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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. This information will be made available to sensory impaired individuals upon request. Voice phone: (202) 219-8615; Teletypewriter (TTY): (887) 889-5627  A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry
Small Business Safety Management Series U.S. Department of Labor Elaine L. Chao, Secretary Occupational Safety and Health Administration John L. Henshaw, Assistant Secretary OSHA 3150 2002 (Revised) Contents How to Use This Booklet Summary General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 Capacity Scaffold Platform Construction Criteria for Supported Scaffolds Criteria for Suspended Scaffolds Access Requirements Use Requirements Fall Protection Requirements Falling Object Protection Specific Scaffold §1926.452 and Aerial Lift Requirements §1926.453 Training Requirements §1926.454 Non-Mandatory Appendices to the Standard OSHA Assistance, Services, and Programs Safety and Health Program Management Assistance State Plans Consultation Assistance Voluntary Protection Programs OSHA's Strategic Partnership Program Training and Education Other Assistance Materials OSHA Regional and Area Offices OSHA-Approved Safety and Health Plans OSHA Onsite Consultation Offices Construction Focused Inspection Guidelines Regulatory Text How to Use This Booklet 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 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. 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. Summary and Explanation of the Final Rule What are the highlights of the scaffolding standard? OSHA's scaffolding standard has several key provisions:
2 See the standard's requirements for and definition of a competent person in the next question. 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 employees, 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:
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:
The standard requires a registered professional engineer to perform the following duties in these circumstances:
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). General Requirements for Scaffolds §1926.451 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,
Steel or plastic banding must not be used as a toprail or a midrail. 1926.451(g)(4)(xiii) 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:
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'. Are there requirements for suspension scaffolds? Some of the requirements for all types of suspension scaffolds include:
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) 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
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) 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:
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.
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? Fall arrest and guardrail systems must be used when working on single- and two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds and self-contained adjustable scaffolds that are supported by ropes. 1926.451(g)(1) 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) Specific Scaffold (§1926.452) and Aerial Lift (§1926.453) Requirements 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:
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) Non-Mandatory Appendices to the Standard 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. 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:
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 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:
VPP participation can mean the following:
OSHA reviews an employer's VPP application and conducts a VPP Onsite Evaluation to verify that the safety and health management systems 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:
What are the benefits of participation in the OSHA Strategic Partnership Program? Like VPP, OSPP can mean the following:
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.gov/dcsp/ote/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. OSHA Regional Offices
OSHA Area Offices
OSHA-Approved Safety and Health Plans
OSHA Onsite Consultation Offices
Index
The following is a guide to the "Safety Standards for Scaffolds Used in the Construction Industry" Standard:
Construction Focused Inspection Guidelines
This guideline is to assist the compliance officer to determine if there is an effective project plan to qualify for a Focused Inspection.
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 Applicable 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 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 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, 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. (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. (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 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 ang | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||