Outrigger Beams for Suspension Scaffolds

Outrigger beams provide crucial scaffold stability and must meet the following criteria when part of a suspension scaffold:

• Outrigger beams not stabilized by direct connections to the supporting surface must be secured by tiebacks. Tiebacks must be as strong as the suspension ropes, be secured to a structurally sound anchorage, and be installed perpendicular to the structure unless opposing angle tiebacks are installed.
• Suspension scaffold outrigger beams must have the following characteristics:
  • Have stop bolts or shackles at both ends
  • Be securely fastened together with the flanges turned out when channel iron beams are used in place of I-beams
  • Be installed with all bearing supports perpendicular to the beam center line
  • Be set and maintained with the web in a vertical position
• When an outrigger beam is used, the shackle or clevis with which the suspension rope is attached to the outrigger beam must be placed directly over the hoisting machine - in other words, over the center line of the stirrup.
• Suspension scaffold support devices other than outrigger beams (cornice hooks, roof irons, parapet clamps, or similar devices) must have the following characteristics:
  • Be made of steel, wrought iron, or materials of equivalent strength
  • Be supported by bearing blocks
  • Be secured against movement by tiebacks equivalent in strength to the strength of the hoisting rope

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