Able Safety Consulting - OSHA Scaffolding Requirements: The Essentials

Your safety on the job is your right, and the most effective way to protect it is with knowledge. When you understand the rules that are in place to keep you safe, you are empowered to look out for yourself and your coworkers. Knowing the official OSHA scaffolding requirements means you can confidently identify what a secure work platform looks like—and, just as importantly, what it doesn't. This knowledge gives you the ability to spot a potential hazard and the confidence to speak up when something isn't right. This guide is designed to be your resource, providing the clear information you need to take an active role in your own safety every day.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize a Solid Foundation and Structure: Every scaffold must support four times its intended load. This starts with building on firm, level ground and using proper bracing to create a stable structure that won't shift or sway.
• Master Safe Access and Fall Protection: Use guardrails or a personal fall arrest system on any platform 10 feet or higher. Always use approved ladders or stairs to get on and off the scaffold—never climb the crossbraces.
• Insist on Daily Inspections by a Competent Person: A qualified individual must inspect the scaffold before every shift to identify and correct hazards. This daily check is a non-negotiable step to ensure the structure is safe for use.

What Are OSHA's Scaffolding Requirements?

When you're working on a scaffold, you're putting a lot of trust in the structure beneath your feet. OSHA has a detailed set of rules for scaffolding for one simple reason: to make sure that trust is well-placed and everyone gets home safely at the end of the day. These regulations cover everything from how a scaffold is built to who is qualified to work on it. Think of them not as a burden, but as a blueprint for a safe work environment. Understanding these requirements is the first step for any worker or manager on a construction site. It’s about knowing your rights, your responsibilities, and the essential practices that prevent accidents before they happen.

The Basics of Scaffold Safety

Let's start with the fundamentals. OSHA is very clear on a few non-negotiable points. First, any worker on a scaffold 10 feet or more above a lower level must have fall protection. This isn't a suggestion—it's a requirement. This protection usually comes in the form of guardrails, which are mandatory on any open sides of a platform. Second, a scaffold must be strong enough to handle the job. The rule of thumb is that it must support its own weight plus at least four times the maximum intended load. Finally, getting on and off the scaffold must be safe. Every setup needs a documented access plan, ensuring you can climb on and off without taking unnecessary risks. Proper scaffolding safety courses cover these core principles in detail.

Why Following OSHA Rules Matters

Ignoring OSHA standards isn't just about risking a fine; it's about risking lives. The vast majority of scaffolding accidents happen because of improper setup or a lack of adequate safety measures. Real-world examples consistently show that compliance with these standards is the single most important factor in preventing falls and injuries. These rules were written based on lessons learned from past incidents. Following them means you're actively preventing history from repeating itself on your job site. For companies, ensuring compliance through professional training services is the best way to protect your crew, reduce liability, and maintain a reputation for safety and professionalism in the industry. It’s a commitment to your team’s well-being.

OSHA's General Scaffolding Standards

Think of OSHA’s general standards as the foundational rules for every single scaffold on your job site, no matter the type or size. These aren't just best practices; they are mandatory requirements designed to prevent collapses and keep workers safe. Getting these basics right from the start is the most critical step in building a safe work platform. The core principles are simple but non-negotiable: the scaffold must be structurally sound, built from the right materials, and supported with proper bracing.

Before anyone even steps onto a scaffold, you need to be confident it can handle the job. This means understanding its load capacity, ensuring it’s built on a solid foundation, and confirming that all components are in good condition. These general requirements are the first line of defense against the most common and dangerous scaffolding accidents. By following these rules, you create a stable and reliable structure that your team can trust. We’ll break down exactly what you need to do to meet these essential standards for structural integrity, materials, and support.

Keeping Scaffolds Structurally Sound

A scaffold’s strength is its most important feature. According to OSHA’s General Requirements for Scaffolds, every scaffold must be able to support its own weight plus at least four times its maximum intended load without failing. That maximum load includes the combined weight of workers, tools, and materials. This 4-to-1 safety factor ensures the structure can handle unexpected stress.

To maintain this strength, the scaffold must be plumb, level, and squared. You can’t have a leaning or wobbly structure. Proper bracing, including cross-braces and horizontal braces, is essential to prevent the scaffold from swaying or collapsing. Every connection point should be secure, creating a rigid frame that stands firm throughout the workday.

