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All courses are now available in United States English and España Español. After purchase, use the language toggle in your course Player to switch between English and Spanish at any time.

OSHA Competent Person for Swing Stage (Suspended) Scaffold Training

  • In accordance with Federal OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L for Scaffolds
  • Equips Competent Persons to recognize hazards and implement effective controls for swing stage scaffolds
  • Available in: United States English | España Español
  • Compatible with multiple devices, enabling learning on desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone
  • Immediate training certificate available after successful course completion
  • Available in flexible formats: SCORM package, online modules, live virtual sessions, or classroom training
CEU:
0.6
Starting from
$159.99/Seat
6 Hour(s) Course
$159.99
$159.99
Bulk Buying
Employee
Per Seat
2-10
$158.39
11-20
$156.79
21-50
$155.19
51-100
$151.99
101-250
$148.79
Employee Per Seat
2-10 $158.39
11-20 $156.79
21-50 $155.19
51-100 $151.99
101-250 $148.79
Daniel Ortiz
Foreman
This course provided me with a clear explanation of swing stage scaffolds. The component breakdown, uses, and OSHA requirements made complex information easy to understand.
Sharon Lee
Safety Coordinator
I appreciated the thorough explanation of scaffold hazards. It assisted me in identifying fall, rigging, and weather hazards better on the job site. I now have the confidence to avoid accidents before they occur.
Robert Hill
Competent Person
The fall protection module was great. Learning about anchorage points, lifelines, and rope grabs provided me with hands-on knowledge that I can apply daily on swing stage setups.
James Walker
Construction Lead
The rigging and rooftop installation section for suspended scaffolds was very comprehensive. Understanding tiebacks, counterweights, and termination systems provided me with the expertise to inspect rigging correctly and guarantee safe operations.
Sophia Chen
Job Site Safety Manager
The rescue and emergency procedures were very well explained. The course demonstrated how to respond quickly to suspension trauma or a fall, which is helpful for my position.

Course Facts

What You Get
What You Get
Certificate of Completion
Training Duration
Training Duration
6 Hour(s)
Learning Type
Learning Type
100% online, available 24/7
Course Access Validity
Course Access Validity
3-month completion timeline, 1-year access to training materials.
Device Support
Device Support
Apple
Android
Windows
Web
Certificate Validity
Certificate Validity
24 months, before a refresher is required.

Suspended scaffolds or swing stage scaffolds are critical for installation, maintenance, and construction work at heights. Although they offer access to elevated working surfaces in relative safety, they pose significant hazards like falls, rigging failure, and structural collapse when not properly installed or ineffectively inspected and/or maintained. These risks are brought to light by the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), annually released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which reports that 52 workers were killed in the year 2020 due to fatal falls to lower levels that involved both swing stage and supported scaffolding. All these cases may have been avoided if workers had followed OSHA scaffold standards and had a Competent Person who exercised effective control.

This OSHA Competent Person for Swing Stage Scaffold Training complies with OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L. This training is intended to empower supervisors and Competent Persons with the ability and authority to identify hazards, perform inspections, and provide daily safe operations on suspended scaffolds.

Why Choose our Swing Stage Competent Person Training?

  • Directed towards OSHA-compliant duties of Competent Person for suspended scaffolding.
  • Crafted by industry professionals with hands-on experience in swing stage scaffolding, inspection, and safety
  • Includes comprehensive training on hazard identification, swing stage scaffold rigging, fall protection, and load calculations.
  • Structured to enhance both technical expertise and on-site decision-making power for suspended scaffold safety.

What You'll Learn

  • How to identify various categories of suspended scaffolds.
  • Methods for assessing weather, site conditions, and structural elements that influence suspended scaffold stability.
  • Techniques for maintaining compliance through daily inspections, documentation, and corrective measures.
  • Methods for safely integrating hoists, tiebacks, and counterweights when installing swing stage scaffolds.

Who Should Enroll?

