This GBCA Safety Toolbox Talk discusses OSHA’s requirements for the components of two-point (swing stage) scaffolds. Click below to download the Toolbox Talk as a handout (includes Sign-In Sheet).

 

 

Suspended Scaffolds – Components

This toolbox talk covers OSHA’s requirements for the components of two-point (swing stage) scaffolds.

  • Scaffold support devices such as cornice hooks, roof hooks, roof irons, parapet clamps, or similar devices must be made of steel, wrought iron, or materials of equivalent strength.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(5)(i)]

 

Outrigger Beams

  • Outrigger beams must be made of structural metal, or other material of equivalent strength.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(2)]
  • Outrigger beams must be restrained to prevent movement.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(2)]
  • The inboard ends of outrigger beams must be stabilized by bolts or other direct connections to the floor or roof deck, or by counterweights.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)]

Outrigger beam.

 

  • Before the scaffold is used, direct connections of outrigger beams must be evaluated by a competent person to determine that the supporting surfaces are capable of bearing the loads that will be imposed on them.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(i)]
  • When outrigger beams are not stabilized by bolts or other direct connections to the floor or roof deck, they must instead be secured by tiebacks.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(vi)]
  • Outrigger beams must be placed perpendicular to their bearing support (usually the face of the building or structure). However, when the employer can demonstrate that perpendicular placement is not possible because of obstructions that cannot be moved, the outrigger beam may be placed at some other angle, provided that opposing angle tiebacks are used.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(3)(viii)]

 

Outrigger beams shall be:

  • Provided with stop bolts or shackles at both ends.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(i)]
  • Securely fastened together with the flanges turned out when channel iron beams are used instead of I-beams.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(ii)]
  • Installed with all bearing supports perpendicular to the beam center line.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(iii)]
  • Set and maintained with the web in a vertical position.
    [29 CFR 1926.451(d)(4)(iv)]
  • Attached to the scaffold ropes by a shackle or clevis placed directly over the stirrup.
    [29 CFR 1926.451)(d)(4)(v)]

 

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