Scaffolding training is required for all employees and supervisors while setting up, using, or dismantling scaffolding. A "competent person" must oversee all these duties and be present at the job site where scaffolding is used.
Scaffolding (1926.451)
Scaffolds shall be erected, moved, dismantled, or altered only under the supervision and direction of a competent person qualified in scaffold erection, moving, dismantling or alteration. Such activities shall be performed only by experienced and trained employees selected for such work by the competent person.
Definitions of Competent/Qualified (1926.32)
(f) “Competent person” means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
(m) “Qualified” means one who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated his ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.
Often a person would need to be “qualified” (have a certificate) before they could be considered “competent”. (I.E.: A person would need to be qualified to operate a piece of equipment before they could be considered “competent” to teach others how to operate it.
If you seriously want to avoid injuries and potential OSHA fines by limiting yourself to a focus four inspection, consider developing a comprehensive safety and health program.
Why would you even want to conduct your own scaffolding training when you can get it online with a certificate for such a reasonable price?
Author: Deborah Grow, Safety Compliance Specialist
Private Safety Consultant
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