Scaffolding

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Sidewalk Shed

Sidewalk Shed Scaffolding New York City has been providing professional scaffolding services to New York Since 1986 renting and Installing sidewalk sheds.

Certified Scaffold 

Improving Sidewalk Shed Safety Through Better Design!!!

As part of the SAFE Scaffold & Shed Initiative, the Buildings Department, in partnership with the Department of Design and Construction and the Department of Citywide Administrative Services, will test a design prototype of a new sidewalk shed engineered to improve pedestrian safety, increase natural light on the sidewalk, and improve the streetscape around construction sites. The Buildings Department is studying the need for additional safety enhancements, including securing sheds to the sidewalk in certain cases for added stability and enhancing the required wind-load calculations for shed installation. A sidewalk shed is a temporary bridge-like structure built over a sidewalk usually by Sidewalk shed to protect pedestrians during construction on or near a building’s facade. Due to the construction boom and the mandatory facade-maintenance requirements, there are approximately 4,500 sidewalk sheds installed citywide and Sidewalk Bridge Adheres to these stricken standards.

We are in the business of renting scaffolding, sidewalk shed and sidewalk bridge protection we also sell safety netting to customers who are building owners or general contractors

• The rental of scaffolding, hoisting equipment and pedestrian walkways, and the sale of safety netting
• The erection or installation of the scaffolding, hoisting equipment, pedestrian walkways or safety netting
• The dismantling and removal of the scaffolding, hoisting equipment, pedestrian walkways or safety netting.

We fully understand that ultimately we will be evaluated by actual works which we promise and perform on our customers' job sites. We strongly believe that our quality services and products are the most important marketing tools for our business at the beginning, throughout the project, and in the end, even after the project. Our actual work is the base for the future growth.

We can manage your scaffold project from start to finish including delivery, erection, dismantling and many other specialized services. We offer the most complete line of scaffold rental inventory in the industry.

Our professional labor crews are locally-based in New York for faster response in NYC Emergency (914) 512-7619 only four hour turn around NYC Service. especially in emergency situations. Our outstanding safety record is evidence of our commitment to the safety of our employees, customers and the public. Our professionally trained labor crews have the skills and safety training to perform work at any height, in any location, to help your project succeed.

We pride ourselves on our highly knowledgeable and experienced Safety professionals. Through our commitment to and focus on consistent and safe work methods, we strive to ensure that all of our employees and the users of our scaffold products remain safe and injury-free.

1. What is scaffolding?

Scaffolding is a temporary platform constructed for reaching heights above arms' reach for the purpose of building construction, maintenance, or repair. It is usually a modular system of metal pipes (termed tubes in Britain), although it can be made out of other materials. Scaffolding is generally made of lumber and steel which can range from simple to complex in design, depending on its use and purpose. Millions of construction workers, painters, and building maintenance crews work on scaffolding every day, and due to the nature of its use, scaffolding must be properly constructed and used to ensure the safety of those who use it.

The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Organization (OSHA) has very specific standards for the construction and use of scaffolding in the workplace, and many large commercial and government construction projects require all workers to have scaffold training and OSHA certification. Some of OSHA's regulations regarding construction of scaffolding include using specific types of lumber when not using steel, weight limitations based on the design of the scaffolding, and regular checks for weakened or broken sections. OSHA places stringent safety regulations on the construction and use of scaffolding not only to reduce serious workplace injury or death, but also to save employers millions in lost time and workers' compensation. OSHA can issue fines to any company, large or small, that they find to be in violation of scaffolding regulations.

Commercial construction accounts for the largest use of scaffolding, but even residential construction and home improvement projects can sometimes require scaffolding. Professional painters are equipped to quickly and properly construct scaffolding on the job, as are other professionals such as bricklayers and carpenters. Unfortunately, many homeowners attempt to construct scaffolding for personal use without the proper knowledge, which often results in injury. To avoid personal injury when attempting to repair, paint, or maintain your home, be sure you know how to properly and safely erect a scaffolding platform that will provide a stable work surface and will bear the weight you place on it. If you are unsure how to construct or use scaffolding, consult a professional contractor.

(1) Scaffolding Materials

The basic materials are tubes, couplers and boards. Tubes are either steel or aluminum. If steel they are either 'black' or galvanized. The tubes come in a variety of lengths and a standard diameter. The chief difference between the two types of tubes is the lower weight of aluminum tubes and also a greater flexibility and so less resistance to force.

