Secured Oregon scaffold versus prohibited lean-to scaffold

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

May 3, 1979

MEMORANDUM FOR: JAMES W. LAKE
REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR

ATTENTION: JOHN A. GRANCHI,
ASSISTANT Regional Administrator, Technical Support

THRU: DONALD E. MACKENZIE
Field Coordinator

FROM: GROVER C. WRENN
Director, Federal Compliance and State Programs

SUBJECT: Lean-to Scaffolds

Reference: Memo Your Office Dated March 7, 1979, on Same Subject.

The National Office has reviewed this matter and the following information was developed as a result of our review. The lean-to scaffold prohibited in 29 CFR 1926.451(a)(20) is not secured or supported at the wall or structure. This scaffold is hazardous because it is not secured or supported at the abutting wall or structure and the unit leans against the structure like a ladder. The subject Oregon scaffold, with the proposed modification and meeting the applicable general requirements of 29 CFR 1926.451(a), is not a lean-to scaffold but is supported at both ends of the bearer and secured to the structure. However, it should be pointed out that the pre-OSHA Oregon Lean-To Scaffold requirements do not comply with applicable OSHA general requirements for scaffolds. The Oregon secured scaffold is not prohibited by 29 CFR 1926.451(a)(20). A variance for this type of scaffold is not necessary. It is anticipated that appropriate action by your office will be taken to inform the State of Oregon of this National policy.