Access for Erectors and Dismantlers

Because they are working with partially built or dismantled scaffolds, scaffold erectors and dismantlers cannot follow the same rules of access that scaffold workers use. Employers are required to have the erection, dismantling, or alteration of a scaffold conducted under the supervision and direction of a competent person. Scaffold access for erectors and dismantlers is summarized here:

• A competent person must determine the means of access for erectors and dismantlers, based on site conditions and the type of scaffold being erected.
• Hook-on or attachable ladders must be installed as soon as practical after the scaffold erection has progressed to a point that permits their installation and use. Sectional ladders can be used for access once adequate support is available.
• Scaffold erectors and dismantlers can safely use end frames of tubular welded frame scaffolds that meet certain requirements as a means of access.
• Cross bracing is not an acceptable means of access on tubular welded frame scaffolds, because cross braces are designed to provide diagonal stability to the scaffold and are not designed to withstand the forces that could be applied by employees climbing up and down on them.

To learn more about Scaffolding Safety visit our Construction Scaffolding Safety Online Training web page.