Extensive scaffolding on a building in Manhattan, New York provides a working surface for users of the scaffold. The board ends are protected by metal plates called hoop irons or sometimes nail plates. Timber Scaffold boards should comply with the requirements. As well as timber, steel or aluminum decking is used or laminate boards. There are sole boards which are placed beneath the scaffolding if the surface is soft or otherwise suspect, although ordinary boards can be used, another design called the pad another solution as it is made from a rubber base with a base plate molded inside, these are great to put on uneven ground because they adapt to any ground where sole boards would split costing more money to replace.

A short section of steel scaffold pole.Couplers is the fittings which hold the tubes together. The most common are called scaffold couplers, there are three basic types: right-angle couplers, putlog couplers and swivel couplers. To join tubes end-to-end joint pins (also called spigots) or sleeve couplers are used, or both together. Only right angle couplers and swivel couplers can be used to fix tube in a 'load bearing connection'. Single couplers are not load bearing couplers and have no design capacity.

Other common materials include base plates, ladders, ropes, anchor ties, reveal ties, gin wheels, sheeting, etc.

(2) Basic scaffolding

The key elements of a scaffold are standards, ledgers and transoms. The standards, also called uprights, are the vertical tubes that transfer the entire mass of the structure to the ground where they rest on a square base plate to spread the load. The base plate has a shank in its centre to hold the tube and is sometimes pinned to a sole board. Ledgers are horizontal tubes which connect between the standards. Transoms rest upon the ledgers at right angles. Main transoms are placed next to the standards, they hold the standards in place and provide support for boards; intermediate transoms are those placed between the main transoms to provide extra support for boards. In Canada this style is referred to as "English". "American" has the transoms attached to the standards and is used less but has certain advantages in some situations. Since scaffolding is a physical structure, it is possible to go in and come out of scaffolding.

There are cross braces to increase rigidity, these are placed diagonally from ledger to ledger, next to the standards to which they are fitted. If the braces are fitted to the ledgers they are called ledger braces. To limit sway a facade brace is fitted to the face of the scaffold running right from the base to the top of the scaffold and fixed at every level.

Right-angle couplers join ledgers or transoms to standards, putlog or single couplers join board bearing transoms to ledgers - Non-board bearing transoms should be fixed using a right-angle coupler. Swivel couplers are to connect tubes at any other angle. The actual joints are staggered to avoid occurring at the same level in neighboring standards.

(3) Foundations

Good foundations are essential. Often scaffold frameworks will require more than simple base plates to safely carry and spread the load. Scaffolding can be used without base plates on concrete or similar hard surfaces, although base plates are always recommended.

A working platform requires certain other elements to be safe. They must be close-boarded, have double guard rails and toe and stop boards. Safe and secure access must also be provided.

2. Rental Scaffolding

When you have to work up high, consider renting scaffolding rather than struggling with ladders. Scaffolding provides a large, stable work platform where you can stack materials and set up your tools. With scaffolding, you can easily reach all areas of the repair to do a better job in half the time. And you will save tons of time and energy by not constantly climbing up and down to reposition your ladder.

Guard rails attached to the top of the scaffold frames allow you to concentrate on the task at hand without worrying about falling. We will show you how to set up your rented scaffolding so it is safe and secure and then show you a few of the home-repair jobs where scaffolding really shines.

Frame scaffolds (sometimes referred to as pipe-scaffold) are perfect for exterior work and are available at most full-service rental centers. Also check the websites under Scaffold, New York for businesses that specialize in scaffolding rental and sales. You will usually get lower rates and expert advice from these specialists.

Most rental centers will deliver and pick up rented scaffold for an additional fee. Otherwise you will need a pickup truck or trailer.

Even though the basic setup procedure is the same, scaffold hardware varies slightly from one manufacturer to another.

The key to safe scaffolding is a solid foundation. If the base plates or casters rest on dirt, grass, asphalt or other soft material, put them on top of lengths of 2x10 lumber to prevent them from sinking.

Adjusting screws make leveling the scaffolding easy and safe. Never stack bricks, concrete blocks or scraps of wood under the frame to level it. If your ground slopes more than about a foot over an 8-ft. distance, rent leg extensions. Extreme slopes may require the addition of a short scaffold section under one end of the scaffolding.

(1) Ask Your Rental Agent for Help

Do not be tempted to save money by using your own ordinary wood planks for the work surface that they are strong enough. Rent special scaffold planks to cover the frames from side to side. Then install the guardrail posts and rails. Rails aren’t required on the side of the scaffolding that faces the building as long as the scaffolding is within 14 in. of the building. Our scaffolding didn’t require them, but if you’re working where people might walk below the scaffold structure, wire on 2x4 toe boards to prevent tools and materials from falling and injuring someone. Rest the 2x4 boards’ upright around the perimeter of the scaffold planks, screw or nail the corners together and attach them to the base of the guardrail posts with No. 10 wire.

