Scaffolding Safety Inspection Checklist

FREE scaffolding inspection checklist with OSHA 1926.451/452 compliance. Covers supported scaffolds, suspended scaffolds, frame scaffolds, and fall protection. Multi-market standards for US OSHA, UK Work at Height Regulations, India IS 3696, Brazil NR-18, Mexico NOM-009-STPS, and Colombia regulations. Download FREE PDF with 55+ inspection points.

  • Industry: Construction
  • Frequency: Daily Before Use
  • Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
  • Role: Operations Manager
  • Total Items: 32
  • Compliance: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451 (Scaffolds General), OSHA 29 CFR 1926.452 (Scaffold Types), OSHA 29 CFR 1926.454 (Training), UK Work at Height Regulations 2005, UK BS EN 12811 (Temporary Works)

Foundation & Base Plates

OSHA 1926.451(c) foundation requirements for supported scaffolds.

  • Base on firm, level surface capable of supporting load?
  • Base plates installed under all uprights?
  • Mudsills/sole plates used on soft surfaces?
  • Screw jacks/leveling devices properly adjusted?
  • Scaffold plumb and level?

Structural Components

Frame, bracing, and connection integrity inspection.

  • Frames/uprights free of damage, bends, rust?
  • All cross braces installed and secured?
  • All pins, clips, and connections in place?
  • Couplers properly tightened (tube and coupler)?
  • Wall ties/anchors installed per requirements?
  • Height-to-base ratio within limits (4:1 max)?

Platforms & Decking

OSHA 1926.451(b) platform requirements.

  • Platforms fully planked between uprights?
  • Planks overlap minimum 12 inches over supports?
  • Plank overhang between 6-12 inches beyond support?
  • Planks secured to prevent displacement?
  • Planks free of damage, splits, knots, rot?
  • Platform rated for intended loads?

Guardrails & Fall Protection

OSHA 1926.451(g) fall protection requirements.

  • Top rail installed at 38-45 inches above platform?
  • Mid rail installed approximately halfway?
  • Toeboards installed (minimum 3.5 inches)?
  • Guardrails capable of 200 lb force?
  • Guardrails on all open sides and ends?
  • If cross bracing used as guardrail, within 48 in of platform?

Access & Egress

Safe scaffold access requirements.

  • Safe access provided (ladder, stair, ramp)?
  • Access ladder extends 3 feet above platform?
  • Portable ladders secured against displacement?
  • Workers not climbing on cross braces?
  • Access points clear of obstructions?

Electrical & Environmental Hazards

Electrical clearance and weather considerations.

  • Minimum 10 ft clearance from power lines (< 50kV)?
  • No overhead hazards (cranes, falling objects)?
  • Weather conditions safe for scaffold work?
  • Platforms clear of ice, snow, slippery materials?

Related Construction Checklists

Related Scaffolding Checklists

Browse More Checklists