1926.452(a)(4): Diagonal Bracing on Pole Scaffolds
Employers must install diagonal bracing in both directions across the entire outside face of all double-pole and single-pole scaffolds.
Key takeaways
- 1926.452(a)(4) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart L).
- OSHA cited it 19 times in the last 3 years, in 19 inspections, with $24,067 in current penalties.
- Most citations: TX (7), NC (4), VA (2).
- Related part: 1926.452(a) Pole scaffolds (34 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.452(a)(4) is one requirement inside 1926.452 Additional requirements applicable to specific types of scaffolds, 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
(4) Diagonal bracing in both directions shall be installed across the entire outside face of all double- and single-pole scaffolds. 19 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.452.
Where and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 1 |
| 2024 | 9 |
| 2025 | 3 |
| 2026 | 6 |
Top states: TX (7), NC (4), VA (2), HI (1), AR (1)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| PARAGON CORP. | SAIPAN, MP | $4,967 |
| 160347 - PAKO RENOVATION LLC | CLEMMONS, NC | $4,965 |
| JM FIERRO CONSTRUCTION, LLC | SAGINAW, TX | $3,465 |
| CRAIG ANDRUS CONSTRUCTION | SALT LAKE CITY, UT | $2,800 |
| NOE GARCIA | CROWLEY, TX | $2,270 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.452(a)(4), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1926.452(a)(4).
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.452(a) Pole scaffolds 34 citations
Get your crew competent
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Frequently asked questions
Do pole scaffolds need diagonal bracing?
Yes. All double-pole and single-pole scaffolds need diagonal bracing in both directions.
Where does the bracing go?
Across the entire outside face of the scaffold.
Is bracing in one direction enough?
No. The rule requires diagonal bracing in both directions.
About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1926.452 (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.