Scaffolds, Stairways, and Ladders
Scaffolds
Scaffolds must be designed and erected under the supervision of a competent person, support four times the maximum intended load, be fully planked, and have guardrails, midrails, and toe boards. Fall protection is required at 10 feet. Use base plates and mud sills on firm footing; tie, guy, or brace to keep the height-to-base ratio from exceeding about 4:1; access by ladder, ramp, or stairway - never by climbing cross braces. Scaffolds stay at least 10 feet from power lines up to 50 kV. Do not move a rolling scaffold with workers aboard unless it is designed for that and the surface is clear.
Ladders
Set at a 4:1 angle - one foot out for every four feet up - extend 3 feet above the landing, and secure the ladder. Face the ladder, maintain three points of contact, keep loads light, and never use the top cap or top step of a stepladder as a step. Inspect before use and remove defective ladders from service. Never use a metal ladder near electricity.
Stairways
Stairways with four or more risers, or rising more than 30 inches, need at least one handrail and a stairrail on each unprotected side. Keep treads clear and provide adequate lighting.
Traps
The 4:1 ladder angle and the 4:1 scaffold height-to-base rule are different rules that share a number - read what is actually being asked. Ten feet, not six, is the scaffold fall protection trigger.
Rule of thumb: four up, one out for ladders; three feet over the landing.