Shipyard Scaffolding Requirements

Scaffolding is a temporary, field erected structure used for working aloft. This is one of the most important parts of the production process. It also has the potential to be one of the most dangerous. Because it is a temporary structure, it is subject to abuses like improper assembly and unauthorized changes. A fall from 5 ft. has the potential to cause serious and potentially fatal injuries. The following is a partial listing of the shipyard industry scaffolding/staging requirements. Please refer to 29 CFR 1915.71 for additional requirements that may apply to the specific type of scaffolding used by your company.

Planking - 2x10 lumber should be used. It should be straight grained and free from knots and splits. It can be clear or treated. The platform staging shall project beyond the supporting members on either side by 6 inches.

Top and Mid Rails: Scaffolding at or above 5 ft. in height or over water, at any height, shall have a top and mid-rail in place. The top rail shall be 42-45 inches above the plank surface and the mid-rail should be located half way in between the plank and the top rail. The material used for the top and mid-rail can be 2x4 lumber, flat bar or pipe. Synthetic or wire rope can be used if kept taut utilizing rigid supports. When exposed to chemicals or hot work, fiber or rope top and midrails shall not be used.

Width: If the width between supports is greater than 8 ft., rails shall be equivalent in strength to 2x4 lumber.

Toe Boards: When working from scaffolding, toe boards, with a height of 4 inches, shall be used on the outer scaffold edge. This is to prevent tools, etc. from falling over the side and onto someone's head. These toe boards are only required if workers are underneath the scaffolding.

Access: Access to scaffolding over 5 ft. in height above the floor, deck or ground shall consist of well secured stairways, cleated ramps, fixed or portable ladders meeting the applicable requirements of 1915.72 or rigid non-collapsible trestles with parallel and level rungs. Ramps and stairways shall be provided with 36 inch handrails with mid rails.

Ladders or other means shall be located so that it is not necessary for employees to step more that one foot from the ladder to any intermediate landing or platform. When using a ladder to access staging, make sure it is tied off at least at the top.