Scaffolds follow 454 CMR 17 (MA OSHA-equivalent) and federal OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451. Permits and sidewalk protection are required in most cities and towns.
Scaffold work in Middlesex County is governed by 454 CMR 17 from the Massachusetts Department of Labor Standards and, for private employers, federal OSHA standards at 29 CFR 1926.451. Riggers and scaffold erectors must be trained and, for suspended systems over certain heights, licensed. Local building departments in Cambridge, Somerville, Lowell, Newton, and other cities require sidewalk sheds, pedestrian protection, and street occupancy permits under the MA State Building Code 780 CMR Chapter 33. Fall protection is required at 6 feet for construction. Loading of material on scaffolds must comply with rated capacity documents kept on site.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Middlesex County's scaffold & sidewalk shed rules stack up against other locations.
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