Scaffolding Safety in Construction
64 flashcards covering Scaffolding Safety in Construction for the OSHA OSHA 10/30 Construction section.
Scaffolding safety in construction focuses on practices for erecting, using, and dismantling scaffolds to prevent falls, collapses, and other hazards like electrical contact. This is defined by OSHA regulations in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L, which sets standards for scaffold design, access, and worker training in the construction industry, as covered in OSHA 10 and 30 courses.
On OSHA certification exams, this topic appears in multiple-choice questions that test knowledge of inspection requirements, load capacities, and common violations, such as improper platform setup. A frequent trap is assuming all scaffolds are equally stable, leading test-takers to overlook the need for specific fall protection based on height and type.
In practice, workers often skip verifying the ground's stability before erecting scaffolds, increasing collapse risks.
Terms (64)
- 01
What is the definition of a competent person for scaffolding?
A competent person is one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them (29 CFR 1926.450(b)).
- 02
Under 29 CFR 1926.451, what must be done before using a scaffold?
The scaffold must be inspected by a competent person to ensure it is erected properly and is safe for use (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)).
- 03
How often should scaffolds be inspected according to OSHA?
Scaffolds must be inspected by a competent person before each work shift and after any occurrence that could affect a scaffold's structural integrity (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)).
- 04
What is required for the footing of supported scaffolds?
Footings must be level, sound, rigid, and capable of supporting the loaded scaffold without settling or displacement (29 CFR 1926.451(c)(2)).
- 05
In scaffolding, what protection is needed against falling objects?
Toeboards, screens, or guardrail systems must be installed where persons are required to work or pass under the scaffold (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(1)).
- 06
What is the requirement for scaffold platforms?
Each platform on all working levels must be fully planked or decked between the front uprights and the guardrail supports (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(1)).
- 07
Under 29 CFR 1926.451, how must access to scaffolds be provided?
Access must be provided when the scaffold is more than 2 feet above or below the point of access, using specific means such as ladders, stairs, ramps, or similar devices (29 CFR 1926.451(e)(1)).
- 08
What training is required for employees who erect scaffolds?
Employees who erect, disassemble, move, operate, repair, maintain, or inspect scaffolds must be trained by a competent person in the hazards and procedures (29 CFR 1926.454(a)).
- 09
For suspended scaffolds, what must be checked?
Suspension ropes and other supporting parts must be inspected for visible defects by a competent person before each work shift and after every occurrence that could affect the scaffold's structural integrity (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(2)).
- 10
What is the rule for scaffold capacity?
Scaffolds and scaffold components must be capable of supporting at least four times the maximum intended load (29 CFR 1926.451(a)(1)).
- 11
When must guardrails be used on scaffolds?
Guardrails must be installed on all open sides and ends of platforms more than 10 feet above the ground or floor (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)).
- 12
What must be done if a scaffold is exposed to weather?
Scaffolds must be designed to withstand the effects of weather, including wind, and may require additional ties or bracing (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).
- 13
How should scaffold planks be secured?
Planks must be secured to prevent movement, tipping, or displacement while the platform is in use (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(2)).
- 14
What fall protection is required on scaffolds?
Each employee on a scaffold more than 10 feet above a lower level must be protected by guardrail systems, personal fall arrest systems, or both (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(1)).
- 15
Under OSHA standards, what is needed for scaffold stability?
Scaffolds must be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision and direction of a competent person (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(1)).
- 16
What is the procedure for tagging unsafe scaffolds?
A tag must be placed on the scaffold stating that it is unsafe, and employees must not use it until it is made safe (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(7)).
- 17
A worker notices a scaffold platform is unstable; what should they do?
The worker should immediately stop work, notify a competent person, and not use the scaffold until it is inspected and repaired (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)).
- 18
What must be ensured for electrical safety around scaffolds?
Scaffolds must be erected so that they do not come closer than 10 feet to the nearest overhead power line, except where an insulating barrier is erected (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).
- 19
How must scaffold erectors be protected?
Erectors and dismantlers must be protected from falling objects and other hazards by the erection of toeboards or screens (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(1)).
- 20
What is required when dismantling a scaffold?
A competent person must supervise the dismantling and ensure that employees are protected from hazards associated with the process (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(4)).
- 21
What defines a safe working distance from power lines for scaffolds?
Scaffolds must not be erected closer than 10 feet to the nearest overhead power line operating at 50 kV or below (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).
- 22
Before moving a mobile scaffold, what must be checked?
The area must be clear of workers and obstacles, and the scaffold must be on a firm and level surface (29 CFR 1926.452(w)(1)).
- 23
What training topics must cover for scaffold users?
Training must include the hazards of the specific type of scaffold, the correct procedures for handling and storage of materials, and falling object protection (29 CFR 1926.454(b)).
- 24
In a scenario where wind affects a scaffold, what action is needed?
The scaffold must be secured against the wind's effects, and work may need to be suspended until it is safe (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).
- 25
What is the maximum permissible gap in scaffold planking?
The space between the platform and the uprights cannot exceed 9-1/2 inches, and planks must be laid with no more than a 1-inch gap between them (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(1)).
- 26
What must be done to prevent scaffold collapse?
Scaffolds must be erected on a suitable footing and braced to prevent swaying and displacement (29 CFR 1926.451(c)(1)).
- 27
A competent person finds a scaffold damaged; what is the next step?
The competent person must tag the scaffold as unsafe and ensure it is not used until repaired (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(7)).