Using the Right Materials for Construction

The materials you use to build a scaffold are just as important as the design itself. You can’t use weak, damaged, or defective components. All wood planks must be visually inspected and free of cracks or knots that could compromise their strength. Metal components should be free from rust, bends, or other damage. Using high-quality materials is a fundamental part of ensuring the scaffold meets safety standards.

Different scaffolds are also designed for different loads. It’s crucial to know the duty rating for your specific setup:

• Light-duty: Supports up to 25 pounds per square foot.
• Medium-duty: Supports up to 50 pounds per square foot.
• Heavy-duty: Supports up to 75 pounds per square foot.

Always use the right scaffold for the task to avoid overloading the platform.

Setting Up Proper Bracing and Support

A tall scaffold needs extra stability to keep it from tipping over. OSHA has a specific rule for this: any scaffold with a height-to-base width ratio greater than 4-to-1 must be secured. This means if your scaffold is 20 feet high and its base is less than 5 feet wide, you need to use guying, tying, or bracing to anchor it to a stable structure. This extra support is critical to prevent tipping and ensure the scaffold remains stable.

The stability of the entire structure starts from the ground up. The base of the scaffold must be set on firm, level ground. Proper setup means using base plates and, if necessary, mud sills on soft ground to distribute the load evenly and prevent a leg from sinking. An unstable base compromises the entire scaffold, so taking the time to get the foundation right is a crucial safety step.

How Much Weight Can a Scaffold Hold?

Knowing a scaffold's weight limit isn't just about following rules—it's about keeping everyone on the job site safe. Overloading is one of the most common causes of scaffold collapses, and it's completely preventable. Every scaffold is designed to handle a specific amount of weight, which includes the workers, their tools, and all the materials needed for the task. Understanding these limits and how to maintain stability is a fundamental part of scaffold safety that protects you and your team from serious accidents. Let's break down what you need to know to keep your scaffold sturdy and secure.

The Four-Times Load Rule Explained

OSHA has a straightforward but critical rule for scaffold capacity: every scaffold component must be able to support at least four times its maximum intended load without failing. This is often called the 4:1 safety factor. Think of it as a built-in safety cushion. If you plan to have 1,000 pounds of workers, tools, and materials on a scaffold, the structure itself must be rated to hold at least 4,000 pounds. This extra capacity accounts for things like the movement of workers, the force of placing materials down, and other unexpected stresses. It’s a non-negotiable standard that ensures the scaffold remains stable even when subjected to normal job site dynamics.

Guidelines for Distributing Weight

Not all scaffolds are created equal. They are classified by their duty rating, which tells you how much weight they can safely hold per square foot. Understanding these classifications helps you choose the right equipment for the job. According to safety regulations, different scaffolds have different weight limits:

• Light-duty: Supports up to 25 pounds per square foot. Best for tasks like painting or electrical work where you only have workers and light hand tools.
• Medium-duty: Supports up to 50 pounds per square foot. This is for work like plastering or siding, which involves some materials.
• Heavy-duty: Supports up to 75 pounds per square foot. Reserved for masonry and other jobs that require heavy materials and equipment.

Always know your scaffold's duty rating and never exceed it.

How to Keep Scaffolds Stable and Level

A scaffold is only as strong as its foundation. Stability starts from the ground up. The base of the scaffold must be set on firm, level ground. Scaffold legs should always rest on base plates and, if the ground is soft, mud sills to distribute the weight and prevent sinking. From there, the entire structure must be built to be plumb, level, and squared. Use proper bracing, like cross-braces and horizontal braces, to keep the structure rigid and prevent it from swaying or shifting. A stable, level scaffold doesn't happen by accident—it requires careful setup and regular checks to ensure it stays that way throughout the project.

How Do You Prevent Falls from Scaffolding?

Falls are one of the most serious hazards on any construction site, and working on a scaffold adds an extra layer of risk. The good news is that these incidents are almost always preventable with the right precautions. OSHA has very specific rules designed to keep workers safe when they’re high off the ground. Following these standards isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about making sure everyone goes home safely at the end of the day. It's about creating a culture of safety where every team member knows the procedures and feels empowered to speak up if something looks wrong. Let’s walk through the essential requirements for fall prevention on scaffolds.