Once the scaffolding is assembled and in place, double-check that it is level and resting securely on all four base plates or casters. If it rocks, readjust one of the screws to stabilize the scaffolding. Use the built-in ladders to climb the scaffolding. Don’t climb on the cross braces. Recruit a helper to hand materials and tools up to the platform. If you can’t reach, use a rope and bucket to pull tools to the top.

Casters allow you to move the scaffolding easily without taking it apart, but take a few extra precautions:
    - Install a special horizontal brace diagonally between the two outside frames to keep them square
    - Ask your supplier about this. Never roll the scaffolding with tools, materials or passengers on the planks
    - Lock the casters before climbing the scaffolding. Avoid overhead wires when moving the scaffolding
    - You could be electrocuted if you bump power lines. Do not roll the scaffolding on steep slopes or near ditches or holes

(2) How to rent scaffolding?

Step #1

Determine whether or not you will need fixed, mobile or hanging scaffolding. Fixed scaffolding is either independent, meaning it does not need support from the building, or putlog, which uses the building to secure the working platform. Mobile scaffolding is an independent and freestanding structure mounted on wheels, to allow for easy moving. Hanging scaffolding has a suspended platform that can be raised and lowered and is most often used for washing windows.

Step #2

Estimate a budget for scaffolding rental, but make sure that you put safety before economy. Many companies that rent scaffolding have websites with estimator tools that allow you to input project plans in order to determine pricing. Even if you choose to rent locally, these estimator tools can help you choose the correct style for the job.

Step #3

Compare prices on scaffolding rentals. Though researching scaffolding rentals online is helpful in determining a budget, it is usually best to rent locally to avoid expensive shipping costs. A comprehensive search of your local telephone directory will offer a world of rental services. Large rental services can offer expert advice, replacement parts, easy delivery and you can inspect the scaffolding before renting.

Step #4

Rent special scaffold planks, even though you may be tempted to save money, by using your own. Scaffold planks are specially built for scaffolding and offer the safest fit.

Step #5

Add toe-boards to your rental order, if people will be walking underneath your scaffolding. Toe-boards can help prevent tools from falling off the platform, protecting the safety of pedestrians and workers below.

(3) How to install scaffolding

Step #1

Place the inside sills or pads on the ground next to the face of the building; use pads in the case of uneven ground. Set inside uprights at each end of the building and toenail them to the sill. Use a carpenter's level and plumb the uprights. Next, tie the uprights to the building using wood cleats.

Step #2

Nail a one-by-six ribbon board to the uprights at three and one half inches below the plank height. Layout and nail intermediate upright in place along face of wall. Uprights should not be spread out more than 10 feet.

Step #3

Lay the outside sill or pads on the ground. Set up two outside uprights and nail in place. Level and nail ledger boards connecting the inside and outside uprights; all ledger boards will be resting on top of the ribbon boards. The ledgers should be at the height of where the walking planks will be placed. Place ribbon board below outside ledger and nail.

Step #4

Place outside uprights opposite of the inside uprights and nail them into place. Next, connect each outside upright with the inside upright using ledger boards. Use a level to make sure ledgers are level before nailing.

Step #5

Place walking planks for a platform on top of ledgers; the planks should run over the ledgers at least 12 inches on both sides. Nail second-level ribbons and ledgers in place at height of next work area. Next, nail diagonal braces to outside uprights to provide lateral support. Place the next work level planks on the ledgers.

Step #6

Nail the guardrail into place; the guardrail should be installed around 42 inches height-wise. The mid-rail will be placed around 28 inches. In some cases, there may be a need for a toe board; this type of board protects people from falling objects that get kicked off of the scaffolding. The toe board will be nailed against the planks of the scaffold walk way.

3. Scaffolding Sale

While it may be convenient to rent scaffolding for the odd project, if you are a contractor, it may be more economical to buy your own scaffolding. There are many styles of scaffolding available, so you will need to select the set up that best fits your needs.

Working with a ladder is difficult and can be dangerous. Climbing up and down a ladder may take more time than doing the actual repair the ladder was gotten out for to begin with. But there is a solution for the ladder problem: Use scaffolding. A simple 2 x 4 foot dry wall scaffold with four wheels has two steel steps that can double as work platforms and a tool shelf to keep a bucket of paint of handful of tools close. The steps are 10 inches wide and 4 feet long and beats standing on the rung of a ladder. With locking castors that swivel when unlocked make it easy to move. If you have work to do outside that is higher than 6 feet off the ground, consider buying scaffolding rather than struggling with a ladder.

