Welded frame scaffolds and pumpjacks are the most common problems. Hiring a construction worker with 10 years of experience does not meet this standard. Initial orientation must be done or some sort of verification of the employee's knowledge on safety has to be conducted. We are seeing many workers not know basic safety. A rash of competent persons being hurt or in unsafe situations leads us to believe that re-training is overdue.
Most bad excavations are multiple heights.
Most common problem is sinking of outriggers for cranes. We have been citing this for self propelled aerial lifts under ANSI A92.5. This is often for climbing welded frame scaffolds where the frames have horizontal supports of 18 inches or more. More citations for this issue in our office than any time in the last ten years. Reinforcing steel presents an impalement on grade when 36 inches or less.