Inspection of Suspension Scaffolding

OSHA requires visual inspection of scaffolding before every use. The following list gives an idea of the suspension scaffolding components that need to be inspected. This is a general list and not comprehensive; the manufacturer or employer is responsible for providing guidelines specific to the scaffolding in use.

Suspension scaffolds should meet the following general criteria:

• A competent person qualified in the use of suspended scaffolds supervises all the suspended scaffold systems that must be erected, altered, and dismantled.
• Damaged, overloaded, or altered equipment is removed from service and not returned to service until repaired or replaced.
• Equipment is used only for its intended purpose.
• Communication with workers on the platform is available.
• Unattended platforms are secured and power is disconnected to prevent unauthorized use.
• All required labels are present and clearly legible.
• All connection hardware is in good working condition and has properly installed locking devices.

The rigging equipment of suspension scaffolds must be inspected prior to each use for the following:

• Additional safety precautions are taken when welding from a suspended scaffold.
• All temporary rigging equipment is properly tied back to a structurally sound anchorage.
• Davits, sockets, or other permanent equipment are erected and installed correctly, and inspections are current.
• When using counterweighted outrigger beams, the number of counterweights match the outreach and hoist-rated load capacity per the counterweight formula.
• Tested anchorage supports used in lieu of counterweights will support all applied loads.
• All welds are in good condition.
• All components are undamaged and are in good working condition.
• All mounting holes are free from deformation or cracks.
• Steel parts do not have penetrating rust.

The suspended platform of suspension scaffolds must be inspected prior to each use for the following:

• The platform stirrups are in line with the rigging equipment.
• The live load does not exceed the platform rated load capacity.
• All visible welds are in good condition and not visibly cracked, torn, or excessively corroded.
• All components are in good order, and there are no missing, bent, or damaged parts.
• All mounting holes are free from deformation.
• The hardware is grade 5 or better and in good condition; the lock nuts are not worn.
• The stirrup sheaves, bearings, and inlet wire rope guides are in good condition.
• The wire rope is properly reeved through the sheaves.
• The deck is free from excessive debris that could cause a slipping hazard or affect the load capacity or proper functioning and installation of the component(s).
• The platform is free from chemical corrosion and excessive abrasion damage.
• Worksite or environmental assessments:
  • The local power authority has been contacted if work will occur near exposed power lines.
  • The local power company has been contacted regarding problems or issues relating to any hazards.
  • Weather conditions are acceptable for safe use of the platform. Wind speeds do not exceed 25 mph for a multi-point suspended platform OR 20 mph for a single-point work cage or bosun's chair.

The hoists, wire rope, and power components of suspension scaffolds must be inspected or assessed prior to each use for the following:

• The hoists are properly selected for the application and have been correctly installed per the manufacturer's instructions.
• The manufacturer's operating instructions have been read, understood, and are available for reference.
• The daily tests have been performed according to the hoist operating manual.
• The hoists are in proper working order.
• The electric cable and air hose connections are secured, have been inspected, and are safe for use.
• The power supply is adequate for the number and type of hoists being used.
• Strain reliefs are present and connected.
• The emergency stop and secondary brake operate correctly.
• All operators have been properly trained.
• Controlled descent is tested and is working properly.

Fall protection systems for suspension scaffolds must be inspected and assessed prior to each use for the following:

• Workers use proper fall arrest equipment at all times.
• No worker shall enter a suspended platform, work cage, or bosun's chair until they are tied off in a safe manner according to all federal, state, regional, and local standards or regulations. They must not disconnect until they have safely exited the platform.
• Each vertical lifeline has been inspected for safe use and is correctly installed with edge protection to an independent anchor point capable of holding a 5,000-pound ultimate load.
• Each rope grab is correctly installed and operating properly, and the size is compatible with the lifeline.
• Each full body harness is properly inspected and adjusted.
• Each shock-absorbing lanyard is inspected and is installed correctly for safe use.
• An emergency rescue plan has been developed and reviewed.

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