Chapter 33 of Title 1 of the New York City Rules mandates that individuals who operate or work with suspended scaffolds in New York City complete 16 hours of training delivered by a Department of Buildings-approved provider. This certification must be renewed every four years to maintain compliance.
Topics Covered in This Course:
- Introduction to Suspended Scaffolds: Suspended Scaffold Accidents
- Review of OSHA 29 CFR 1926:
- Subpart “L” – Scaffolds
- Subpart “M” – Fall Protection
Subpart “P” – Personal Protective Equipment
- NYC Dept. of Buildings & Construction Codes:
- BC 3301 – General
- BC 3314 – Scaffolds
- BC 3307 – Protection of Pedestrians
- Principles of Fall Protection
- Personal Fall Arrest Systems
- Suspended Scaffold Hardware, Inspection & Use:
- Inspection
Rejection Criteria for Hardware & Components
- Safe Use of Tools
- Platforms
- Anchor Points, Tie Backs, Parapet Hooks
- Procedures for Suspended Scaffold Planning, Erection & Removal
- Basic Ropes, Knots & Hitch Configurations
- Lifelines
- Emergency Situations & Preparedness Procedures
Learning will occur through classroom lectures, detailed presentations, and practical hands-on demonstrations utilizing both scale models and full-size suspended scaffold equipment.
Certification Requirements:
To earn your certificate of completion, you must:
- Attend every single hour of the full 16-hour course
- Actively participate in all learning activities and hands-on demonstrations
- Earn a passing score of 70 percent or higher on both the written and practical final exams
Important Note on Practical Examination:
The practical component of the final exam requires demonstrated proficiency in: tying basic knots, terminating wire rope connections, assembling block and tackle systems, and operating hoist motors safely.
Exam Failure and Retake Policy:
Students scoring below 70 percent on the written or practical exam may retake the entire 16-hour course and exam for a fee of 150 dollars. Students who fail the exam are not eligible for refunds of their original course fee.