Scaffolding Inspector

The objectives of the Scaffolding Inspector Program are to cultivate competency and equip students for employment as Scaffold Inspectors, facilitating additional training for individuals currently or previously engaged in scaffolding work.

Regulatory Standards and Requirements

According to OSHA 3150 (A Guide to Scaffold Use), OSHA 1926.450 Subpart L (Safety Standards for Scaffold), and OSHA 1926.454 (Scaffold Training Standards), it is the responsibility of the employer or hirer to ensure that all users of scaffolding receive proper training and that scaffolding undergoes inspections as follows:

• Inspection after Installation: Before initial use or deployment.

• Regular Inspections: Conducted at least every 7 days thereafter.

• Post-Incident Inspections: Following any circumstances that may compromise scaffold safety, such as high winds.

Competency in Scaffold Inspections

Scaffolding inspections must be conducted by individuals deemed competent, possessing a suitable combination of knowledge, training, and experience that aligns with the type and complexity of the scaffold being inspected.

Competency can be assessed based on specific training received from a manufacturer or supplier for inspecting a particular type of system scaffold. Moreover, individuals such as Site Supervisors, Safety Officers, or Site Managers who have attended scaffold inspection courses can be considered competent to inspect basic scaffold structures, even without direct scaffolding experience. 

The following training requirements, as per OSHA, relate to the hazards of working on scaffolds:

Training for Scaffold Users:

1. Electrical, Fall, and Falling Object Hazards: Training on recognizing hazards and dealing with them, including electrical safety and fall protection systems.

2. Proper Scaffold Use: Understanding the correct procedures for using scaffolds, handling materials, and ensuring the scaffold's load-carrying capacity.

3. Maximum Load Capacity: Understanding the maximum intended load and the load-carrying capacities of scaffolds used.

Training for Scaffold Erectors, Movers, and Inspectors:

1. Recognizing Scaffold Hazards: Training on recognizing and managing scaffold-related hazards.

2. Scaffold Erection, Disassembly, and Maintenance: Learning proper procedures for scaffolding work such as erecting, disassembling, and maintaining scaffolds.

3. Scaffold Design and Capacity: Knowledge of design criteria, load-carrying capacity, and intended use of scaffolds.

Retraining Requirements:

Retraining is required when:

• Changes at the work site present a new hazard.

• Changes in scaffold types, fall protection, or other equipment present new hazards.

• Inadequacies in the employee’s work indicate that proficiency has not been retained.

Conclusion

By ensuring that all workers involved with scaffolding receive appropriate training and inspections, employers can maintain a safe working environment and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.