Pump Jack Scaffolds

A pump jack scaffold is a supported scaffold consisting of a platform supported by vertical poles and movable support brackets.

Not more than two employees can be on a pump jack scaffold at one time between any two supports.

Pump jack scaffolds must adhere to the following criteria:

• Pump jack brackets, braces, and accessories must be fabricated from metal plates and angles. Each pump jack bracket must have two positive gripping mechanisms to prevent any failure or slippage.
• Poles must be secured to the structure by rigid triangular bracing or equivalent at the bottom, top, and other points as necessary.
• When guardrails are used for fall protection, a workbench may be used as the toprail only if it meets all the requirements mentioned earlier in this course. Consult §1926.451(g)(4) for details.
• Work benches must not be used as scaffold platforms.
• When poles are made of wood, the pole lumber must be straight-grained and free of shakes, large loose, or dead knots, and other defects which might impair strength.
• When wood poles are constructed of two continuous lengths, they must be joined together with the seam parallel to the bracket.
• When two by fours are spliced to make a pole, mending plates must be installed at all splices to develop the full strength of the member.

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