FactSheet

Tube and Coupler Scaffolds

Erection and Use
Workers building scaffolds risk serious injury from falls and tip-overs, being struck by
falling tools and other hazards, and electrocution from energized power lines. Before
starting any scaffold project, the employer should conduct a hazard assessment to
ensure the safety of workers.

A tube and coupler scaffold has a platform(s)

supported by tubing, and is erected with
coupling devices connecting uprights, braces,
bearers, and runners (see Fig. 1). Due to their
strength, these scaffolds are frequently used
where heavy loads need to be carried, or where
multiple platforms must reach several stories
high. These scaffolds can be assembled in
multiple directions, making them the preferred
option for work surfaces with irregular
dimensions and/or contours.

When Erecting a Scaffold

Use footings that are level, sound, rigid
and capable of supporting the load without
settlement or displacement. Figure 1: Tube and Coupler Scaffold
Plumb and brace poles, legs, posts, frames,
and uprights to prevent swaying and When Using a Scaffold
displacement.
Make sure that a competent person inspects
Position the first level of bracing as close to
the scaffold before each work shift.
the base as possible.
If during the inspection a defect or damage to
Plumb and level the scaffold as it is being
the scaffold is discovered, the scaffold must be
erected.
tagged out and not used until repairs are made.
Fasten all couplers and/or connections
Attach tags at the access point to the scaffold.
securely before assembling the next level.
Install guys, ties, and braces according to the One common tagging system uses the
manufacturers recommendations. followingtags:
Do not intermix scaffold components from
Red tag indicates: unsafe, do not use.
different manufacturers, unless you can do
Green tag indicates: ready to use.
so while maintaining the scaffolds structural
integrity. Use scaffolds according to the manufacturers
When platform units are abutted together to instructions.
create a long platform, each abutted end must Never load a scaffold beyond its maximum
rest on a separate support surface. intended load or rated capacity.
Once erected, provide toeboards on all railed Do not use makeshift methods to increase the
sides to prevent falling object hazards. working height of the scaffold platform, such
as with ladders, buckets or blocks.
 Employees must not work on platforms covered Distinctive site conditions and any special
with snow, ice, or other slippery material. features of the building structure in relation to
The employer must provide suitable access the scaffold (i.e., overhead electric power lines
to and between scaffolds, such as portable or storage tanks). Also consider the proximity
ladders, hook-on ladders, attachable ladders and condition of surrounding buildings.
and stairway-type ladders. Weather and environmental conditions.
Fall protection requirements for workers
When Dismantling a Scaffold using scaffolds, such as guardrail systems or
Check to ensure that the scaffold has not been personal fall arrest systems.
structurally altered in a way which would The type and amount of scaffold equipment
make it unsafe. Before beginning dismantling needed to access all areas to be worked on.
procedures, reconstruct and/or stabilize the Proper storage and transporting of scaffolding
scaffold as necessary. components, materials and equipment.
How to access the scaffold, (i.e., via ladders,
Training Workers stair rail systems, etc.).
Only trained and authorized persons should be
allowed to use a scaffold. This training must be Workers building scaffolds risk serious injury
provided by a qualified person who understands from falls and tip-overs, being struck by falling
the hazards associated with the type of scaffold tools and other hazards, and electrocution from
being used and who knows the procedures to energized power lines.
control or minimize those hazards. Training must To avoid scaffold hazards, employers must:
include how to safely:
Ensure that a competent person supervises
Use the scaffold, handle materials on the and directs workers erecting, moving,
scaffold and determine the maximum load dismantling, or altering a scaffold.
limits when handling materials. Provide a safe means of access for each worker
Recognize and avoid scaffolding hazards such erecting or dismantling the scaffold. As early as
as electric shock, falls from heights, and being possible, install hook-on or attachable ladders.
hit by falling objects. Ensure that workers do not climb diagonal
Erect, maintain and disassemble fall and braces to reach the scaffold platform.
falling object protection systems. Provide fall protection for workers erecting or
Erectors and dismantlers of tube and coupler dismantling the scaffold.
scaffolds are at particular risk because their work Secure scaffolds to the structure during
starts before ladders, guardrails and platforms erection and dismantling.
are completely installed. These workers must For more information on scaffolding, see OSHAs
also be trained to: Safety and Health Topics page at www.osha.gov/
Recognize scaffold hazards. SLTC/scaffolding.
Properly erect, move, operate, repair, inspect,
Contact OSHA
maintain and disassemble the scaffold;
Identify the maximum load-carrying capacity For more information, to report an emergency,
and intended use of the scaffold. fatality or catastrophe, to order publications,
to file a confidential complaint, or to request
Employers should train workers on the following OSHAs free on-site consultation service, contact
safety factors: your nearest OSHA office, visit www.osha.gov,
or call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742), TTY
The shape and structure of the building to
1-877-889-5627.
bescaffolded.
Worker Rights File a complaint asking OSHA to inspect their
Workers have the right to: workplace if they believe there is a serious hazard
or that their employer is not following OSHAs
Working conditions that do not pose a risk of rules. OSHA will keep all identities confidential.
serious harm. Exercise their rights under the law without
Receive information and training (in a retaliation, including reporting an injury
language and vocabulary the worker or raising health and safety concerns with
understands) about workplace hazards, their employer or OSHA. If a worker has
methods to prevent them, and the OSHA been retaliated against for using their rights,
standards that apply to their workplace. theymust file a complaint with OSHA as soon
Review records of work-related injuries and as possible, but no later than 30 days.
illnesses.
For more information, see OSHAs Workers page.

This is one in a series of informational fact sheets highlighting OSHA programs, policies or standards.
It does not impose any new compliance requirements. For a comprehensive list of compliance
requirements of OSHA standards or regulations, refer to Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Thisinformation will be made available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. The voice phone
is(202) 693-1999; teletypewriter (TTY) number: 1-877-889-5627.

DOC FS-3759 11/2014