I often hear contractors complain that they can't afford to build scaffolding that meets Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety requirements. But improperly erected scaffolding can cost you an arm and a leg — literally. As a scaffolding consultant, I design and supervise the erection of scaffolding systems that meet OSHA regulations. In this article, I'll cover a number of scaffolding systems and some of the regulations for each. FRAME SCAFFOLDING Sometimes referred to as "pipe scaffold" (OSHA refers to it as "tubular welded-frame scaffold"), these steel frames are easily connected into complex scaffolding arrangements. When assembling a frame scaffold system, it's important to establish a level base and use proper bracing and planking. A Level Playing Field A firm and level
