San Bernardino County, CA Building Safety: Scaffold & Sidewalk Shed (2026)

Scaffold construction and use in San Bernardino County are regulated by California Labor Code sections 7150 through 7157 and Title 8 California Code of Regulations sections 1635 through 1662, enforced by Cal/OSHA. Scaffolds must be designed to support at least 4 times the maximum intended load and constructed under the supervision of a competent person. Fall protection in the form of guardrails, personal fall arrest systems, or safety nets is required when working more than 7.5 ft above lower levels. Scaffolds over 125 ft in height require design by a registered professional engineer. Planking must be scaffold-grade lumber or engineered components with specific load ratings. Access must be provided by ladders, ramps, or stairway towers, and climbing cross-bracing is prohibited. Inspection is required before each shift and after any modification, weather event, or impact. Training of scaffold erectors, dismantlers, and users is mandatory under Title 8 CCR 1637. Suspended scaffolds (swing stages) used on high-rises in San Bernardino County require rigging inspections and specific rescue plans. Cal/OSHA citations for scaffold violations can result in penalties up to $15,873 per serious violation and work stoppage orders.