The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also has rules regarding scaffolding and ladders:
- Scaffolding must be provided for any individual doing work that cannot be performed from the ground, except in cases where a ladder is permitted.
- The anchorage or footing on ladders and scaffolding must be sound, rigid, and capable of carrying the maximum intended load without settling or slipping.
- Unstable objects should not be used to support scaffolding.
- Scaffolds and all scaffolding components must be able to support at least four times the maximum intended load without failure.
- Scaffolds and ladders should not be loaded in excess of the intended working load.
- Scaffolding must be constructed in a way that provides a barrier to protect from falls.
- Ladders and scaffolds must be maintained in safe condition.
- Ladders should not be placed on small scaffolds, especially mobile or “baker” scaffolds.
- Scaffolding must be visually inspected for defects before every work shift. Scaffolding also must be inspected after any event that could possibly affect the integrity of the scaffolding.
- Any ladders and scaffolding showing signs of weakness or damage must be immediately repaired and not used until repairs are completed.
- Scaffolding should not be used during storms or windy weather.
- Every employee using scaffolding must receive safety training.