Scaffold general requirements

Each scaffold and scaffold component must support, without failure, its own weight plus at least four times the maximum intended load. See the capacity requirement in 1926.451(a)(1).

• This is a minimum design factor of safety (4:1) unless another paragraph in 1926.451 applies (for example, certain suspension rope rules in paragraphs (a)(3) and (a)(4)).
• Make sure scaffold designs and component ratings used on-site reflect this requirement; if a scaffold is designed by a qualified person, it must be built and loaded according to that design (1926.451(a)(6)).

Suspension ropes and their connecting hardware must have safety factors of at least 6:1 for the maximum intended load on non-adjustable or adjustable suspension scaffolds, with additional considerations for hoist-rated and stall loads. See 1926.451(a)(3) and 1926.451(a)(4).

• For non-adjustable suspension scaffolds, each rope and its hardware must support at least six times the maximum intended load (1926.451(a)(3)).
• For adjustable suspension scaffolds, ropes must support six times the maximum intended load when the scaffold is operating at either the rated load of the hoist or at least twice the stall load of the hoist, whichever is greater (1926.451(a)(4)).
• Also note the stall-load limitation for scaffold hoists: the stall load must not exceed three times rated load (1926.451(a)(5)).

Platform units must be installed so the space between adjacent units and between the platform and uprights is no more than 1 inch, unless the employer demonstrates a wider gap is necessary; if so, the remaining gap cannot exceed 9½ inches. See 1926.451(b)(1)(i) and 1926.451(b)(1)(ii).

• The 1-inch rule applies to typical planking installations.
• If a wider space is needed (for example, to fit around uprights when using side brackets), you must plank or deck as fully as possible and keep any remaining gap at or below 9½ inches (1926.451(b)(1)(ii)).
• Exception: full planking is not required for platforms used solely as walkways or only during scaffold erection/dismantling (1926.451(b)(1)).

Scaffold platforms and walkways must be at least 18 inches wide except for specific scaffold types and narrow areas where employers must provide the widest feasible platform and fall protection. See 1926.451(b)(2) and 1926.451(b)(2)(i)-(ii).

• Ladder jack, top plate bracket, roof bracket, and pump jack scaffolds have a minimum width of 12 inches (1926.451(b)(2)(i)).
• Boatswain’s chairs have no minimum platform width requirement.
• Where space is so narrow that an 18-inch platform isn’t feasible, platforms must be as wide as possible and employees must be protected from falls by guardrails and/or personal fall arrest systems (1926.451(b)(2)(ii)).

The front edge of platforms must not be more than 14 inches from the face of the work unless guardrails and/or personal fall arrest systems are used to protect employees. See 1926.451(b)(3).

• Specific exceptions: outrigger scaffolds used at the front edge must not be more than 3 inches from the face (1926.451(b)(3)(i)).
• For plastering and lathing operations, the maximum is 18 inches (1926.451(b)(3)(ii)).
• If platforms extend farther than the permitted distance, you must install guardrails or require a personal fall arrest system in accordance with 1926.451(g).

Platform ends must extend over the centerline of their support at least 6 inches unless they are cleated or otherwise restrained; overhang limits depend on platform length and design. See 1926.451(b)(4) and 1926.451(b)(5).

• Minimum extension over support: at least 6 inches unless restrained (1926.451(b)(4)).
• For platforms 10 feet or less, the cantilever may not exceed 12 inches unless the cantilever is designed to support employees/materials without tipping or is blocked by guardrails (1926.451(b)(5)(i)).
• For platforms greater than 10 feet, the cantilever limit is 18 inches unless designed for safety or access is blocked (1926.451(b)(5)(ii)).

When planks are abutted, each abutted end must rest on a separate support surface; when overlapped, the overlap must occur over supports and be at least 12 inches unless planks are nailed or otherwise restrained. See 1926.451(b)(6) and 1926.451(b)(7).

• Abutted planks: avoid having two plank ends share the same support point—each end should sit on its own support (1926.451(b)(6)).
• Overlapped planks: overlap at supports by at least 12 inches unless planks are nailed together or otherwise restrained to prevent movement (1926.451(b)(7)).
• Using common support members (like T-sections) is allowed if they properly support the planks (1926.451(b)(6)).

