A scaffold inspection reveals a loose guardrail and a missing toeboard. Work was scheduled to begin in 2 hours. What action should the general contractor take?
Correct Answer
B) Tag the scaffold as defective and prohibit use until repaired
Any defective scaffold must be immediately tagged and removed from service until all deficiencies are corrected. Worker safety cannot be compromised for schedule demands.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
OSHA regulations and Florida construction safety standards require that any scaffold with defects must be immediately tagged as defective and removed from service until all repairs are completed. A loose guardrail and missing toeboard are serious safety hazards that could result in falls and injuries. No work can proceed on defective scaffolding regardless of schedule pressures, as worker safety always takes precedence over project timelines. The general contractor has a legal and ethical obligation to ensure all scaffolding meets safety standards before allowing worker access.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Allow work to proceed with extra caution
Reducing the number of workers does not eliminate the safety hazards posed by the loose guardrail and missing toeboard. The scaffold defects must be corrected regardless of how many workers would be using it.
Option D: Require workers to use personal fall arrest systems
Allowing work to proceed with 'extra caution' on defective scaffolding violates OSHA standards and exposes workers to unnecessary fall hazards. No amount of caution can compensate for missing safety equipment like toeboards and loose guardrails.
Memory Technique
Use 'TAG IT' - When scaffold defects are found: Tag as defective, All work stops, Get repairs done, Inspect before use, Then work can resume.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 15 - Construction Safeguards, OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L - Scaffolds
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