According to OSHA, how frequently must scaffolds be inspected by a competent person?
Correct Answer
D) Before initial use and after any occurrence that could affect structural integrity
OSHA 1926.451(f)(3) requires scaffold inspection by a competent person before initial use and after any occurrence that could affect the scaffold's structural integrity.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3) specifies that a competent person must inspect scaffolds and scaffold components before initial use and after any event that could affect structural integrity (e.g., severe weather, being struck by equipment). This two-part trigger — initial use AND event-based — is the precise regulatory language.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Monthly and after severe weather conditions
Monthly inspection is not the OSHA standard. Monthly intervals could allow unsafe conditions to persist for weeks after a damaging event, which is inconsistent with OSHA's hazard-prevention mandate.
Option B: Daily before each work shift
Daily inspection before each shift is a common misconception — it applies to personal protective equipment and some other items, but OSHA's scaffold regulation does not require a daily pre-shift inspection by a competent person. This distractor sounds rigorous but overstates the requirement.
Option C: Weekly and after any occurrence that could affect structural integrity
Weekly inspection with an event-triggered inspection is closer to correct but still wrong. OSHA does not require a standing weekly inspection — only the initial inspection and event-triggered re-inspection are mandated.
Memory Technique
Remember the two B's: 'Before you Begin' (initial use) and 'Before you go Back' (after anything structural happens). Both triggers = competent person inspection.
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