1926.451(e)(6)(vi): Rung Spacing on Scaffold End Frames
Scaffold end frames used as ladders must have a maximum spacing between rungs of 16 3/4 inches (43 cm). Uneven spacing from joining end frames is allowed if it does not exceed 16 3/4 inches (43 cm).
Key takeaways
- 1926.451(e)(6)(vi) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart L).
- OSHA cited it 2 times in the last 3 years, in 2 inspections, with $3,972 in current penalties.
- 1 death is linked to inspections that cited this rule.
- Related part: 1926.451(e) Access (924 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.451(e)(6)(vi) is one requirement inside 1926.451 General requirements, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart L). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(vi) Have a maximum spacing between rungs of 163⁄4 inches (43 cm). Non-uniform rung spacing caused by joining end frames together is allowed, provided the resulting spacing does not exceed 163⁄4 inches (43 cm). 2 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.451.
Injuries linked to this rule
1 death is linked to inspections where OSHA cited 1926.451(e)(6)(vi).
At 8:11 a.m. on August 17, 2024, Employee #1 was erecting the 6th level of a scaffold when a frame member of the scaffold came into contact with an energizedoverhead power line. The employee suffered an electrical shock and subsequently fell approximately 30 feet to…
Where and how often it was cited
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.451(e)(6)(vi), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
- Compliance of Non-Stop base tower and extension frames with scaffold access requirements. (2003-01-23)
- Non-Stop Scaffolding Inc.'s scaffold towers do not comply with OSHA's integral prefabricated scaffold access frame or ladder/stairway type access requirements. (2002-03-14)
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.451(e) Access 924 citations
- 1926.451(e)(1) 792 citations
- 1926.451(e)(9) 38 citations
- 1926.451(e)(8) 28 citations
- 1926.451(e)(5) 27 citations
- 1926.451(e)(5)(i) 24 citations
- 1926.451(e)(9)(iv) 23 citations
- 1926.451(e)(4) 16 citations
- 1926.451(e)(6) 11 citations
- 1926.451(e)(9)(i) 11 citations
- 1926.451(e)(2) 9 citations
- 1926.451(e)(6)(i) 7 citations
Get your crew competent
Trainers on Black Belt Safety: Marc Harvey, Dana Reyes
Trainers and suppliers: feature your business on this rule for $25/month.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum rung spacing?
16 3/4 inches (43 cm).
Is uneven spacing allowed?
Non-uniform spacing caused by joining end frames is allowed if it does not exceed 16 3/4 inches (43 cm).
What does this apply to?
Integral prefabricated scaffold access frames, as covered in 1926.451(e)(6).
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.451 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-19
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.