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812 OSHA Focus Four Hazards
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Buried-By Structures

Anytime there is inadequate support, improper construction, or a shift in the components of a scaffold (including the base upon which the structure is built); there is danger of collapse.

Scaffolding Collapse - Special Effects

Measures need to be taken by your employer to avoid the collapse of structures, such as scaffolds, that could bury workers underneath them.

  • Designate a collapse zone and prohibit entry.
  • Cinder blocks or other similar materials, that can easily collapse, should not be used to support a scaffold or other structures.

OSHA standards require that scaffolds can only be erected, moved, dismantled or altered under the supervision of a competent person. The competent person selects and directs the workers who erect the scaffold. The selected workers must be trained by a competent person on correct procedures and hazards of scaffold erection.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

4-6. OSHA standards require that scaffolds can only be erected, moved, dismantled or altered _____.