Trainer Requirements for Performing Work On Scaffolds

The employer can designate someone to train employees on the safe use of scaffolding in their work area. OSHA 29 CFR 1926.454 says that:

"The employer shall have each employee who performs work on a scaffold trained by a person qualified in the subject matter to recognize the hazards associated with the type of scaffolding being used and to understand the procedures to control or minimize these hazards."

 So employees who perform work on scaffolds must be trained by someone qualified in the subject matter. While this is a bit subjective, OSHA defines a "qualified person" as:

"One who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated his/her ability to solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, the work, or the project"

 If you have an employee who meets the above criteria, based on your evaluation, you can designate them to train employees to use scaffolding.

Types of Scaffolding

Trainer Requirements for Scaffold Erection, Maintenance, Repair, or Inspection

Any employees who are involved in erection, removal, moving, operating, repairing, maintaining or inspecting must be trained by a competent person, according to 1926.454(b).  OSHA defines a competent person as:

"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."

 So if you have an employee that meets that definition, they can train other employees on this operation.

Do Scaffold Workers Need a "Certification"?

Scaffold workers do not need any type of documented certification, although training documentation is always good practice.  The compliance directorate for Subpart L says that:

"Section 1926.454 does not require certification, or other documentation, of training. Compliance officers shall evaluate compliance with the training requirements through observation of work practices, inspections of rigging, correct utilization of scaffold equipment, and interviews with employees and management representatives."

 

Looking for a scaffolding training solution?  Check out the Scaffolding Safety Compliance Kit for everything you need.  It includes training materials, a scaffolding safety program, and forms.  It also comes with a 30 day money back guarantee.

OshaScaffolding

13 comments

Elle Jones

Elle Jones

According to what I’ve heard, my cousin is planning to engage in commercial building projects this year, thus he is now familiarizing himself with all the safety requirements. I’m going to share this with my cousin straight now since I like how you went into detail on what qualifies someone for scaffold erection. I appreciate your advice on teaching and certifying workers to utilize scaffolding properly. https://www.pipelinescaffolding.com.au/scaffolding

Elle Jones

Elle Jones

According to what I’ve heard, my cousin is planning to engage in commercial building projects this year, thus he is now familiarizing himself with all the safety requirements. I’m going to share this with my cousin straight now since I like how you went into detail on what qualifies someone for scaffold erection. I appreciate your advice on teaching and certifying workers to utilize scaffolding properly. http://www.suncoastscaffold.com.au/capabilities

Eli Richardson

Eli Richardson

I heard that my cousin’s investing in commercial construction projects this year, so he’s currently becoming acquainted with all the safety regulations. I’m glad you elaborated on what makes someone competent for scaffold erection, so I’ll share this with my cousin right now. Thanks for the insight on training and certifying employees to use scaffolding safely. https://natl-safety.com/qualified-rigging-and-signal-person-safety-training/

K. Richard Rogers

K. Richard Rogers

Does computer based training (qualified person in video) meet the requirements? Not in person…..

scaffmag

scaffmag

Hi, Thanks For Sharing Scaffolding information. Similar information provide scaffmag.com if you are interested to more detail visit our website. Again I use to visit here thanks

Neena Ahuja

Neena Ahuja

anyone can train if you have great knowledge about scaffoldings then..but make sure you have updated knowledge and u giving proper information bcoz its gonna very important for scaffold worker or employee
check site : http://www.scaffoldssupply.com/Scaffold-Parts-s/100.htm

rey chavez

rey chavez

In Texas TEEX offers the Principles of Scaffolding 308. this is a very informative course.

Paul

Paul

How long is a certification good for? Once certified, does the person need refresher training and if so. how long is it good for?

cherif

cherif

how can i becom a scaffold trainer certified by osha ?

Becca Holton

Becca Holton

OSHA really seems to cover everything when it concerns rules and regulations for operating equipment. I was a bit surprised to learn that they have defined what qualifies as a competent person. For the most part, it’s nice that they are so detailed oriented since it probably helps increase safety.

Lucy Metcalfe

Lucy Metcalfe

This is very informative! Any job or task to be done, especially in any construction site needs a skilled professional. A skilled worker is required in order to complete the task and have a quality output. A well trained individual is dedicated to the task and job given to them. I have known this from the people at www.uni-span.com.au.

Adam way

Adam way

Thank you for the information! In any working area, it is very important for all staff to apply the relevant safety procedures at all times to avoid incidents. Proper training for scaffolding workers is a must. This can lessen the cases of injuries and accidents. Certified personnel are the competitive workers who are needed in the job, just like the people I met at www.uni-span.com.au.

Jason Collins

Jason Collins

I always thought the trainers had to go get certified by someone. This helps, thanks.

Leave a comment