Guidelines for Multi-Point

Suspended Scaffolds (MPSS)

Guidelines for Multi-Point

Suspended Scaffolds (MPSS)

Occupational Health and Safety Branch

Ministry of Labour

January 2006

An electronic copy of this publication is available on the Ministry of Labour website at

www.labour.gov.on.ca

A hardcopy of this publication can be ordered:

Online at www.serviceontario.ca/publications
By phone through the ServiceOntario Contact Centre
Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

416 326-5300

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Published January 2006

Queen's Printer for Ontario, 2006
ISBN 0-7794-9926-3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1

Introduction....................................................................................... Page 1

Section 2

Purpose of the Guideline................................................................... Page 2

Section 3

Definitions......................................................................................... Page 3

Section 4

Multi-Point Suspended Scaffolds (MPSS) Overview....................... Page 5

Sec. 4.1 - Platform Uses.................................................................. Page 5
Sec. 4.2 - Description of Major Components ................................. Page 5

Section 5

Design Requirements ........................................................................ Page 3

Sec. 5.1
Sec. 5.2
Sec. 5.3
Sec. 5.4

Section 6

Load Considerations ....................................................... Page 8

Methods for Designing MPSS ...................................... Page 11
Redundancy of the System Design ............................... Page 14
Other Design Considerations ........................................ Page 15

General Requirements .................................................................... Page 16

Sec. 6.1 - Engineering Drawing Requirments .............................. Page 16
Sec. 6.2 - Specific Duties: Professional Engineer,
Constructor, Employer, Worker and Supervisor .......... Page 17

Appendix A

Typical Components of MPSS........................................................ Page 22

1.

INTRODUCTION

The Regulations for Construction Projects (Ontario Regulation 213/91) were amended by
Ontario Regulation 85/04, which added specific requirements for the design, construction and
use of multi-point suspended scaffolds (MPSS) in subsections 142.1 to 142.8, along with the
definitions for multi-point suspended scaffold, safety factor, and traverse in subsection
1(1) These amendments came into effect October 1, 2004. Sections 137 to 142 of Ontario
Regulation 213/91 are no longer applicable to MPSS.
This guideline is intended to provide assistance to professional engineers, constructors,
employers, supervisors and workers with an overview of the design, construction and use of
multi-point suspended scaffolds.
The information contained in this guideline is not intended to be all-inclusive. The requirements
of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Regulations for Construction Projects (the
Regulation) must be complied with and should be referred to when using this guideline.

2.

PURPOSE OF THE GUIDELINE

The purpose of this guideline is to clarify the requirements for MPSSs in sections 142.1 to 142.8
of the Regulations for Construction Projects.
The guideline highlights the major components of an MPSS, design methods, design loads, load
factors and safety factors to be considered in the design, system redundancy, design drawings
and what they should include. Not withstanding the requirements made under the Occupational
Health and Safety Act, the guideline explains the sections of the regulations for MPSS that deal
with the responsibilities of the professional engineer and responsibilities of the constructor,
employer, supervisor and worker.
In designing an MPSS, a professional engineer must ensure that the minimum design criteria set
out in the Regulations are met when following other applicable codes and standards.

3.

DEFINITIONS

3.1

TERMS DEFINED IN SUBSECTION 1(1) OF THE ACT AND SUBSECTION 1(1)

OF THE REGULATION
The following definitions have been extracted from section 1(1) of the Occupational
Health and Safety Act, 1990 and Section 1(1) of the Regulations for Construction
Projects and are provided below for reference in this guideline:
multi-point suspended scaffold (MPSS), means a suspended scaffold or
suspended work platform or a system of suspended scaffolds or suspended work
platforms, each scaffold or platform being more than 750 millimetres in width,
that is supported from an overhead support system by at least three primary
load- carrying means of suspension to maintain the systems stability.
Building Code, means Ontario Regulation 403/97 made under the Building
Code Act, 1992.
competent person, means a person who,
(a)

is qualified because of knowledge, training and experience to

organize the work and its performance,

(b)

is familiar with the Act and the regulations that apply to the work,
and

(c)

has knowledge of any potential or actual danger to health or safety in

the workplace;

competent worker, in relation to specific work, means a worker who,

(a)

is qualified because of knowledge, training and experience to

perform the work,

(b)

is familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and with the
provisions of the regulations that apply to the work,