(1) How to buy scaffolding

Step #1

Decide what kind of scaffolding you would like to buy. Folding scaffolding provides great rigidity and an easy setup, but is difficult to stack, which makes working at very tall heights, difficult. Standard scaffolding comes with jacks and brackets and requires manual assembly, but it is easier to store and stack. If you do most of your work inside, buy indoor scaffolding, which is less weather resistant, but often comes with locking wheels, which makes for easier portability.

Step #2

Place an ad on your local Craigslist page or put up wanted notices at the local hardware stores if you are looking to save a few dollars by buying used scaffolding. Be sure to inspect all the pieces for rust, damage or misshapen parts before purchase.

Step #3

Go to your local hardware store. Many hardware stores will not have a wide scaffolding selection available in-house, but will be able to special order any configuration that you would like.

Step #4

Regardless of scaffolding style or whether you are buying used or new, it is important that you are able to purchase extra pieces, replacement parts and add-ons for your set up. So, make sure that the manufacturer that you choose makes all of the pieces that you will need, as you should not mix parts from different companies.

(2) Scaffolding Education and Training

Scaffolding is a common piece of equipment in the construction industry and any industry that requires workers to access areas not within normal reach, such as commercial window cleaning. To ensure that you and your employees utilize scaffolding in the safest manner possible, specialized training and education in regards to safety and proper maintenance will help keep your worksite up to code and everyone on stable footing while working at elevated heights.

Whether your job-site uses supported or suspended scaffolding, knowing how to properly erect, dismantle, move or alter the equipment and the correct fall protection and other safety procedures to follow while utilizing the equipment are prime objectives.

Industry associations are a great source of information including training and education. Likewise, government agencies can also provide programs to fit your training needs. When it comes to scaffolding training, you can find both independent and government organizations with the educational programs you need.

The Scaffold Industry Association (SIA) offers training through its SIA Training Program for both suspended and supported scaffolding equipment. Not only will its courses help you meet government and insurance requirements for your specific scaffolding materials, the training you receive can also ensure a safe workplace, and courses are offered throughout the U.S. The United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) sets the standards in safety, and it can help with scaffolding training that not only keeps you up-to-date on these standards, but can also ensure a much safer jobsite.

No matter what type of scaffolding supplies your company uses on a regular basis, keep current with any regulations you should follow for the safest working environment. Even if you're well experienced with scaffold equipment, taking refresher training can be an invaluable tool.

4. Sidewalk Bridge, Sidewalk Shed

(1) What is Sidewalk Bridge

A sidewalk shed is a structure constructed to protect pedestrians from objects falling from a building or construction site. Owners may have to erect a sidewalk shed before beginning the renovation of a building façade, construction of a new building or demolition of an existing structure. The necessity to erect such a sidewalk shed is dependent upon the height of the building being repaired, constructed or demolished and the horizontal distance between the structure and the inside edge of the sidewalk. In New York City, a sidewalk shed is required when construction work is over 40 feet high or 25 feet high for demolition work, and whenever there is a “dangerous condition” irrespective of height. A sidewalk shed must be erected whenever materials will be hoisted over the sidewalk, regardless of building height or horizontal distance between building and sidewalk.

(2) Sidewalk Shed permit and regulations

A permit is required prior to erecting a sidewalk shed or supported scaffold over 40 feet in height. If a scaffold is on top of a sidewalk shed, the height of the scaffold must include the height of the shed and be taken from the top of the sidewalk. If the supported scaffold is located on a setback or roof of a building, and if the outer leg of the scaffold is located a distance less than half the height of the scaffold (from the top of roof or floor slab), the height of the scaffold for permitting purposes shall include the height of the building below.

Prior to erecting a sidewalk shed, an owner must obtain a permit from DOB. The applicant for a sidewalk shed permit must state the reason such sidewalk shed is needed. These permits are good for one year. Sidewalk sheds must be dismantled within thirty days of permit expiration. Should a renewal of the shed permit be required, other than a new building under construction, an architect or engineer must conduct a thorough examination and report to the commissioner on the work that has been performed and an estimate of the time needed to complete the work. Additionally, in New York City, Local Law No. 33 also mandated that the permit holder post a twenty-five square foot sign on the sidewalk shed with the permit holder’s name, address, telephone number and permit number and expiration date. Adequate lighting must be maintained under the shed. The Construction Division within each borough office of the Department of Buildings (DOB) has jurisdiction over sidewalk sheds.

