1926.452(c): Frame Scaffold Rules
When using fabricated frame (tubular welded frame) scaffolds, employers must keep the existing platform in place until new end frames are set and braced, brace frames so they stay plumb, level and square, secure all brace connections, and pin frames together vertically. Brackets for cantilevered loads must be seated correctly, not bent, and used only for personnel unless designed otherwise. Scaffolds over 125 feet above their base plates must be designed by a registered professional engineer.
Key takeaways
- 1926.452(c) is part of OSHA's construction standards (29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart L).
- OSHA cited it 193 times in the last 3 years, in 174 inspections, with $421,075 in current penalties.
- 2 deaths are linked to inspections that cited this rule.
- Most citations: VA (36), TN (25), FL (19).
- Related part: 1926.452(c)(2) (114 citations).
- Free 5-minute toolbox talk for your crew below.
In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1926.452(c) ("Fabricated frame scaffolds") is one requirement inside 1926.452 Additional requirements applicable to specific types of scaffolds, an OSHA construction standard (Part 1926, Subpart L). It includes 9 sub-paragraphs. 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
(c) Fabricated frame scaffolds (tubular welded frame scaffolds). 193 citations
(1) When moving platforms to the next level, the existing platform shall be left undisturbed until the new end frames have been set in place and braced prior to receiving the new platforms.
(2) Frames and panels shall be braced by cross, horizontal, or diagonal braces, or combination thereof, which secure vertical members together laterally. The cross braces shall be of such length as will automatically square and align vertical members so that the erected scaffold is always plumb, level, and square. All brace connections shall be secured. Open (c)(2) 114 citations
(3) Frames and panels shall be joined together vertically by coupling or stacking pins or equivalent means. Open (c)(3) 42 citations
(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. Open (c)(4) 25 citations
(5) Brackets used to support cantilevered loads shall: Open (c)(5) 12 citations
(i) Be seated with side-brackets parallel to the frames and end-brackets at 90 degrees to the frames;
(ii) Not be bent or twisted from these positions; and 2 citations
(iii) Be used only to support personnel, unless the scaffold has been designed for other loads by a qualified engineer and built to withstand the tipping forces caused by those other loads being placed on the bracket-supported section of the scaffold. 8 citations
(6) Scaffolds over 125 feet (38.0 m) in height above their base plates shall be designed by a registered professional engineer, and shall be constructed and loaded in accordance with such design. Open (c)(6)
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1926.452.
Injuries linked to this rule
2 deaths are linked to inspections where OSHA cited 1926.452(c).
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…
Full case list with employer, penalty, filters and download is part of OSHA Data (Purple Belt).
Unlock with Purple BeltWhere and how often it was cited
| Year | Citations |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 15 |
| 2024 | 56 |
| 2025 | 73 |
| 2026 | 49 |
Top states: VA (36), TN (25), FL (19), MI (17), MD (13)
Largest penalties
| Employer | Location | Penalty for this rule |
|---|---|---|
| MICHIGAN SYNTHETIC DESIGNS, INC. | DEARBORN, MI | $21,000 |
| THOMAS BUILDERS OF VIRGINIA, INC. | FOREST, VA | $14,270 |
| ARGEN CONTRACTING, INC. | PAPILLION, NE | $13,902 |
| ERICK NORMANDO MONTECINO | TOMBALL, TX | $11,916 |
| AF CONSTRUCTION, LLC. | BORDENTOWN, NJ | $11,916 |
Free toolbox talk
A 5-minute crew talk on 1926.452(c), plus alerts when this rule changes. Free.
OSHA interpretation letters
- Regarding scaffolds height measurement. (2015-10-19)
Related parts of this rule
- 1926.452(c)(2) 114 citations
- 1926.452(c)(3) 42 citations
- 1926.452(c)(4) 25 citations
- 1926.452(c)(5) 12 citations
- 1926.452(c)(6)
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Frequently asked questions
When must a frame scaffold be designed by an engineer?
Scaffolds over 125 feet in height above their base plates shall be designed by a registered professional engineer.
How must frames be braced?
By cross, horizontal or diagonal braces, or a combination, with all brace connections secured.
What may side brackets support?
Only personnel, unless the scaffold was designed for other loads by a qualified engineer and built to withstand the tipping forces.
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.