Types of Scaffolds
Supported Scaffolds
- Built from the ground up
- Supported by frames, poles, legs, or outriggers
- Examples: Frame scaffolds, tube and coupler scaffolds, and mobile scaffolds
Suspended Scaffolds
- Hang from overhead structures
- Supported by ropes or cables
- Examples: Two-point swing stages, multi-point adjustable scaffolds, and boatswain's chairs
Mobile Scaffolds
- Have wheels or casters
- Can be moved from place to place
- Always lock wheels before climbing
Scaffold Safety Requirements
Capacity
- Must support its own weight plus 4 times the maximum intended load
- Never overload scaffolds - know the weight limits
- Distribute weight evenly across platform
Platform Construction
- Platforms must be fully planked with gaps less than 1 inch
- Planks must extend over supports by 6-12 inches (but not more than 12 inches)
- Platforms must be at least 18 inches wide
- Planks must be scaffold-grade lumber or manufactured scaffold platforms
Guardrails
- Required on scaffolds more than 10 feet above lower level
- Top rail: 38-45 inches high
- Midrail: halfway between top rail and platform
- Toe boards: At least 3.5 inches high
- All must be able to withstand force
Access
- Proper ladder or stair access required
- Never climb cross-bracing
- Access points should be easily reached
- Ladder must extend at least 3 feet above the platform
Fall Protection
- Guardrail systems are the primary fall protection on scaffolds
- Personal fall arrest systems may also be required in some cases
- Always tie off to a suitable anchor point, not the scaffold itself unless designed for it
Scaffold Inspection
Before each work shift, check for:
Structure
- Stable base with proper footings and mud sills
- All braces and connections in place
- No bending, crushing, or signs of damage
- Straight and plumb (not leaning)
Platforms
- Fully planked with proper grade scaffold planks
- No large gaps, cracks, or holes
- No excessive debris or slippery conditions
- No excessive bending of planks
Guardrails
- Top rails, midrails, and toe boards in place
- Secured properly and in good condition
- No broken or damaged components
Access
- Safe ladder or stair access
- Properly secured to scaffold
- No damaged rungs or steps
Safe Work Practices
Getting On and Off
- Use only proper access points
- Maintain three points of contact when climbing
- Never jump onto or off scaffolds
- Don't carry tools/materials while climbing
Working on Scaffolds
- Keep platforms clean and organized
- Don't stand on buckets, boxes, or other makeshift platforms
- Stay inside guardrails
- Don't lean out over edges
- Don't create large openings in guardrail systems
Moving Mobile Scaffolds
- Remove all people and materials before moving
- Lock wheels after moving
- Watch for holes, debris, and overhead hazards
- Never move with workers on board
- Move from the base, never by pulling from the top
Weather Considerations
- Don't work on scaffolds during storms or high winds
- Remove ice and snow before using
- Be careful of slippery conditions after rain
- Take extra precautions in gusty wind conditions
Hazards to Watch For
Electrical Hazards
- Maintain at least 10 feet from power lines
- Treat all power lines as energized
- Use non-conductive materials near electricity
Falling Object Hazards
- Use toe boards, screens, or debris nets
- Secure all tools and materials
- Barricade area below scaffold when possible
- Always wear your hard hat
Instability Hazards
- Never exceed 4:1 height-to-base ratio for mobile scaffolds
- Secure tall scaffolds to building structure
- Use outriggers or wider bases for added stability
- Place scaffolds on solid, level ground