The Department of Buildings (DOB) inspects construction sites when they receive a complaint. DOB also has a program to inspect major construction sites on a weekly basis for compliance with public safety regulations. Major construction sites are buildings that are more than 15 stories, over 200 feet in height or more 100,000 square feet in area, or any other buildings designated by DOB. The Department’s Building Enforcement Safety Team, (BEST Squad), checks for more than 85 onsite safety features such as safety netting, placement of cranes and protection of adjacent property. Inspectors are empowered to issue violations, summonses and stop work orders for conditions contrary to the Building Code or Zoning Resolution.

(3) NYC Building Code Design Requirements for Temporary Equipment & Constructions:

Temporary equipment and constructions shall be designed so that the allowable stress values prescribed in subchapter 10 are not exceeded.

Provides load combination which include dead, live, wind and snow.
    - Loads subscribed in sub-chapter 9 must be used for design, including wind
    - Uplift forces from wind must be considered in design calculations
    - Snow and ice loads must be included in design calculations during winter months
    - Tieback design must include wind factors created when netting is used, as wind load can be significantly increased with netting and screens
    - Note: Wind forces are reversible and can impose a "suction" load away from the structure as well as towards the structure

§27-591: Minimum factor of safety for overturning and sliding is 1.5.
    - Free-standing scaffolds and sidewalk sheds must meet code requirements for overturning and sliding

§27-1015: Design shall be executed by or under the supervision of a licensed engineer or an architect who shall sign and seal the drawings and specifications.
    - If the scaffold is supported on a sidewalk shed or roof structure, you must verify that the base structure can support the concentrated loads imposed by the scaffold legs
    - At points of anchorage, you must check the base building elements for local failure

§27-1042(b)(1): All scaffold members shall be designed to be capable of withstanding, without collapse, 4 times the maximum loads.

§27-1042(b)(3): Standard Scaffold Designations and Design Live Loads
    a. Light duty scaffold - To be used for loads up to 25psf and is intended for use by carpenters, painters and other similar trades.
    b. Medium duty scaffold - To be used for loads up to 50psf and is intended for use by bricklayers and plasters.
    c. Heavy duty scaffold - To be used for loads up to 75psf and is intended for use by stone masons.

§27-1021(b)(1): Sidewalk sheds for buildings 100ft or more in height shall be designed for a live load of 300psf. For buildings under 100ft in height, the minimum sidewalk design live load is 150 psf and no storage is permitted.
    - If the BSA approved sidewalk shed design is utilized, you must verify that the shed is within the scope of the design by ensuring that:
        a. Height does not exceed maximum height
        b. Width does not exceed maximum width
        c. Parapet does not exceed the height limit
        d. Details/connections are in full compliance
    - If a scaffold is sitting on a sidewalk shed, the BSA design does not apply
    - Sheds must be designed for live loads in addition to imposed loads from the scaffold

(4) NYC Building Code Requirements for Sidewalk Shed Construction:

Sidewalk Sheds must be erected and utilized in accordance with of the NYC Building provides when a sidewalk shed must be constructed. A shed is required when:
    - New construction is over 40ft and the distance from the face of the building to the inner edge of the walkway is less than half the height of the new building
    - The demolished structure is over 25ft and the distance from the face of the building to the inner edge of the walkway is less than half the height of the new building
    - Material or debris is to be moved over a sidewalk by a crane or hoist

5. Tower Scaffold

(1) Mobile access towers

Mobile access towers (also known as tower scaffolds or towers) are widely used and can provide an effective and safe means of gaining access to work at height. However, inappropriate erection and misuse of towers are the cause of numerous accidents each year. Aluminum and thin-wall steel towers are light and can easily overturn if used incorrectly. Towers rely on all parts being in place to ensure adequate strength. They can collapse if sections are left out.

(2) Erecting a tower

Many types of mobile access towers are available. The manufacturer or supplier has a duty to provide an instruction manual which explains the erection sequence, including any bracing requirements. If the tower has been hired, the hirer has a duty to provide this information. This information must be passed on to the person erecting the tower.

Towers should only be erected by trained and competent people. There are a number of organizations that provide training for the safe erection and use of tower scaffolds following the methods described above.

(3) Stability

Make sure the tower is resting on firm, level ground with the locked castors or base plates properly supported. Never use bricks or building blocks to take the weight of any part of the tower.

Always check the safe working height by referring to the instruction manual. Towers should never be erected to heights above those recommended by the manufacturer.

Towers should only be erected by trained and competent people. There are a number of organizations that provide training for the safe erection and use of tower scaffolds following the methods described above.

Always install stabilizers or outriggers when advised to do so in the instruction manual.

