Scaffolding is an essential component of construction projects, providing workers with access to elevated areas and supporting tools and materials. However, ensuring that scaffolding is safe for use requires consistent inspections that meet OSHA scaffold inspection requirements. Proper inspections help prevent accidents, injuries, and compliance violations, making scaffold inspection a critical safety measure on any job site.

In this article, we will explore who is authorized to inspect a scaffold, what OSHA scaffold inspection requirements entail, and provide a scaffold inspection checklist to ensure compliance and safety.

Who Is Authorized to Inspect a Scaffold?

According to OSHA scaffold inspection requirements, only a competent person is authorized to inspect a scaffold. OSHA defines a competent person as someone who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards and has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate these hazards.

The competent person is responsible for inspecting scaffolding before each work shift and after any event that could affect its structural integrity, such as high winds or heavy rains. This includes reviewing all scaffold components and verifying that the setup complies with OSHA regulations.

OSHA Scaffold Inspection Requirements

A man welds scaffolding together in compliance with OSHA requirements.

OSHA mandates regular inspections of scaffolding systems to ensure worker safety. Scaffolds must be inspected at several stages, including:

  1. Before Each Work Shift: Inspections must be conducted daily before use to check for any hazards that may have developed since the last inspection.
  2. After Any Event That Could Compromise Safety: Scaffolding should be inspected after adverse weather conditions or other events that might weaken the structure, such as high winds, damage from equipment, or vibrations from nearby construction work.
  3. Regularly Scheduled Inspections: Some scaffolding setups, especially those used for long-term projects, may require inspections on a regular schedule to ensure ongoing safety compliance.

OSHA’s scaffold inspection requirements include:

  • Checking the foundation for stability.
  • Ensuring that all components, such as braces, platforms, and guardrails, are secure.
  • Verifying that the scaffold is level and properly supported.
  • Inspecting scaffold planks and boards for cracks or wear.
  • Confirming that scaffold inspection tags are up to date and accurate.

Scaffold Inspection Tags: What You Need to Know

Scaffold inspection tags are critical for documenting the safety status of a scaffold. These tags serve as a visible indicator of the scaffold’s condition and whether it is safe to use. Tags are typically color-coded:

  • Green Tags: Indicate that the scaffold is safe for use.
  • Yellow Tags: Signal that the scaffold has restrictions, such as limited weight capacity or areas that need repairs.
  • Red Tags: Warn that the scaffold is unsafe and should not be used until repairs are completed.

Each scaffold inspection tag must include:

  • The date of the last inspection.
  • The name of the competent person who performed the inspection.
  • Any restrictions or hazards identified during the inspection.

Scaffold Inspection Checklist: Ensure Compliance and Safety

A worker checks the metal scaffolding before inspection.

To help ensure that your scaffold setup meets OSHA requirements, use the following scaffold inspection checklist:

Foundation and Base:

  • Verify that the scaffold is placed on a stable, level foundation.
  • Ensure base plates, mud sills, or other supports are used properly.
  • Check for any signs of shifting or settling in the ground beneath the scaffold.

Scaffold Structure:

  • Inspect vertical and horizontal braces for proper installation.
  • Ensure guardrails, midrails, and toeboards are securely attached.
  • Confirm that all locking mechanisms, such as J-Locks, C-Locks, T-Locks, F-Locks, and U-Locks, are fully engaged.

Platforms and Planking:

  • Inspect scaffold planks for cracks, splits, or excessive wear.
  • Ensure platforms are fully decked with no gaps.
  • Verify that scaffold planks have adequate overlap or are fastened properly to prevent movement.

Access and Egress:

  • Check ladders, stairways, or ramps for secure installation and safe access.
  • Ensure that access points are clear and free of obstructions.

Scaffold Load Capacity:

  • Confirm that the scaffold is not overloaded and is within its rated capacity.
  • Verify that all materials, tools, and workers on the scaffold do not exceed the allowed load limit.

Inspection Tags:

  • Ensure that scaffolding inspection tags are properly filled out and displayed.
  • Check that the date of the last inspection is up to date.
  • Ensure tags indicate whether the scaffold is safe to use (green tag) or if there are restrictions (yellow tag).

How Often Should a Scaffold Be Inspected?

Scaffolds must be inspected daily by a competent person before use and after any event that could impact their safety. For long-term projects, OSHA scaffold inspection requirements recommend that scaffolding be inspected regularly to ensure continued compliance and safety.

Key considerations for inspection frequency include:

  • Daily scaffold inspection: Before each shift, a scaffold must be inspected to verify that all components are secure and safe for use.
  • Event-based inspection: After any major weather event, such as storms or high winds, scaffolding must be inspected for damage or instability.

Why It’s Important to Inspect Scaffolds and Scaffold Components

A worker threads a curved hook bolt into place on scaffolding.

Conducting regular inspections of scaffolding systems and components is critical to ensure worker safety, reduce the risk of accidents, and comply with OSHA regulations. Inspecting scaffolds and components helps identify potential hazards, such as faulty planks or loose braces, that could lead to dangerous situations on the job site.

A thorough scaffolding inspection checklist ensures that all components are checked, including:

  • Platforms and planks
  • Bracing and support systems
  • Guardrails and safety equipment
  • Scaffold locks and connectors
  • Inspection tags

By adhering to OSHA’s scaffold inspection standards, construction teams can maintain a safe working environment and avoid costly violations.

Scaffold Inspections Are Crucial for Safety and Compliance

Scaffold inspections are a key part of maintaining a safe and compliant job site. Whether you’re using supported or mobile scaffolding, following OSHA’s inspection requirements is essential to ensuring the safety of workers and the structural integrity of the scaffold. 

By using the proper scaffold inspection tags and following an organized scaffold inspection checklist, you can identify potential hazards, make necessary adjustments, and keep your project running smoothly.

To learn more about scaffold inspections and the tools you need to maintain safety and compliance, contact Bil-Jax today.