804 Safe Scaffold Erection and Inspection

Inspecting Pole Scaffolds

Pole scaffolds are a type of supported scaffold in which every structural component, from uprights to braces to platforms, is made of wood. Because they have to be built from scratch and cannot easily be reused, pole scaffolds are considered old-fashioned and are rarely used today.

Single Pole Scaffold. A single pole scaffold is a supported scaffold consisting of platforms resting on bearers, the outside ends of which are supported on runners (ledgers or ribbons) secured to a single row of posts or uprights, and the inner ends of which are supported on or in a structure or building wall.

Double Pole Scaffold. A double pole (independent pole) scaffold is a supported scaffold consisting of platforms resting on cross beams supported by ledgers and a double row of uprights independent of support (except for ties, guys and braces) from any structure.

Specific Requirements

• When platforms are moved to the next level, the existing platform must be left undisturbed until the new bearers have been set in place and braced.
• Where wooden poles are spliced, the following regulations apply:
• The ends must be squared.
• The upper section must rest squarely on the lower section.
• Wood splice plates or scab plates must be provided on at least two adjacent sides, and must:
• Extend at least 2 feet on either side of the splice.
• Overlap the abutted ends equally.
• Have at least the same cross-sectional areas as the pole.
• Splice plates made of materials other than wood may be used, as long as they are of equivalent strength. [29 CFR 1926.452(a)(9)]
• Pole scaffolds over 60 feet in height must:
• Be designed by a registered professional engineer.
• Be constructed and loaded in accordance with that design.

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