Suspended Access
When supported access to a work area is not feasible or safe, an alternative is suspended access.
On construction sites, suspended scaffolds are most often used to gain access to work areas. A suspended scaffold is a temporary elevated platform that hangs by wire rope, or other non-rigid means, from an overhead structure.
Suspended Scaffold Types
Two-point scaffolds are the most common type of suspended scaffold, and the fall protection requirements for these scaffolds also apply to most other types. Requirements specific to the other types are described only in their respective modules. Below are various types of suspended scaffolds:
Catenary. Platform supported by two essentially horizontal and parallel ropes attached to structural members of a building. Additional vertical pickups may also provide support.
Float (Ship). Braced platform resting on two parallel bearers and hung from overhead supports by ropes of fixed length.
Interior Hung. Platform suspended from the ceiling or roof structure by fixed-length supports.
Multi-level. Posts with fixed connection points that accept runners, bearers, and diagonals, also made of wood, that can be interconnected at predetermined levels.
Multi-point Adjustable. Platform(s) suspended by more than two ropes from overhead supports and equipped with a means to permit the platform to be raised and lowered. Includes chimney hoists.
Needle Beam. A platform suspended from needle beams.
Single-point Adjustable. Platform suspended by one rope from an overhead support and equipped with a means to permit the platform to be moved to desired working levels.
Two-point (Swing Stage). Platform supported by hangers (stirrups) suspended by two ropes from overhead supports and equipped with a means to permit the platform to be raised and lowered.
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4-7. Why are suspended scaffolds most often used on construction sites?
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