  • Individuals who are appointed as Competent Persons in charge of supervising swing stage scaffold erection and use.
  • Employees charged with checking scaffolds, confirming rigging and tiebacks are correctly installed, and confirming compliance with OSHA Standards on a work site .
  • Safety officers, site supervisors, project managers, and foremen in charge of work at heights on suspended scaffolds.
  • Employees who want advanced training on scaffold types, load calculations, fall protection, and emergency procedures to improve site safety.

This Suspended Scaffold Competent Person Training course will equip workers with the information and authority required to oversee suspended scaffold operations according to OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L. Upon completion of this scaffolding certificate training, learners will become trained scaffolders ready to implement safety procedures to reduce scaffolding accidents and fulfill OSHA's Competent Person requirements for suspended scaffolds.

Course Objectives

After completing the course, the learner will be able to:
  • Understand swing stage (suspended) scaffolds and describe its essential components.
  • Comprehend OSHA regulations 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L that govern suspended scaffolds.
  • Describe the role of a Competent Person for scaffold operations.
  • List common hazards involved in swing stage operations, such as falls, electrical shock, and struck-by hazards.
  • Use correct procedures for the erection of suspended scaffolds.
  • Assess platform design, hoist location, and load sharing to ensure stability and avoid collapse.
  • Perform complete daily inspections of suspended scaffolds, ropes, hoists, and anchorages.
  • Identify faulty or damaged components and take corrective action in a timely manner.
  • Choose, examine, and handle personal protective equipment needed for swing stage scaffold operations.
  • Demonstrate proper use of fall protection equipment when working on swing stage scaffolding.
  • Use safe procedures for working near electrical systems and follow OSHA-specified clearance distances.
  • Train employees in safe knot, rope, and wire rope termination usage for swing stage applications.
  • Create and manage emergency action plans, such as suspension trauma prevention, as well as plan rescue methods.
  • Exercise authority as a Competent Person to interrupt hazardous operations when using swing stage scaffolds, and ensure compliance with regulations at worksites.

OSHA Competent Person for Swing Stage Scaffold Course Syllabus

This Competent Person Scaffolding training course consists of 19 lessons divided into 6 modules. Students are required to complete each lesson in the sequence listed below.

Course Content
Lessons

Introduction

Module 1: Overview of Swing Stage Scaffolding


This module provides an overview of swing stage scaffolds. Students will learn what swing stage scaffolding is, what it is used for, its main components, and OSHA's regulations applicable to swing stages. Hazards and electrical hazards that impact scaffold safety are covered.

  • Lesson 1: Introduction to Swing Stage Scaffolding
    • Introduces what swing stages are;
    • Explores the components of swing stages;
    • Differentiates between traditional scaffolding and swing stage scaffolding;
    • Discusses the advantages and safety considerations for swing stages; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 2: Regulatory Overview
    • Discusses OSHA standards pertaining to swing stage scaffolding;
    • Explores 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L for scaffolds;
    • Addresses 29 CFR 1926 Subpart M for fall protection; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 3: Hazards Associated with Suspended Scaffolds
    • Explains debris, tools, and materials hazards;
    • Discusses the lack of fall protection;
    • Addresses improper scaffold assembly and scaffold damage;
    • Interprets inadequate weather conditions and lack of access control;
    • Analyzes inadequate anchorage of lifelines and improper hoist operation;
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 4: Electrical Hazards and Power Line Safety
    • Examines the types of electrical hazards on swing stages;
    • Discusses contact with overhead powerlines, damaged electrical wiring, and the use of power tools;
    • Describes preventive safety measures against electrical hazards;
    • Reviews safe work practices for electrical hazard control; and
    • Lesson quiz.

Module 2: Suspended Scaffold Types and Competent Person Responsibilities


This module introduces the different types of suspended scaffolds and explains the use of suspended scaffolds. Learners will also understand the legal responsibilities and authority of the competent person in scaffold operations.

