9.

12 Mobile and Tower Scaffolds

9.1.2.1 Mobile and Tower Scaffold Construction

 Mobile and tower scaffolds shall be plumb, level, and square and be horizontally and
vertically braced (in both directions) by diagonal braces. See Figures II.9.27, II.9.28, II.9.29,
and II.9.33.

 Plan (horizontal) bracing shall be installed at the base, at the top, and at least every third lift
of all mobile and tower scaffolds to prevent racking (twisting). See Figure II.9.27 and
Figure II.9.33.

 Light-duty tube and coupler mobile and tower scaffolds (used only for personnel access
and inspection) that are one bay long by one bay wide (only 4 posts) and constructed
entirely of steel tubing manufactured and embossed per Section 9.7.2 shall have a
maximum post spacing of 2 meters (6.5 feet) in both directions. In this case, at least two
equally spaced board bearers (intermediate transoms) shall be used.

 Light-duty tube and coupler mobile and tower scaffolds that are one bay long by one bay
wide (only 4 posts) and constructed with steel tubing that is NOT manufactured and
embossed per Section 9.7.2 shall have a maximum post spacing of 1.7 meters (5.5 feet) in
both directions.
 Medium-duty tube and coupler mobile and tower scaffolds that are one bay long by
one bay wide (only 4 posts) shall be entirely constructed of steel tubing
manufactured and embossed per Section 9.7.2 and shall have a maximum post
spacing of 1.5 meters (5 feet) in both directions For mobile scaffolds, an internal
ladder with a cover (preferably hinged) over the access hole in the platform is
preferred over an external ladder. If an external ladder must be used, it shall be
installed vertically on the narrow side of the scaffold (to minimize the potential for
overturning) and a step-through opening in the guardrail system (protected by a
self-closing drop-bar at toprail height) shall be provided, instead of workers having
to climb over the guardrails.
 Where leveling of a mobile or tower scaffold is necessary, screwjacks shall be
used.
 Mobile scaffolds rated for Light-duty shall have steel casters not less than 120 mm
(5 inches) in diameter.
 Mobile scaffolds rated for Medium-duty shall have heavy-duty steel casters not less
than 170 mm (7 inches) in diameter.
 All casters shall be fitted with a positive wheel lock (which cannot be accidentally
released) See Figure II.9.30.
 Casters shall be securely fixed to the base of scaffold posts or screwjacks by
locking pins.
 The working area of any platform shall not extend outside the scaffold base
dimensions. Cantilevered working areas are not permitted for mobile or tower
 scaffolds.
 The uppermost work platform height shall not exceed 4 times the minimum base
dimension of any mobile or tower scaffold. Where the basic scaffold does not meet
this requirement, outriggers shall be installed on the scaffold to achieve this least
base dimension, or provisions (such as guys, ties, or rakers) shall be taken to
stabilize the scaffold against tipping.

9.12.2 Mobile Scaffold Operation

 A mobile scaffold shall only be used and moved on surfaces sufficiently firm
and level to ensure stability. Where the scaffold is to be used on an elevated
floor or roof, it shall be designed to apply loads no greater than the capacity of
the floor or roof.

 A mobile scaffold shall be moved only by manually pushing or pulling at the

base. Force shall not be applied at a height greater than 1.5 meters (5 feet)
above the supporting surface.

 No men, equipment, or materials shall be on the working platform while it is in

motion. Casters shall be locked at all times except during scaffold movement.

 Temporary foundations or tracks shall be properly set in place on soft or uneven

ground to facilitate movement of the mobile scaffold.