You may not mix scaffold components from different manufacturers unless the parts fit together without force and the resulting scaffold remains structurally sound; dissimilar metals may only be used together if a competent person determines galvanic action won’t weaken components below required strength. See 1926.451(b)(10) and 1926.451(b)(11).

• If components from different manufacturers are used, ensure they fit properly without forcing connections and maintain structural integrity (1926.451(b)(10)).
• A competent person must evaluate any use of dissimilar metals to ensure galvanic action will not reduce strength below the 4:1 requirement in 1926.451(a)(1).

Supported scaffolds with a height-to-base-width ratio greater than 4:1 must be restrained from tipping by guying, tying, bracing, or equivalent means, and ties must be placed and repeated per the standard’s spacing rules. See 1926.451(c)(1) and 1926.451(c)(1)(ii).

• Guys, ties, and braces shall be installed at locations where horizontal members support both inner and outer legs (1926.451(c)(1)(i)).
• Install ties at or nearest the 4:1 height and repeat vertically every 20 feet for scaffolds 3 feet wide or less, and every 26 feet for wider scaffolds; the top tie must be within the 4:1 height from the top (1926.451(c)(1)(ii)).
• Ties or outriggers are also required anytime an eccentric load (for example, cantilevered platforms) is applied (1926.451(c)(1)(iii)).
• OSHA’s interpretation on scaffolds and fall protection confirms suspended conveyances used as temporary platforms meet the scaffold definition and must meet fall-protection and falling-object requirements in 1926.451(g) and 1926.451(h); see OSHA’s letter on scaffold and fall protection clarification (Dec. 5, 2023) at https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2023-12-05.

Supported scaffold poles, legs, posts, frames, and uprights must bear on base plates and mud sills or other adequate firm foundations that are level, sound, rigid, and capable of supporting the loaded scaffold without settling or displacement. See 1926.451(c)(2) and 1926.451(c)(2)(i).

• Do not use unstable objects as scaffold supports or working platforms (1926.451(c)(2)(ii)-(iii)).
• Do not use front-end loaders or similar equipment to support platforms unless the equipment is specifically designed by its manufacturer for that use (1926.451(c)(2)(iv)).
• Forklifts may not support scaffold platforms unless the entire platform is attached to the fork and the forklift is not moved horizontally while occupied (1926.451(c)(2)(v)).

Supported scaffold poles, legs, posts, frames, and uprights must be plumb and braced to prevent swaying and displacement. See 1926.451(c)(3).

• A competent person should check and ensure plumbness and adequate bracing during erection and anytime conditions change (wind, loads, or altered supports).
• Bracing and ties should follow the spacing and location requirements in 1926.451(c)(1) to resist tipping and lateral movement.

Outrigger scaffold platforms must not be more than 3 inches from the face of the work. See 1926.451(b)(3)(i).

• This rule is stricter than the general 14-inch limit in 1926.451(b)(3) because of the design and use of outriggers.
• If work requires greater clearance, employers must provide appropriate fall protection as specified in 1926.451(g).

Wood scaffold platforms may not be covered with opaque finishes that obscure the top or bottom wood surfaces, although edges may be covered or marked and periodic coatings for preservation or slip resistance are allowed if they do not obscure the surfaces. See 1926.451(b)(9).

• Examples of permitted treatments include wood preservatives, fire-retardant finishes, and slip-resistant finishes, so long as the coatings do not hide the wood’s condition.
• Marking platform edges for identification is acceptable.

No, the full planking or decking requirement in paragraph (b)(1) does not apply to platforms used solely as walkways or solely by employees performing scaffold erection or dismantling; in those situations, the employer must provide only the planking necessary for safe working conditions. See 1926.451(b)(1) and 1926.451(b)(2) note.

• Employers must still ensure safety—for walkways, a safe path must be provided; for erection/dismantling, provide whatever planking is necessary to prevent hazards per a competent person’s determination.

Scaffolds must be designed by a qualified person and constructed and loaded in accordance with that design. See 1926.451(a)(6).

