof bracket scaffolds. 

(i) Outrigger scaffolds (one level). 

(j) Pump jack scaffolds. 

(l) Window jack scaffolds. 

(m) Crawling boards (chicken ladders). 

(n) Step, platform and trestle ladder scaffolds. 

(o) Single-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. 

(p) Two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. 

(q)(1) Stonesetters’ multi-point adjustable 

suspension scaffolds. 

(q)(2) Masons’ multi-point adjustable suspension 

scaffolds. 

(r) Catenary scaffolds. 

Regulatory Text 
 

 

 

 

 

 

48 

(Appendix A continued) 

(s) Float (ship) scaffolds. 

(t) Interior hung scaffolds. 

(u) Needle beam scaffolds. 

(v) Multi-level suspension scaffolds. 

(w) Mobile scaffolds. 

(x) Repair bracket scaffolds. 

(y) Stilts. 

(z) Tank builders’ scaffolds. 

1. General guidelines and tables. 

(a) The following tables, and the tables in Part 

2—Specific guidelines and tables, assume that all 

load-carrying timber members (except planks) of 

the scaffold are a minimum of 1,500 lb-f/in2

 (stress 

grade) construction grade lumber. All dimensions 

are nominal sizes as provided in the American 

Softwood Lumber Standards, dated January 1970, 

except that, where rough sizes are noted, only rough 

or undressed lumber of the size specified will 

satisfy minimum requirements. 

(b) Solid sawn wood used as scaffold planks 

shall be selected for such use following the grading 

rules established by a recognized lumber grading 

association or by an independent lumber grading 

inspection agency. Such planks shall be identified 

by the grade stamp of such association or agency. 

The association or agency and the grading rules 

under which the wood is graded shall be certified 

by the Board of Review, American Lumber Standard Committee, as set forth in the American 

Softwood Lumber Standard of the U.S. Department 

of Commerce. 

Allowable spans shall be determined in compliance with the National Design Specification for 

Wood Construction published by the National 

Forest Products Association; paragraph 5 of ANSI 

A10.8-1988 Scaffolding-Safety Requirements 

published by the American National Standards 

Institute; or for 2 x 10 inch (nominal) or 2 x 9 inch 

(rough) solid sawn wood planks, as shown in the 

following table: 

Maximum Maximum Maximum 

Intended Permissible Permissible 

Nominal Span Using Span Using 

Load Full Thickness Nominal 

(lb/ft2

) Undressed Thickness 

Lumber (ft) Lumber (ft) 

25 10 8 

50 8 6 

75 6 – 

The maximum permissible span for 1-1/4 x 

9-inch or wider wood plank of full thickness with a 

maximum intended load of 50 lb/ft2

 shall be 4 feet. 

(c) Fabricated planks and platforms may be used 

in lieu of solid sawn wood planks. Maximum spans 

for such units shall be as recommended by the 

manufacturer based on the maximum intended load 

being calculated as follows: 

Rated Load Intended Load 

Capacity 

Light-duty • 25 pounds per square foot

 applied uniformly over the 

entire span area. 

Medium-duty • 50 pounds per square foot

 applied uniformly over the

 entire span area. 

Heavy-duty • 75 pounds per square foot

 applied uniformly over the 

entire span area. 

One-person • 250 pounds placed at the 

center of the span (total

 250 pounds). 

Two-person • 250 pounds placed 18 inches

 to the left and right of

 the center of the span

 (total 500 pounds). 

Three-person • 250 pounds placed at the 

center of the span and 250 

pounds placed 18 inches to

 the left and right of the 

center of the span (total

 750 pounds). 

Regulatory Text 
49 

(Appendix A continued) 1 inch x .070 inch wall steel tubing; or 

NOTE: Platform units used to make scaffold 

platforms intended for light-duty use shall be 

capable of supporting at least 25 pounds per square 

foot applied uniformly over the entire unit-span 

area, or a 250-pound point load placed on the unit 

at the center of the span, whichever load produces 

the greater shear force. 

