604 Scaffold Safety

Criteria for Supported Scaffolds

Forklifts, Front-end Loaders, or Similar Equipment Support Platforms

Forklifts can support platforms only when the entire platform is attached to the fork and the forklift does not move horizontally when workers are on the platform. 1926.451(c)(2)(v)

Front-end loaders and similar equipment can support scaffold platforms only when they have been specifically designed by the manufacturer for such use. 1926.451(c)(2)(iv)

Increasing Working Heights

OSHA prohibits using "makeshift" objects (e.g., saw horses, buckets, milk crates, concrete blocks, etc.) to increase the working height of a scaffold, because an unstable platform increases the likelihood of collapse or a fall.

Stilts means a pair of poles or similar supports with raised footrests, used to walk above the ground or above the working surface. Stilts are often used for sheetrock installation and for painting and decorating and other tasks requiring walking mobility with increased height/reach. They may also be used on a large-area scaffold. When a guardrail system is used, the guardrail height must be increased in height equal to the height of the stilts. The manufacturer must approve any alterations to the stilts. 1926.452(v)

Note: A large area scaffold consists of a pole, tube and coupler systems, or a fabricated frame scaffold erected over substantially the entire work area. 1926.451(b)

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