Scaffolding Inspection Requirements

What are OSHA Scaffolding Inspection Requirements?

From 2013 to 2015, scaffolding citations have been some of the most frequent violations recorded during OSHA inspections. Each year there are thousands of scaffold related violations, ranging from using uninspected scaffold installations to overloading scaffolding beyond the maximum weight capacity.

OSHA Compliant Scaffold Sign

While posting OSHA compliant scaffold safety signs can alert workers to the potential danger of unfinished scaffolds and to their safe use, scaffolding still needs to be inspected periodically as required by OSHA.

There are many requirements set by OSHA to ensure a thorough inspection. OSHA’s Inspection Procedures for Enforcing Subpart L, Scaffolds Used in Construction - 29 CFR 1926.450-454 establishes the methods for scaffold inspections.

OSHA inspections are prioritized on a basis of risk-assessment. The greater the potential danger to a worker, the higher priority an inspection is to OSHA. As examples, if someone were to report scaffolding that is supported by loose bricks or cement blocks, or if workers were found on scaffolds during a storm or windy conditions, OSHA would make an inspection of that worksite a high priority.

Under OSHA standards all parts of a scaffold, including fittings, beams, ropes, and frames, shall be periodically inspected before scaffold use. Scaffolding inspection requirements for periodic inspection must be carried out by competent person who can identify hazards and has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to remove or avoid a hazard.

Copies of scaffold specifications and drawings by engineers are required to be available to employers and inspectors.

Other scaffolding inspection requirements include providing fall protection equipment to workers that are building scaffolding or taking it apart. For all of the standards and scaffolding inspection requirements, visit OSHA's website

What is OSHA?

OSHA is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration – a public health agency that is part of the Department of Labor. OSHA sets and enforces workplace safety regulations. Learn more here.

Who can be inspected by OSHA?

Almost every business in the United States is eligible to be inspected by OSHA for compliance with safety regulations. Learn more here.

What do I need to pass an OSHA inspection?

There are many elements of a safe workplace that factor into passing an OSHA inspection. Dependent on your industry, the posting of official safety signs, use of protective equipment, and proper training could help in successfully passing an inspection. Learn more here.

What happens during an OSHA inspection?

During an OSHA, inspectors will review previous records, inspect potential on-site hazards, and interview employees. OSHA’s inspections are prioritized by how potentially hazardous a workplace might be to workers. Learn more here.

OSHA Signage Requirements

The requirements for accident prevention signs vary based on a range of factors, including, but not limited to, the type of hazard being described and necessary minimum viewing distances. Learn more here.


SafetySign.com does not recommend or specify the use of a specific safety sign because it does not have knowledge of the hazard(s) our customers are identifying. It is the customer’s sole responsibility to identify the hazard(s) that may be present and select one or more signs (stock or custom) that accurately identify their specific hazard(s) and complies with any applicable federal, state or local laws or regulations, any worksite specific rules or regulations and/or any applicable safety standards (including, without limitation, ANSI and/or OSHA standards). SafetySign.com disclaims any and all liability (excluding liability for our Product Warranty contained in our Terms and Conditions) for any sign selected by a customer and shall not be responsible for any personal injury or property damage resulting from the use of signs purchased from it or for the independent interpretation made of any applicable federal, state or local laws or regulations, any worksite specific rules or regulations, and/or any applicable safety standards (including, without limitation, ANSI and/or OSHA standards). Customer shall indemnify and hold SafetySign.com and its corporate parent and its officers, directors and affiliates harmless from and against any and all claims, loss or expense (including attorneys’ fees) arising from or related to the purchase and use by customer or any third party of any sign purchased by customer from SafetySign.com.
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