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Home / OSHA / Scaffolds

OSHA Scaffold Requirements — 10-Foot Fall Rule, Planking & 4:1 Ratio

Supported and suspended scaffolds are governed by 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L. The controlling numbers: fall protection at 10 feet, components supporting 4 times the intended load, and restraint against tipping at a 4:1 height-to-base ratio.

RequirementOSHA StandardSection
Fall protection trigger10 ft above a lower level — guardrails or personal fall arrest1926.451(g)(1)
CapacityEach scaffold and component supports at least 4× the maximum intended load1926.451(a)(1)
Platform plankingFully planked or decked; gaps no more than 1 in. between units1926.451(b)(1)
Platform width18 in. minimum (exceptions for ladder-jack and similar narrow scaffolds)1926.451(b)(2)
Tipping restraintTies, guys, or braces required when height exceeds 4× the minimum base dimension1926.451(c)(1)
Guardrail heightTop rail 38–45 in. for scaffolds built after Jan 1, 20001926.451(g)(4)(ii)
Distance from work face14 in. maximum (18 in. for plastering/lathing)1926.451(b)(3)
Power-line clearance10 ft minimum from insulated lines over 300 V (more for higher voltages)1926.451(f)(6)
InspectionsBy a competent person before each work shift and after any event that could affect integrity1926.451(f)(3)

Worth knowing

  • Scaffolds must be erected, moved, or dismantled only under the supervision of a competent person, using trained workers (1926.451(f)(7)).
  • Cross-braces cannot serve as a means of access — use ladders, stair towers, or built-in ladder frames (1926.451(e)).
  • Front-end loaders and forklifts may not support scaffold platforms unless specifically designed for it.
  • Falling-object protection (toeboards, screens, or barricades) is required whenever workers pass below (1926.451(h)).
Source: 29 CFR Part 1926, Safety and Health Regulations for Construction (U.S. Department of Labor, public domain) — read the full standard at osha.gov. State-plan states may impose stricter rules, and your local building code applies in addition — find it on your jurisdiction page.
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