(d) Guardrails shall be as follows: 

(i) Toprails shall be equivalent in strength to 

2 inch by 4 inch lumber; or 

1-1/4 inch x 1/8 inch structural angle iron; or 

1 inch x .070 inch wall steel tubing; or 1.990 

inch x .058 inch wall aluminum tubing. 

(ii) Midrails shall be equivalent in strength to 1 

inch by 6 inch lumber; or 

1-1/4 inch x 1-1/4 inch x 1/8 inch structural 

angle iron; or 

1.990 inch x .058 inch wall aluminum tubing. 

(iii) Toeboards shall be equivalent in strength to 

1 inch by 4 inch lumber; or 

1-1/4 inch x 1-1/4 inch structural angle iron; or 

1 inch x .070 inch wall steel tubing; or 

1.990 inch x .058 inch wall aluminum tubing. 

(iv) Posts shall be equivalent in strength to 2 

inch by 4 inch lumber; or 

1-1/4 inch x 1-1/4 inch x 1/8 structural angle 

iron; or 

1 inch x .070 inch wall steel tubing; or 

1.990 inch x .058 inch wall aluminum tubing. 

(v) Distance between posts shall not exceed 

8 feet. 

(e) Overhead protection shall consist of 2 inch 

nominal planking laid tight, or 3/4-inch plywood. 

(f) Screen installed between toeboards and 

midrails or toprails shall consist of No. 18 gauge 

U.S. Standard wire one inch mesh. 

Regulatory Text 
50 

(Appendix A continued) 

2. Specific guidelines and tables. 

(a) Pole Scaffolds. 

Single Pole Wood Pole Scaffolds 

Light Duty

up to 

20 feet High 

Light Duty

up to 

60 feet High 

Medium Duty

up to 

60 feet High 

 Heavy Duty 

up to 

60 feet High 

Maximum intended load 25 lbs/ft2 25 lbs/ft2 50 lbs/ft2 75 lbs/ft2 

Poles or uprights 2 x 4 in. 4 x 4 in. 4 x 4 in. 4 x 6 in. 

Maximum pole spacing 

(longitudinal) 6 feet 10 feet 8 feet 6 feet 

Maximum pole spacing 

(transverse) 5 feet 5 feet 5 feet 5 feet 

Runners 

Bearers and maximum 

spacing of bearers:

 3 feet 

5 feet 

6 feet 

8 feet 

Planking 

1 x 4 in. 

2 x 4 in. 

2 x 6 in. 

or 

3 x 4 in. 

— 

— 

1-1/4 x 9 in. 

1-1/4 x 9 in. 

2 x 4 in. 

2 x 6 in. 

or

3 x 4 in. 

(rough)

— 

— 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

or 

3 x 4 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

or 

3 x 4 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

or 

3 x 4 in. 

2 x 10 in. or

3 x 4 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

or 

3 x 5 in.

2 x 10 in. 

or 

3 x 5 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

or 

3 x 5 in.

— 

2 x 10 in. 

Maximum vertical spacing 

of horizontal members 7 feet 9 feet 7 feet 6 ft. 6 in. 

Bracing horizontal 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 6 in. 

or 

1-1/4 x 4 in. 

2 x 4 in. 

Bracing diagonal 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 2 x 4 in. 

Tie-ins 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 

NOTE: All members except planking are used on edge. All wood bearers shall be reinforced with 

3/16 x 2 inch steel strip, or the equivalent, secured to the lower edges for the entire length of the bearer. 

Regulatory Text 
51 

(Appendix A continued) 

Independent Wood Pole Scaffolds 

Light Duty

up to 

20 feet High 

Light Duty

up to 

60 feet High 

Medium Duty

up to 

60 feet High 

Heavy Duty 

up to 

60 feet High 

Maximum intended load 25 lbs/ft2 25 lbs/ft2 50 lbs/ft2 75 lbs/ft2 

Poles or uprights 2 x 4 in. 4 x 4 in. 4 x 4 in. 4 x 4 in. 

Maximum pole spacing

 (longitudinal) 6 feet 10 feet 8 feet 6 feet 

Maximum (transverse) 6 feet 10 feet 8 feet 8 feet 

Runners 

Bearers and maximum

 spacing of bearers: 

3 feet 

6 feet 

8 feet 

10 feet 

Planking 

1-1/4 x 4 in. 