  • Lesson 5: Types of Suspended Scaffolds
    • Examines the different types of suspended scaffolds;
    • Elaborates catenary, float (ship), and interior hung suspension scaffolds;
    • Discusses multi-level, multi-point adjustable, and needle beam scaffolds;
    • Describes single-point adjustable scaffolds and swing stage scaffolds; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 6: Suspended Scaffolds Usage
    • Discusses the role of swing stage scaffolds in building maintenance and cleaning;
    • Addresses suspended scaffold use in construction and repair;
    • Interprets the role of suspended scaffolds for industrial applications and inspection work;
    • Examines different case studies related to swing stages; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 7: Competent Person Responsibilities
    • Differentiates between the Competent Person and Qualified Person;
    • Describes the role of the Competent Person in daily inspections;
    • Covers the role of the Competent Person in worker training, hazard identification, and emergency preparedness;
    • Explains how the Competent Person ensures OSHA compliance; and
    • Lesson quiz.

Module 3: Personal Protective Equipment and Fall Protection


In this module, participants will learn safety precautions needed when working on suspended scaffolds. Students will learn about OSHA standards for PPE, fall arrest systems, anchorage, lifelines, rope grabs, and connectors to ensure the utmost worker protection at height.

  • Lesson 8: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
    • Discusses protective clothing required for working safely on swing stages;
    • Covers head protection, eye and face protection, and hearing protection;
    • Addresses foot and leg protection required for safety;
    • Examines the PPE inspection and maintenance program; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 9: Fall Arrest Systems
    • Describes fall protection for swing stages;
    • Covers Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS) and body harness;
    • Discusses lanyards, shock absorbers, and deceleration devices;
    • Considers guardrail systems for swing stages; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 10: Anchorage and Lifeline Systems
    • Reviews the importance of anchorage and lifeline systems;
    • Clarifies the types of anchorages and their installation;
    • Covers the types of lifelines;
    • Addresses the best practices for anchorage and lifeline safety; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 11: Rope Grabs and Connectors
    • Explains rope grabs and their types;
    • Describes the installation and positioning of rope grabs, and their limitations;
    • Defines connectors and their types;
    • Discusses the hazards associated with connectors and the role of the Competent Person; and
    • Lesson quiz.

Module 4: Scaffold Erection and Inspection


This module covers safe erection and inspection procedures for suspended scaffolds. Students will be trained in how to safely erect scaffolds, install tiebacks and anchors, and conduct daily inspections to ensure compliance and avoid accidents.

  • Lesson 12: Criteria for Erecting Swing Stage Scaffolds
    • Discusses the factors to consider for safe scaffold construction;
    • Covers the structural assessment of the suspended scaffolds;
    • Addresses capacity requirements for suspension scaffolds;
    • Describes outrigger beams, counterweights, and tie backs, and their safety considerations;
    • Describes outrigger beams, counterweights, and tie backs, and their safety considerations;
    • Addresses the use of wire rope clips;
    • Considers swing stage scaffold welding precautions; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 13: Criteria for Inspecting Swing Stage Scaffolds
    • Covers the importance of inspections for swing stages;
    • Addresses the inspection of anchorage components;
    • Considers the support system examination;
    • Covers outrigger beams, suspension ropes, and hoists inspections; and
    • Lesson quiz.

Module 5: Rigging, Ropes, and Load Calculations


This module enhances an in-depth understanding of hoisting systems, rigging requirements, ropes, knots, and wire rope ends. Students will also learn how to compute loads and stabilize the platform.