Remember, the stability of any tower is easily affected. Unless the tower has been specifically designed for such use, activities such as those listed below should never be carried out:
    - sheeting or exposure to strong winds;
    - loading with heavy equipment; and
    - using the tower to hoist materials or support rubbish chutes.

(4) Using a tower

There must be a safe way to get to and from the work platform. This must be on the inside of the tower by an appropriately designed built-in ladder. It is not safe to climb up the rungs on the end frames unless the rungs have been specifically designed for the purpose of getting to and from the working platform – these have rung spacing of between 230 and 300 mm and an anti-slip surface. If you are in doubt, consult the instruction manual.

Falls must be prevented where there is a risk that a fall could result in personal injury. The working platform must be provided with suitable edge protection and toe boards. Guard rails should be at least 950 mm high and an intermediate guard rail should be provided so the unprotected gap does not exceed 470 mm.

Never use a tower:
    - as a support for ladders, trestles or other access equipment;
    - in weather conditions which are likely to make it unstable;
    - with broken or missing parts;
    - with incompatible components.

When moving a tower:
    - reduce the height;
    - check that there are no power lines or other obstructions overhead;
    - check that the ground is firm, level and free from potholes;
    - push or pull using manual effort from the base only – never use powered vehicles;
    - never move it while there are people or materials on the tower;
    - never move it in windy conditions.

(5) Inspection

To prevent the use of incorrectly erected or damaged mobile access towers, they must be inspected by a competent person. This is someone with the experience, knowledge and appropriate qualifications to enable them to identify any risks that are present and decide upon the measures required to control the risks.

(6) Dismantling a tower

To dismantle a tower using the advance guard rail method, the operator starts from the top and reinstates the advance guard rail unit before removing the permanent guard rails and toe boards and descending to the lower level. The advance guard rail units are then relocated to the level below and the process is repeated, with collective fall prevention measures being maintained throughout.

Scaffold Information

Although there are numerous types of scaffolds in use in cities, there are two types of scaffolds that are more common or visible on the streets. One is often referred to as a pipe scaffold and the other a hanging or "suspension" scaffold.

A "pipe" scaffold is a stationary scaffold that is constructed with pipes and erected from the ground up along the side of a building. In New York City, The Construction Division within each borough office of the Department of Buildings (DOB) has jurisdiction over pipe scaffolds (stationary).

A hanging or "suspension" scaffold is supported from the roof or setback of a building and held by either cables or rope. A master rigger or special rigger must be contracted for the work, and each worker using or operating the suspension scaffold must be employed by the master rigger, special rigger, or their company. The Cranes and Derricks Division within DOB has jurisdiction over suspension scaffolds.

Definitions of scaffold

"Adjustable suspension scaffold" means a suspension scaffold equipped with a hoist(s) that can be operated by an employee(s) on the scaffold.

"Bearer (put-log)" means a horizontal transverse scaffold member (which may be supported by ledgers or runners) upon which the scaffold platform rests and which joins scaffold uprights, posts, poles, and similar members.

"Boatswains' chair" means a single-point adjustable suspension scaffold consisting of a seat or sling designed to support one employee in a sitting position.

"Body belt (safety belt)" means a strap with means both for securing it about the waist and for attaching it to a lanyard, lifeline, or deceleration device.

"Body harness" means a design of straps which may be secured about the employee in a manner to distribute the fall arrest forces over at least the thighs, pelvis, waist, chest and shoulders, with means for attaching it to other components of a personal fall arrest system.

"Brace" means a rigid connection that holds one scaffold member in a fixed position with respect to another member, or to a building or structure.

"Bricklayers' square scaffold" means a supported scaffold composed of framed squares which support a platform.

by brackets"Carpenters' bracket scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform supported by brackets attached to building or structural walls.

Centenary scaffold means a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform supported by two essentially horizontal and parallel ropes attached to structural members of a building or other structure. Additional support may be provided by vertical pickups.

"Chimney hoist" means a multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold used to provide access to work inside chimneys. (See "Multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold".)

"Cleat" means a structural block used at the end of a platform to prevent the platform from slipping off its supports. Cleats are also used to provide footing on sloped surfaces such as crawling boards.

predictable"Competent person" means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.

"Continuous run scaffold" (Run scaffold) means a two-point or multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold constructed using a series of interconnected braced scaffold members or supporting structures erected to form a continuous scaffold.

"Coupler" means a device for locking together the tubes of a tube and coupler scaffold.

"Crawling board (chicken ladder)" means a supported scaffold consisting of a plank with cleats spaced and secured to provide footing, for use on sloped surfaces such as roofs.