2 x 4 in 

2 x 6 in. 

or 

3 x 4 in. 

2 x 6 in. 

or 

3 x 4 in. 

2 x 6 in. 

or 

3 x 4 in. 

1-1/4 x 9 in. 

1-1/4 x 9 in. 

2 x 4 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

(rough) or 

3 x 8 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

(rough) or 

3 x 8 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

(rough) or 

3 x 3 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

2 X 10 in. 

2 x 10 in.

— 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

2 x 10 in. 

(rough) 

2 x 10 in. 

or (rough) 

— 

— 

2 x 10 in. 

Maximum vertical spacing

 of horizontal members 7 feet 7 feet 6 feet 6 feet 

Bracing horizontal 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 6 in. 

or 

1-1/4 x 4 in. 

2 x 4 in. 

Bracing diagonal 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 2 x 4 in. 

Tie-ins 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 1 x 4 in. 

NOTE: All members except planking are used on edge. All wood bearers 

shall be reinforced with 3/16 x 2 inch steel strip, or the equivalent, secured to the

 lower edges for the entire length of the bearer. 

Regulatory Text 
52 

(Appendix A continued) 

(b) Tube and coupler scaffolds. 

Minimum Size of Members 

Light 

Duty

Medium 

Duty

Heavy

 Duty 

Maximum intended

 load 

Posts, runners, and 

braces 

Bearers 

25 lbs/ft2 

Nominal 2 in. 

(1.90 inches) 

OD steel tube 

or pipe 

Nominal 2 in. 

(1.90 inches) 

OD steel tube 

or pipe and a 

maximum post 

spacing of 

4 ft. x 10 ft.* 

50 lbs/ft2 

Nominal 2 in. 

(1.90 inches) 

OD steel tube 

or pipe 

Nominal 2 in. 

(1.90 inches) 

OD steel tube 

or pipe and a 

maximum post 

spacing of 

4 ft. x 7 ft. 

or 

Nominal 2-1/2 in. 

(2.375 in.) 

OD steel tube or 

pipe and a maximum 

post spacing of 

6 ft. x 8 ft.* 

75 lbs/ft2 

Nominal 2 in.

(1.90 inches) 

OD steel tube 

or pipe 

Nominal 2-1/2 in. 

(2.375 in.) 

OD steel tube 

or pipe and a 

maximum post 

spacing of 

6 ft. x 6 ft. 

Maximum runner

 spacing vertically 6 ft. 6 in. 6 ft. 6 in. 6 ft. 6 in. 

*

Bearers shall be installed in the direction of the shorter dimension. 

NOTE: Longitudinal diagonal bracing shall be installed at an angle of 45o (± 5o). 

Regulatory Text 
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(Appendix A continued) 

Maximum Number of Planked Levels 

Maximum Number of Additional Planked Levels Maximum 

Height of 

Scaffold 

(in feet) 

Light

 Duty

 Medium 

Duty 

Heavy

Duty

 Number of Working

 Levels 

1 16 11 6 125 

2 11 1 0 125 

3 6 0 0 125 

4 1 0 0 125 

(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds. Because of their 

prefabricated nature, 

no additional guidelines or tables for these scaffolds 

are being adopted in this 

Appendix. 

(d) Plasterers’, decorators’, and large area 

scaffolds. The guidelines for pole 

scaffolds or tube and coupler scaffolds (Appendix 

A(a) and (b)) may be applied. 

(e) Bricklayers’ square scaffolds. 

Maximum intended load 50 lb/ft 2* 

Maximum width 5 ft 

Maximum height 5 ft 

Gussets 1 x 6 in 

Braces 1 x 8 in 

Legs 2 x 6 in 

Bearers (horizontal members) 2 x 6 in *

The squares shall be set not more than 8 feet 

apart for light duty scaffolds and not 

more than 5 feet apart for medium duty scaffolds. 

(f) Horse scaffolds. 

