Scaffold Safety Inspection Checklist

This scaffold safety inspection checklist ensures compliance with OSHA 1926.451 scaffold requirements. A competent person must inspect scaffolds before each work shift and after any event that could affect structural integrity.

Industry: Construction
Frequency: Daily (before each shift)
Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
Role: Competent Person / Site Safety Manager
Total Items: 28
Compliance: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451, OSHA 29 CFR 1926.452, ANSI/ASSE A10.8

Foundation & Base

Inspect scaffold foundation and base plates.

Set on firm, level foundation?
Base plates in place?
Mudsills adequate (if required)?
Screw jacks properly adjusted?
Scaffold plumb and level?

Frame & Structure

Inspect scaffold frame and structural components.

Frames undamaged (no bends, cracks)?
All cross braces installed?
Coupling pins secured?
Tie-ins to structure at required intervals?
Height-to-base ratio acceptable (4:1 max)?

Platform & Decking

Inspect working platform and planking.

Platform fully planked (min 18" wide)?
Planks secured against movement?
Planks undamaged (no cracks, splits)?
Plank overhang 6-12 inches?
No gaps greater than 1 inch?
Front edge within 14" of work?

Fall Protection

Inspect guardrails and fall protection systems.

Guardrails on all open sides (38-45")?
Midrails installed?
Toeboards installed (min 3.5")?
Guardrails support 200 lbs?
Crosspoint bracing used as guardrail (if applicable)?

Access

Inspect scaffold access.

Safe access provided?
Portable/attached ladder secured?
Stair tower in good condition?
No climbing on cross braces?

Sign-Off

Final inspection sign-off.

Scaffold tagged (Green/Yellow/Red)?
Deficiencies found
Competent Person Signature