- 28
Under 29 CFR 1926.451, what secures suspended scaffolds?
Suspended scaffolds must be secured to prevent swaying, as determined by a competent person (29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)).
- 29
What personal protective equipment is mandatory on scaffolds?
Hard hats, safety shoes, and fall protection equipment must be used as appropriate to the hazards present (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(1)).
- 30
How should loads be placed on scaffold platforms?
Loads must be uniformly distributed within the confines of the platform and not exceed the rated capacity (29 CFR 1926.451(a)(3)).
- 31
What is the requirement for scaffold wheels and casters?
Wheels or casters must be locked to prevent movement while the scaffold is in use (29 CFR 1926.452(a)(6)).
- 32
In construction, what must protect against scaffold overhead hazards?
Overhead protection must be provided for employees on a scaffold when it is possible that overhead hazards exist (29 CFR 1926.451(h)(1)).
- 33
What procedure follows a scaffold inspection?
If defects are found, the scaffold must be repaired or replaced before use (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)).
- 34
For tube and coupler scaffolds, what is essential?
They must be designed by a registered professional engineer and erected under the supervision of a competent person (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(10)).
- 35
A worker on a scaffold feels it shifting; what should they do?
Evacuate immediately and report to a competent person for inspection (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)).
- 36
What ensures scaffold platforms are slip-resistant?
Platforms must be free of accumulated debris and provided with slip-resistant surfaces where feasible (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(4)).
- 37
Under OSHA, how are scaffold components maintained?
Components must be inspected for visible defects before each shift and maintained in good repair (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3)).
- 38
What is needed for safe scaffold access points?
Access points must be kept clear of obstacles and provide safe entry and exit (29 CFR 1926.451(e)(2)).
- 39
What training is required for scaffold inspectors?
Inspectors must be competent persons trained in recognizing hazards associated with the type of scaffold being used (29 CFR 1926.454(a)).
- 40
In a high-wind scenario on a scaffold, what must happen?
Work must stop, and the scaffold must be secured or evacuated as directed by a competent person (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).
- 41
What guards against electrical contact on scaffolds?
Insulating materials or barriers must be used if scaffolds are near power lines (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).
- 42
How often must scaffold users receive training?
Training must be provided when the employee is first assigned to the job and as necessary thereafter (29 CFR 1926.454(a)).
- 43
What is the standard for scaffold guardrail height?
Guardrails must be between 38 and 45 inches high, with a midrail (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(4)(ii)).
- 44
What procedure is for erecting scaffolds near excavations?
The scaffold must be erected on stable ground, avoiding areas with unstable soil (29 CFR 1926.451(c)(2)).
- 45
A scaffold is overloaded; what is the response?
Immediately remove excess load and inspect for damage before continuing work (29 CFR 1926.451(a)(1)).
- 46
Under 29 CFR 1926.451, what supports scaffold loads?
The entire supporting structure must be inspected to ensure it can bear the load (29 CFR 1926.451(a)(4)).
- 47
What must be on scaffold platforms to prevent falls?
Platforms must have guardrails if they are more than 10 feet above lower levels (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(1)).
- 48
How are scaffold materials handled during erection?
Materials must be handled and stored to prevent hazards, as directed by a competent person (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(2)).
- 49
What is required if a scaffold is altered?
Alterations must be made under the supervision of a competent person (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(5)).
- 50
In a rainy condition, what protects scaffold users?
Platforms must be kept clear of water accumulation, and anti-slip measures may be needed (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(4)).
- 51
What ensures proper scaffold bracing?
Bracing must be installed as necessary to ensure stability and prevent swaying (29 CFR 1926.451(c)(3)).
- 52
A worker reports a scaffold defect; what follows?
The competent person must evaluate and tag the scaffold if unsafe (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(7)).
- 53
What is the rule for scaffold outriggers?
Outriggers must be securely fastened and designed to support the intended loads (29 CFR 1926.451(g)(3)).
- 54
Under OSHA, how are scaffold ladders secured?
Ladders used for access must be securely fastened to prevent displacement (29 CFR 1926.451(e)(3)).
- 55
What training includes for scaffold hazards?
Training must cover electrical hazards, fall hazards, and falling object protection (29 CFR 1926.454(b)).
- 56
What must be done to prevent tipping of scaffolds?
Scaffolds must be restrained from tipping by tying, bracing, or other means (29 CFR 1926.451(c)(4)).
- 57
In a scenario with overhead power lines, what is required for scaffolds?
Maintain a minimum clearance and use insulated barriers if necessary (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).
- 58
What is the procedure for scaffold disassembly?
Disassembly must be conducted in the reverse order of assembly and under competent person supervision (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(4)).
- 59
How must scaffold platforms be constructed?
They must be at least 18 inches wide and fully planked (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(1)).
- 60
What protects against scaffold suspension rope failure?
Ropes must be inspected daily and have a safety factor of at least 6 (29 CFR 1926.451(d)(5)).
- 61
Under 29 CFR 1926.451, what is for mobile scaffold operation?
Employees must not ride on mobile scaffolds unless designed for that purpose (29 CFR 1926.452(w)(3)).
- 62
What is needed if scaffolds are on slippery surfaces?
The base must be secured to prevent movement (29 CFR 1926.451(c)(2)).
- 63
A scaffold user slips on a platform; what is the cause check?
Ensure platforms are slip-resistant and free of debris (29 CFR 1926.451(b)(4)).
- 64
What ensures scaffold stability in windy conditions?
Additional ties or bracing as determined by a competent person (29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6)).