Maximum intended load 25 lb/ft 2*

 (light duty) 

Maximum intended load 50 lb/ft 2*

 (medium duty) 

Horizontal members or bearers: 

Light duty 2 x 4 in 

Medium duty 3 x 4 in 

Legs 2 x 4 in 

Longitudinal brace between legs 1 x 6 in 

Gusset brace at top of legs 1 x 8 in 

Half diagonal braces 2 x 4 in 

*Horses shall be spaced not more than 8 feet 

apart for light duty loads, and not more than 5 feet 

apart for medium duty loads. 

(g) Form scaffolds and carpenters’ bracket 

scaffolds. 

(1) Brackets shall consist of a triangular-shaped 

frame made of wood with a cross-section not less 

than 2 inches by 3 inches, or of 1-1/4 inch x 1-1/4 

inch x 1/8 inch structural angle iron. 

(2) Bolts used to attach brackets to structures 

shall not be less than 5/8 inches in diameter. 

(3) Maximum bracket spacing shall be 8 feet on 

centers. 

(4) No more than two employees shall occupy 

any given 8 feet of a bracket or form scaffold at 

any one time. 

Tools and materials shall not exceed 75 pounds in 

addition to the occupancy. 

(5) Wooden figure-four scaffolds: 

Maximum intended load 25 lb/ft 2 

Uprights 2 x 4 in or 2 x 6 in 

Bearers (two) 1 x 6 in 

Braces 1 x 6 in 

Maximum length of 

bearers 3 ft - 6 in 

(unsupported) 

(i) Outrigger bearers shall consist of two pieces 

of 1 x 6 inch lumber nailed on opposite sides of the 

vertical support. 

(ii) Bearers for wood figure-four brackets shall 

project not more than 3 feet 6 inches from the 

outside of the form support, and shall be braced 

and secured to prevent tipping or turning. The 

knee or angle brace shall intersect the bearer at 

least 3 feet from the form at an angle of approximately 45 degrees, and the lower end shall be 

nailed to a vertical support. 

Regulatory Text 
54 

(Appendix A continued) 

(6) Metal bracket scaffolds: 

Maximum intended load 25 lb/ft 2 

Uprights 2 x 4 inch 

Bearers As designed 

Braces As designed 

(7) Wood bracket scaffolds: 

Maximum intended load 25 lb/ft 2 

Uprights 2 x 4 in or 2 x 6 in 

Bearers 2 x 6 in 

Maximum scaffold width 3 ft 6 in 

Braces 1 x 6 in 

(h) Roof bracket scaffolds. No specific guidelines or tables are given. 

(i) Outrigger scaffolds (single level). No specific guidelines or tables are given. 

(j) Pump jack scaffolds. Wood poles shall not 

exceed 30 feet in height. Maximum intended 

load— 500 lbs between poles; applied at the center 

of the span. Not more than two employees shall be 

on a pump jack scaffold at one time between any 

two supports. When 2 x 4’s are spliced together to 

make a 4 x 4 inch wood pole, they shall be spliced 

with “10 penny” common nails no more than 12 

inches center to center, staggered uniformly from 

the opposite outside edges. 

(k) Ladder jack scaffolds. Maximum intended 

load—25 lb/ft 2

. However, not more than two 

employees shall occupy any platform at any one 

time. Maximum span between supports shall be 8 

feet. 

(l) Window jack scaffolds. Not more than one 

employee shall occupy a window jack scaffold at 

any one time. 

(m) Crawling boards (chicken ladders). Crawling boards shall be not less than 10 inches wide and 

1 inch thick, with cleats having a minimum 1 x 1-1/ 

2 inch cross-sectional area. The cleats shall be 

equal in length to the width of the board and spaced 

at equal intervals not to exceed 24 inches. 

(n) Step, platform, and trestle ladder scaffolds. 

No additional guidelines or tables are given. 

(o) Single-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. 

Maximum intended load—250 lbs. 

Wood seats for boatswains’ chairs shall be not 

less than 1 inch thick if made of non-laminated 

wood, or 5/8 inches thick if made of marine quality 

plywood. 

(p) Two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. 