• A qualified person is someone with recognized expertise who can evaluate scaffold conditions and produce a safe design.
• If site conditions or loads change, the scaffold must be re-evaluated and modified per the qualified person’s design or direction.

Yes, conveyances operating in temporary or incomplete guides, suspended by temporary suspension means, using temporary hoist machines, or combining those temporary devices with permanent car frames meet the definition of suspended scaffolds and are subject to Subpart L scaffold requirements. See OSHA’s letter of interpretation on scaffold and fall protection clarification (Dec. 5, 2023) at https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2023-12-05 and the scaffold definition in 1926.450(b).

• The letter explicitly states those conveyance configurations meet the suspended scaffold definition in 1926.450(b).
• Consequently, fall protection per 1926.451(g) and falling-object protection per 1926.451(h) apply to those conveyance configurations.

Ties, guys, braces, or outriggers must be used to prevent tipping of supported scaffolds whenever an eccentric load (for example, a cantilevered work platform) is applied or transmitted to the scaffold. See 1926.451(c)(1)(iii).

• Even if the scaffold’s height-to-base ratio is within limits, the presence of eccentric loads requires restraint measures to prevent tipping (1926.451(c)(1)(iii)).
• A competent person should evaluate and implement the appropriate restraint method and spacing per 1926.451(c)(1)(ii).

A forklift may be used to support a scaffold platform only if the entire platform is attached to the fork and the forklift is not moved horizontally while the platform is occupied. See 1926.451(c)(2)(v).

• Because forklifts are not typical scaffold supports, this limited use requires the platform be securely attached and the forklift remain stationary while employees are on the platform.
• For most scaffold applications, use base plates, mud sills, or other adequate firm foundations as required by 1926.451(c)(2).

At corners or points where the platform changes direction, lay any platform that rests on a bearer at an angle other than a right angle first, and then lay platform pieces that rest at right angles on top of the first. See 1926.451(b)(8).

• This sequencing prevents unsupported edges and helps ensure a stable platform where planks cross over the same bearer.

Employers may allow a platform to extend beyond the standard overhang limits only if the cantilevered portion is designed and installed to support employees and/or materials without tipping, or if guardrails block employee access to the cantilevered end. See 1926.451(b)(5)(i)-(ii).

• For platforms 10 feet or less, overhang greater than 12 inches requires design proof of stability or guardrails (1926.451(b)(5)(i)).
• For longer platforms, overhang above 18 inches requires the same demonstration or guardrail protection (1926.451(b)(5)(ii)).
• A qualified person should approve any design that allows greater cantilevered overhang.

Yes; the standard allows the use of common support members (for example, "T" sections) to support abutting planks as long as each abutted end rests on a separate support surface or the design provides equivalent, safe support for the abutted ends. See 1926.451(b)(6).

• The intent is to prevent unsupported plank ends and ensure stable plank support along the platform.
• If you use a shared support, verify it provides the required bearing and does not create weak points in the platform.

Direct connections to roofs and floors and counterweights used to balance adjustable suspension scaffolds must resist at least four times the tipping moment at the rated hoist load or at least 1.5 times the tipping moment at the stall load—whichever is greater. See 1926.451(a)(2).

• This ensures anchors and counterweights are sized for both normal rated operation and worst-case stall conditions.
• Remember the stall-load limitation in 1926.451(a)(5), which caps stall loads at three times rated load.

Under 1926.451(d)(1), those suspension scaffold support devices must rest on surfaces capable of supporting at least four times the load imposed by the scaffold operating at the hoist's rated load (or at least 1.5 times the load at the hoist’s stall capacity, whichever is greater).

• This means you must evaluate the actual loads imposed by the scaffold and select support points (roof deck, structural member, etc.) that meet the higher of the two safety factors.
• Have a competent person confirm the supporting surface capacity before use, as required elsewhere in the section (see 1926.451(d)(3)(i)).

Under 1926.451(d)(2), outrigger beams must be made of structural metal or a material of equivalent strength, and they must be restrained to prevent movement.

• "Restrained" commonly means bolting, tiebacks, or other secure means that prevent the beam from shifting during use.
• If you use channel iron in place of I-beams, follow the fastening and flange orientation rules in 1926.451(d)(4).

