If a freestanding scaffold has a base of 6' x 6', what is the maximum height?

If a freestanding scaffold has a base of 6' x 6', what is the maximum height?

• A. 12 feet
• B. 18 feet
• C. 24 feet
• D. 30 feet

Answer: (B)

The limit for a freestanding scaffold is tied to how stable it can stay without being tied to a structure. For freestanding setups, you generally limit height to three times the smallest base dimension to keep the base wide enough to resist tipping. With a base measuring 6 feet by 6 feet, the smallest dimension is 6 feet, and three times that is 18 feet. So the maximum safe height is 18 feet. If you needed more height, you’d have to add external support, such as braces or ties to a structure, or use a different scaffold configuration designed for higher elevations. The other height options would exceed the safe freestanding limit without those supports.

The limit for a freestanding scaffold is tied to how stable it can stay without being tied to a structure. For freestanding setups, you generally limit height to three times the smallest base dimension to keep the base wide enough to resist tipping. With a base measuring 6 feet by 6 feet, the smallest dimension is 6 feet, and three times that is 18 feet. So the maximum safe height is 18 feet.

If you needed more height, you’d have to add external support, such as braces or ties to a structure, or use a different scaffold configuration designed for higher elevations. The other height options would exceed the safe freestanding limit without those supports.