(1) In addition to direct connections to buildings 

(except window cleaners’ anchors) acceptable ways 

to prevent scaffold sway include angulated roping 

and static lines. Angulated roping is a system of 

platform suspension in which the upper wire rope 

sheaves or suspension points are closer to the plane 

of the building face than the corresponding attachment points on the platform, thus causing the 

platform to press against the face of the building. 

Static lines are separate ropes secured at their top 

and bottom ends closer to the plane of the building 

face than the outermost edge of the platform. By 

drawing the static line taut, the platform is drawn 

against the face of the building. 

(2) On suspension scaffolds designed for a 

working load of 500 pounds, no more than two 

employees shall be permitted on the scaffold at one 

time. On suspension scaffolds with a working load 

of 750 pounds, no more than three employees shall 

be permitted on the scaffold at one time. 

(3) Ladder-type platforms. The side stringer 

shall be of clear straight-grained spruce. The rungs 

shall be of straight-grained oak, ash, or hickory, at 

least 1-1/8 inches in diameter, with 7/8 inch tenons 

mortised into the side stringers at least 7/8 inch. 

The stringers shall be tied together with tie rods not 

less than 1/4 inch in diameter, passing through the 

stringers and riveted up tight against washers on 

both ends. The flooring strips shall be spaced not 

more than 5/8 inch apart, except at the side rails 

where the space may be 1 inch. Ladder-type 

platforms shall be constructed in accordance with 

the following table: 

Regulatory Text 
55 

 

 

 

(Appendix A continued) 

Schedule for Ladder-Type Platforms 

Length of Platform 12 feet 14 & 16 feet 18 & 20 feet 

Side stringers, minimum

 cross section (finished

 sizes):

 at ends 1-3/4 x 2-3/4 in. 1-3/4 x 2-3/4 in. 1-3/4 x 3 in.

 at middle 1-3/4 x 3-3/4 in. 1-3/4 x 3-3/4 in. 1-3/4 x 4 in. 

Reinforcing strip A 1/8 x 7/8 inch steel reinforcing strip shall be

 (minimum) attached to the side or underside, full length. 

Rungs shall be 1-1/8 inch minimum diameter with a least 

7/8 inch in diameter tenons, and the maximum spacing 

shall be 12 inches to center. 

Tie rods:

 Number (minimum) 3 4 4

 Diameter (minimum) 1/4 in. 1/4 in. 1/4 in. 

Flooring, minimum

 finished size 1/2 x 2-3/4 in. 1/2 x 2-3/4 in. 1/2 x 2-3/4 in. 

Schedule for Ladder-Type Platforms 

Length of Platform: 

Side stringers, minimum

 cross section

 (finished sizes):

22 & 24 ft 28 & 30 ft.

 at ends 1-3/4 x 3 in. 1-3/4 x 3-1/2 in.

 at middle 

Reinforcing strip (minimum) 

Rungs 

1-3/4 x 4-1/4 in. 1-3/4 x 5 in. 

A 1/8 x 7/8-inch steel reinforcing strip 

shall be attached to the side or under 

side, full length. 

Rungs shall be 1-1/8 inch minimum 

diameter with atleast 7/8 inch in diameter 

tenons, and the maximum spacing shall be 

12 inches to center.Tie rods

 Number (minimum) 5 6

 Diameter (minimum) 1/4 in. 1/4 in. 

Flooring, minimum 

finished size 

1/2 x 2-3/4 in. 1/2 x 2-3/4 in.

Regulatory Text 
56 

(Appendix A continued) 

(4) Plank-Type Platforms. Plank-type platforms 

shall be composed of not less than nominal 2 x 8 

inch unspliced planks, connected together on the 

underside with cleats at intervals not exceeding 4 

feet, starting 6 inches from each end. A bar or other 

effective means shall be securely fastened to the 

platform at each end to prevent the platform from 

slipping off the hanger. The span between hangers 

for plank-type platforms shall not exceed 10 feet. 

(5) Beam-Type Platforms. Beam platforms shall 

have side stringers of lumber not less than 2 x 6 

inches set on edge. The span between hangers shall 

not exceed 12 feet when beam platforms are used. 