Under 1926.451(d)(3), inboard ends must be stabilized by bolts or other direct connections to the floor or roof deck, or stabilized by counterweights — except that masons' multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold outriggers may not use counterweights and must be directly secured.

• Before using direct connections, a competent person must evaluate and confirm the supporting surfaces can carry the imposed loads as required by 1926.451(d)(3)(i).
• Counterweights used instead of direct connections must meet the counterweight rules in 1926.451(d)(3).

Under 1926.451(d)(3)(ii) and (iii), counterweights must be made of non-flowable material and only items specifically designed as counterweights may be used; construction materials such as masonry units or rolls of roofing felt are not allowed.

• Examples of acceptable counterweights include engineered steel or concrete blocks designed for this use.
• Sand, gravel, or other easily dislocated materials are specifically prohibited as counterweights (see 1926.451(d)(3)).

Under 1926.451(d)(3)(iv)–(v), counterweights must be mechanically secured to the outrigger beams to prevent accidental displacement, and they must not be removed from an outrigger beam until the scaffold is disassembled.

• Use bolts, clamps, or other mechanical fasteners specified by the outrigger manufacturer or engineer.
• Leaving counterweights unsecured or removing them while the scaffold remains assembled creates an immediate hazard and violates the standard.

Under 1926.451(d)(3)(vi)–(ix), outriggers not stabilized by bolts must be secured by tiebacks; tiebacks must be equivalent in strength to the suspension ropes, installed perpendicular to the face of the building (or opposing angle tiebacks if necessary), and anchored to a structurally sound anchorage on the building.

• Single angled tiebacks are prohibited; use opposing angle tiebacks or install tiebacks perpendicular to the building face per 1926.451(d)(3)(x).
• Anchors must be to a sound structural member and not to items like standpipes, vents, or conduit (see 1926.451(d)(3)(x) and 1926.451(d)(3)(ix)).

Under 1926.451(d)(4), outrigger beams must have stop bolts or shackles at both ends, be fastened correctly when channel iron replaces I-beams (flanges turned out), be installed with bearing supports perpendicular to the beam center line, have the web vertical, and have the shackle/clevis attaching the rope placed directly over the stirrup center line.

• These details ensure proper load distribution and minimize the risk of beam rotation or rope misalignment.
• Follow manufacturer instructions and have a competent person verify the correct assembly.

Under 1926.451(d)(5), such suspension scaffold support devices must be made of steel, wrought iron, or materials of equivalent strength; supported by bearing blocks; and secured against movement by tiebacks installed at right angles to the face of the building or by opposing angle tiebacks secured to a structurally sound anchorage.

• Tiebacks must be equivalent in strength to the hoisting rope per 1926.451(d)(5)(iv).
• Do not attach these devices to weak or non-structural items (see anchor restrictions in 1926.451(d)(3)(x)).

Under 1926.451(d)(6)–(9), winding drum hoists must have at least four wraps of suspension rope at the scaffold's lowest travel point; other hoists must have rope lengths that prevent the rope end from passing through the hoist or must have an end configuration that prevents that. Repaired wire rope as suspension rope is prohibited (1926.451(d)(7)). Wire suspension ropes may only be joined using eye splice thimbles connected with shackles or coverplates and bolts (1926.451(d)(8)). The load end must have proper-size thimbles and be secured by eyesplicing or equivalent means (1926.451(d)(9)).

• Follow manufacturer and hoist-lab testing requirements; power hoists must be tested by a qualified testing laboratory (1926.451(d)(13)).

Under 1926.451(d)(10), ropes must be inspected for defects by a competent person prior to each workshift and after any occurrence that could affect rope integrity; under 1926.451(d)(11), swaged attachments or spliced eyes may be used only if made by the wire rope manufacturer or a qualified person.

• Inspections should look for kinks, broken wires, abrasion, corrosion, heat damage, and evidence the secondary brake activated (see replacement triggers in 1926.451(d)(10)(i)–(vi)).
• Keep records of deficiencies and remove defective rope from service immediately.

