Scaffolds and rope descent systems

Scaffolds used in general industry must meet the scaffold rules in OSHA's construction standards at 29 CFR part 1926, subpart L. See 1910.27(a) and the construction scaffold rules at 1926 Subpart L (Scaffolds). Employers in general industry should apply those construction-scaffold requirements (for example, platform construction, guardrails, and load capacities) when using scaffolds.

The building owner must provide written information that each identified anchorage has been tested, certified, and maintained to support at least 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) in any direction for each employee attached. See 1910.27(b)(1)(i). Employers cannot allow employee use of an anchorage until they have that written documentation from the building owner, per 1910.27(b)(1)(ii).

An employer must keep the building owner's written anchorage information for the duration of the job. See 1910.27(b)(1)(ii). This means keep the documentation on-site or otherwise available while the work using those anchorages continues.

The anchorage identification, testing, certification, and employer-obtained written information requirements had to be implemented no later than November 20, 2017. See 1910.27(b)(1)(iii). Employers should ensure they already meet those requirements for any rope descent work.

No — rope descent systems must not be used for heights greater than 300 feet (91 m) above grade unless the employer demonstrates other access methods are not feasible or those methods pose a greater hazard. See 1910.27(b)(2)(i). If you need to work above 300 feet, document why alternative access (ladders, lifts, scaffolds) is infeasible or more hazardous before using a rope descent system.

A rope descent system must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, warnings, and design limits, or under the direction of a qualified person when manufacturer guidance is not available. See 1910.27(b)(2)(ii). Employers should retain and follow manufacturer documentation or have a qualified person set the system's usage parameters.

Each employee who uses a rope descent system must be trained in accordance with 1910.30. See 1910.27(b)(2)(iii). Training must cover the system, equipment, hazards, safe operation, and rescue procedures as required by the training standard.

Rope descent systems must be inspected at the start of each workshift they are used, and any damaged or defective equipment must be removed from service immediately and replaced. See 1910.27(b)(2)(iv). Employers should document inspection procedures and ensure users do not use gear that fails inspection.

Rope descent systems must have proper rigging, including secure anchorages and tiebacks, and provide tiebacks when non-permanent anchorages (like counterweights or cornice hooks) are used. See 1910.27(b)(2)(v). Employers should evaluate anchor type and add tiebacks or backups for any temporary or less-secure anchor points.

Each employee must use a separate, independent personal fall arrest system that meets the requirements of OSHA's fall protection subpart for general industry (part of 1910). See 1910.27(b)(2)(vi). Employers must ensure harnesses, lanyards, and connectors comply with applicable [1910] standards and manufacturer's limits.

All components of a rope descent system, except seat boards, must be capable of sustaining a minimum rated load of 5,000 pounds (22.2 kN). See 1910.27(b)(2)(vii). Employers should verify component ratings by manufacturer data or qualified-person certification.

Seat boards must be capable of supporting a live load of 300 pounds (136 kg). See 1910.27(b)(2)(viii). If workers will exceed that combined weight (person plus tools), provide stronger seating or an alternative work platform.

Where ropes can contact building edges, anchorages, obstructions, or other surfaces, they must be effectively padded or otherwise protected to prevent cutting or weakening. See 1910.27(b)(2)(ix). Use edge-protection devices, sleeves, or stout padding rated for rope protection and inspect the protection and rope frequently.

Stabilization at the specific work location is required when descents are greater than 130 feet (39.6 m). See 1910.27(b)(2)(x). Employers must plan for and install stabilization methods (such as additional control lines or guys) for long descents to minimize swing and uncontrolled movement.

No — employers must not allow employees to use rope descent systems when hazardous weather conditions, such as storms or gusty or excessive wind, are present. See 1910.27(b)(2)(xi). Employers should stop work and secure equipment when weather makes descent operations unsafe.

Equipment such as tools, squeegees, or buckets must be secured by a tool lanyard or a similar method to prevent them from falling. See 1910.27(b)(2)(xii). Employers should require tool tethering and inspect lanyards and attachments regularly.

Ropes must be protected from exposure to open flames, hot work, corrosive chemicals, and other destructive conditions that could weaken them. See 1910.27(b)(2)(xiii). If rope exposure is possible, plan alternate rigging, barriers, or substitute materials resistant to the hazard.

Employers must provide prompt rescue of each employee in the event of a fall. See 1910.27(b)(2)(viii). Prompt rescue means having a rescue plan, trained rescuers, and necessary equipment on site or immediately available so an injured or suspended worker can be reached and assisted without dangerous delay.

A "qualified person" is someone with the knowledge, training, and experience to identify anchorage strengths and certify them as meeting the required load capacity. While 1910.27 requires identification, testing, and certification by a qualified person (1910.27(b)(1)), employers should document the individual's qualifications (education, training, and relevant experience) and use accepted engineering or testing methods for certification.

An effective shift-start inspection checklist should verify condition and certification of anchorages, rope integrity and protection, manufacturer-rated components, harness and fall-arrest gear, seat boards, tool lanyards, and weather conditions. See 1910.27(b)(2)(iv) and component load requirements at 1910.27(b)(2)(vii). The checklist should require removal from service of any damaged equipment and recordkeeping or tagging to prevent use until repaired or replaced.