Scaffolding is the single most frequently OSHA-cited construction safety standard. No employee should use or assemble a scaffold without a complete understanding of how to do so safely. Thousands of builders are injured every year as a result of scaffold failures.
OSHA’s Safety and Health Topics Page for Scaffolding is a resource that employers and employees can use to understand the OSHA regulations applicable to scaffolding. OSHA recommends that employees:
- Before using a scaffold, test its durability using at least four times the amount of weight it is intended to support.
- Equip all open sides of a scaffold with protective guardrails.
- Keep scaffolds at least 10 feet away from electric power lines.
- Inspect the rigging on suspension scaffolds frequently-OSHA requirements call for an inspection at least once per work shift.
Related Safety Training Materials:
Scaffold Safety Training Products
Suspended Scaffolding Safety Regulatory Compliance Kit DVD/VHS
Supported Scaffolding Safety Video Program DVD – English & Spanish Versions