(c)

has knowledge of all potential or actual danger to health or safety in

the work;

constructor, means a person who undertakes a project for an owner and

includes an owner who undertakes all or part of a project by himself or by more
than one employer;

employer, means a person who employs one or more workers or contracts for
the services of one or more workers and includes a contractor or subcontractor
who performs work or supplies services and a contractor or subcontractor who
undertakes with an owner, constructor, contractor or subcontractor to perform
work or supply services;
professional engineer, means a person who is a professional engineer within
the meaning of the Professional Engineers Act;
safety factor, means the ratio of the failure load to the specified load or rated
load;
traverse, when used in relation to a multi-point suspended scaffold, means to
move the scaffold horizontally, in a controlled manner along the building or
structure to which it is attached;
worker, means a person who performs work or supplies services for monetary
compensation but does not include an inmate of a correctional institution or like
institution or facility who participates inside the institution or facility in a work
project or rehabilitation program.

4.

MULTI-POINT SUSPENDED SCAFFOLDS (MPSS) OVERVIEW

4.1

USE OF MPSS
Multi-point suspended scaffolds are suspended from a permanent building or structure
and are used as a work platform for a variety of tasks on construction projects and
industrial workplaces. Multi-point suspended scaffolds vary in size and capacity
depending on their application.They range from large area MPSS commonly used for
bridge repair and restoration work to small scaffolds used for access and inspection
applications. MPSS are also used for masonry work particularly in high-rise building
construction.
Multi-point suspended scaffold may be designed and constructed to move or traverse
horizontally, or move vertically along the structure from which they are suspended, or to
remain stationary.

4.2

DESCRIPTION OF MAJOR COMPONENTS OF AN MPSS

A Multi-Point Suspended Scaffold generally consist of the following major components:
(refer to sketch 1):

Platform assembly: the platform surface and structure, which may be one
level or multiple levels.

Suspension system: the suspension system includes wire ropes, chains and
cables, and the anchorage system. It also includes a hoisting mechanism: an
assembly that will allow the platform to be moved by mechanical means.

4.2.1 Platform Assembly

The platform consists of three main components:
1- The main supporting beams or trusses
2- The joists
3- The deck surface
The platform may be constructed of wood, steel or aluminium.

4.2.2 Suspension System

The suspension system contains the following:
1- Suspension assembly includes wire ropes, chains or cables and
rigging hardware to connect the platform to the overhead structure,
which is normally a permanent structure;
2- Hoisting mechanism, where the scaffold is to be raised or lowered;
and
3- Anchorage system, which includes outrigger beams, beam clamps,
cross tubes, trolley mechanism and other related hardware.

4.2.2.1 Suspension assembly

The suspension assemblies are the primary support system for
Multi-Point Suspended Scaffolds. The suspension system assembly
connects the platform structure to the overhead structure. The
suspension assembly consists of wire ropes, chains or cables.
Wire Ropes and Chains
The most common type of suspension system assembly is steel wire rope
or chains to support or suspend the platform from a permanent or
temporary structure. Threaded steel rods and steel tubes are also
commonly used. This type of assembly normally includes the wire rope
or chain, the appropriate rigging hardware, the stirrups or clamps used to
attach the wire rope or chain to the main support beams of the platform,
and the beam clamps or outrigger beams. The beam clamps and
outrigger beams are part of the anchorage system and are attached
directly to the permanent structure.

4.2.2.2 Hoisting Mechanism

A hoisting mechanism is connected to the suspension system when the
MPSS is designed to move vertically. The two main categories of hoists
are manually operated and power operated hoists.
Manually Operated Hoists
The most common hoists are traction type, which are used with a wire
ropes suspension system.
6

Power Operated Hoists

Power Hoists are operated by electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic power.
Most of these units use a motor driven sheave or drum assembly.

