Mobile Scaffold Safety Standards Tightened to Prevent Overturns

Have you ever worried about the stability of mobile scaffolding while working at height? Do you know how to ensure the safety and reliability of scaffolding when frequently changing work positions? Mobile scaffolding, with its convenience, is widely used in painting, plastering, and other tasks requiring frequent repositioning. However, improper operation can easily lead to serious accidents. This article provides an in-depth analysis of mobile scaffolding safety regulations to help you master key precautions and effectively mitigate risks, ensuring worker safety.

Mobile scaffolding is a supported scaffold mounted on wheels or casters. Designed for easy mobility, it is commonly used in tasks requiring frequent position changes, such as painting and plastering. It is important to note that the requirements discussed here apply specifically to mobile scaffolding. For general supported scaffold requirements, refer to frame or manufactured module standards.

According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the safe use of mobile scaffolding must meet strict requirements to ensure structural stability and operational safety, minimizing accident risks. Key safety requirements include:

• Vertical, Level, and Square Alignment: Scaffolds must remain plumb, level, and square.
• Bracing Requirements: Vertical members must be securely connected using cross braces, horizontal braces, diagonal braces, or combinations thereof to maintain lateral stability and proper alignment.
• Secure Connections: All bracing connections must be firmly established.
• Locking Mechanisms: Wheel locks, swivel locks, or equivalent devices must be used to prevent unintended movement when stationary.
• Stabilization Measures: Wheel stems and caster stems must be pinned or otherwise secured.
• Platform Limitations: Platforms must not extend beyond base supports unless stabilized by outriggers or equivalent devices.
• Leveling Devices: Screw jacks or equivalent equipment must be used when leveling is required.
• Component Specifications: Tube-and-coupler scaffolds must meet additional design criteria.
• Frame Requirements: Prefabricated frame scaffolds must comply with supplementary structural standards.

The movement of mobile scaffolding presents significant hazards. Strict adherence to these protocols ensures stability and safety during relocation:

• Stabilization During Movement: Appropriate measures must prevent tipping during relocation.
• Force Application: Manual force should be applied near the base, no higher than 5 feet (1.5 meters) above the supporting surface.
• Power Systems: Only designed propulsion systems may be used. Forklifts, trucks, or unauthorized motors are prohibited unless specifically permitted by scaffold design.
• Rider Restrictions: Employees are prohibited from riding mobile scaffolds unless:
  • The surface slope does not exceed 3 degrees and is free of holes or obstructions
  • The height-to-base ratio remains 2:1 or less (unless meeting recognized stability tests)
  • Outriggers are installed on both sides when used
  • Powered systems directly drive wheels at speeds below 1 foot per second (0.3 m/s)
  • No employee occupies any portion extending beyond wheel supports
• Movement Notification: All scaffold occupants must be notified before relocation.

ANSI A92 stability tests (applicable to scaffold type) may demonstrate compliance with movement stability requirements.

Proper mobile scaffolding use is critical for elevated work safety. Strict compliance with OSHA regulations and implementation of appropriate safety measures significantly reduces accident risks and protects workers. Prioritizing scaffold safety protocols ensures reliable performance for all elevated work operations.