Fall protection requirements for workers on guardrail-equipped platforms.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

November 29, 2005

Mr. Stewart Best
[By e-mail]

Re: Fall protection requirements for workers on guardrail-equipped scissor lift platforms.

Dear Mr. Best:

Re: Subpart L; scaffolds; Companion Rail, rail extensions for mobile scaffolds; 1926.451.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

January 26, 2007

Mr. Gary Chipman
P.O. Box 28
Sandown, NH 03873

Re: Subpart L; scaffolds; Companion Rail, rail extensions for mobile scaffolds; 1926.451

Dear Mr. Chipman:

This is in response to your package received by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) on February 13, 2006 in which you provided information about your product, the Companion Rail, pictured below. We apologize for the long delay in providing this response.

Single-point suspension scaffold safety.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

March 31, 2010

Letter #20081021-8670:

Re: Single-point suspension scaffold safety.

Question 1: What is a "structural member" of a scaffold?

Answer 1: A "structural member" of a scaffold is any part of the walking/working surface of the scaffold, as well as the supports for the walking/working surface, including but not limited to uprights, suspension ropes, bracing, outrigger beams, access ladders, etc.