4.2.2.3 Anchorage System

The anchorage system for the MPSS includes the following:
Trolley and Rollers
Trolley and rollers are used when the platform is designed to traverse or
move horizontally. When the trolley mechanisms are attached to the
permanent structure, they are considered part of the anchorage system.
Trolley mechanisms are sometimes used at the platform level and as
such are considered part of the suspension assembly. The use of
movement-limiting devices would ensure that trolley movement is
controlled.
Outrigger Beams
Outrigger beams may be used as anchorage for an MPSS and are part of
the suspension system. They are generally supported on the permanent
structure and over hang the edge to provide an attachment for the wire
rope or chains of the suspension assembly.

5.

DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

Section 142.2(1) requires that a professional engineer design the MPSS. The professional
engineer must be licensed in Ontario and must have the necessary knowledge and experience to
design MPSSs and their components.
Note:
Subsection 142.2(14) requires that the constructor have the professional engineer, responsible for
the structural integrity of the permanent building or structure from which the scaffold is
suspended, provide a written report on the suitability of the supporting structure to support the
design loads imposed by the MPSS.
In order to do this, the MPSS design engineer must provide the loading information to the
engineer responsible for the permanent building or structure. The information should contain but
is not limited to the following:

5.1

The loading imparted by the MPSS, including wind loads on the MPSS, localized
loading caused by a failure in a suspension point, etc.

The fall arrest forces for workers on the platform

In the case of bridges, traffic movement, possibility of lane closures that may
cause imbalanced loading

Any other loading that in the opinion of the professional engineer may affect the
supporting structure

LOADING CONSIDERATIONS:
Section 142.2 (2) indicates both the live loads, dead loads and wind loads that must be
used in the design of the MPSS.

5.1.1 Dead loads:

Dead loads are the weight of the MPSS and its components including the loads
imposed by the guardrail system. Fixed scaffold and ancillary structures that are
constructed as part of the MPSS may be considered as part of the dead load.

5.1.2 Live Loads:

The live loads to be taken into consideration when designing an MPSS are, but
are not limited to:

construction material

equipment

debris from demolition, including grit from abrasive (sand) blasting

workers

loads from traversing or otherwise moving the MPSS.

The minimum uniformly distributed live loading that the MPSS is to be designed
to is dependent on its intended use.
The MPSS must be designed for a minimum live load of 1.2 kN/m2 uniformly
distributed over the platform surface, except:

if the MPSS is intended for masonry work, it shall be designed for a

live load of at least 2.4 kN/m2 excluding storage of masonry units;

if the MPSS is used for heavy-duty work such as demolition or storage

of masonry units or other related material or equipment, it shall be
designed for a live load of at least 3.6 kN/m2 uniformly distributed
over the platform surface.

5.1.2.1 Additional Live Load Considerations

Subsection 142.2(3) requires in addition to the loads specified in
subsection (2), a multi-point suspended scaffold shall be able to support
or resist the following concentrated loads and wind loads.

5.1.2.1.1 Concentrated Loads

Subsection 142.2(3) requires that in addition to the uniformly
distributed live and dead loads, the MPSS must be able to
support or resist a concentrated load of 1.1 kN on an area
measuring 0.3 metres by 0.3 metres located on the platform
at a position having the most adverse effect on the
component under consideration. This concentrated load will
be factored with a live load factor of 3.0 for MPSS and
structural members and 4.0 for suspension systems.
9

5.1.2.1.2 Loads due to Abrasive (Sand) Blasting operations

If the MPSS is to be used for abrasive blasting operations,
then an additional live load allowance for 25 mm grit
accumulation across the entire platform area must be
included. It is recommended that the unit weight of the grit
be specified and verified during field inspection.

5.1.3 Wind Loads

Subsection 142.2(3)(b) indicates that the MPSS shall be designed for wind loads
determined in accordance with Table 2.5.1.1 (Design Data for Selected Locations
in Ontario) as per section 4.1.8 of the Building Code, assuming a probability
factor of at least one in ten.
The effect of wind loading on any environmental enclosures on the MPSS must
be taken into account.

5.1.3.1 Special consideration for the wind loading

The wind load derived from Table 2.5.1.1 of the Building Code, may be
reduced by up to 30% if the professional engineer who designs the
MPSS determines it appropriate to do so. If the professional engineer
does reduce the wind load, he/she must provide the rational for doing so
in writing.

