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Risk Control


Risk Control
Scaffolding 101 - The Basics

Introduction
Improperly erected or maintained scaffolds are one of the most frequently found hazards on construction sites. All
scaffolds are designed for specific uses under prescribed conditions. Many hazards are created when scaffolding is
used for purposes for which it was not designed. This document discusses some of the items to consider when
choosing an appropriate scaffold for a job.

The following is a collection of rules and regulations that apply to scaffolds.

Scaffolds may only be erected, used or dismantled under the direction of a competent person.

All employees that erect, dismantle, maintain or use scaffolds must be properly trained.

Scaffolds must be erected on sound, rigid footing, capable of carrying the maximum intended load without
settling or displacement. Base plates must always be used and mud sills should be used.

Scaffolds and their components must be capable of supporting, without failure, at least four times the maximum
intended load to be place on the scaffold, plus its own weight.

All planking must be scaffold grade or equivalent as recognized by approved grading rules for the species of
wood used.

Scaffold planking must be overlapped a minimum of 12 inches or secured from movement.

Scaffold planks must extend over their end supports not less than 6 inches nor more than 12 inches.

All scaffolding and accessories must have any defective part immediately replaced or repaired.

An access ladder or equivalent safe access must be provided.

Guardrails, mid rails, and toe boards must be installed on all open sides and ends of platforms more than 10
feet above the ground or floor, except needle beam scaffolds and floats, unless other suitable fall protection is
provided.

Guardrails must be installed approximately 42 inches above the working platform. The guardrail must be able to
resist a minimum force of 200 pounds applied in any direction.

Toe boards must be a minimum of 3.5 inches in height.

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Risk Control

Mid rails are to be installed midway between the guardrail and toe board. The mid rail must be able to resist a
minimum force of 150 pounds applied in a downward or outward direction.

Where persons are required to work or pass under the scaffold, wire mesh must be installed between the toe
board and the guardrail, extending along the entire opening, consisting of No.18 gauge U.S. Standard wire
1/2inch mesh, or the equivalent.

Scaffolds must be properly braced by cross bracing or diagonal braces, or both, for securing vertical members
together laterally. Cross braces must be of such length as they will automatically square and align vertical
members so that the erected scaffolds are always plumb, square, and rigid. All brace connections must be
made secure.

When a supported scaffold reaches a height that is more than four times its minimum base dimension (4:1), it
must be restrained by guys, ties or braces to prevent it from tipping.

Guys, ties, and braces shall be installed according to the scaffold manufacturers recommendations or at the
closest horizontal member to the 4:1 height and repeated vertically every 20 feet or less thereafter for scaffolds
3-feet wide or less, and every 26 feet or less thereafter for scaffolds greater than 3-feet wide.

Guys, ties, and braces shall be installed at each end of the scaffold and at horizontal intervals not to exceed
30 feet.

All workers must be trained in proper scaffolding use and work procedures, including prevention of overloading,
working near power lines, reporting damage, and working during inclement weather.

Scaffold inspections should be conducted daily at the start of each shift and after any alterations or repairs. All
inspections should be documented.

References
29 CFR Part 1926.450-454.
OSHA Web site, osha.gov


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The information provided in this document is intended for use as a guideline and is not
intended as, nor does it constitute, legal or professional advice. Travelers does not warrant
that adherence to, or compliance with, any recommendations, best practices, checklists, or
guidelines will result in a particular outcome. In no event will Travelers or any of its
subsidiaries or affiliates be liable in tort or in contract to anyone who has access to or uses
this information. Travelers does not warrant that the information in this document
constitutes a complete and finite list of each and every item or procedure related to the
topics or issues referenced herein. Furthermore, federal, state or local laws, regulations,
standards or codes may change from time to time and the reader should always refer to the
most current requirements. This material does not amend, or otherwise affect, the provisions
or coverages of any insurance policy or bond issued by Travelers, nor is it a representation
that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss under any such policy or
bond. Coverage depends on the facts and circumstances involved in the claim or loss, all
applicable policy or bond provisions, and any applicable law.
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