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Scaffolding Safety

Slips Trips Falls | OSHA Fatal Four

The Problem

Falls from scaffolding are one of the leading causes of injuries and fatalities in construction. Improper setup, inadequate inspections, and unsafe practices are often the root causes of these incidents. Today, we’ll discuss scaffolding safety—how to identify hazards, follow proper procedures, and prevent accidents on the job site.

Identify the Hazards

  • Falls: The most common hazard is caused by missing guardrails, unstable planks, or lack of fall protection.
  • Collapse: Scaffolds that are improperly assembled or overloaded can collapse, endangering workers.
  • Falling Objects: Tools or materials falling from scaffolds can injure workers below.
  • Electrical Hazards : Scaffolds placed too close to power lines can result in electrocution.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

To address these hazards, follow these safety practices:

  1. Scaffold Setup and Stability:

    • Ensure scaffolds are set up on stable, level ground with base plates and mud sills.
    • Use proper bracing and ties to secure scaffolds to the building or structure.
  2. Load Capacity:

    • Never exceed the scaffold's load capacity, including workers, tools, and materials.
    • Distribute weight evenly across the platform to prevent tipping.
  3. Guardrails and Fall Protection:

    • Install guardrails, mid-rails, and toe boards on all open sides of platforms.
    • Use personal fall arrest systems (harnesses and lanyards) when required by OSHA or site-specific rules.
  4. Access and Egress:

    • Use ladders, stair towers, or other safe access points—never climb on scaffold frames.
    • Ensure all access points are free from obstructions.
  5. Daily Inspections:

    • A competent person must inspect scaffolds daily and after any changes or severe weather.
    • Look for damaged planks, missing parts, or other hazards.
  6. Working Near Power Lines:

    • Maintain a minimum clearance of 10 feet from power lines.
    • Use non-conductive materials and protective measures if scaffolds must be closer.
  7. Falling Object Protection:

    • Use toe boards, screens, or debris nets to prevent objects from falling.
    • Keep tools and materials organized and secure on the platform.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

E.g. A worker was severely injured when a scaffold collapsed due to overloading and improper bracing. The scaffolding was set up without securing it to the structure, and the platform gave way under the weight of materials and workers. This tragic incident could have been prevented with proper setup, inspections, and adherence to load limits.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Inspect scaffolds before use and report any damage or hazards.
  • Follow safe loading practices and never exceed capacity limits.
  • Use designated access points for climbing on or off scaffolds.
  • Wear fall protection as required and secure tools to prevent falling objects.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Provide scaffolds that meet OSHA standards for design and load capacity.
  • Ensure scaffolds are erected and inspected by a competent person.
  • Train employees on scaffolding safety and fall protection requirements.
  • Address and correct reported hazards immediately.

Discussion & Questions

  • "What common hazards have you noticed with scaffolding on this job site?"
  • "Does anyone have an example of a scaffolding-related incident and how it was resolved?"
  • Allow employees to ask questions or share concerns.

Commitment/Action Plan

Let’s commit to inspecting scaffolds before every use, following load limits, and using fall protection when required. Starting today, make scaffolding safety a personal priority on every job site.

Wrap-Up

Scaffolding safety isn’t just about compliance—it’s about keeping everyone safe and ensuring that we all go home at the end of the day. Thank you for your attention and for committing to a safer workplace.

Standards Overview

  • OSHA Standard 1926.451 outlines the safety requirements for scaffolding, emphasizing:

    • Proper design and construction to support intended loads.
    • Regular inspections by a competent person.
    • Use of guardrails, toe boards, and personal fall arrest systems where required.
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  • These standards aim to minimize the risk of falls, structural failures, and other hazards associated with scaffolding.
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Legal Disclaimer

This toolbox talk is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The information presented is based on best practices and general industry standards but may not apply to all workplace situations.
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It is the responsibility of the employer, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards. The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
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Participants are encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals to address specific concerns or questions. Always follow your organization's policies and procedures for workplace safety and hazard mitigation.

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