5.1.4 Any Other Applied Loads

Subsection 142.2(3)(c) indicates that in addition to the above loads, the MPSS
shall be designed for any other loads likely to be applied to it.
Examples include:

10

Stock piling or storage of material

Dynamic effects of moving equipment

Material receiving areas

5.2

METHODS FOR DESIGNING THE MPSS

The regulation offers alternative design methods which may be used for the design of the
MPSS:

Limit States Design

Working Stress Design

Ultimate Strength Design (Testing to failure for components)

5.2.1 Limit States Design

Subsections 142.2(2),(3),(4),(5),(6),(7) and (8) of the Regulation set out the
design and load criteria of an MPSS, based on the Limit States Design method in
section 4.1.3 of the Building Code.
The values of the load factors stated in subsections 142.2(7) and (8) of the
Regulation replace the values of the load factors described in section 4.1.3 of the
Building Code and must be used instead. The live load factors for the MPSS are
different from those of the Building Code as the MPSS is a temporary structure
while the Building Code addresses permanent structures. The MPSS must be
designed to have sufficient strength and stability so that the factored resistance is
greater than or equal to the factored loads as presented in section 4.1.3.2 of the
Building Code. The equation below (see section 4.1.3.2 of the Building Code)
was modified for the design of the MPSS by not considering the factored loads
due to the effect of temperature change (T)T.
R effect of: DD + [ (L)L + (W)W ]
Where

Resistance factor applied to the specified material property or to the

resistance of a member, connection, structure or foundation, which for
the limit state under consideration takes into account the variability of
dimensions and material properties, workmanship, type of failure and
uncertainty in the prediction of resistance. The value of shall not be
more than 0.9 and in some cases it may be less.

Resistance of a member, connection, structure or foundation, based on

the dimensions and on the specified properties of the structural
materials.

11

(D) =

Dead load factor (refer to Table 1).

Anticipated dead load of MPSS and its components.

Importance factor applied to factored loads other than dead load which
takes into account the consequences of collapse or failure as they
relate to the use of the structure (refer to section 4.1.3.1 of the
Building Code). The value of shall not be less than 1.0 and may be
increased greater than 1.0 in some cases for critical components.

Load combination factor applied to factored loads other than dead load
to take into account the reduced probability of a number of loads from
different sources acting simultaneously (refer to section 4.1.3.1 of the
Building Code).

(L) =

Live load factor (refer to Table 1)

Specified live load for platform surface.

(W) =

Wind load factor (refer to Table 1).

Wind load in accordance with section 4.1.8 of the Building Code

using the probability factor of at least one in ten for temporary
structures.

Note: The above definitions have been modified to reflect the terms related to Multi-point
Suspended Scaffolds.
Table 1 provides a comparison of the load factors for the design of an MPSS.

12

Table 1
Load Factors
Structure/component

MPSS and structural

members (platform
structure)

3.0

1.5

1.5

Suspension and
Anchorage system

4.0

2.0

2.0

5.2.2 Working Stress Design

Subsection 142.2(9) of the Regulation allows the designer the option to design the
MPSS and its components using Working Stress Design. However, the safety
factors for the scaffold and its structural members are required to be at least equal
to what would otherwise be provided under the Limit States Design.

5.2.3 Ultimate Strength Design (Determination Of Failure Load By Testing)

Subsection 142.2(10) of the Regulation indicates that if a component is tested to
failure, then a suitable safety factor may be applied to the failure load to
determine the capacity of the component. Where the failure load of a component
has been determined by testing and verified in writing by a professional engineer,
the minimum safety factors listed in Table 2 shall be used.

