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Revised
09/01/05
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Scaffolding Frequently Asked Questions
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Question 6:
What is the
difference between the "competent person" and the "qualified" person?
Answer 6:
The standard
defines a "competent person" as one who is capable of identifying existing and
predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are
unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to
take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them. The standard defines a
"qualified" person as one who, by possession of a recognized degree,
certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge,
training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated his/her ability to
solve or resolve problems related to the subject matter, the work, or the
project.
Question 7:
What are the
duties of the competent person?
Answer 7:
The standard
requires a competent person to perform the following duties under these
circumstances:
In General:
To select and direct employees who erect, dismantle, move, or alter scaffolds.
To determine if it is safe for employees to work on or from a scaffold during
storms or high winds and to ensure that a personal fall arrest system or wind
screens protect these employees. (Note: Windscreens should not be used unless
the scaffold is secured against the anticipated wind forces imposed.)
For Training:
To train employees involved in erecting, disassembling, moving, operating,
repairing, maintaining, or inspecting scaffolds to recognize associated work
hazards.
For Inspections:
To inspect scaffolds and scaffold components for visible defects before each
work shift and after any occurrence which could affect the corrective actions.
To inspect ropes on suspended scaffolds prior to each workshift and after
every occurrence which could affect the structural integrity and to authorize
prompt corrective actions.
To inspect manila or plastic (or other synthetic) rope being used for toprails
or midrails.
For Suspension Scaffolds:
To evaluate direct connections to support the load.
To evaluate the need to secure two-point and multi-point scaffolds to prevent
swaying.
For Erectors and Dismantlers:
To determine the feasibility and safety of providing fall protection and
access.
To train erectors and dismantlers (effective September 2, 1997) to recognize
associated work hazards.
For Scaffold Components:
To determine if a scaffold will be structurally sound when intermixing
components from different manufacturers.
To determine if galvanic action has affected the capacity when using
components of dissimilar metals.
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Region
IV