Which option is NOT an acceptable means to access a tower or platform scaffold?

• A. The building itself
• B. A compliant ladder
• C. A metal stairway facing the access door
• D. A rope ladder

Answer: (D)

Access to a tower or platform scaffold must come from a safe, stable means designed for scaffold use, with proper handholds and access that support the load. A rope ladder isn’t acceptable because it isn’t a fixed, rigid ascent method and relies on rope and knots, which can twist, stretch, or slip. It also makes maintaining three points of contact and using fall protection much more difficult, creating a high fall risk. The building itself can be used as an access route when there is a safe entry pathway that leads directly to the scaffold, such as through a doorway or connected stairs. A compliant ladder is suitable because it is engineered for this purpose, rated for the load, securely anchored, and provides a stable ascent with handholds. A metal stairway facing the access door is a common, safe built-in option that offers continuous steps and rails, aligning with standard safety requirements.