13

Table 2
Minimum Safety Factors for Testing

5.3

MPSS
Component/structure

Minimum Safety
Factor

Component of the
MPSS (Platform
Structure)

3.0

Components of the
Suspension and
Anchorage System

4.0

Hoisting system (wire

ropes, chains or cables
used for hoisting)

10.0

REDUNDANCY OF THE SYSTEM DESIGN

Subsection 142.2(12) of the Regulation requires that an MPSS be designed, constructed
and maintained in such a way that the failure of one means of support or suspension will
not cause any part of the scaffold to collapse or fail under the most adverse loading
conditions as determined by the professional engineer who designs the scaffold in
compliance with section 142.2.
This requirement means that the suspension system and its components must be designed
such that if a suspender or a suspension component fails under any loading condition, the
remaining suspension system shall continue to support the platform with the load factors
and safety factors specified in subsections 142.2 (7)(8)(9)(10). A failure mode analysis is
normally required to be carried out to determine this design requirement.
The above suspension system redundant design feature is required where the MPSS is
both stationary or when it is being moved or traversed to another anchorage position.

14

5.4

OTHER DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

5.4.1 Fall Arrest System

Section 142.7 requires a worker on an MPSS to use a fall arrest system when the
MPSS is being erected, dismantled, traversed or otherwise moved. The fall arrest
system is independent of the MPSS and must be designed in accordance with
subsections 26.1, 26.6, 26.7 and 26.9 of the Regulation such that the worker is
protected at all times. The design and layout of the fall arrest system must take
into consideration the design of the MPSS.
It is recommended that the design engineer of the MPSS evaluate the loads
induced by the fall arrest system on the permanent structure.

5.4.2 Movement limiting devices

The design engineer of the MPSS shall consider and specify movement-limiting
devices to prevent the unintended movement of the scaffold when traversing or
otherwise moving (refer to section 142.2(13)).
5.4.3 Wind speed
It is recommended that the design engineer of the MPSS specify on the design
drawing the maximum wind speed at which operations such as traversing or
moving of the platform should cease or when further precautions would be
required. A wind speed indicator may be provided and located on the platform to
allow the workers to monitor wind conditions.

15

6.0 General Requirements

6.1

ENGINEERING DRAWINGS
In accordance with subsection 142.2(15). the design drawings of the MPSS shall include:

a statement by the professional engineer who designs the MPSS indicating

that the design meets the requirements of this Regulation;

the size and specifications of all components, including the type and grade of
all materials to be used (for specific products this may be supplemented by
listing the product name, model and size, i.e. beams, trolleys, tensioning
devices);

the load factors and safety factors for the scaffold and all its components;

all the specified loads, including the loads during erection, dismantling,
traversing and otherwise moving. Load patterns and location of concentrated
loads should also be included;

the procedures for erection, dismantling, traversing and otherwise moving.

6.1.1 Additional Considerations For Engineering Drawings

It is recommended that the professional engineer who designs the MPSS show the
following requirements on the design drawings:

16

the maximum wind speed as referenced in Part 5.4.3 of the guideline

should also be on the drawing;

the professional engineer specify the wind load at which work on the
MPSS shall stop;

movement-limiting devices as referenced in Part 5.4.2 of the guideline;

procedures to be followed where the MPSS becomes skewed or

jammed during traversing or moving;

a checklist of the items including the critical components to be

inspected, to assist the competent worker during the inspection of the
MPSS;

where proprietary components are used for the MPSS, the professional
engineer who designs the scaffold must ensure that appropriate testing
and certifications of components have been done.

6.2

SPECIFIC DUTIES
The following are specific duties imposed by the Regulation on professional engineers
and other workplace parties related to the design, erection, use, moving, traversing,
maintenance, and dismantling of MPSS.

6.2.1 Professional Engineers Duties

In addition to designing the MPSS in accordance with Parts 6.1 and 6.1.1 of the
guidelines and the requirements of section 142.2 and subsections 142.3(2),(3),(4)
and (5) of the Regulation, the professional engineer shall prepare, sign and seal
design drawings of the MPSS.

