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Mobile Scaffold Requirements

In addition to requirements for the proper erection of supported scaffolds (with the exception of the requirement for a base plate and mudsill), mobile scaffold casters and wheels shall be locked with positive wheel and/or wheel and swivel locks to prevent movement of the scaffold while the scaffold is in use.

Mobile scaffold caster

Casters shall be pinned or otherwise secured to the scaffold legs or screw jacks.

The manual force used to move a mobile scaffold shall be applied as close to the base of the scaffold as practical, but not more than 5 feet above the supporting surface. Employees shall not be allowed to ride on scaffolds being moved unless the following conditions exist:

  • The surface on which the scaffold is being moved is within three degrees of level and free of pits, holes, and obstructions.
  • The height-to-base width ratio of the scaffold during movement is two to one or less.
  • Outrigger frames, when used, are installed on both sides of the scaffold.
  • The force of powered systems, when used, is applied directly to the wheels and does not produce a speed of more than one foot per second.
  • Employees are within the guardrail system.

Horizontal diagonal bracing is required on mobile scaffolds near the bottom and every 20 feet vertically for support and stability.

Screw jacks shall be used to level the scaffold, if necessary. The maximum extension is 12 inches.