"Deceleration device" means any mechanism, such as a rope grab, rip-stitch lanyard, specially woven lanyard, tearing or deforming lanyard, or automatic self-retracting lifeline lanyard, which dissipates a substantial amount of energy during a fall arrest or limits the energy imposed on an employee during fall arrest.

"Double pole (independent pole) scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform(s) resting on cross beams (bearers) supported by ledgers and a double row of uprights independent of support (except ties, guys, braces) from any structure.

will"Equivalent" means alternative designs, materials or methods to protect against a hazard which the employer can demonstrate will provide an equal or greater degree of safety for employees than the methods, materials or designs specified in the standard.

"Eye" or "Eye Splice" means a loop with or without a thimble at the end of a wire rope.

"Exposed power lines" means electrical power lines which are accessible to employees and which are not shielded from contact. Such lines do not include extension cords or power tool cords.

"Fabricated decking and planking" means manufactured platforms made of wood (including laminated wood, and solid sawn wood planks), metal or other materials.

"Fabricated frame scaffold (tubular welded frame scaffold)" means a scaffold consisting of a platform(s) supported on fabricated end frames with integral posts, horizontal bearers, and intermediate members.

"Failure" means load refusal, breakage, or separation of component parts. Load refusal is the point where the ultimate strength is exceeded.

"Float (ship) scaffold" means a suspension scaffold consisting of a braced platform resting on two parallel bearers and hung from overhead supports by ropes of fixed length.

"Form scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform supported by brackets attached to form work.

"Guardrail system" means a vertical barrier, consisting of, but not limited to, top rails, mid rails, and posts, erected to prevent employees from falling off a scaffold platform or walkway to lower levels.

"Hoist" means a manual or power-operated mechanical device to raise or lower a suspended scaffold.

"Horse scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform supported by construction horses (saw horses). Horse scaffolds constructed of metal are sometimes known as trestle scaffolds.

"Independent pole scaffold" (see "Double pole scaffold").

"Interior hung scaffold" means a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform suspended from the ceiling or roof structure by fixed length supports.

"Ladder jack scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform resting on brackets attached to ladders.

"Ladder stand" means a mobile, fixed-size, supporting ladder consisting of a wide flat tread ladder in the form of stairs.

"Landing" means a platform at the end of a flight of stairs.

"Large area scaffold" means a pole scaffold, tube and coupler scaffold, systems scaffold, or fabricated frame scaffold erected over substantially the entire work area. For example: a scaffold erected over the entire floor area of a room.

"Lean-to scaffold" means a supported scaffold which is kept erect by tilting it toward and resting it against a building or structure. "Lifeline" means a component consisting of a flexible line that connects to an anchorage at one end to hang vertically (vertical lifeline), or that connects to anchorages at both ends to stretch horizontally (horizontal lifeline), and which serves as a means for connecting other components of a personal fall arrest system to the anchorage.

"Lower levels" means areas below the level where the employee is located and to which an employee can fall. Such areas include, but are not limited to, ground levels, floors, roofs, ramps, runways, excavations, pits, tanks, materials, water, and equipment.

"Masons' multipoint adjustable suspension scaffold" means a continuous run suspension scaffold designed and used for masonry operations.

"Maximum intended load" means the total load of all persons, equipment, tools, materials, transmitted loads, and other loads reasonably anticipated to be applied to a scaffold or scaffold component at any one time. "Mobile scaffold" means a powered or unpowered, portable, caster or wheel-mounted supported scaffold.

"Multilevel suspended scaffold" means a two point or multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold with a series of platforms at various levels resting on common stirrups.

"Multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold" means a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform(s) which is suspended by more than two ropes from overhead supports and equipped with means to raise and lower the platform to desired work levels. Such scaffolds include chimney hoists.

"Needle beam scaffold" means a platform suspended from needle beams. "Open sides and ends" means the edges of a platform that are more than 14 inches (36 cm) away horizontally from a sturdy, continuous, vertical surface (such as a building wall) or a sturdy, continuous horizontal surface (such as a floor), or a point of access. Exception: For plastering and lathing operations the horizontal threshold distance is 18 inches (46 cm).

"Outrigger" means the structural member of a supported scaffold used to increase the base width of a scaffold in order to provide support for and increased stability of the scaffold.

"Outrigger beam (Thrust-out)" means the structural member of a suspension scaffold or outrigger scaffold which provides support for the scaffold by extending the scaffold point of attachment to a point out and away from the structure or building.

"Outrigger scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform resting on outrigger beams (thrust-outs) projecting beyond the wall or face of the building or structure, the inboard ends of which are secured inside the building or structure.