6.2.2 Constructors Duties

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities as per section 23 of the
Occupational Health and Safety Act, R.R.O. 1990, c. O.1, the constructor has
additional duties related to MPSS:
Section 142.2

that the MPSS is designed by a Professional Engineer

the design drawings are signed and sealed by the Professional

Engineer

the drawings include written procedures for the erection, dismantling

and traversing the MPSS

any deviations from the drawings are approved by a Professional

Engineer in writing

Professional Engineer responsible for the structural integrity of the

permanent structure from which an MPSS is suspended provides
written report approving the design loads on the permanent structure
by the MPSS

17

Section 142.3

to notify the Ministry of Labour that the MPSS is to be erected or

dismantled

ensure that a Professional Engineer inspects the MPSS after it is

erected and before it is first used (including inspection when MPSS is
moved to Canada and before it is first used on a project in Ontario),
and after it has been moved to a new anchorage

that the Professional Engineer provides a written report that the MPSS
complies with the drawings subject to any deviations and states
whether or not all components are in adequate condition

before erecting or dismantling a multi-point suspended scaffold, the

constructor shall give notice, in person, by telephone, by fax or by
electronic means, to the Ministry office located nearest the project.

Section 142.4

keep all written reports and drawings regarding the MPSS at the
project

Section 142.8

keep, at the project, a written record of all inspections, tests, repairs,

modifications and maintenance performed on the MPSS while the
MPSS is at the project.

6.2.2.1 Additional elements to be considered by Constructor

18

It is recommended that the MPSS is equipped with a wind speedmeasuring device and that work is stopped if the wind speed
specified in the Professional Engineers drawing is reached.

A copy of the written records of inspection under section 142.8 are

maintained with the MPSS when it is moved off site.

6.2.3 Employers Duties

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities as per sections 25 and 26 of
the Occupational Health and Safety Act, R.R.O. 1990, c. O.1, the employer has
additional duties related to MPSS:
Section 142.2

that the MPSS is designed by a Professional Engineer

the design drawings are signed and sealed by the Professional

Engineer

the drawings include written procedures for the erection, dismantling

and traversing the MPSS

any deviations from the drawings are approved by a Professional

Engineer in writing

Section 142.3

ensure that a Professional Engineer inspects the MPSS after it is

erected and before it is first used (including inspection when the MPSS
is moved to Canada and before it is first used on a project in Ontario),
and after it has been moved to a new anchorage position

ensure the Professional Engineer provides a written report that the

MPSS complies with the drawings and that all components are in
adequate condition

ensure that the MPSS is equipped with a wind speed-measuring device

and that work is stopped if the wind speed specified in the Professional
Engineers drawing is reached.

appoint a competent worker to inspect the MPSS prior to each days

use and ensure that the inspection is done.

Section 142.5

ensure that the MPSS is erected, dismantled and traversed by a

competent worker under the supervision of a competent person in
accordance with all design drawings,

provide adequate oral and written instruction to the workers working

on the MPSS on the use and limitations of the scaffold

19

provide adequate oral and written instruction for the workers engaged
in the erection, dismantling and traversing of the MPSS

provide the constructor with the drawings, reports and approvals for
the MPSS

Section 142.6

ensure the MPSS is not overloaded

post signs on the MPSS indicating the loading of the platform

Section 142.7

during erection, dismantling, traversing or otherwise moving, a worker

shall use personal fall protection equipment at all times.

provide written instruction to workers on operation procedures when

MPSS is jammed or skewed.

6.2.3.1 Additional consideration forEmployer

It is recommended that the competent worker inspects the MPSS

based on a check-list prepared by the design engineer or by the
manufacturer.

6.2.4 Workers Duties

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities as per section 28 of the Occupational
Health and Safety Act, R.R.O. 1990, c. O.1, the worker has additional duties related to
MPSS:
Section 142.3

the competent worker shall inspect the MPSS daily, prior to its use.

Section 142.5

20

work in accordance with the manufacturers or Professional Engineers

instruction for the MPSS

Section 142.7

use appropriate fall arrest equipment while the MPSS is being erected,
dismantled or traversed . The workers shall use double lanyards or
equivalent to ensure 100% protection where needed.

6.2.5 Supervisors Duties

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities as per section 27 of the Occupational
Health and Safety Act, R.R.O. 1990, c. O.1, the supervisor has additional duties related to
MPSS
Section 142.5

under his or her supervision, only a competent worker or workers shall

erect, dismantle, or otherwise move an MPSS

21

Appendix A
Sketch 1, Multi-point suspended scaffold assemblies

22

ISBN 0-7794-9926-3

January 2006