Under 1926.451(d)(10)(iii)–(vi), ropes must be replaced if there are six randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay or three broken wires in one strand in one lay; if abrasion, corrosion, scrubbing, flattening or peening causes loss of more than one-third the original diameter of outside wires; if heat damage or damage from contact with electrical wires; or if there is evidence the secondary brake engaged during an overspeed condition.

• Also replace ropes for any other physical damage that impairs function or kinks that affect drum/sheave tracking (1926.451(d)(10)(i)–(ii)).
• Have a competent person inspect ropes and document replacement actions.

Under 1926.451(d)(12), when wire rope clips are used you must install a minimum of three clips spaced at least six rope diameters apart, install them per the manufacturer's recommendations, retighten them after initial loading and at the start of each workshift thereafter, not use U-bolt clips at the point of suspension for any scaffold hoist, and, when U-bolt clips are used elsewhere, place the U-bolt over the dead end and the saddle over the live end of the rope.

• Follow the clip manufacturer's torque and sequence instructions closely; improper installation or failure to retighten can reduce the rope splice strength dramatically.

Under 1926.451(d)(13)–(16), suspension scaffold power-operated and manual hoists must be tested by a qualified testing laboratory; gasoline-powered equipment and hoists are prohibited on suspension scaffolds (1926.451(d)(14)). Gears and brakes on power hoists must be enclosed (1926.451(d)(15)). In addition to the normal operating brake, hoists must have an automatic braking device or locking pawl that engages on an instantaneous change in momentum or an accelerated overspeed (1926.451(d)(16)). Manual hoists must require a positive crank force to descend (1926.451(d)(17)).

• Use only hoists that meet these requirements and keep test documentation from qualified labs available for inspection.

Under 1926.451(d)(18)–(19), two-point and multi-point suspension scaffolds must be tied or otherwise secured to prevent swaying when a competent person determines it is necessary. Devices whose sole function is emergency escape and rescue are not allowed to be used as working platforms (1926.451(d)(19)).

• The competent person's evaluation should consider wind, loads, and work activities to decide if ties or other sway-control measures are needed.
• Systems designed to function both as suspension scaffolds and emergency systems are allowed, but pure rescue devices are not for regular work.

Under 1926.451(e)(1), when scaffold platforms are more than 2 feet (0.6 m) above or below a point of access, you must provide portable ladders, hook-on ladders, attachable ladders, stair towers, stairway-type ladders, ramps, walkways, integral prefabricated scaffold access, or direct safe access from another scaffold, structure, personnel hoist, or similar surface.

• Crossbraces cannot be used as a means of access (1926.451(e)(2)).
• Ensure selected access is compatible with the scaffold type and installed so it won't tip the scaffold (1926.451(e)(2)(i)).

Under 1926.451(e)(2), hook-on and attachable ladders must be positioned so they do not tip the scaffold, their bottom rung must be no more than 24 inches above the scaffold supporting level (1926.451(e)(2)(ii)), they must be specifically designed for the scaffold type (1926.451(e)(2)(iv)), have a minimum rung length of 11½ inches (1926.451(e)(2)(v)), and have uniform rungs with maximum spacing of 16¾ inches (1926.451(e)(2)(vi)).

• If used on supported scaffolds higher than 35 feet, rest platforms must be provided at 35-foot intervals (1926.451(e)(2)(iii)).

Under 1926.451(e)(3) and (4), stairway-type ladders must be positioned with their bottom step no more than 24 inches above the scaffold supporting level, have rest platforms at 12-foot vertical intervals, have minimum step width requirements (16 inches normally, 11½ inches for mobile scaffold stairways), and have slip-resistant treads. Stairtowers must meet similar positioning rules (1926.451(e)(4)) and provide stairrails (toprail and midrail) on each side, handrails suitable for grasping, and landings at least 18" x 18" at each level (1926.451(e)(4)(i)–(viii)).

• Stairrails must be 28–37 inches above tread surfaces and handrails at least 3 inches from other objects (1926.451(e)(4)(vi)–(vii)).
• Guardrails meeting fall protection rules must be provided on open sides of each landing (1926.451(e)(4)(xii)).

