Scaffolding Safety and OSHA Requirements
Unlike ladders, scaffolds offer a platform to work and move around on. Safety is especially important when working on scaffolding; OSHA has specific training regulations for multiple types of scaffolding. Mastery offers training for supported and suspended scaffolding.
The course, “Supported Scaffolding Safety” demonstrates the basic safety procedures for this type of scaffolding. Supported scaffolding consists of one or more platforms held up by some type of rigid supports that are linked to the ground for stability, these can include; poles, legs, uprights, posts and frames.
“Suspended Scaffolding Safety” depicts the safety standards for this type of scaffolding. Suspended scaffolding consists of one or more platforms hung by metal or fiber rope that allows platforms to be raised and lowered to reach various work locations. OSHA requires workers using both of these types of scaffolding be thoroughly trained in the areas of;
- Assembly and disassembly
- Use and placement
- How to safely handle materials
- Prevent falls
Along with thorough training for workers on scaffolding, OSHA requires a scaffold expert always be on site. This expert is responsible for;
- Designing each scaffold
- Supervision of construction
- Enforcement of safety regulations
- Resolution of problems or questions
Scaffolds are an integral part of a construction site – to improve safety and prevent accidents, make sure your workers are properly trained and maintain an OSHA-compliant work site.
The law requires a permit for any supported scaffold that is forty feet (40′) or more in height. However, anyone who uses a supported scaffold is required to have a supported scaffold user certificate. Enroll one or more of our very popular certificate programs above to help ensure your career as a successful safety professional.