Scaffolds must be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered under the supervision of a competent person qualified in these activities, and performed by experienced and trained employees selected by that competent person. Scaffolds and their components must be inspected for visible defects by a competent person before each work shift and after any occurrence that could affect the scaffold's structural integrity. Work on or from scaffolds is prohibited during storms or high winds unless a competent person determines it is safe and employees are protected by a personal fall arrest system or wind screens, provided the scaffold is secured against anticipated wind forces. [1] [1] [1]
Employees on scaffolds over 10 feet above a lower level must be protected from falls using personal fall arrest systems or guardrail systems. For scaffold erectors and dismantlers, a competent person must determine the feasibility and safety of providing fall protection; where feasible and not creating a greater hazard, fall protection must be provided. [4] [4]
The employer is required to have each employee who performs work on a scaffold trained by a qualified person to recognize hazards and understand control procedures. Employees involved in erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, maintaining, or inspecting a scaffold must be trained by a competent person to recognize associated hazards. [3] [3]
Scaffolds shall not be erected, used, dismantled, or moved such that they or any conductive material handled on them might come closer to exposed and energized power lines. [2]
A safe and unobstructed means of access, such as a walkway, stair, or ladder shall be provided to all scaffold platforms. [5]
Important Safety Note:
Always verify safety information with your organization's specific guidelines and local regulations.
References
Page links are approximateOSHA Construction Industry Standards Requiring Programs, Inspections, Procedures Records and/or Training (NCDOL)
Open DocumentPage 136
OSHA Construction Industry Standards Requiring Programs, Inspections, Procedures Records and/or Training (NCDOL)
Open DocumentPage 139