Under 1926.451(e)(5), ramps and walkways 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above lower levels must have guardrail systems that comply with fall protection rules in subpart M, and no ramp or walkway may be steeper than one vertical to three horizontal (a 20° incline). If a ramp or walkway is steeper than one vertical in eight horizontal, cleats no more than 14 inches apart must be fastened to the planks to provide footing (1926.451(e)(5)(ii)–(iii)).

• Design ramps and walkways to allow safe travel and comply with guardrail requirements when elevated.

Under 1926.451(e)(6), integral prefabricated scaffold access frames must be specifically designed and constructed for ladder rungs, have a rung length of at least 8 inches, be uniformly spaced, have a maximum spacing of 16¾ inches between rungs, and have rest platforms at 35-foot maximum vertical intervals on supported scaffolds over 35 feet. They must not be used as work platforms when rungs are less than 11½ inches in length unless each affected employee uses fall protection or a positioning device that complies with 1926.502 (1926.451(e)(6)(iii)–(vi)).

• If rungs are under 11½ inches long, provide compliant fall protection before allowing employees to use them as platforms.

Under 1926.451(e)(7)–(9), steps and rungs must line up vertically between rest platforms; non-uniform rung spacing caused by joining end frames is allowed only if the spacing does not exceed 16¾ inches; crossbraces must not be used for access or egress (1926.451(e)(9)(iv)). For erecting or dismantling supported scaffolds, employers must provide safe means of access where feasible and not creating a greater hazard, and a competent person must determine feasibility (1926.451(e)(9)(i)–(iii)). Tubular welded frame scaffold end frames with horizontal members that are parallel, level, and not more than 22 inches apart vertically may be used as climbing devices when erected to create a usable ladder and good hand/foot space (1926.451(e)(9)(iii)).

• Always have a competent person assess access during erection/dismantling and install hook-on or attachable ladders as soon as safe to do so (1926.451(e)(9)(ii)).

OSHA's interpretation in the December 5, 2023 Letter of Interpretation states that conveyance cars or platforms suspended by temporary guides, temporary suspension cables, or temporary hoist machines meet the definition of a suspended scaffold and are subject to Subpart L scaffold requirements.

• See the OSHA Letter of Interpretation "Scaffold and fall protection clarification" at https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2023-12-05 which explains that various conveyance configurations (temporary guides, temporary cables, temporary hoists, or combinations with permanent car frames) meet the suspended scaffold definition.
• When such conveyances meet the suspended scaffold definition, employers must comply with suspension scaffold rules including fall protection (1926.451(g)) and falling object protection (1926.451(h)).

Under 1926.451(d)(3)(viii), if an employer demonstrates it is not possible to place an outrigger beam perpendicular to the face because of immovable obstructions, the beam may be placed at another angle provided opposing angle tiebacks are used.

• You must still secure tiebacks to structurally sound anchorages and ensure tiebacks are equivalent in strength to the suspension ropes (1926.451(d)(3)(vii) and (ix)).

No — 1926.451(d)(16) and (d)(19) and related text state that window cleaners' anchors shall not be used for suspension scaffold anchorage, and devices whose sole function is emergency escape/rescue shall not be used as working platforms (1926.451(d)(19)).

• Use only structurally sound anchorage points (structural members) for tiebacks and anchorages; avoid piping, vents, standpipes, and conduits as anchor points (1926.451(d)(3)(x)).

Under 1926.451(d)(12)(v)–(vi), U-bolt clips are prohibited at the point of suspension for any scaffold hoist; if U-bolt clips are used elsewhere, the U-bolt must be placed over the dead end of the rope and the saddle over the live end.

• Also remember to use at least three clips spaced a minimum of six rope diameters apart and follow manufacturer instructions for installation and retightening (1926.451(d)(12)(i)–(iv)).

Under 1926.451(d)(3)(i), a competent person must evaluate direct connections before scaffold use and confirm that the supporting surfaces can support the loads to be imposed.

• For masons' multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold connections, design by an engineer experienced in such scaffold design is also required (1926.451(d)(3)(i)).
• Document the competent person’s evaluation and any load calculations used to justify the anchorage.

