About
This construction safety toolbox talk explains how improper setup or use of scaffolds can lead to serious injuries or deaths. It shares a real incident involving a fatal fall and provides clear, practical steps workers and supervisors can take to prevent scaffold-related falls on the job. The back side of the talk has an illustration of the hazard and solution, and reminders of key steps to avoid an injury.
Others in this series
Suggested Citation
NIOSH, CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training [2026]. Prevent Falls: Scaffolds Toolbox Talk. By Pfirman D, Cunningham TR, Bunting, J, Cincinnati, OH: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2026-111.
Sources
OSHA [1996]. 29 CFR 1926.451 General requirements. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926.451.
OSHA [2012]. 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L App A Scaffold specifications. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926SubpartLAppA.
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