  • Lesson 14: Hoisting and Platform Systems
    • Addresses the types of hoists used in swing stage scaffolding;
    • Discusses the platform systems;
    • Considers how stall load affects hoist performance;
    • Differentiates between rated load and working load;
    • Describes power supply for hoisting systems; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 15: Rigging and Rooftop Setup
    • Covers rooftop hazards and safety factors;
    • Considers inspection of rigging and rooftop setup;
    • Explores emergency considerations for rigging setup; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 16: Ropes and Knots
    • Explains the types of ropes;
    • Addresses the rope strength and maintenance;
    • Covers the types of knots;
    • Explores the types of hitches and the use of scaffold hitches; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 17: Wire Rope Terminations
    • Discusses wire rope and wire rope tip preparation;
    • Covers wire rope terminations, their types, and safety verification;
    • Defines shackles and their types; and
    • Lesson quiz.
  • Lesson 18: Load Calculations
    • Explains counterweight calculations;
    • Covers how to calculate the load on a suspended scaffolding hoist;
    • Examines maximum intended loads and capacity reducing factors;
    • Reviews the effect of sling angles on swing stage rigging;
    • Addresses the hoist/platform compatibility; and
    • Lesson quiz

Module 6: Emergency and Rescue Procedures


This module teaches how to deal with swing stage scaffold emergencies. Students will learn suspension trauma prevention, self-rescue and assisted rescue methods, and OSHA emergency action planning requirements.

  • Lesson 19: Emergency and Rescue Procedures
    • Examines the employers' and workers' responsibilities for dealing with swing stage emergencies;
    • Covers the types of rescue techniques;
    • Addresses suspension trauma and the importance of harness relief straps;
    • Reviews medical response considerations; and
    • Lesson quiz.

Final Examination

Frequently Asked Questions

Our courses are structured to take a specific duration for completion. However, some learners might complete this online training course faster than others. This course will take around 6 hours to complete.

According to OSHA standards 29 CFR 1926.450(b) and 1926.32(f), a Competent Person is an individual who has the knowledge and ability to recognize existing and potential hazards in the workplace that may endanger employees, and who also has the authority to take immediate corrective action to remove those hazards.

This Scaffold Competent Person Training is important because it:

  • Guarantees Competent Persons are able to spot swing stage scaffold hazards and monitor safe scaffold use.
  • Decreases the likelihood of accidents from scaffolds, falls, and structural collapse while adhering to OSHA scaffold standards.
  • Offers information on handling swing stage emergencies and applying rescue procedures.
  • Empowers participants with the knowledge to enforce safety protocols, inspect, and ensure compliance on site.

There are no prerequisites for this course.

  • Foremen and supervisors who are in charge of swing stage scaffold operations.
  • Safety officers and site managers who are in charge of work at height.
  • People who are appointed as Competent Persons to erect, use and inspect swing stage scaffolds.
  • Riggers, inspectors, and workers who daily operate suspended scaffolds.
  • Project managers who want to ensure OSHA scaffold regulations are being complied with.
  • Completely compliant with OSHA standards under 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L for scaffolds. 
  • Addresses key areas including scaffold erection, hazard identification, fall protection, rigging, and load calculations. 
  • Developed by experienced professionals with hands-on knowledge of suspended scaffold safety. 
  • Certificate of completion issued upon successful completion of the course, confirming OSHA competency.
  • Available in several formats, including online, virtual instructor-led, SCORM package, and classroom training.

There is no set period for updating Swing Stage Certification Training under OSHA regulations. Industry best practices suggest refresher training every two to three years at a minimum, to maintain updated knowledge.

Employers must retrain scaffold workers and Competent Persons in the following instances:

  • Prior to an employee starting work that includes swing stage scaffolds.
  • Whenever there is a change in an employee's responsibilities while working on suspended scaffolds.
  • When there is a modification of scaffold equipment, design, or operations that creates new hazards.
  • Whenever there is an indication that employees or Competent Persons are not properly adhering to scaffold safety procedures.

This course meets and exceeds the compliance requirements outlined in OSHA Scaffold Standards for the Construction Industry, 29 CFR Subpart L, specifically focused on 29 CFR 1926.451, 29 CFR 1926.452, and 29 CFR 1926.454.

Certificate of Completion: Immediately after passing the final exam, you can download, save, or print your Suspended Scaffold Competent Person certificate in PDF format.

Validity: This OSHA scaffolding certification is valid for two (2) years.

Renewal: Competent Persons must renew or retake the course every two years to maintain compliance and stay up-to-date with current best practices.

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