Under 1926.451(f)(6), scaffolds and any conductive materials handled on them must be kept at the minimum distances listed for the voltage of the line, unless the utility deenergizes, relocates, or installs protective coverings after being notified. For typical clearances:

• Under 1926.451(f)(6), keep at least 3 feet from insulated lines under 300 volts and at least 10 feet from lines 300 volts up to 50 kV. For lines over 50 kV you must keep 10 feet plus 0.4 inches for every 1 kV over 50 kV, with an alternative allowance of twice the insulator length but never less than 10 feet. See 1926.451(f)(6).

• For uninsulated lines, the minimum distances are the same for the listed voltage ranges: 10 feet for less than 50 kV, and the same added distance formula for voltages over 50 kV (see 1926.451(f)(6)).

Exceptions and practical steps:

• Scaffolds or materials may be located closer than those distances only when such clearance is necessary for the work and only after the utility company or electrical system operator has been notified and has either deenergized the lines, relocated them, or installed protective coverings to prevent accidental contact (see the exception to 1926.451(f)(6)).

• Always treat power lines as energized until you have written or clear confirmation from the utility that they have been made safe; do not rely on assumptions about insulation or voltage.

• If work must occur near power lines, document the contact/coordination with the utility and ensure workers are trained to observe the established clearances.

References: See 1926.451(f)(6).

Under 1926.451(f)(3), a competent person must inspect scaffolds and scaffold components for visible defects before each work shift and after any occurrence which could affect a scaffold's structural integrity.

Practical points employers and supervisors should follow:

• The subject is explicitly "Under 1926.451(f)(3)" so inspections must be done by a competent person who can recognize hazards and has authority to promptly correct them; see 1926.451(f)(3).

• Inspections are required: (1) before each work shift begins, and (2) any time something happens that could weaken or damage the scaffold (for example, a storm, collision with equipment, impact from a falling load, or visible member damage).

• If a scaffold part is damaged such that its strength is less than required, it must be repaired, replaced, braced, or removed from service until fixed, per 1926.451(f)(4).

• Employers should document inspection findings and corrective actions and ensure the competent person who inspects has the training and authority to stop use of an unsafe scaffold and assign experienced workers for erection, moving, dismantling, or alteration as required in 1926.451(f)(7).

Reference: 1926.451(f)(3) and see related requirements at 1926.451(f)(4) and 1926.451(f)(7).

Under 1926.451(g)(1)(ii), employees on single-point or two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds must be protected by both a personal fall arrest system and a guardrail system.

Key practical requirements and attachment rules:

• The subject is explicitly "Under 1926.451(g)" and 1926.451(g)(1)(ii) requires both a personal fall arrest system and a guardrail system for single- and two-point suspension scaffolds; see 1926.451(g)(1)(ii).

• Personal fall arrest systems used on scaffolds must meet 1926.502(d) and, per 1926.451(g)(3), they must be attached by lanyard to a vertical lifeline, horizontal lifeline, or scaffold structural member.

• Do not attach vertical lifelines to overhead components on single- or two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds (for example, do not use overhead components when they are part of the same suspension system); see 1926.451(g)(3).

• Horizontal lifelines must not be attached only to the suspension ropes (they need secure attachment to two or more structural members or be looped around independent suspension lines above the hoist), see 1926.451(g)(3)(iii) and 1926.451(g)(3)(ii).

• When lanyards are connected to horizontal lifelines or structural members on single- or two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds, the scaffold must have additional independent support lines and automatic locking devices capable of stopping the fall of the scaffold if a suspension rope fails; the independent support lines must be equal in number and strength to the suspension ropes (see 1926.451(g)(3)(iii)).

• Do not attach vertical lifelines, independent support lines, or suspension ropes to each other or to the same anchorage point (see 1926.451(g)(3)(iv)).

• OSHA has confirmed in interpretation guidance that configurations meeting the definition of a suspended scaffold (including conveyances or temporary platforms suspended by temporary cables or hoists) must comply with the fall protection requirements in 1926.451(g) (see OSHA letter of interpretation, Dec. 5, 2023: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2023-12-05).

References: 1926.451(g)(1)(ii), 1926.451(g)(3), 1926.451(g)(3)(iii), and OSHA letter of interpretation https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/2023-12-05.