The 10-Foot Rule for Fall Protection

The most fundamental rule to remember is OSHA’s 10-foot rule. This standard is straightforward: if you are working on a scaffold platform that is 10 feet or higher above a lower level, you must be protected from falling. There are no exceptions to this. This isn't a guideline; it's a mandatory safety requirement that serves as the foundation for all other fall protection measures. Whether you use guardrails or a personal fall arrest system, some form of protection must be in place once you cross that 10-foot threshold. Proper scaffolding safety training ensures every crew member understands this rule and knows how to comply with it on the job site.

Installing Proper Guardrail Systems

Guardrails are the most common method for preventing falls from scaffolds. OSHA requires them on all open sides and ends of a platform where a worker could fall 10 feet or more. A proper guardrail system acts as a physical barrier, keeping both workers and materials safely contained on the working surface. It’s not enough to just have them there; they must be installed correctly and be strong enough to support a worker who might stumble or lean against them. The entire system, including the top rails, midrails, and posts, must be secure and inspected regularly to ensure it remains effective throughout the project.

Using Personal Fall Arrest Systems

In some situations, a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) is used either instead of or in addition to guardrails. A PFAS consists of an anchor point, a full-body harness, and a connector like a lanyard or lifeline. This equipment is designed to stop you mid-fall, preventing you from hitting the ground below. If your crew is using a PFAS, it’s critical that every component is inspected daily for wear and tear. More importantly, every worker must be trained on how to properly wear the harness, connect to the anchor point, and understand the system’s limitations. Comprehensive safety training services cover the correct use and inspection of this life-saving equipment.

Meeting Top Rail and Midrail Specs

OSHA doesn’t just say "install guardrails"—it provides exact specifications to ensure they work correctly. For scaffolds built after January 1, 2000, the top rail must be between 38 and 45 inches high from the platform surface. This height ensures the rail is high enough to prevent someone from accidentally toppling over it. The midrail needs to be installed approximately halfway between the top rail and the platform. This closes the gap where a worker could slip through. Toeboards are also required to prevent tools, materials, or other objects from falling off the platform and injuring someone below, making the entire work area safer for everyone.

How to Safely Access a Scaffold

Getting onto a scaffold might seem straightforward, but this is a critical moment where accidents can happen. You can’t just climb up any way you see fit. OSHA has specific guidelines for safely accessing and exiting scaffolding to prevent falls and injuries. Following these rules isn’t just about compliance; it’s about making sure every worker gets home safely at the end of the day.

Your employer is responsible for providing a safe way to get on and off the scaffold, but it’s your job to use it correctly every single time. Let’s walk through the approved methods and what you need to know.

Approved Methods for Getting On and Off

First things first, you should only use approved methods to access a scaffold. This typically includes ladders (specifically designed for scaffolds), stairways, ramps, or walkways. These access points must be secure and properly installed.

The most important rule to remember is to never climb the crossbraces. It might look like a convenient ladder, but it isn't designed to support your weight and can easily lead to a slip or fall. This rule applies at all times, even when you’re erecting or dismantling the scaffold. Proper training services will cover these access procedures in detail, ensuring you and your team know how to stay safe from the ground up.

Following Ladder and Stairway Rules

If you’re using ladders or stairways, they must be in good condition and meet OSHA standards. Before you climb, do a quick check for any damage, like cracked rungs, split rails, or missing components. The ladder should be positioned so it doesn’t slip, and it must extend at least three feet above the platform you’re climbing onto.

Stairways should have uniform steps and handrails to ensure a stable climb. Using equipment that is damaged or not designed for the job is a major risk. The specifics of equipment inspection are a key part of many safety courses, giving you the skills to spot a hazard before it becomes an accident.

Guidelines for Direct Access

In some situations, you might be able to step directly onto a scaffold from another surface, like a building floor. However, this is only permissible when the gap is very small. OSHA is specific here: the scaffold platform must be within 14 inches horizontally and no more than 24 inches vertically from the other surface.

These measurements are designed to prevent dangerous gaps where a worker could misstep and fall. If the distance is any larger, you need a ladder or another form of approved access. Think of it as a non-negotiable rule that ensures a safe and easy transition between the structure and the scaffold.

Who Needs to Inspect a Scaffold (and When)?

Leaving scaffold safety to chance is never an option. Regular, thorough inspections are a core requirement from OSHA, and they’re essential for preventing accidents before they happen. But it’s not just about going through the motions; it’s about knowing who is qualified to perform these checks and exactly when they need to be done. On a busy construction site, having a clear process for inspections ensures that every person who steps onto a scaffold is stepping onto a secure platform. This responsibility falls on a specific, qualified individual who has the training and authority to keep the entire crew safe. Understanding this role and the inspection timeline is fundamental to maintaining a compliant and hazard-free work environment.