The flooring shall be supported on 2 x 6 inch cross 

beams, laid flat and set into the upper edge of the 

stringers with a snug fit, at intervals of not more 

than 4 feet, securely nailed to the cross beams. 

Floor-boards shall not be spaced more than 1/2 inch 

apart. 

(q)(1) Multi-point adjustable suspension scaffolds and stonesetters’ multi-point adjustable 

suspension scaffolds. No specific guidelines or 

tables are given for these scaffolds. 

(q)(2) Masons’ multi-point adjustable suspension scaffolds. Maximum intended load—50 lb/ft2

. 

Each outrigger beam shall be at least a standard 7 

inch, 15.3 pound steel I-beam, at least 15 feet long. 

Such beams shall not project more than 6 feet 6 

inches beyond the bearing point. Where the overhang exceeds 6 feet 6 inches, outrigger beams shall 

be composed of stronger beams or multiple beams. 

(r) Catenary scaffolds. (1) Maximum intended 

load -500 lbs. 

(2) Not more than two employees shall be 

permitted on the scaffold at one time. 

(3) Maximum capacity of come-along shall be 

2,000 lbs. 

(4) Vertical pickups shall be spaced not more 

than 50 feet apart. 

(5) Ropes shall be equivalent in strength to at 

least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) diameter improved plow 

steel wire rope. 

(s) Float (ship) scaffolds. (1) Maximum 

intended load — 750 lbs. 

(2) Platforms shall be made of 3/4 inch plywood, equivalent in rating to American Plywood 

Association Grade B-B, Group I, Exterior. 

(3) Bearers shall be made from 2 x 4 inch, or 1 x 

10 inch rough lumber. They shall be free of knots 

and other flaws. 

(4) Ropes shall be equivalent in strength to at 

least 1 inch (2.5 cm) diameter first grade manila 

rope. 

(t) Interior hung scaffolds. 

Bearers (use on edge) 2 x 10 in 

Maximum intended load 

Maximum span 

25 lb/ft 2 10 ft 

50 lb/ft 2 10 ft 

75 lb/ft 2 7 ft 

(u) Needle beam scaffolds 

Maximum intended load 25 lb/ft 2 

Beams 4 x 6 in 

Maximum platform span 8 ft 

Maximum beam span 10 ft 

(1) Ropes shall be attached to the needle beams 

by a scaffold hitch or an eye splice. The loose end 

of the rope shall be tied by a bowline knot or by a 

round turn and a half hitch. 

(2) Ropes shall be equivalent in strength to at 

least 1 inch (2.5 cm) diameter first grade manila 

rope. 

(v) Multi-level suspension scaffolds. No additional guidelines or tables are being given for these 

scaffolds. 

(w) Mobile Scaffolds. Stability test as described 

in the ANSI A92 series documents, as appropriate 

for the type of scaffold, can be used to establish 

stability for the purpose of §1926.452(w)(6). 

(x) Repair bracket scaffolds. No additional 

guidelines or tables are being given for these 

scaffolds. 

(y) Stilts. No specific guidelines or tables are 

given. 

(z) Tank builder’s scaffold. 

(1) The maximum distance between brackets to 

which scaffolding and guardrail supports are attached shall be no more than 10 feet 6 inches. 

(2) Not more than three employees shall occupy a 

10 feet 6 inch span of scaffold planking at any time. 

(3) A taut wire or synthetic rope supported on the 

scaffold brackets shall be installed at the scaffold 

plank level between the innermost edge of the 

scaffold platform and the curved plate structure of 

the tank shell to serve as a safety line in lieu of an 

inner guardrail assembly where the space between 

the scaffold platform and the tank exceeds 12 inches 

(30.48 cm). In the event the open space on either 

side of the rope exceeds 12 inches (30.48 cm), a 

second wire or synthetic rope appropriately placed, 

or guardrails in accordance with §1926.451(e)(4), 

Regulatory Text 
57 

(Appendix A continued) 

shall be installed in order to reduce that open space 

to less than 12 inches (30.48 cm). 

