(p) Two-point Suspension

swing stage

Two-point adjustable suspension scaffolds (swing stages).

Platforms shall not be more than 36 inches (0.9 m) wide unless designed by a qualified person to prevent unstable conditions.

The platform shall be securely fastened to hangers (stirrups) by U-bolts or by other means which satisfy the requirements of § 1926.451(a) Capacity.

The blocks for fiber or synthetic ropes shall consist of at least one double and one single block. The sheaves of all blocks shall fit the size of the rope used.

Platforms shall be of the ladder-type, plank-type, beam-type, or light-metal type. Light metal-type platforms having a rated capacity of 750 pounds or less and platforms 40 feet (12.2 m) or less in length shall be tested and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.

Two-point scaffolds shall not be bridged or otherwise connected one to another during raising and lowering operations unless the bridge connections are articulated (attached), and the hoists properly sized.

Passage may be made from one platform to another only when the platforms are at the same height, are abutting, and walk-through stirrups specifically designed for this purpose are used.

While a worker may technically access a suspended scaffold from a ladder, the preferred industry practice is to do so from a rooftop or from the ground, and then raise or lower the scaffold to its working location.

NOTE: Except where indicated, these requirements also apply to multi-level, single-point adjustable, multi-point adjustable, interior hung, needle beam, catenary, and float (ship) scaffolds.

Fall Protection: the number one scaffold hazard is worker falls. Fall protection consists of either personal fall arrest systems or guardrail systems, and must be provided on any scaffold 10 feet or more above a lower level (two-point scaffolds require both PFAS and guardrail systems). This is especially critical with suspended scaffolds, because they often are operated at extreme elevations.

Except where indicated, these requirements also apply to multi-level, single-point adjustable, multi-point adjustable, interior hung, needle beam, catenary, and float (ship) scaffolds.

en_USEnglish