The Role of a Competent Person

OSHA doesn't hand out the title of "competent person" lightly. This individual is your site's designated scaffold expert, responsible for overseeing its assembly, use, and disassembly. According to OSHA, a competent person is someone who can identify existing and predictable hazards and has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. This means they don't just spot a problem—they have the power to stop work and get it fixed immediately. This person needs in-depth scaffolding safety training to understand all of OSHA's rules, from load capacities to fall protection requirements. They are the go-to expert for ensuring every component is sound and the structure is safe for use.

What to Check in Daily Inspections

Scaffolds must be inspected before every single work shift and after any event that could affect their structural integrity, like a severe storm, an impact, or modifications. This isn't a quick glance; it's a detailed visual check performed by a competent person. They should be looking for any potential issues that could compromise safety.

Key things to check include:

• Foundations: Are the base plates, mudsills, and screw jacks stable and secure?
• Planking: Are the platforms fully planked, with no cracks, splits, or damage?
• Guardrails: Are the top rails, midrails, and toeboards installed correctly and securely?
• Access: Is the ladder or stairway safe, properly positioned, and free of defects?
• Connections: Are all couplers, braces, and ties tight and in their proper place?

A comprehensive OSHA guide can provide a more detailed checklist, but these daily checks are the first line of defense against accidents.

Keeping Good Records and Documentation

Proper documentation is your proof of compliance and a critical part of your site's safety plan. Every inspection should be logged, creating a clear record that your team is performing its due diligence. These records should note the date and time of the inspection, the name of the competent person who performed it, any hazards identified, and the corrective actions that were taken. This log creates accountability and helps track the condition of the equipment over time. Good record-keeping also includes maintaining documentation for scaffold components and ensuring that your crew’s training certifications are up to date. Managing these details is a key part of effective site safety services and protects both workers and the company.

Specific Rules for Different Scaffold Types

Scaffolds aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. The type you use—whether it's built from the ground up, hanging from a roof, or rolling on wheels—comes with its own set of safety rules. OSHA has specific standards for each to address their unique risks, because a rolling scaffold on a finished floor has very different hazards than a suspended scaffold hanging 20 stories up. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for keeping everyone on the job site safe and avoiding costly citations. It’s not enough to just know the general rules; you have to apply the specific standards for the equipment you’re actually using. A mistake on a supported scaffold might involve an unstable base, while an error on a suspended scaffold could relate to a faulty anchor. By getting familiar with the requirements for each type, you can proactively identify hazards and ensure your team is protected. Let's break down the essentials for the three most common types: supported, suspended, and mobile scaffolds. This will help you make sure your setup is always compliant and secure, no matter what kind of work you're doing.

Supported Scaffolds

This is the classic scaffold, built from the ground up. Because its stability depends entirely on its foundation, the ground it sits on must be level and strong enough to handle the full weight of the scaffold, workers, and materials. Always use base plates or mud sills to create a solid footing. The platforms need to be fully planked, with gaps no wider than one inch, and secured to prevent movement. If your scaffold is more than four times taller than its base is wide, you must use ties or braces to secure it to the structure. Proper scaffolding safety courses cover these requirements in detail. And remember, guardrails are required on any platform more than 6 feet high.

Suspended Scaffolds

Suspended scaffolds, which hang from ropes or cables, are common for window washing and facade work. Here, the focus shifts from the ground to the anchor points above. These anchors must be strong enough to hold at least four times the scaffold's maximum intended load. Fall protection is non-negotiable; you must have either a guardrail system or a personal fall arrest system (like a harness). For single-point adjustable scaffolds, the rope needs to hang straight down unless a qualified person has designed a specific angled setup. Proper rigging and regular inspection of the suspension ropes are critical for preventing catastrophic failures.

Mobile Scaffolds

Also known as rolling scaffolds, these structures offer great flexibility but come with their own rules. To prevent tipping, a mobile scaffold can't be taller than four times its narrowest base dimension. For example, a base that's 3 feet wide can only support a scaffold up to 12 feet high. Before anyone gets on, you must lock the wheels and casters to prevent any movement. As a general rule, you should never move a scaffold while workers are on it unless it has been specifically designed for that purpose and you follow strict safety protocols. Our training services can help your team master these essential checks for using mobile scaffolds safely.