(4) Scaffold planks of rough full-dimensioned 2-

inch (5.1 cm) x 12-inch(30.5 cm) Douglas Fir or 

Southern Yellow Pine of Select Structural Grade 

shall be used. Douglas Fir planks shall have a fiber 

stress of at least 1900 lb/in2

 (130,929 n/cm2) and a 

modulus of elasticity of at least 1,900,000 lb/in2 

(130,929,000 n/cm2), while Yellow Pine planks shall 

have a fiber stress of at least 2500 lb/in2

 (172,275 n/ 

cm2

) and a modulus of elasticity of at least 

2,000,000 lb/in2

 (137,820,000 n/cm2). 

(5) Guardrails shall be constructed of a taut wire 

or synthetic rope, and shall be supported by angle 

irons attached to brackets welded to the steel plates. 

These guardrails shall comply with §1926.451(e)(4). 

Guardrail supports shall be located at no greater 

than 10 feet 6 inch intervals. 

Non-mandatory Appendix B to Subpart L— 

Criteria for Determining the Feasibility of Providing Safe Access and Fall Protection for 

Scaffold Erectors and Dismantlers. 

[Reserved] 

Non-mandatory Appendix C to Subpart L— 

List of National Consensus Standards. 

ANSI/SIA A92.2-1990 Vehicle-Mounted Elevating 

and RotatingAerial Devices 

ANSI/SIA A92.3-1990 Manually Propelled 

Elevating Aerial Platforms 

ANSI/SIA A92.5-1990 Boom Supported Elevating 

Work Platforms 

ANSI/SIA A92.6-1990 Self-Propelled Elevating 

Work Platforms 

ANSI/SIA A92.7-1990 Airline Ground Support 

Vehicle-Mounted Vertical Lift Devices 

ANSI/SIA A92.8-1993 Vehicle-Mounted Bridge 

Inspection and Maintenance Devices 

ANSI/SIA A92.9-1993 Mast-Climbing Work 

Platforms 

Non-mandatory Appendix D to Subpart L—List 

of Training Topics for Scaffold Erectors and 

Dismantlers. 

This Appendix D is provided to serve as a guide 

to assist employers when evaluating the training 

needs of employees erecting or dismantling 

supported scaffolds. 

The Agency believes that employees erecting or 

dismantling scaffolds should be trained in the 

following topics: 

• General Overview of Scaffolding 

• regulations and standards 

• erection/dismantling planning 

• PPE and proper procedures 

• fall protection 

• materials handling 

• access 

• working platforms 

• foundations 

• guys, ties and braces 

• Tubular Welded Frame Scaffolds 

• specific regulations and standards 

• components 

• parts inspection 

• erection/dismantling planning 

• guys, ties and braces 

• fall protection 

• general safety 

• access and platforms 

• erection/dismantling procedures 

• rolling scaffold assembly 

• putlogs 

• Tube and Clamp Scaffolds 

• specific regulations and standards 

• components 

• parts inspection 

• erection/dismantling planning 

• guys, ties and braces 

• fall protection 

• general safety 

• access and platforms 

• erection/dismantling procedures 

• buttresses, cantilevers, and bridges 

Regulatory Text 
58

 (Appendix D continued) 

• System scaffolds 

• specific regulations and standards 

• components 

• parts inspection 

• erection/dismantling planning 

• guys, ties and braces 

• fall protection 

• general safety 

• access and platforms 

• erection/dismantling procedures 

• buttresses, cantilevers, and bridges 

Scaffold erectors and dismantlers should all receive 

the general overview, in addition to specific training 

for the type of supported scaffold being erected or 

dismantled. 

Non-mandatory Appendix E to Subpart L— 

Drawings and Illustrations 

This Appendix provides drawings of particular 

types of scaffolds and scaffold components, and 

graphic illustrations of bracing patterns and tie 

spacing patterns. 

This Appendix is intended to provide visual 

guidance to assist the user in complying with the 

requirements of subpart L, part 1926. 

Regulatory Text 
59 

(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

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(Appendix E continued) 

Regulatory Text