Inspecting the Support Structure
Bracing
It’s important to make sure all bracing on a scaffold has been properly constructed to make sure the scaffold does not collapse.
Using wire to connect bracing is not safe.
- Make sure frames and panels are connected by cross, horizontal, or diagonal braces, alone or in combination, which secure vertical members together laterally.
- When the crosspoint of crossbracing is used as a toprail, it must be between 38 inches (0.97 m) and 48 inches (1.3 meters) above the work platform.
- When a crosspoint of crossbracing is used as a midrail, it must be between 20 inches (0.5 meters) and 30 inches (0.8 m) above the work platform.
- The end points at each upright must be no more than 48 inches (1.3 m) apart.
- Crossbracing must be installed between the inner and outer sets of poles on double pole scaffolds.
- Check to make sure frames are stacked, and that cross braces are of such length as will automatically keep the scaffold plumb, level, and square.
- Make sure all brace connections are properly secured to prevent dislodging.
- Cross braces on tubular welded frame scaffolds must not be used as a means of access or egress.
Note: A level should be used during assembly to make sure new structural components remain in line.
Pinning
Pins help to prevent scaffold collapse.
Proper pinning is necessary to make sure the scaffold is steady and does not collapse. Separation of frames can occur in high winds (uplift), or when workers climb endframes, overload the platform, or strike the scaffold with tools, materials, etc.
- Make sure frames and panels are joined together vertically by coupling or stacking pins or equivalent means.
- Ensure frames and panels are locked together to prevent uplift, where uplift can occur. Uplift is the separation of a frame from the frame below it.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-5. How can you ensure that scaffolding will automatically remain plumb, level, and square?
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