Question 1

Do I have to follow the scaffold specifications in Appendix A of the OSHA construction standard?

Accepted Answer

No, the guidelines in Appendix A to Subpart L are non mandatory; however, they provide a starting point and acceptable methods for designing and building scaffolds that comply with the mandatory requirement that all scaffolds must support their own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load. If you choose not to follow these guidelines for certain components, you must ensure your design and construction still meet the capacity requirements outlined in the mandatory standard, specifically OSHA §1926.451(a)).

Question 2

What kind of wood should be used for building a wooden pole scaffold?

Accepted Answer

All load carrying timber members of a scaffold, except for planks, should be a minimum of 1,500 lb f/in² (stress grade) construction grade lumber. According to Appendix A to Subpart L, all dimensions are nominal sizes as defined by the American Softwood Lumber Standards unless rough sizes are specified.

Question 3

What is the maximum span allowed for a 2x10 solid sawn wood scaffold plank?

Accepted Answer

The maximum permissible span for a 2x10 inch (nominal) solid sawn wood plank depends on the intended load. According to Appendix A guidelines, the maximum spans are as follows: Light duty (25 lbs/ft²): 8 feet Medium duty (50 lbs/ft²): 6 feet Heavy duty (75 lbs/ft²): This load is not permitted for nominal thickness 2x10 planks.

Question 4

What are the material strength requirements for scaffold guardrail systems?

Accepted Answer

Scaffold guardrail components must be equivalent in strength to specific lumber or metal dimensions. Appendix A to Subpart L provides the following minimum strength equivalents: Toprails: Must be as strong as 2x4 inch lumber. Midrails: Must be as strong as 1x6 inch lumber. Toeboards: Must be as strong as 1x4 inch lumber. Posts: Must be as strong as 2x4 inch lumber and spaced no more than 8 feet apart.

Non-mandatory scaffold guidelines

Topics covered

Questions

What is the maximum span allowed for a 2x10 solid sawn wood scaffold plank?

What kind of wood should be used for building a wooden pole scaffold?

What are the material strength requirements for scaffold guardrail systems?

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