Fall protection during scaffold erection and dismantling

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

August 2, 1985

MEMORANDUM FOR: All Regional Administrators

FROM: John B. Miles, Jr., Director
Directorate of Field Operations

SUBJECT: Fall Protection for employees engaged in erecting or dismantling scaffolds in the Construction Industry

It is not the intent of the construction scaffold standards to specifically require employees who erect or dismantle scaffolds to use a safety belt and lanyard at all times. However, employees erecting or dismantling scaffolds must wear safety belts and lanyards in performing work at a stationary location for a period of time which allows the practical use of safety belts and lanyards. It is OSHA's position that requiring the constant wearing of belts and lanyards while erecting or dismantling scaffolds could be hazardous to employees.
The Directorate of Safety Standards Programs anticipates publishing a new proposal for Subpart L - Ladders and Scaffolding later this year. The fall protection proposed for employees erecting/dismantling scaffolds will be specifically included in that proposal and the text contains a provision which will exempt employees engaged in erecting or dismantling scaffolds from using any fall protection.