SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/osha-scaffold-competent-person-inspection

When must scaffolds and scaffold components be inspected for visible defects?

Before each work shift by a competent person.

Start playing free

  1. After each month
  2. Only after storms
  3. Before each work shift ✔

Why: 1926.451(f)(3) requires a competent person to inspect scaffolds before each shift and after any occurrence that could affect structural integrity.

Huh, didn't know that: A competent person must also inspect after anything happens that could affect the scaffold's structural integrity.

The dad joke
Why did the scaffold get inspected before every shift? It had a visible defect detector.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Before each work shift. 1926.451(f)(3) requires a competent person to inspect scaffolds before each shift and after any occurrence that could affect structural integrity.

  1. 29 CFR 1926.451(f)(3) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/29/1926.451
    Scaffolds and scaffold components shall be inspected for visible defects by a competent person before each work shift.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Safety & First AidOn a construction site, what height triggers fall protection for an unprotected side or edge?Safety & First AidHow high must a construction guardrail top edge be above the walking/working level?Safety & First AidHow much force must a construction guardrail top rail withstand at any point along the top edge?

That's stuff everyone should know.