"Overhand bricklaying" means the process of laying bricks and masonry units such that the surface of the wall to be jointed is on the opposite side of the wall from the mason, requiring the mason to lean over the wall to complete the work. It includes mason tending and electrical installation incorporated into the brick wall during the overhand bricklaying process.

"Personal fall arrest system" means a system used to arrest an employee's fall. It consists of an anchorage, connectors, a body belt or body harness and may include a lanyard, deceleration device, lifeline, or combinations of these.

"Platform" means a work surface elevated above lower levels. Platforms can be constructed using individual wood planks, fabricated planks, fabricated decks, and fabricated platforms.

"Pole scaffold (see definitions for single-pole scaffold" and "Double (independent) pole scaffold").

"Power operated hoist" means a hoist which is powered by other than human energy.

"Pump jack scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform supported by vertical poles and movable support brackets.

"Qualified" means one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated his/ her ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

"Rated load" means the manufacturer's specified maximum load to be lifted by a hoist or to be applied to a scaffold or scaffold component.

"Repair bracket scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform supported by brackets which are secured in place around the circumference or perimeter of a chimney, stack, tank or other supporting structure by one or more wire ropes placed around the supporting structure.

"Roof bracket scaffold" means a rooftop supported scaffold consisting of a platform resting on angular shaped supports.

"Runner" (ledger or ribbon)" means the lengthwise horizontal spacing or bracing member which may support the bearers.

"Scaffold" means any temporary elevated platform (supported or suspended) and its supporting structure (including points of anchorage), used for supporting employees or materials or both.

"Self-contained adjustable scaffold" means a combination supported and suspension scaffold consisting of an adjustable platform(s) mounted on an independent supporting frame(s) not a part of the object being worked on, and which is equipped with a means to permit the raising and lowering of the platform(s). Such systems include rolling roof rigs, rolling outrigger systems, and some masons' adjustable supported scaffolds.

"Shore scaffold" means a supported scaffold which is placed against a building or structure and held in place with props.

"Single-point adjustable suspension scaffold" means a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform suspended by one rope from an overhead support and equipped with means to permit the movement of the platform to desired work levels.

"Single-pole scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform(s) resting on bearers, the outside ends of which are supported on runners 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.

"Stair tower (Scaffold stairway/tower)" means a tower comprised of scaffold components and which contains internal stairway units and rest platforms. These towers are used to provide access to scaffold platforms and other elevated points such as floors and roofs.

"Stall load" means the load at which the prime mover of a power-operated hoist stalls or the power to the prime-mover is automatically disconnected.

"Step, platform, and trestle ladder scaffold" means a platform resting directly on the rungs of step ladders or trestle ladders.

"Stilts" means a pair of poles or similar supports with raised footrests, used to permit walking above the ground or working surface.

"Stone-setters' multi-point adjustable suspension scaffold" means a continuous run suspension scaffold designed and used for stonecutters' operations.

"Supported scaffold" means one or more platforms supported by outrigger beams, brackets, poles, legs, uprights, posts, frames, or similar rigid support.

"Suspension scaffold" means one or more platforms suspended by ropes or other non-rigid means from an overhead structure(s).

"System scaffold" means a scaffold consisting of posts with fixed connection points that accept runners, bearers, and diagonals that can be interconnected at predetermined levels.

"Tank builders' scaffold" means a supported scaffold consisting of a platform resting on brackets that are either directly attached to a cylindrical tank or attached to devices that are attached to such a tank.

"Top plate bracket scaffold" means a scaffold supported by brackets that hook over or are attached to the top of a wall. This type of scaffold is similar to carpenters' bracket scaffolds and form scaffolds and is used in residential construction for setting trusses.

"Tube and coupler scaffold" means a supported or suspended scaffold consisting of a platform(s) supported by tubing, erected with coupling devices connecting uprights, braces, bearers, and runners.

Two-point suspension scaffold (swing stage)  means a suspension scaffold consisting of a platform supported by hangers (stirrups) suspended by two ropes from overhead supports and equipped with means to permit the raising and lowering of the platform to desired work levels.

"Unstable objects" means items whose strength, configuration, or lack of stability may allow them to become dislocated and shift and therefore may not properly support the loads imposed on them. Unstable objects do not constitute a safe base support for scaffolds, platforms, or employees. Examples include, but are not limited to, barrels, boxes, loose brick, and concrete blocks.

"Vertical pickup" means a rope used to support the horizontal rope in centenary scaffolds.

"Walkway" means a portion of a scaffold platform used only for access and not as a work level.

"Window jack scaffold" means a platform resting on a bracket or jack which projects through a window opening.