Common Scaffolding Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most seasoned professionals can fall into bad habits. When it comes to scaffolding, however, small oversights can lead to major accidents. Knowing the most common mistakes is the first step toward preventing them on your job site. From inadequate fall protection to skipping proper training, these errors are surprisingly frequent but entirely avoidable with the right knowledge and diligence. Let’s walk through the key areas where things often go wrong so you can make sure your team stays safe and compliant.

Missing or Inadequate Fall Protection

One of the most critical and frequently cited violations is the lack of proper fall protection. OSHA is crystal clear on this: any time you're working on a scaffold 10 feet or more above a lower level, you must be protected from a fall. This isn't a suggestion—it's a strict requirement. This protection usually comes in the form of a complete guardrail system. Forgetting to install guardrails or using a makeshift barrier simply won’t cut it. Every platform at that height needs a top rail, midrail, and toeboard to create a secure barrier that keeps both workers and their tools safely on the scaffold.

Using Unsafe Ways to Get On and Off

It might seem quick and easy to climb the crossbraces to get up a scaffold, but this is an incredibly dangerous and prohibited practice. Crossbraces are designed to provide structural stability, not to support the weight of a person climbing them. They aren't built with the grip or spacing needed for a secure foothold, making slips and falls highly likely. A safe means of access, such as a purpose-built ladder, stairway, or ramp, must always be provided. Never take a shortcut when it comes to getting on or off the structure.

Forgetting Training and Documentation

Assuming everyone knows how to work safely on a scaffold is a recipe for disaster. OSHA mandates that every employee who works on a scaffold must receive proper training from a qualified person. This isn't just for the workers erecting the scaffold; it's for anyone who will set foot on it. This essential training covers how to recognize hazards, understand load capacities, and follow proper procedures. Just as important is documenting that this training occurred. Keeping clear records proves your commitment to safety and ensures everyone on site has the knowledge they need to protect themselves and their coworkers.

Scaffolding Myths vs. Reality

A common and dangerous myth is that a few planks on a couple of sawhorses are "good enough" for a quick job. The reality is that any temporary elevated platform is considered a scaffold by OSHA and must meet all relevant safety standards. These makeshift setups are often unstable, lack guardrails, and are not inspected by a competent person, putting workers at serious risk. Cutting corners with non-compliant structures not only exposes your team to potential injury but also puts your company at risk for significant fines. There is no substitute for a properly built, fully compliant scaffold.

What Training Do You Need for Scaffolding Safety?

Proper training is non-negotiable when it comes to working on or near scaffolding. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about ensuring everyone goes home safely at the end of the day. OSHA is very clear that anyone involved with scaffolding—from the workers on the platform to the person supervising the job—needs specific training to recognize and avoid hazards. This isn't a one-size-fits-all situation. The type of training you need depends on your role and responsibilities on the job site. Let's break down what that looks like for different team members.

Training Every Worker Should Have

If you work on a scaffold, you must be trained by a qualified person who knows the ins and outs of scaffold safety. This foundational training is your first line of defense against accidents. It should cover the most critical risks, including electrical hazards, falls, and the danger of falling objects. You’ll also learn how to properly use the scaffold, handle materials while on the platform, and understand the structure's maximum intended load. Think of this as your user manual for working safely at heights. These comprehensive safety courses are designed to give you the practical knowledge you need to protect yourself and your coworkers on site.

Qualifications for a Competent Person

Every construction site with scaffolding needs a "competent person" to oversee its safety. This role is more than just a title—it comes with serious responsibility. OSHA defines a competent person as someone who can identify existing and predictable hazards and has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. This individual is responsible for inspecting the scaffold before each shift and after any event that could affect its integrity. They need a deeper level of knowledge than other workers, which is why they require more advanced instruction. Our specialized training services can help prepare you for this critical safety role.

The Importance of Ongoing Training

Safety training isn't a one-and-done deal. The construction industry is always changing, with new regulations, equipment, and techniques emerging. Because of this, ongoing education is essential for maintaining a safe work environment. Safety programs should be evaluated regularly to ensure they are effective and up-to-date. For workers, this means taking refresher courses to keep safety practices top of mind and stay compliant with local laws. For example, in New York City, you need to periodically renew your SST card to continue working on most job sites. This process ensures your knowledge remains current and your site stays safe.

