What type of person is qualified to design scaffolds?

The correct answer is that a qualified person is the one who can design scaffolds. "Qualified person" is a term defined by OSHA to describe an individual who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, is able to perform a task safely and effectively. This definition ensures that the individual has the specific skills and understanding required to ensure that scaffolds are designed in a manner that adheres to safety standards and regulations, addressing aspects such as structural integrity, load capacity, and the conditions under which the scaffold will be used.

While a licensed architect may have the technical knowledge required for building designs, the architect may not necessarily have the specific training and understanding of scaffold safety and load requirements necessary for scaffold design. Similarly, a skilled tradesperson may have hands-on experience with scaffolds, but may lack the comprehensive understanding needed for safe scaffold design unless they meet the criteria of a qualified person. An OSHA representative focuses primarily on enforcement and education rather than on design qualifications. Thus, it is the "qualified person" who meets the necessary criteria to ensure safe scaffold construction and use.