The "Green Tag" and the Competent Person

Welcome back, let’s Build Smart & Build Safe! A scaffold is not a static piece of furniture; it is a dynamic structure that changes as it is built, used, and exposed to the elements. Some treat a scaffold as "safe" simply because it is standing, but OSHA requires a rigorous inspection protocol to ensure structural integrity is maintained. The primary tool for this is the scaffold tag and the authority of the Competent Person.

The Role of the Competent Person

Under OSHA 1926.450(b), a Competent Person is not just someone with experience; they are specifically designated by the employer to have the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate hazards.

• Mandatory Inspections: The Competent Person must inspect the scaffold for visible defects before each work shift and after any event that could affect structural integrity (such as high winds, a heavy storm, a change in configuration or a minor equipment strike).

• Supervision: Only a Competent Person can oversee the erecting, moving, dismantling, or alteration of a scaffold. If a brace needs to be moved to get a pallet of stone in, a laborer cannot simply "pop it off"—the Competent Person must approve and supervise the change.

The Universal Tagging System

While not explicitly mandated by federal OSHA, the "Green, Yellow, & Red" tagging system is the industry standard for communicating the status of a scaffold.

• Green Tag: The scaffold has been inspected and meets all safety requirements. It is ready for use.

• Yellow Tag: The scaffold has been modified to meet specific work requirements (e.g., a guardrail had to be removed for loading) and requires supplemental fall protection (harnesses) to be used. The tag will list these specific requirements.

• Red Tag: The scaffold is unsafe or under construction. No one is permitted on a red-tagged scaffold except the erection crew.

• No Tag = Red Tag: If you arrive at a scaffold and the tag is missing, illegible, or expired, treat it as a Red Tag. Do not climb until it is re-inspected.

What the Inspection Covers

When the Competent Person signs that Green Tag, they are verifying several critical points:

1. Plumb and Level: The structure hasn't shifted or tilted since the last shift.

2. Connections: All pins, clamps, and braces are locked and secure.

3. Environmental Hazards: There is no ice, grease, or debris on the work platforms that could cause a slip.

4. Work Platorms & Handrails: All work boards and handrails are present and in good order. No gaps between work boards.

Implementation: The Morning Tag Check

Before you put a foot on the ladder this morning:

1. Find the Tag: It is usually located at the primary access point or ladder.

2. Check the Date: Has it been signed for today's shift? An inspection from yesterday does not cover today's hazards.

3. Read the Notes: Especially on a Yellow Tag, ensure you have the specific equipment required to work on that platform.

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-The Safety Man