If you work in a construction company, you may at times need to work on or near scaffolding. These temporary structures allow construction workers the essential access to parts of building they must build, repair or perform maintenance on.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides clear guidance on the requirements for scaffold safety, including identifying select professionals who must participate in different activities to ensure the safety of these structures and the workers who must use them.
The role of the engineer
According to OSHA, a qualified engineer must participate in the design of all scaffolding components and systems used on a construction job site.
The role of the qualified person
Once a scaffold build completes, a team member with specific professional training, a certification or even a degree may provide guidance in recommending the solution to problems related to the scaffolding.
The role of the competent person
A team member identified as a competent person can identify real or potential safety issues related to an already erected scaffold system or structure. This person should also be empowered to direct any appropriate actions needed to correct or prevent the hazards.
Multiple regulations related to scaffolding
Each person responsible for designing, building and inspecting scaffolds may need to monitor items such as fall protection standards, toprail heights, employee training and crosspoint locations.
This information is not intended to provide legal advice but is instead meant to give residents employed in the construction industry in New York an overview of the professionals required for different tasks regarding scaffolding use on job sites.