Ladder Jack Scaffold: A platform resting on brackets attached to ladders.Several OSHA standards apply to construction operations involving the use of ladder jack scaffolding, including: Which OSHA standards apply to Ladder Jack Scaffolds? Employers must ensure that workers involved in erecting, disassembling, moving, operating, repairing, maintaining, or inspecting scaffolding are trained by a person competent in hazard recognition.Employers must ensure that workers use ladders are trained by a person competent in fall hazards, fall protection systems, the maximum intended load-carrying capacity of ladders, and the proper construction, use, placement and care required when handling ladders.Employers must provide training for workers in hazard recognition, and procedures for controlling or minimizing hazards, when working on ladders and scaffolding.The training requirements of Subparts L – Scaffolds (§1926.454) and X – Stairways and Ladders (§1926.1060) apply to ladder jack scaffolding.The maximum span between supports is 8 feet.No more than two workers may occupy a platform at any one time.The maximum intended load for a ladder jack scaffold is 25 lb/ft 2.Up at the required angle, using the 4-to-1 Rule. Make sure that its length allows you to set it When choosing a straight or extension ladder, Each ladder jack scaffold platform must be at least 12 inches (30 cm) wide.(This practice often causes the center of the platform to overload.) Do not bridge scaffold platforms together.Do not use ladder jack scaffolding to support a platform higher than 20 feet (6.1m).Do not paint or plaster scaffold planks, and if paint or plaster is observed, promptly remove the plank from service.Two workers are recommended when installing planking onto jack bracket supports for scaffolding.Keep platforms clear for working activities.Workers should not use metal ladders near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.Workers should avoid electrical hazards and look for overhead power lines before handling ladders.Ladders must be secured or provided with slip-resistant feet when used on slippery surfaces.Keep ladders on stable and level surfaces, unless secured, to prevent accidental displacement.Avoid setting ladders up in high traffic areas or barricade areas near the base of the ladder.Keep the areas around the base of all ladders clear to prevent trip-and-fall hazards.

Extension ladders must not be separated to create two ladders.

Illustration courtesy of ACRO Building Systems, Inc.

If the scaffold system is defective, tag and promptly remove it from service.

Securely tighten the ladder jack’s wing nuts to prevent slippage during use.

Ensure that the bracket jack is adjusted so that it is parallel to the ground to create a level platform.

If bearing on rungs only, the bearing area must include a length of at least 10 inches (25.4 cm) on each rung.

The ladder jack must be designed and constructed so that it will bear on the side rails and ladder rungs or on the ladder rungs alone.

If using the side rail ladder jack, secure the upper round hooks and the lower brackets of the device onto the ladder’s side rails, then rest the brackets onto the rungs, and secure the platform gusset plate onto the adjustable notches at center.

If using a two- or three-rung bracket jack, ensure that the rectangular brackets are fitted securely onto the ladder rungs in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.

Do not use bent, cracked, damaged or substitute parts.

Verify that all parts are working and ensure that all nuts are tightened.

Inspect all scaffold components for damage.

Ladder jack scaffold