How Professional Training Keeps You Safe

Reading through OSHA’s scaffolding rules is a great first step, but it’s only part of the equation. True safety comes from understanding how to apply those rules in a dynamic, real-world construction environment. This is where professional training makes all the difference. It transforms abstract regulations into practical skills that protect you and your team every single day.

Think of it like learning to drive. You can read the driver's manual cover to cover, but you won't feel confident on the road until you've had hands-on instruction. The same goes for scaffolding. A quality training program gives you the experience and knowledge to handle situations confidently, from properly erecting a structure to spotting a potential hazard before it becomes a problem. It’s about building a safety-first mindset, not just memorizing a list of do's and don'ts. Investing in proper training services is an investment in your well-being and your career.

Going Beyond the Basic Rules

OSHA’s standards are the baseline for safety, not the ceiling. For example, the rule is clear: any worker on a scaffold 10 feet or higher must be protected from falling. But what does that look like on a windy day? Or when you’re working with unusual materials? Professional training helps you think critically and go beyond the bare minimum. It teaches you the why behind the rules, so you can make smart, safe decisions in unique situations. This deeper understanding empowers you to assess risk accurately and implement the best protective measures, ensuring you and your crew go home safe at the end of the day.

Building Practical, Hands-On Skills

You can’t learn how to safely build a scaffold from a textbook alone. OSHA requires that anyone who builds, dismantles, moves, or inspects a scaffold must be trained by a competent person on the specific hazards and procedures involved. This is where hands-on learning becomes essential. A good scaffolding safety course will give you practical experience in assembling components, identifying defects, and understanding the load capacities of different systems. This kind of active training builds muscle memory and the confidence to perform your job correctly and efficiently, turning safety protocols into second nature.

Ensuring Your Site Stays Compliant

For site managers and employers, professional training is the key to maintaining a compliant and safe work environment. It’s not enough to just have a safety plan on paper; you need to ensure it’s working effectively. Training equips your team with the knowledge to follow safety protocols correctly, reducing the risk of accidents and costly OSHA violations. When your crew, from the newest hire to the most experienced supervisor, understands their role in site safety, it creates a powerful culture of accountability. This helps you meet regulatory requirements, like keeping your team’s SST cards up to date, and fosters a workplace where everyone looks out for one another.

Related Articles

• Training, Hazards & Inspections - All You Need To Know About Scaffolding Safety
• 4 Hour Supported Scaffold User Training Online Refresher Course
• Scaffolding Safety Training: A Complete Guide
• Scaffold Safety Training: The Ultimate Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the "competent person" and why are they so important? Think of the competent person as your site's designated scaffold expert. This isn't just a title for a supervisor; it's a specific role for someone who has had in-depth training to identify existing and potential scaffold hazards. Most importantly, they have the authority to stop work and correct any problems they find immediately. They are responsible for inspecting the scaffold before every shift to ensure it’s safe for you to use.

What's the most common mistake people make with scaffolds? The most frequent and dangerous mistake is overlooking the basics of fall protection. This often means missing guardrails on platforms that are 10 feet or higher. Another common error is using an unsafe way to get on and off the structure, like climbing the crossbraces. These braces are not designed to be used as a ladder and can easily lead to a serious fall.

Do I need formal training even if I'm just working on a scaffold and not building it? Yes, absolutely. OSHA requires that every employee who performs work while on a scaffold receives training from a qualified person. This training ensures you can recognize the specific hazards associated with your tasks, understand the scaffold's weight limits, and know how to handle materials safely at a height. It’s about giving you the knowledge to protect yourself and your team.

How do I know if a scaffold can hold the weight of my crew and materials? Every scaffold must be strong enough to support its own weight plus at least four times the maximum load you plan to put on it. This 4-to-1 safety factor is a strict rule. You should also know the scaffold's duty rating—whether it's light, medium, or heavy-duty—which tells you the weight it can handle per square foot. Always match the scaffold's rating to the demands of your specific job.

What should I do if I see something that looks unsafe on a scaffold? If you notice anything that seems wrong or unsafe, you should stop what you are doing and report it to the site's competent person or your supervisor right away. Never assume someone else has already seen it. Your safety is the top priority, and speaking up about a potential hazard—like a damaged plank, a missing guardrail, or an unstable base—is a critical part of keeping the entire job site safe.