Two-Point Adjustable Suspension Scaffolds

A two-point suspension scaffold (swing stage) is a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform supported by hangers (stirrups) suspended by two ropes from overhead supports and equipped with means to raise and lower the platform to desired work levels.

Two-point suspension scaffolds must adhere to the following criteria:

• Platforms must not be more than 36 inches wide unless designed by a qualified person to prevent unstable conditions.
• The platform must be securely fastened to hangers (stirrups) by U-bolts or by other means which satisfy the requirements of §1926.451(a).
• The blocks for fiber or synthetic ropes must consist of at least one double and one single block. The sheaves of all blocks must fit the size of the rope used.
• Platforms must be of the ladder, plank, beam, or light-metal type. Light-metal-type platforms having a rated capacity of 750 pounds or less, and platforms 40 feet or less in length must be tested and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
• Two-point scaffolds must not be bridged or otherwise connected one to another during raising and lowering operations unless the bridge connections are articulated (attached), and the hoists properly sized.
• Passage may be made from one platform to another only when the platforms are at the same height, are abutting, and walk-through stirrups specifically designed for this purpose are used.

The requirements above do not apply to two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds used as masons' or stonesetters' scaffolds. Such scaffolds are covered by the criteria on the following slide.

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