Scaffold hazards cause roughly 4,500 injuries and 50 deaths per year in construction. OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451 sets the requirements for scaffold design, erection, and use.
The base-to-height ratio for supported scaffolds must not exceed 4:1 (height to minimum base width) unless the scaffold is guyed, tied, or braced to prevent tipping.
Guardrails are required on all open sides and ends of scaffold platforms 10 feet or more above a lower level. This includes a top rail (38-45 inches), a mid rail, and a toeboard (at least 3.5 inches high) to prevent tools and materials from falling.
Scaffolds must be designed to support at least 4 times the maximum intended load. Never exceed the rated load capacity — know the combined weight of workers, tools, and materials on the platform at all times.
A competent person must inspect the scaffold before each work shift and after any event that could affect its structural integrity (storms, impact, modification). Only a qualified person may design scaffolds, and only trained workers may use them.
DO
Ensure the scaffold is on firm, level footing with base plates and mudsills
Use proper access — built-in ladders, stair towers, or attached ladders — never climb cross-braces
Verify guardrails, mid-rails, and toeboards are in place before stepping onto a platform
Check that all planks are scaffold-grade, fully decked, and extend 6-12 inches past supports
Report any damaged components or unsafe conditions before using the scaffold
DON'T
Work on a scaffold during high winds (above 25 mph) or storms unless a competent person determines it is safe
Move a rolling scaffold with workers on the platform
Use makeshift platforms — buckets, boxes, or loose boards are not acceptable
Modify the scaffold without approval from the competent person
Overload the platform beyond its rated capacity
Discussion Questions
How do you verify the load rating of the scaffold you are working on today?
What would you do if you arrived at the jobsite and noticed a guardrail was missing from a scaffold platform?
Why is climbing cross-braces dangerous, and what is the correct way to access the scaffold?