1926.452(c)(4): Pinning Scaffold Frames Against Uplift
Where uplift can occur that would displace fabricated frame scaffold end frames or panels, employers must lock the frames or panels together vertically by pins or equivalent means.
Key takeaways
- 1926.452(c)(4) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart L).
- OSHA cited it 25 times in the last 3 years, in 25 inspections, with $46,981 in current penalties.
- Most citations: MD (6), VA (4), MA (3).
- Related part: 1926.452(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds (193 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.452(c)(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) Where uplift can occur which would displace scaffold end frames or panels, the frames or panels shall be locked together vertically by pins or equivalent means. 25 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 | 2 |
| 2024 | 6 |
| 2025 | 9 |
| 2026 | 8 |
Top states: MD (6), VA (4), MA (3), IN (2), TN (2)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| BEST BID, INC. | MADISON HEIGHTS, VA | $6,885 |
| AB SCAFFOLDING, INC | BOSTON, MA | $5,958 |
| PERFECTION MASONRY, INC. | MAIZE, KS | $4,966 |
| DIAS RESTORATION, INC | BOSTON, MA | $4,965 |
| MID-ATLANTIC MASONRY, INC. | GLEN BURNIE, MD | $4,900 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.452(c)(4), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
None exist. OSHA has not published a letter of interpretation for 1926.452(c)(4).
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.452(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds 193 citations
- 1926.452(c)(2) 114 citations
- 1926.452(c)(3) 42 citations
- 1926.452(c)(5) 12 citations
- 1926.452(c)(6)
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
When must scaffold frames be pinned?
Where uplift can occur which would displace end frames or panels.
What can be used besides pins?
Equivalent means of locking frames together vertically.
Who is responsible?
The employer.
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.