CA D39 SCAFFOLDING
CONTRACTOR EXAM Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationale2026 Q&A| Instant Download Pdf
What is the maximum allowable load for a standard scaffolding platform?
- 100 lbs per square foot
- 200 lbs per square foot
- 250 lbs per square foot
- 300 lbs per square foot
Rationale: Scaffolding platforms are typically designed to support a
maximum load of 250 lbs per square foot to ensure safety.
- Which type of scaffold is most suitable for painting large exterior
- Suspended scaffold
- Frame scaffold
- Cantilever scaffold
- Mobile scaffold
walls?
Rationale: Frame scaffolds provide a wide platform and stable
structure, ideal for painting large areas.
- How often must scaffolding inspections be conducted?
- Weekly
- Before each work shift
- Monthly
- Only after adverse weather conditions 1 / 3
Rationale: OSHA requires scaffolds to be inspected for safety before
each work shift by a competent person.
- What is the minimum width of a scaffolding platform?
- 12 inches
- 18 inches
- 24 inches
- 36 inches
Rationale: A minimum of 18 inches is required to provide adequate
working space and reduce fall risk.
- Which scaffold component prevents tipping?
- Ledger
- Brace
- Base plate
- Coupler
Rationale: Base plates distribute the load and stabilize the scaffold,
preventing tipping.
- Guardrails must be installed at what height on a scaffolding platform?
- 18 inches
- 30 inches
- 42 inches
- 48 inches
Rationale: OSHA mandates guardrails at 42 inches to protect
workers from falls.
- When using suspended scaffolds, which of the following is required?
- Safety harness with lifeline
- Independent support system
- Only base plates
- Ladder access is optional
Rationale: Suspended scaffolds must have independent support
systems to safely carry workers and materials.
- What is the primary purpose of a scaffold tie?
- Increase platform width
- Secure the scaffold to a building or structure
- Support guardrails
- Stabilize base plates
Rationale: Scaffold ties prevent scaffolds from tipping or moving
away from the structure. 2 / 3
- What type of scaffold is most suitable for uneven terrain?
- Suspended scaffold
- Adjustable-frame scaffold
- Cantilever scaffold
- Rolling scaffold
Rationale: Adjustable-frame scaffolds allow height adjustments to
compensate for uneven surfaces.
- Which scaffold type is supported by the ground and not attached to a
- Suspended scaffold
- Cantilever scaffold
- Supported scaffold
- Pump jack scaffold
building?
Rationale: Supported scaffolds rest on the ground or a solid structure
and are not suspended.
- What is the maximum vertical distance between scaffold
- 6 feet
- 8 feet
- 10 feet
- 12 feet
platforms?
Rationale: OSHA allows platforms to be no more than 10 feet apart
vertically to maintain safety.
- Which component connects the scaffold to prevent swaying?
- Base plate
- Diagonal brace
- Ledger
- Coupler
Rationale: Diagonal braces provide lateral stability and prevent
swaying.
12. The minimum overlap of scaffold planks is:
- 3 inches
- 6 inches
- 12 inches
- 18 inches
Rationale: A 12-inch minimum overlap ensures planks are properly
supported and stable.
- / 3